food and thrift

Chick- Peas in Chunky Tomato Sauce...and Red Gold Giveaway

2012-02-24T12:57:00.003-06:00

I'm truly happy to announce to you, that I have the most amazing 100 % all natural tomatoes to have had the privilege of trying, almost exactly one year ago, when I won the beautiful giveaway pack, from my friend Wendy, @ Weekend Gourmet.

I did not even know that our local Publix Supermarket in West Palm Beach carries the Red Gold tomatoes, when I suddenly discovered it, yesterday! More importantly, I got my "six pack" ...no, I don't mean a six pack "abs"...not even nearly, or my six pack of "beer"...although beer would go nice with my Chick- Peas in Chunky Tomato Sauce, made with the Red Gold Tomatoes, that I received the "six pack" of different 6 type of their wonderful tomatoes.

I must tell you, that this is a truly Vegan dish, made with dried chickpeas (garbanzo) that have been soaked, and slowly cooked till it became just the right crunchiness on the outside, and al-dente on the inside, and the tomato stew, slowly cooked with Red Gold Crushed Tomatoes, and combined with Red Gold Stewed Tomatoes, that looked and smelled absolutely fresh, ruby red, and "heavenly"! Served over Israeli Couscous, an you've got yourself a satisfying Vegan/Vegetarian dish, or a side dish with any type of meat, if you prefer it that way! The best part...I get to share these "six pack" of tomatoes with the winner of this giveaway!

I think it's always helpful to learn about the nice people, behind their products, so I wanted to share this with you...read on!

We are tomato people…people who grew up where tomatoes grow best - Tomato Country.
Red Gold began as a family business in 1942. Sixty-some years and three generations later, we still concentrate on growing tomatoes and using them to make over a hundred different products. Day in and day out, we pursue our mission, “To produce the freshest, best-tasting tomato products in the world.”
We harvest our well-tended fields at the moment when tomatoes are at their ripest, and carefully treat those tomatoes with the respect they deserve until they're tightly sealed and on their way to you.
You might be surprised how passionate we can be about tomatoes.
Learn more about Red Gold and our people

Now you can understand a little better...so let's get on with the recipe, and the giveaway. All you need to do is to follow my blog...if you haven't already...no facebook, foodbuzz, twitter, Pinterest, Bloglovin, required to follow, since I'm the worst active blogger in all those. Can't even remember when I tweeted about something, but I will for sure tweet about RED GOLD Tomatoes!...and indeed, it's worth its weight in GOLD. Couldn't have come up with a better name for these amazing 100% natural tomatoes; and by now, all of you who know me from comments, know that I am sincere about my feeling of things, and this is one of them!
Cristy, at Red Gold contacted me by e-mail if I would like to participate in this giveaway, and you couldn't get me fast enough to say YES!

Please leave a comment, and mention what you would like to prepare with Red Gold Tomatoes...I will post all the six types that I received, and certainly there are a lot more products...this are just six, of the many!

Red Gold Petite Diced Tomatoes

Red Gold Diced Tomatoes Chili Ready

Red Gold Petite Diced Tomatoes, with Green Chilies

Red Gold Tomato Sauce

My favorites:
Red Gold Crushed Tomatoes

Red Gold Stewed Tomatoes

You've got till Monday, Feb. 27, 2012 @ 11:00PM Eastern Standard Time to enter, and I will announce the winner on Tuesday... just make sure you are following my blog...I will be sure to follow you back as well on your blog.
I will use Random generated number for the winner! Sorry, only U.S. and Canada are eligible for the giveaway!

Chick-Peas in Chunky Tomato Sauce
my own adaptation from an old Bon Appetit magazine recipe, circa (early 90's)

1 medium chopped onion
3 cloves of garlic chopped
2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1- 14.5 oz. can of Red Gold Crushed tomatoes
1- 14.5 oz. can of Red Gold Stewed tomatoes
2 15-to 16 oz can chick-peas (garbanzo beans)
rinsed. ( I cooked my own garbanzo beans) and used 4 cups...also saved the liquid to cook the Israeli Couscous)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley ( I used 1 teaspoon freeze dried parsley)
Save some parsley leaves for garnish ( I used fresh cilantro)

Homemade dried oregano on the left side... from Italy! The BEST!

