tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47180470349988007832012-01-31T01:13:21.684-08:00Another blog by a home cook long on enthusiasm but short on skill (and with a shitty camera).Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.comBlogger2281100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-392685310646707632009-11-09T10:08:00.000-08:002009-11-09T10:12:14.320-08:00

Winners in order they came out of the hat. Please send an email to kjf916 at gmail dot com, with your name, blog name (so I know which name goes which blog) and mailing address! Remember, select one recipe from your cookbook and blog about it within thirty days. That's it! Congrats to all. :)Avanika (Yumalicious Bakes)Wins: Waffles From Morning to MidnightRene (From One Stove to Another):

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-50599086853791061832009-10-27T14:11:00.000-07:002009-10-27T14:16:45.881-07:00

This recipe from the 1985 cookbook "Betty Crocker Cookbook for Boys and Girls" purports to serve up a cake which, when served with the lights off, will thoroughly spook your party guests.I think the execution of a spooky cake with flaming eyes would carry a lot more juice if it didn't have that peaceful, benevolent licorice string smile, under the flaming ocular cavities. Then again, it could be

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-38310514791035171472009-10-25T15:59:00.001-07:002009-10-25T16:40:04.337-07:00

This is a recipe from the spa cuisine collection of SpaIndex.com: Guide to Day Spas and Stay Spas and was created in connection with the mustard festival held every year in Napa Valley.The recipe is easy, fast, and rich -- it has an intense taste which is necessary when you are counting calories. As the recipe states, only a tiny bit of the sauce is needed or it's too rich. I used about a

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-82459168144013131532009-10-22T20:51:00.000-07:002009-10-23T15:37:40.694-07:00

This month's second of two selections for Barefoot Bloggers was Blue Cheese Soufflé, as chosen by Summer of Sexy Apartment. The recipe can be found by clicking on the link above or in Ina's Barefoot in Paris cookbook on page 50.I have the nastiest cold right now and not much appetite, so I scaled the recipe down to make two ramekins worth. It turned out surprisingly well for my ingredient

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-77456485497132826282009-10-20T11:08:00.001-07:002009-10-20T11:15:15.786-07:00

I keep telling you guys, the fun part of giving away my cookbooks is seeing what you choose to make, and getting a free blog post for my own blog, which I don't have to think about. I've been so lazy tired lately, I can hardly be bothered to upload my own creations, so I love when I get to share yours.Look at these fantastic Brownie Muffin Bites. These were made by Jelli Bean of Jelli Bean

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-11540337476918416502009-10-19T11:04:00.000-07:002009-10-19T11:13:09.061-07:00

My absolute favorite part of giving away my cookbooks is seeing what my readers do with the recipes. Nicole Dabbs from the Atlanta, Georgia area has a beautiful blog, and I was delighted to read her post for Chocolate Almond Crepes with Raspberry Brandy Sauce made from one of my cookbooks. Stop by Nicole's blog and then add it to your blogroll.

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-8397489799400174912009-10-18T23:44:00.000-07:002009-10-19T00:34:46.512-07:00

Well, big one in the sense that I am making a huge push to get some books out before the end of this year. They are taking over my art table and I've got some pieces I want to work on, so, be gone cookbooks!I like to keep things interesting by giving away a pair of books periodically, last done with the Cook's Illustrated Collection, and prior to that, two Tapas books. This time, I'm doing a

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-49412479080626374562009-10-09T21:10:00.000-07:002009-10-09T22:14:18.938-07:00

The first of two Barefoot Bloggers recipes for this month is Cheddar Corn Chowder, chosen by Jill of My Next Life.I have a lot to say about soup. I've always considered it my specialty and have seldom made a bad soup. It's what I enjoy making most as well -- just the therapeutic value of building and stirring a soup and then eating it with a big soup spoon will put you in a good place.So, I

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-58080279306109524242009-10-07T11:55:00.000-07:002009-10-09T23:03:17.610-07:00

My boyfriend and I made an impromptu visit to Napa, Yountville, and St. Helena this weekend, and, I can't believe the highlight of my trip to Napa Valley wasn't the wine. It was two things, entirely different, and one of them involved a bathroom. Sorry, but I speak true.I enjoy wine, but I'm not half the oenophile my boyfriend is (as further evidenced by the fact I had to check and make sure I

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-8431260602125237322009-10-06T21:30:00.000-07:002009-10-08T21:13:45.943-07:00

I'm passing on the Omnivore's 100 list which I found today at Ginny's "Just Get Floury" blog. I remember blogging something similar but this had more interesting items on it. Let me know in the comments if you elect to pass it on, I'd like to see what you guys think.1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.3) Cross out any

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-24910233496048692812009-10-06T09:02:00.000-07:002009-10-06T09:08:12.727-07:00

The Fitness Ridge Resort in Southern Utah has been relaunched as NBC's first branded spa resort -- "The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge" is a boot-camp style program designed to mimic the experience of the participants of the show (in terms of fitness and meals -- but hopefully not having to wear those ugly tee shirts). Read more about the resort here and browse some of the healthy spa

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-6088396581981900402009-10-05T22:53:00.000-07:002009-10-09T23:02:07.164-07:00

These cookies are sold at Thomas Keller's Bouchon Bakery in Yountville, California, and are so delicious, I'm surprised how simple they really are. The salty, sandy cookie is perfect on its own, if you don't want to bother with the white chocolate filling.I only had one complaint about these cookies when purchased fresh from the bakery: They were too large -- about the size of an English Muffin!