Combine chopped onion, minced garlic and olive oil in a large non-stick skillet. (I used a large pot)
Cover and cook mixture over low heat until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently, about 15 minutes. Add tomatoes with their juices, chick-peas, and all the above mentioned spices, and bring to a boil.

Stir mixture, crushing tomatoes with side of spoon. (I left my beautiful sliced stewed tomatoes as they are, to cook till tender)
Add fresh parsley. Season to taste with salt, and pepper.

Spoon Couscous into shallow bowl, and ladle tomato mixture over it!
WW Points value: 10

This is what my freezer door shelf looks like. I freeze my best dry spices, to assure the fresh flavor. Just making sure that I don't let them expire. Either way, they should not be kept for more than one year.

Aren't they beauties?...you can also order them online from the company, if you cannot find them in your local supermarket, or specialty markets.

Paula Deen's Banana Nut Bread...and Awards

2012-02-21T09:44:00.028-06:00

If you're feeling sluggish in the mid-afternoon, here's a very nice "pick me up" ...a slice of Banana Nut Bread, and a cold glass of organic low-fat milk. Of course, you can substitute it for a nice steaming cup of tea, or coffee...the choice is yours!

You"re probably wondering why I chose Paula Deen...the "queen of fatty foods" ...
Is it because it's FAT TUESDAY?...would that be appropriate for someone who is still on the Weight Watchers program?...or just recently finding out that she has type 2 diabetes, that she had for three years already, and we just found out!

It's really true, that we don't have to cook like that, with all the butter and fat, she is not encouraging us to cook that way, but it certainly is very tempting to try those recipes. I have found an easier method...just cut down on the fat, and make it a lighter version!

I found a super great thrift find, recently, at Goodwill. Paula Deen's first cookbook, before she became a famous food network star. It was copyrighted in 1997. The price, as you can see it was $1.29 soft cover book, filled with her early famous recipes. She owned a small restaurant at the time, in Savannah Georgia, with her two sons working there. Very cozy, simple, and down-home good Southern foods. I was really impressed with the Banana Bread recipe, and would like to share it with you. As far as for points value...it has to be at least 3 points pr slice...compared to 2 points with the WW Banana Bread, which I will also make soon. I lightened it up a bit, but I must admit, this was an incredible Banana Bread, enjoyed by all!

Linking to: Full Plate Thursday, @Miz Helen's Country Cottage
Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop, @Katherines Corner
Food Photography @Crisp Photoworks

Banana Nut Bread
The Lady and Sons, by Paula Deen

1/2 cup Crisco shortening
(I used 1/3 cup vegetable oil)
1 cup sugar (I used 3/4 cup)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt (I used 1/2 teaspoon)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 eggs beaten
3 ripe bananas mashed
1/3 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cream shortening and sugar. (whisk oil, and sugar, if you're using oil.) Stir together flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda and add to creamed mixture.

Add remaining ingredients; mix well.

Pour into a well greased pan. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
( I baked mine for 30 minutes on 350 degrees, and lowered the temperature to 325, for an additional 25 minutes.)

This is such a cute award...besides the fact that it's called CUTE AWARD! I received this from my friend Csilla, in Hungary, @Csilla Konyhája . She recently made a fantastic cheese danish...a childhood favorite of mine, which I will attempt to make soon.

These two lovely awards, I received from my friend Ping, in Malaysia, @ ping's pickings. Check out her latest refreshing carrot, and ginger cocktail...so pretty, and refreshing...a good way to have your daily carrots...lol


"A word of Love can make a world of difference".

These beautiful bouquet of roses, I chose to take as an award, instead of the awards that was returned to me, by my friend Amelia, from Malaysia @ Amelia's De-sserts. Check out her latest cute, and funny "chick creation" and her yummy coconut topped light dessert.
The Liebster award, I cannot accept since it is for bloggers with less than 200 followers. With the 2 lists of followers I have twice as the 200, so I decided that I would accept these beautiful roses as the award!

Thank you Csilla, thank you Ping, and ...thank you Amelia, for the lovely awards. I am really and truly honored...I will make the best effort to pay these forward, and link them!

Rajma...and WW Corn Bread

2012-02-17T11:00:00.008-06:00

Just recently, I was browsing through some food blogs of friends that I haven't visited for a while, and my eyes
got caught on a simple spicy bean dish...an Indian spicy vegetarian chili that inspired me so much...
knowing that I had all the spices, and it's a Weight Watchers approved dish, as well, plus the fact that I truly love, spicy foods!
When something really inspires me that someone makes, I usually leave a comment saying that "I would love to try this"..."I'm going to make this"..."I'm bookmarking it to print and copy the recipe"...how many of us say these over and over again?...only to just put it aside and forget about it! Nancy, and her husband Veejay are the authors of the Kitchen Gypsies, and I mentioned to my friend Nancy, that I would like to make this dish, and I actually did, in my slow cooker...a huge pot of it! So thanks for the inspiration, Nancy!

Do visit their blog for the recipe, and browse through for some amazing authentic Indian, and American cuisine, that they have to offer.
Points per serving with rice: 10

Linking to: Cookbook Sundays @ Couscous-Consciosness

When I get inspired about a recipe...especially if I have the ingredients on hand, I could hardly wait to "jump" on it to make it, especially when it doesn't require an electric mixer, or a long time for preparation, and baking time. I can honestly say that this Weight Watchers Corn Bread recipe is the BEST by far, and guilt free light, super moist, and delicious of any corn bread or corn muffins I have made. It's pure, and simple...no butter, no fat, or oil added, just pure buttermilk!

Just look at the beautiful color, texture, and natural thickness of these healthy and delicious red kidney beans, soaked, and then cooked for several hours in the slow cooker! I served them over Thai Jasmin rice...amazing, spicy, and totally comforting and satisfying!

You can see the lines on the slow-cooker crock pot where it started to cook, cooking down and getting thicker.

The next day, I served it with my cornbread, which is a Weight Watchers recipe, that I will share with you.
I topped the Rajma with a generous spoonful of Lebni, which is a thick Middle Eastern Kefir, that can only be purchased in a Middle Eastern market, which we have here, locally, in West Palm Beach.

Recipe for the WW Cornbread...click on!

Corn Bread
from Weight Watchers Complete Cookbook

1 1/4 cups yellow cornmeal
1/4 cup all purpose flour
4 teaspoons sugar
2/12 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup + 2 tablespoons low-fat buttermilk
1 egg

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray an 8" square pan or a 11-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

(Quaker Yellow Corn Meal is by far, the best to use, and Pam Original cooking spray.)

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a small bowl, beat the buttermilk and egg. Pour over the flour mixture; stir, just until blended (do not overmix).

Transfer to the pan. Bake until golden brown and toothpick inserted in the center come out clean, 20-25 minutes. Cool in the pan on a rack 10 minutes; serve warm.
Makes 12 servings
Points per serving: 2

Just a little update...maybe, not so short; to share with you on my weight loss project. Since I mentioned to you, that I gained back 2 lbs of my 9 lb weight loss, since Super Bowl weekend.To make matters worse, I skipped a WW meeting following that week...knowing I had gained weight back. Well, I did get the courage to go get weighed in, this week, all bundled up in sweat suit, jacket, and heavy sneakers (going to the gym afterwards) I told the lady, I am not removing my jacket, or my sneakers, I know I gained 2 lbs, plus, all these heavy clothes, and shoes, and late afternoon...already had lunch, another 2 lbs will be packed on. Sure enough she marked 4lbs extra weight!

I am not going to the meetings any more for a while, did have to pay $42.per month, to get back online to be able to get the E-tools. When they say it's FREE online...sure, it's free, just to sign up, but then you have to pay for what the call the PASS to get you started, to be able to track your own weight, and follow with the program, at your leisure time. Now, this way I could go to the meetings (just to get weighed in)...and not have to sit through the meeting, and just come back home to get online, and follow through! Also, this way it still comes out cheaper, than the $15. you have to pay to go in person to the meetings, once a week!