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-78000522352489962302009-09-28T20:02:00.001-07:002009-09-28T20:30:34.735-07:00

This week's giveaway is all about Chocolate. I'm a vanilla girl, myself. I'll reach for a creme brulee or lemon tart every single time so my Chocolate Desserts cookbook is up for grabs:CHOCOLATE CAKES, COOKIES, CANDIES AND MOREby Simone Rugiati and Licia CagnoniThis is a hardback book, in new condition, which was originally published in Italy and then converted and translated to English by

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-41979562268748185012009-09-28T18:52:00.000-07:002009-09-30T13:52:56.188-07:00

There is nothing "pretty" or food porny about Mujudarra, a Middle Eastern rice and lentil dish, but I do hope you'll try it anyway.I've read numerous posts claiming it be one of the easiest, least expensive, common, humble and yet greatest side dishes ever, and you know what? That's not too far off the mark. I can't find anything negative to say about Mujudarra except that it's the ugly

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-88627228929808198522009-09-22T09:56:00.000-07:002009-09-22T22:12:00.223-07:00

There was a time I used to keep The Food Channel on my television for most of the weekend, during the day. I loved it so much, I'd also watch a few episodes more than once. Back then, Unwrapped was still fascinating, I wasn't yet sick of "BAM", and Anthony Bourdain was still on the line up.Over time, I've become disheartened by how much the network has changed from a "Chef Based" cooking network

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-69605939722965628622009-09-20T23:08:00.000-07:002009-09-30T13:53:27.914-07:00

I first tasted a version of this salad in 1990, when my boss's wife, who is from Vienna, Austria, brought a large container of her version to my wedding reception, because she said it's a traditional salad to serve at weddings and promises fertility. She was pouting when no one ate the salad. I thought "What did she expect, she brought Lentils to my wedding reception!" Fast forward nearly 20

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-13215760021275986222009-09-20T20:38:00.001-07:002009-09-20T21:06:47.198-07:00

Well *THIS* was certainly fast and easy -- very similar to those "impossible pies" you'll recognize from the 1970s and 1980s, made popular by Bisquick. This was in the pan in a jiffy and hot from the oven 45 minutes later. It made a really lovely custardy-but-firm base, with a light banana strawberry taste.This was concocted from all Trader Joe's ingredients, and I used freeze dried fruit, but

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-39063610765962821172009-09-16T14:32:00.000-07:002009-09-16T14:53:56.540-07:00

Now up for grabs in my cookbook giveaway program is:DECEPTIVELY DELICIOUS by Jessica SeinfeldShe of the recent court decision in her favor, opining that she didn't rip off The Sneaky Chef in penning this book. In fact, in its ruling the Court went so far as to note the differences between this cookbook, which is fun and lively, and the complainant's book, which is "dry and text-heavy."The NYTimes

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-30409119230624019332009-09-09T09:06:00.000-07:002009-09-09T13:19:58.979-07:00

Is it me, or does the advertisement on Tastespotting for El Patron Tequila show the most unappetizing piece of grilled protein -- whatever it is -- maybe ever? I don't think one could drink enough El Patron to make that -- thing -- look tasty.Dear Tastespotting:Love the site you guys (even though you've rejected every single entry I've submitted after the site was relaunched, but published lots

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-86238016112923799172009-09-08T23:56:00.000-07:002009-09-09T09:01:05.581-07:00

My Cream Biscuits, still hot from the ovenThis post is MUCH too long to be just about biscuits, but, what can I say? I'm a carb queen.I wish I didn't love McDonald's Buttermilk Biscuits. I shouldn't love them. No one should. Come on, it's a fast food chain -- they shouldn't sell good biscuits, but they do. I like that they are light and tender, and hold up well to a sausage sandwich. I've heard

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-39083596075025712722009-09-08T09:56:00.000-07:002009-09-08T10:05:38.961-07:00

How distracted am I? Very. I didn't post winners for last week's cookbook draw #13 -- Tapas and Appetizers.A drumroll please while I take these names out of a hat...Delicious Bite Size, Irresistible and Elegant Party Recipes won by ...Sylwia of UnsiftedTAPAS: 40 delicious Traditional Spanish Recipes won by ... Raquel of Cafe Nilson

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-63857243618157765602009-09-07T21:21:00.000-07:002009-09-07T21:57:57.305-07:00

I'm officially hopeless. My name is Kate and I can't stop buying cookbooks. Here I am giving them away every week to reduce my collection and bring some sanity to my life, and I stumbled on a cookbook in a Marshall's Department Store, and bought it.That place is the worst for me.Problem 1: They tend to have a lot of very inexpensive cookbooks.Problem 2: They tend to be by Paragon Publishing,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-16658442901335233972009-09-05T14:17:00.000-07:002009-09-30T13:53:59.818-07:00

This was an easy and healthy Spa Cuisine salad, courtesy of Rancho La Puerta Spa in Mexico, and the SpaIndex.com Spa Cuisine collection. You may view the complete recipe here.I had a couple apples going a bit soft and I remembered I wanted to try a recipe where you shave them thin and make an apple slaw. This salad has a dressing of yogurt, lime juice, apple juice. It's tossed with raisins or

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-68433023691823982572009-08-27T01:00:00.000-07:002009-08-26T17:38:05.346-07:00

Originally posted for the Mango Daiquiri date ... now I'm updating and reposting for the Pizza date. Isn't that lazy of me?It's been a rough month or two, with work pressure and averaging 12-14 hour days, conducting two different trials with nasty individuals slinging mud at one another. Everyone has work pressure, that's true, but if any of you are in the law biz you know that being paid to

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-2415802323214375172009-08-25T19:17:00.000-07:002009-08-26T19:30:54.365-07:00