OK...last, but not least. I have been carefully watching, and counting my points this week; I decided to get on the scale...wouldn't you know, I made my goal of the 10lbs loss...actually lost probably about 11, or 12 lbs. since Jan. 2nd. of this year...slow, but sure! Whewww! ...a huge guilt is lifted from my conscience, and also the weight. It's been 6 weeks of trying...failing, and determined, but I did it, and will continue!
Thanks for all your support, and caring, and I am determined to continue because I do want to be healthier and live longer to see my little grandchildren grow up, and be there for my family!

Hugs... and have a wonderful and Blessed weekend, my friends:DDD

Strawberry Whipped Sensation...for your Valentine!

2012-02-13T23:35:00.011-06:00

I can't help but keep thinking about the famous quotation..."A rose is a rose, is a rose"...some of you might have heard that famous quotation, by Gertrude Stein, part of a poem in 1913. Actually there is a meaning to the quote.
"Things are the way they are!"...yes, that is so true. The sooner we realize and understand how things are, we will understand what they are!

What I like to do is to see a recipe, especially one with a photo, and do my own spin on the final result. I can tell if the recipe will actually work out or not, and in this case, I totally did a different shape, form, but kept the ingredients... just added more strawberries, and crushed Oreo cookies to the crust! Even though I didn't make this cake for a "romantic significant other"...I did have plenty of raves from my wonderful family. How could you possibly resist the fresh strawberry mousse filling over the most favorite cookie crust, topped with America's all-time favorite Cool Whip topping, and surrounded by Dove heart shaped chocolate pieces!

A rose can say I love you and want you to be mine,

A rose can say I thank you for being so very kind,

A rose can say congratulations, whatever the occasion may be,
A rose can say I miss you and wish you were here with me,
A rose can say I'm sorry if I've hurt you in any way,
A rose can say get well soon, May God bless you today,
A rose can say I wish you happiness, and the best for you each day
A rose can say farewell when someone goes away,
A rose can say hello, I'm thinking of you today,
There's just so many wonderful things that a rose can say,
A rose can say goodbye when a love one is laid to rest,

No matter what there is to say, a rose can say it best.

~Margie Drive

Linking to:#chocolatelove blog hop, @ Mis Pensamientos
Full Plate Thursday @ Miz Helen's Country Cottage
Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop @ Katherine's Corner

Strawberry Whipped Sensation

adapted from: Family Circle magazine, March 2003

4 cups fresh strawberries, divided

1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk

1/4 cup lemon juice

1 tub 8 oz. Cool Whip Whipped Topping thawed, divided

8 Oreo Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, finely chopped

1 Tbsp. butter melted

Line 8x4 inch loaf pan with foil. Mash 2 cups of strawberries in large bowl. Stir in condensed milk, juice and 2 cups of the Cool Whip; pour into pan.

Top with combined chopped cookies and butter; press into mixture. Cover.

Freeze at least 6 hours.To serve, invert onto plate. Remove foil. Frost with remaining Cool Whip. Top with remaining strawberries, Makes 12 servings.

My version of making this cake: I used 16 cookies, and 2 Tbsp. of melted butter, put them in the food processor, and pressed the crushed cookies into a heart shaped springform pan. I filled it with the filling, and topped it with Cool Whip.

I carefully folded my crushed up strawberries into the sweetened condensed milk

Now fold in half of the Cool Whip whipped topping.

Now, cover with aluminum foil, and freeze up to 6 hrs.

Gabby wanted to decorate the cake...instead of using sliced strawberries, she used the most amazing Dove chocolate heart shapes, and just one strawberry on the top. Extra box of strawberries came in handy, to add some halved strawberries on the side, to enjoy!

Beautiful slice of heavenly Whipped Sensation!

This is dessert devoured...before dinner:D

Your MOMENT...YOUR DOVE...saved for last...yumm!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
...with Love, to all my friends!

Oven Roasted Tomato Crostini...and with Rigatoni

2012-02-10T11:54:00.014-06:00

When you have a beautiful loaf of homemade bread, and red ripe tomatoes, what could be better, than a "fresh bruschetta topped" or an Oven Roasted (fresh) Tomato Crostini? ...knowing that you have the best extra virgin olive oil, and chopped garlic, and have a batch of fresh basil, you're all set! You don't even need to waste electricity to roast them in your big oven. Your handy toaster oven will do the job for you!