One of the best aspects of giving my cookbooks away, has been the delight of seeing what dishes were crafted in the kitchens of my food friends. Here is a round up of what's happened so far (with a few still pending)Pending#12 Cook's Illustrated 2001 awarded to Jessica of the Joy of Joy of Cooking#11 Cook's Illustrated 2000 awarded to Kim of My Plate, My World# 10 The Shangri-La Cookbook awarded

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-75449420668184971062009-08-25T18:53:00.000-07:002009-08-25T19:12:08.301-07:00

This week, the 13th cookbook giveaway will feature another Double Dipped Cone. Up for grabs in my giveaway program are two appetizer books (and I note they both have a lot of the same recipes and photographs -- the publisher was crafty).I'm choosing TWO names to win this week. Two readers, will each get one book. Let's cop the publisher's descriptions, shall we?The first book up for grabs is:

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-43430767601266745532009-08-14T08:40:00.000-07:002009-08-20T09:50:06.074-07:00

Congrats to Eva of Why Am I So Boring, who won my vintage Shangri-La Cookbook from last week's giveaway.This week, the 11th (and 12th) cookbooks up for grabs in my giveaway program are annual hardback editions of "Cook's Illustrated." I'm choosing TWO names to win this week! I can feel the adrenaline pumping already. Two readers, will each get one book. Let's cop the publisher's descriptions,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-23002344380141173882009-08-11T09:44:00.000-07:002009-08-11T09:45:50.802-07:00

I'm back to uploading and blogging many of the bento lunches I pack for myself during the week (I maintain you can seldom buy a lunch as good as one you can pack, if you put some care into it). It's kind of interesting to go through my year's worth of lunch photographs and see what I was packing during certain months. You stop and say "Why did I stop making that? Or eating this? That looks good.

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-31549569946564279662009-08-10T20:48:00.000-07:002009-08-10T21:13:19.810-07:00

I had nectarines going soft. I had raspberries. I had crust. I wanted pie. I searched and found this rather interesting sounding pie which uses cream, but in a baked base. Intrigued, I made it. I think this recipe has definite possibilities, because it was interesting and tasty, but, I wasn't too fond of the rather undercooked base. If I had left this in my oven until it was browner, I think it

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-79312190254665305092009-08-07T04:51:00.000-07:002009-08-07T04:53:26.565-07:00

Ok, so a winner of one of my cookbooks doesn't have an email address on her blog. I left a blog comment for her, and sent her a tweet. Her blog and her twitter account have not been updated in awhile -- three weeks or so -- so she could be on vacation. or on a drunken bender? What say you guys, how long should I wait before I draw another runner up?

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-84924161301834375412009-08-07T04:13:00.001-07:002009-08-07T04:43:31.663-07:00

As promised, I'm going to start adding a few vintage cookbooks to the giveaway, for those who like to collect them for nostalgia or chuckles.The tenth cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program was created as a marketing tool for the 1973 musical version of "Lost Horizon" -- which unfortunately tanked at the theatres and inspired quite a bit of scuttlebutt, including the notion it was the

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-83710252743689360562009-08-01T20:11:00.000-07:002009-08-01T20:17:15.285-07:00

Can you EVEN STAND THIS?! I want to eat this badly. This is why I'm giving away my cookbooks, so that they go to homes that respect and love them more than I did. My cookbook giveaway of "The Perfect Scoop" by David Lebovitz went to Lo of Burp! Where Food Happens, and she has already made TWO selections -- Fig Ice Cream and this Aztec Hot Chocolate Ice Cream, with nutmeg, cinnamon, cognac,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-3386718977535862362009-07-31T21:55:00.000-07:002009-08-07T04:40:52.187-07:00

I mixed things up a little bit this time around and posted a poll asking what you guys wanted me to post next and Ina Garten won by a landslide (I'm surprised a fantastic and beautiful cookbook like Bon Appetite Y'All was so under appreciated!). The ninth cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program is the "Add a Stick of Butter" Queen herself, perfect for those who are participating in the

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-20570949385195292112009-07-31T21:00:00.000-07:002009-07-31T22:25:45.409-07:00

Are these cookies not beautiful?! This is why I'm giving away my cookbooks. I'm not using them, and I really want to see others use them.Ulla of Goldilocks Finds Manhattan won my Land O Lakes Cookie Collection cookbook and for her recipe post, she chose Shortbread Cookies with Currant Glaze. Find the post, and the rest of her exquisite posts and photographs, here

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-78270180999838525422009-07-30T10:04:00.000-07:002009-07-30T10:20:56.962-07:00

Have you guys seen this already? Just spotted it today, for the first time. Too embarrassed to tell you where. Okay, I will. Skymall, that cheesy catalog you reach for on the plane.First there was the Brownie Edge Pan (I don't own one, but would take one if you wanted to give me one), and now the Lasagna Trio Pan. I'm thinking this is actually a pretty decent idea, for more than just lasagna.

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-41950062803244378952009-07-17T13:39:00.000-07:002009-07-27T10:05:50.050-07:00

How many cookbooks do you have to giveaway and how often?I have not counted them, but I'd guess at least 100 or so. I'm averaging about one a week, although there will be weeks I'm too busy to post. I guarantee one per month, but I'm aiming for one per week.How can you do this? Are you crazy?Crazy or not, it's easy when you get sick of clutter. I live in an urban loft open-space setting. I have

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-49956650477277112542009-07-17T06:39:00.001-07:002009-07-31T21:41:02.932-07:00

I hope this cookbook doesn't feel too lonely from lack of comment/entries. It's one of those things you browse in Marshall's at the discount cookbook aisle and say "Oh that looks pretty good, I'd make that" and then you never do. Please adopt it and take it home!P.S., If you have not won yet, don't get discouraged. I'm only averaging 8-10 entries per book, so you're going to come up sooner

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-36282415299805210032009-07-08T11:25:00.000-07:002009-07-17T06:23:54.301-07:00

I'm pushing for major book movement this summer -- I'm having TWO giveaways simultaneously. Yes! The more shelf space I see, the more I want. So, thanks for the shout-outs and ReTweets to help me pare down my shelves.The seventh cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program is ARTISAN BREAD IN FIVE MINUTES A DAY, for those who want to jump on this artisan bread baking bandwagon. I tried it (oh,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-23370881963024888342009-07-07T10:58:00.000-07:002009-07-15T11:56:18.181-07:00

Making some headway, here, reducing my cookbook collection. Thanks for the shout-outs and ReTweets to help me pare down my shelves.The sixth cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program is perfect for those who want to gather friends and families around the patio or swimming pool this summer:APPETIZERS, FINGER FOOD, BUFFETS & PARTIES: How to plan the perfect celebration with over 400 inspiring

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-73727656447187224662009-07-06T15:04:00.000-07:002009-09-30T13:54:26.526-07:00

This was inspired by a smoothie cookbook I recently found, rather dated, but which has far more interesting combinations than usual (forget the banana orange strawberry surprise, this book uses everything from tapioca to quinoa to figs). This my adaptation of one recipe that was based on ginger and pear:Ginger Pear Mint Elixer3 canned no-sugar pear halvesGinger JuiceMint LeavesAlmond MilkClub

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-45480182074779539042009-07-02T16:01:00.001-07:002009-07-08T11:25:23.865-07:00

Doesn't that look fantastic? It's Girlichef Heather's Twice in a Decade Monte Cristo Sandwich. Heather was the second winner in my Cookbook Giveaway Challenge and she received from my collection "Cooking 'Round the Clock" with Rachael Ray.For those new to the giveaway, I'm eliminating my underused and shelf-hogging cookbook collection. I've decided to limit myself to my very favorite Dirty Dozen

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-73376852496875702462009-06-28T01:30:00.000-07:002009-06-28T01:30:00.979-07:00

Stowe Mountain LodgeStowe, VermontStowe Mountain Lodge Wellness Center is dedicated to cultivating the relationship between living habits and health, and operates under the guidelines of the renowned Cooper Institute of Dallas. Guests of Stowe Mountain Lodge have the opportunity to visit Cooper Wellness at Stowe for quick "Wellness Weekend" trips, where they can take advantage of either special

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-56739758310653618912009-06-22T13:26:00.000-07:002009-06-22T13:29:19.186-07:00

Sponsor Spotlight: Savor the essence of Vermont at The Essex, Vermont’s Culinary Resort & Spa, the Burlington area’s only AAA-rated Four Diamond resort. In partnership with New England Culinary Institute, this tastefully appointed Northwestern Vermont hotel resort offers inspired cuisine in our two award-winning restaurants. Spend your next Northern Vermont resort vacation at this delectable

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-28875950523043360182009-06-15T08:50:00.000-07:002009-07-31T22:11:25.110-07:00

I'm making great progress on reducing my cookbook collection. I have so many great book earmarked to give away this summer, including those by Dorie Greenspan, Ina Garten, and more, but I'm waiting until my giveaway is a little more established before I haul out the big guns.The fifth cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program is perfect for those members of the Cult of Trader Joe's, of which

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-1993287802763161122009-06-15T08:24:00.000-07:002009-09-30T14:05:53.229-07:00

This is a recipe for Zucchini Pie by my pal Liz in New York, who bakes it and serves it in her bento box lunches quite frequently. It's a cross between a veggie loaf and a healthy quiche. Since I made chick pea flour zucchini bread earlier in the week, I had another zucchini waiting to be used, more chick pea flour of course, and her recipe in mind. I'm finding the chick pea flour really tasty,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-64004526901542053902009-06-10T21:52:00.001-07:002009-06-10T23:06:53.047-07:00

The first of our regular June recipes for the Barefoot Bloggers is Ina's curried couscous, chosen by Ellyn of Recipe Collector and Tester. The recipe can be found here, Curried Couscous, or on page 94 of The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook.Up until this point, my favorite selection to date was the Butternut Squash Risotto. That has now been replaced by this simple and flavorful dish. I loved it.

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-27605973947589453452009-06-09T13:57:00.000-07:002009-06-09T14:15:11.590-07:00

Penny of Lake Lure Cottage Kitchen was the winner of my Great Cookbook Giveaway #1 -- and I sent her "Entertaining" by UK Chef Ed Baines.Part of my motivation in clearing out my cookbook collection is not just to simplify and make space (which I desperately need to do for my tiny loft kitchen), but, to give the cookbooks the proper love and care that they deserved and never received from me -- a

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-5440659748438686902009-06-09T09:13:00.000-07:002009-06-15T08:50:12.424-07:00

I'm making great progress on reducing my cookbook collection. I have so many great book earmarked to give away this summer, including those by Dorie Greenspan, Jessica Seinfeld, and more.The fourth cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program is perfect for summer, isn't it?Perfect Scoop: Ice Creams, Sorbets, Granitas, and Sweet AccompanimentsBy David LebovitzRipe seasonal fruits. Fragrant

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-44327446591172495912009-06-06T20:02:00.001-07:002009-06-06T20:07:15.583-07:00

This delightful woman is 87 years old. She rocks. Watch beyond the initial slow dance.Never Underestimate an Old Girl

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-574068549000794662009-06-05T11:55:00.000-07:002009-06-05T12:21:51.970-07:00

No doubt about it, Tastespotting puts on a visual Foodie Fireworks displays the likes of which have ruined many a diet. It's beautiful and well organized. That said, there are many people who hang their heads and scuff the dirt and get bruised egos when their photo submissions are rejected. Me, included.Rejection doesn't stop me from visiting, mind you. I am less interested in photography than I

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-79240333716552334242009-06-05T09:10:00.001-07:002009-06-05T09:17:52.120-07:00

I've been searching for this answer and have not found it yet. I'm hoping any stray baristas that wander by my blog can help me out.Let's say I order a 16 oz latte. Milk is poured into the frothing pitcher, it's steamed until it froths up, and it's poured into a 16 oz cup, and a shot of espresso is added. My question is, how many oz of milk, on average, is actually being consumed? Doesn't the

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-37053343116475211382009-06-03T11:47:00.000-07:002009-06-03T12:21:34.491-07:00

I think I have to break off my relationship with the BYOB (Bake Your Own Bread) Challenge unless I can modify it to be "BYOB MOTT" (Most of the Time), because I'm really happy about this new low calorie, healthy alternative to sandwich breads:Oroweat Sandwich ThinsBased on other reviews I've found, dating back to 2008, apparently these have been around in other environs (e.g., not around me, in

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-65396174048266195562009-06-01T21:24:00.000-07:002009-06-08T12:01:26.905-07:00

The third cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program is:LAND O LAKES RECIPE COLLECTION: COOKIESRead about the rules for winning this book on my blogHere are the representative chapters from this book: Shaped and SpritzCrazy for NutsBrownies and BarsSlices and Cut OutsMake Mine ChocolateA few representative recipes (including one recipe which prompted to buy the book itself, and I *still* never

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-75798073520504950032009-05-21T00:01:00.000-07:002009-06-01T21:22:16.947-07:00

The second cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program is:COOKING 'ROUND THE CLOCK, 30 MINUTE MEALS, by Rachael Ray.Read about the book on AmazonRead about the rules for winning this book on my blogHere are some representative recipes from this book:Breakfast PolentaUrban Cowboy Turkey BurgersBombay Brunch WrapFruit SoupOrange Almond Scones5 Minute Bread PuddingPasta FrittataCrab Stuffed

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-51063358141340464662009-05-18T16:18:00.000-07:002009-05-18T16:27:14.199-07:00

Hello all. The first cookbook giveway for May 2009 has concluded. Because this was the first giveaway, some of the comments were posted on the "master post (rules)"and others were posted on this particular May cookbook giveaway post, so I've combined the two sets of comments in date/time order, and used a random number generator for our first winner:Penny of Lake Lure Cottage Kitchen (North

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-63913130244058871202009-05-18T15:31:00.000-07:002009-05-18T15:34:40.213-07:00

I don't think I've ever seen a cat so utterly calm. Be sure to stay onboard until the end, to hear the owner's comment, and the pet's response. So cute.

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-63938755143459823512009-05-13T00:49:00.000-07:002009-05-13T00:49:00.846-07:00

This month's first selection for Barefoot Bloggers is mine and I chose Ina Garten's Tuna Salad. This was a tough choice -- I moved up the list so quickly, I had to make new choices repeatedly as the time of year changed, and at the last minute, I just chose something I thought was fresh and simple and relatively healthy.I also chose this recipe because the best "salad" I ever had was a grilled

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-87725486874618678032009-05-10T13:01:00.000-07:002009-05-10T13:16:04.505-07:00

Banana Blueberry Breakfast Bread. That's a lot of B's. This bread was totally worth the experiment it involved.I started with my standard breakfast bun recipe which I created with the Stealth Cinnamon Rolls from earlier this week. Since I halved that recipe, I was left with a half a box of yellow cake mix, and I wanted to see if my theory, that this recipe would make a great yeast bread, was

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-34062620133708189972009-05-08T12:15:00.001-07:002009-06-02T15:42:21.189-07:00

So away we go, the first cookbook up for grabs in my giveaway program:ENTERTAIN, by Ed Baines.Read about the book on Amazon Read about the chef on the BBCRead about the rules for winning this book on my blog Although Baines is a UK chef, this book has been released in US measurements.Here are some representative recipes from this book:Pumpkin RavioliHoney Roasted CabbagePanettone Bread PuddingKey

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-31311189897779520482009-05-08T11:29:00.000-07:002009-08-15T09:49:26.786-07:00

Hey, I have wayyyyy too many cookbooks. Isn't that shocking? I'm sure *none* of you have that problem.I buy them used, new, vintage, from yard sales, from end-of-aisle displays in grocery stores, you name it. It's my favorite thing to read in the bathroom, and I love to buy a regional cookbook and read it while on vacation (although come to think of it, it's been too many years since I had a

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-51294210142604001782009-05-07T09:00:00.000-07:002009-05-07T09:00:01.819-07:00

I'm calling these Stealth Cinnamon Rolls because I'll bet you don't realize you've got every single ingredient for these, in your pantry, most of the time. I saw the recipe and thought "You know, I could make those right now!" and I did. The concept is interesting, and I immediately thought of several variations on the theme, as shown below.CAKE MIX CINNAMON ROLLS1 box of yellow cake mix (no

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-48260018943346183332009-05-06T19:39:00.000-07:002009-05-06T19:58:00.683-07:00

I first tried this dish at Restaurant LuLu in San Francisco, on a night so wet and windy the skies threatened to blow us up and out over the City. We were quickly ushered inside and the warmth of this open kitchen restaurant was just what we needed. Huge wood burning fires were baking up pizzas, and while we waited, we had an appetizer of pan roasted mussels with drawn butter. It was fabulous.I

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-85887121203834379082009-04-29T21:27:00.001-07:002009-04-29T21:53:52.854-07:00

I've joined a new blogging group, which I found only a few days before the deadline for this month's event. FBI is an acronym of Food Blog Inspection and the concept is that all the participants together choose a food blog for each event, investigate it, and select, individually, a recipe to cook from it.The group is hosted by Palachinka. I like the idea of combing through a favorite blog and

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-69449369801129876792009-04-29T09:42:00.000-07:002009-04-29T11:10:43.190-07:00

I have been humming and singing "Herding cows the size of schnauzers -- but they're cattle -- yippee kai aye, mini sirloin burgers" for weeks. One could say I've been taken in by clever marketing and thus it's a successful compaign but -- a hah! -- I have not purchased the burgers, mind you. I just can't stop stinging that jingle. A pox on your marketing team, Jack.Please, someone, tell me how to

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-65472171461623647762009-04-23T00:01:00.000-07:002009-04-23T00:01:00.385-07:00

The second of our regular April recipes for the Barefoot Bloggers is Ina Garten's Croque Monsieur, chosen by Kathy of All Food Considered. You'll find the recipe here: Croque Monsieur.First things, first: I knew as soon as Kathy chose this recipe that I'd be ramping it up to include an egg, which converts this to a Croque Madame. If you're in for a penny, you're in for a pound I say -- any

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-83303589151885178222009-04-09T00:01:00.000-07:002009-04-09T00:01:01.004-07:00

The first of our April recipes for the Barefoot Bloggers is Ina Garten's Chinese Chicken Salad, chosen by McKenzie of Kenzie’s Kitchen, and you'll find the recipe here: Chinese Chicken Salad.I was looking forward to this recipe for two reasons. First, I had all the ingredients for the dressing, and didn't have to break my continuing "Use It Up" challenge, and second, I love Chinese Chicken Salad

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-70607077871949641472009-04-02T00:01:00.000-07:002009-03-31T22:27:23.866-07:00

I caught a film on late night cable the other night when I couldn't sleep -- Adam Sandler in "Spanglish." It was surprisingly sweet and tender (one doesn't think of an Adam Sandler film being a chick flick, but this role is definately "chick flick"). He plays a charming, sweet, sensitive guy who is husband to a shrew, dad to an overweight, sensitive daughter (he's so kind to her, it was endearing

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-75206273705406114712009-04-01T00:01:00.000-07:002009-03-31T20:34:02.159-07:00

I had quite a high stress level this month. Work pressure, computer failures, camera failures, family pressures. Yikes. Translation, not much posting, but plenty of baking and picture snapping, and now a flurry of uploads at the end of the month.This March BYOB round up will showcase most of the bread I've baked this month, as a companion to my BYOB What I'm Baking Meme. As stated in that Meme,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-32175490582496105722009-04-01T00:00:00.000-07:002009-03-31T20:02:37.326-07:00

Update 04-01-09:Well, I'm happy to report and update that all of my "sliced, sandwich bread or rolls" are used up from the freezer. For the first time since December 31, I'm actually out of purchased sandwich bread, and I've been perfecting my loaf of regular, fluffy, white, kid friendly bread. Not that I have any kids, mind you. I've settled on a "Milk Loaf" (recipe to follow later) and have

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-89015596540590668412009-03-31T20:40:00.001-07:002009-03-31T20:53:19.220-07:00

One of the recipes baked off by the Barefoot Bloggers this month was Tomato Goat Cheese Tarts, chosen by Anne of Anne Strawberry. This recipe can be found in Ina Garten's Back to Basics cookbook, or here: Tomato and Goat Cheese Tarts.One of the aspects I liked best was that as soon as I read it, I saw I could easily adapt this recipe for one person. This was a very fast appetizer dinner for one

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-42184902050652919102009-03-18T15:26:00.001-07:002009-03-18T15:27:24.925-07:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-33260396581070093052009-03-15T00:00:00.000-07:002009-03-15T00:00:01.411-07:00

This wasn't a success. America's Test Kitchen, you've disappointed me -- but so did my oven, so I think it's a little of both reasons.This vintage recipe assured me that I'd have a light, fluffy, not-dense pound cake using a retro method of placing the batter in the pan, and into a stone-cold oven, and then letting it come up to temperature and baking one hour.The *taste* of the batter was okay,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-89572221112881186662009-03-13T09:25:00.000-07:002009-03-13T09:28:25.696-07:00

My buddy Mia at Stoned Knitter thinks I'm a BYOB Bread Cheater if I use an automatic bread machine to mix and raise my dough (I prefer to bake it outside of the machine, now, for a more delicate crust). So what say you ... am I still making homemade bread if I use a machine, or, am I big ole cheater, just dumping stuff in and coming back when I hear the ::ding:: ... ?I will let the masses

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-36429789317191829222009-03-13T00:31:00.000-07:002009-03-13T00:31:00.403-07:00

From my June 2008 Flickr archives:Eggs over easy with drops of Sesame Chili Oil; Toasted Apricot BreadApricot Marmalade Oat Bread1 cup milk -- plus 2 tablespoons1/2 cup apricot marmalade (See Note)1 1/2 teaspoons butter3 1/4 cups bread flour1 teaspoon salt3/4 cup rolled oats2 teaspoons yeastPlace all ingredients in a bread machine pan, in the order specified by your machine's manufacturer. Select

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-27280215243789861322009-03-12T00:01:00.000-07:002009-03-12T10:14:30.571-07:00

The first of four (!) recipes we're making this month for Barefoot Bloggers is Chicken Piccata as chosen by Lindsey of Noodle Nights and Muffin Mornings, which can be found in Barefoot Contessa at Home on pages 96-97.Well this was easy! I don't cook breaded cutlets all that often. In fact, the last time I did it, was for the BB Parmesan Chicken challenge. I'm not sure why I don't -- I must think

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-9494931105206276472009-03-11T22:01:00.000-07:002009-03-11T22:03:57.642-07:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-57926446694073673182009-03-03T19:31:00.001-08:002009-03-03T19:37:17.308-08:00

I am so lame for making this post.This Pork Hominy Stew is the best thing I've made all year. A stew of hominy, leftover shredded pork, tomato, an entire bottle of Dark Ale, carrots, onions, a bunch of salsa from Trader Joe's, cilantro and garlic up the wazoo. It was actually very easy, and I can probably never duplicate it exactly because I was just pitching stuff from the fridge into the pot,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-29707706518712804562009-03-03T06:57:00.000-08:002009-03-03T06:57:00.625-08:00

Well, this sure turned out tasty! It's your basic turkey-stuffing-cranberry sandwich you see on every menu around the holidays (and maybe even in your own home), but what surprised me was the cranberry condiment.I had sliced, roasted turkey from my freezer to use up, and I was hankering for a sage-y savory taste. I had a box of stuffing mix in the pantry to use up (I'm really going great guns

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-24068493170102872132009-03-03T00:31:00.000-08:002009-03-03T00:31:00.158-08:00

My last loaf of Buttermilk Bread from the ABin5 series. I'm over this method for awhile. It's really not low maintenance for me and the bread is unpredictable. Great one day, gummy the next. I did get nice results using a mini springform pan, for a squat, round loaf, shown above. The quanity was great for about 2 days worth of bread and sandwiches.I'm moving on to steam-free pastures and more

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-8286320224250576022009-03-02T19:17:00.000-08:002009-03-02T21:25:31.058-08:00

... except I used three ingredients in the cake, and a few extra ingredients in the glaze. Oh, and no pumpkin. I couldn't help myself.I've long admired the concept of "Cooking the Books: A Cook Through Blog Roll" which seeks those committed enough to cook their way through an entire cookbook. I've long wanted to do this, and I even challenged myself with a vintage cookbook by Margaret Rudkin,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-83300384499719833332009-03-02T09:22:00.000-08:002009-03-02T09:32:57.467-08:00

::pictures to follow when I get a new camera cable to replace the one I melted by dangling it over the burner of my stove:::So, as noted above, I melted the cord on my camera recently, by dangling it over a burner on my stove. ::sigh:: This week, I also ruined the charger for my cell phone, by dangling it out of my car door and slamming the door, right on the little metal piece that plugs into my

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-54850384914180549172009-02-26T09:05:00.000-08:002009-03-02T19:54:28.783-08:00

This week, the Barefoot Bloggers made Merinques Chantilly, as chosen by BMK of Reservations Not Required.I thought I was going to be very, very clever with this one, by simply buying and using a carton of Trader Joe's brand egg whites, so I didn't have to seperate the eggs and end up with a bunch of egg yolks. The dessert was not a resounding success. First I didn't get much volume, and I'm not

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-15836953535524760732009-02-18T00:01:00.000-08:002009-02-18T00:01:00.369-08:00

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-18576561976423535572009-02-17T19:03:00.001-08:002009-02-17T19:11:31.296-08:00

I had a cello pack of three frozen pancakes to use up from my freezer. I am *really* pleased with myself for clearing out space and ridding myself of pre-made or purchased bakery products as part of my BYOB (Bake Your Own Bread and Bakery Products) participation for 2009.I also had an egg.Hmmm. So I could make a pancake plate with a scrambled egg, or, I could just use the pancakes, dip them in

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-46841161530457824412009-02-17T09:50:00.000-08:002009-02-17T10:31:13.311-08:00

It has rained in Northern California non-stop since Friday, and I'm talking the kind of driving rain that sends it under the door jams, including hail, and tree branchs raining down on your head. I never went out of the house for the three day weekend and never put on a bra or clothes, either.I was slumming it, in a big way, baking beans, bread, and making an unusual French Toast (more bread,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-23413868723345267212009-02-16T00:21:00.000-08:002009-02-16T00:21:00.574-08:00

You know those entrees Chinese restaurants that say Happy Family Noodles? They are usually the entrees that a bit of everything -- fish, beef, chicken and veggie. One big happy family.This bean recipe doesn't have any seafood, but it has everything else under the sun, and, because it's a Clean Out the Freezer Recipe, there really isn't one, and I'll never be able to make it again.It all started

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-49013441756536629652009-02-15T22:45:00.000-08:002009-02-15T22:47:47.148-08:00

Sounds odd, doesn't it? I add additional pot roast slices to use, and some Au Jus, and a French Dip came to mind.No buns, however. Ironically, I have not not purchased store-bought bread products since I joined the Bake Your Own Bread Movement (see my BYOB category for details) in January, and, I've made 12 loaves of bread, crackers, croutons and buns -- but I didn't have any bread for a French

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-20745190038746244502009-02-15T19:45:00.000-08:002009-02-15T20:03:38.078-08:00

After three batches of Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day (hah!!!) Master Dough (two regular, one peasant), one dozen test loaves, several perfectly round croutons, and tons of swearing and slamming of the oven door, I finally got a batch of master dough I can live with, by tweaking just a few ingredients.No sooner does this happen, than Mia tells me I have to try the Buttermilk Master Dough,

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-28906220966138684242009-02-15T19:23:00.000-08:002009-02-15T19:44:59.119-08:00

For Valentine's Day, my sweetie gave me Chocolate Pearls, times two. The first, a five strand necklace of Chocolate Freshwater Pearls (huzzah!!) and the second, a container of Bittersweet Dark Chocolate Pearls by Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates, a chocolatier in Northern California (the picture above is of Godiva Chocolates because I'm too lazy to take one of my own by Ginger Elizabeth, but I'm

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-48006164270221040052009-02-15T09:59:00.001-08:002009-02-15T10:46:50.221-08:00

Greetings, fellow bakers trying to crack the ABin5 code! Here are my pitiful loaves of bread, which represent Loaves 8, 9, 10, and 11. All of these built up to Loaf 12, which finally, FINALLY, is a loaf I'll make repeatedly. Here's a little whine with your cheese.Below: This is the last loaf of the Master Recipe I made, before I said "enough of this crap" and switched to a new method and recipe.

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-2830347766396187452009-02-12T08:42:00.000-08:002009-03-02T19:56:22.069-08:00

This week, the Barefoot Bloggers are making Real Spaghetti and Meatballs, as chosen by Rebecca of Ezra Pound Cake.I made more than the average number of substitutions with this one, simply because this isn't the type of recipe easily adapted by or useful for the solo diner. I have to want to eat an entree all week (leftovers, lunches) when I make it, and with a recipe like this, you have mega

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-65015363568667729742009-02-11T14:58:00.000-08:002009-02-11T15:04:01.724-08:00

Just a bookmark for you, when you really need to feel virtuous. I made 11 loaves of ABin5 Bread in one week, until I got one right (we have lots of croutons at my house) and I felt completely carb toxed. That's not a word, but you know what I mean. Yeast Poisoned. Then I saw This is Why You're Fat and felt much better about myself.

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-8245804320328394432009-02-10T23:46:00.000-08:002009-02-15T09:55:13.637-08:00

Well, my loyal friends, I do believe I finally cracked the ABin5 code. I could upload pictures of my "almost there...almost there" loaves, which I think would have been Loaves 8, 9 and 10, but tonight, I made Loaf 11, and I finally got it.A good loaf of bread.Thank heavens, because this was exhausting me! I've only now (days later) uploaded pictures of the various loaves because honestly, I

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-18523045464538894922009-02-09T17:00:00.001-08:002009-02-09T17:12:37.518-08:00

Don't be hating on my cell phone photo. This was from early 2007 and I didn't own a camera back then. Not that having one now has taught me much.Anyway, I'm recycling some Bento Lunch posts I made long ago on Flickr so that I can group together recipes that are in my regular rotation. This recipe was the first time I was ever moved to make my own chili, and I was so glad I did. It was very unique

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-70748123739291003562009-02-05T21:41:00.001-08:002009-02-05T21:42:02.888-08:00

These were a fast, savory muffin. Not too rye tasting -- just like cornbread in texture, but a little more savory from the caraway seeds. Simple and fast, it's a small batch that makes just four muffins for soup or dinner.1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour1/2 cup rye flour -or- 1/4 cup rye flour and 1/4 cup semolina1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon baking powder1/4 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-3063879846244220412009-02-05T20:33:00.000-08:002009-02-05T20:39:50.922-08:00

I found this recipe on the side of the box of Swan brand Potato Starch Flour. I was intrigued by the silky texture of potato starch flour, and the fact this was described as a "sand" cake convinced me it would be a cake-version of a sandy, melt in your mouth sable cookie.On Day One, I thought it was interesting -- more dense than I expected -- and quite mild in flavor. No sooner was the cake

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-73673665792574463752009-02-03T19:45:00.000-08:002009-02-03T20:11:51.424-08:00

Well we have a BETTER result with Artisan Bread in 6, above, but not quite "there" yet.With my new batch of dough with King Arthur Unbleached AP flour, I had the good points:-It browned nicely, and had a very crackly, crispy crust.-It had a custardy, moist interior-It had decent flavorThe following bad points:-Side spread, instead of vertical riseI suspect the lack of rise is simply that I can't

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-42274856899016574302009-02-03T19:28:00.000-08:002009-02-03T19:45:52.554-08:00

We're using up some pantry supplies tonight, whipping up a casserole of Tex Mex flavors and emptying the larder at the same time. I wanted to try a new salsa I found at Trader Joe's -- Salsa del Cabo. It's very different in appearance -- very dark brown (almost black, really -- my camera makes it more brown/orange than it actually is). Quite tasty, with a deeply "roasty" flavor, not very hot at

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-26956536714277208362009-02-03T09:17:00.001-08:002009-02-03T09:29:48.708-08:00

This is a "vintage post" culled from my Flickr account, posted there in 2007 after my experiment with a vintage recipe for hacking "English Muffins." I want to gather some of those older Flickr posts here, so bear with me.I found a cookbook recently, in a thrift shop, for .25 cents. Amy Vanderbilt's Complete Cookbook, published in 1960 (the year of my birth). I saw an easy recipe for English

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718047034998800783.post-40575799467402218922009-02-02T21:26:00.000-08:002009-02-02T21:52:20.222-08:00

Zoe and Jeff of Artisan Bread in 5 were kind enough and patient enough to do some research for me, and it appears the reason my ABin5 bread wasn't baking off correctly was the flour. I was using White Lily flour, and the lesson to be learned here is, know your flour. I had no idea it was self rising or had salt and other ingredients in it. I was certain it was unbleached AP, but apparently not!

Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07190714048807464134noreply@blogger.com2