This past week has not been a very successful one, as far as cooking, or baking from my Weight Watchers cookbook...simply, because of last weekend which was the NFL Super Bowl weekend! Missed my WW meeting, didn't keep track of my points, only knowing by now, how much points each item has, that I eat. For instance, one crostini with the roasted tomato topping is 5 points, which is not a lot, but having 2 of these, you're up to 10 points, granted it's very, delicious, and a satisfying snack, but I literally had this for lunch, which was OK. The worst part of the weekend, was, the Super Bowl Sunday, not because I ate too much...it's what I ate. BBQ ribs, twice baked potato, pasta with clams, and for dessert, a slice of Tiramisu! That means, the next following days, I gained back 2 lbs. so now, I'm 3 lbs away from my goal of the 10 lbs loss...sad, but true! Although I hit the gym again...just have to get back to my routine, and stay with the program.

"Kill two birds with one stone" Roasted Tomato Crostini, and Roasted Tomato Rigatoni

Oven Roasted Tomato Crostini
my own recipe

4 to 6 medium ripe tomatoes, or
6 to 8 ripe Roma tomatoes
halved, and cut into quarters
salt and pepper to taste
dried herbs, such as basil, oregano, thyme
2 to 4Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
chopped garlic (optional)

(I didn't add the chopped garlic when roasting tomatoes, I added it to the crostini. You can add it when roasting tomatoes)

Line a small baking pan with aluminum foil, (dull side up)
Place your tomato pieces, and sprinkle with the salt, pepper and spices, and drizzle the extra virgin olive oil on them. Bake in a 375 F. degree oven, for about 45 minutes.

(I used a toaster oven, so simple, and less space used, easier clean-up, and saves electricity)

This is how they will look like after 45 minutes. Almost all of the oil soaked up, just the perfect texture, and incredible sweet flavor. Not using the garlic while you roast them gives them the true sweet flavor. Garlic tends to overpower them while roasting. Use garlic afterwards, if you like, according to taste!

All you do afterwards is, set the tomatoes in a dish with a rim, or in a small bowl, add a little more extra virgin olive oil, adjust seasoning. You can add fresh chopped herbs at this time, and a touch of balsamic vinegar if you like.

I also added some to cooked rigatoni pasta, with some of my leftover chickpeas, and shaved Parmigiana cheese!
It was the best topping for a simple, healthy and delicious pasta, I could think of at the moment:DDD
Points value for the pasta: 7 points

For the Crostini:

Chop a few cloves of garlic, place them in a small ramekin, add about 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil to it, and you have a nice garlic spread. Spread some of that lightly on a nice thin slice of crusty bread, spoon some of the roasted tomatoes on, and on a 350 F aluminum foil lined baking sheet, bake for about 10-12 minutes. Roll about 3 fresh basil leaves, and cut them into thin slices (chiffonade) ...scatter them on top, just before serving. You can also add shaved Parmigiana on the crostini, as well.
Do not add the basil when baking the crostini, or it will darken or burn!

This is the most difficult part...paying forward the awards! Not just because of the length of time it takes, to link it to the blogger you want to give it to, but because I do feel everyone deserves it...but knowing that, if I should mention, as a lot of others have mentioned in the past. Please feel free to accept it, and keep it, or pass it on, BUT...there's a catch to that. You don't see you name on the list, and you say to yourself..."hmmm, why should I bother with this?...my name isn't on the list!" I've had that happen to me quite a few times, and almost thinking..."no, I can't take this award, it wasn't meant for me!"...and so, it goes!

This time, I'm doing this differently...very differently!The persons that have mentioned the award...and I know all of you have noticed it, but did not mention...no problem! Can't mention every little detail; but those of you, who did...other than the bloggers that the award came from, you will be awarded this award, and ..~~.thereafter, who comments on it, as well~~...any blogger that would like to grab it, and pay it forward! ~~As long as you can read Hungarian, or Russian~~
No Rules apply...just please accept it with my BEST WISHES, and BIG HUGS!...pass it on to as few, or as many as you would like to, just be sure to link it...(good luck with that one...~~you'll be linking for hours if you do 10~~)

Congratulations, on the well deserved award:DDD
According to the comments on my previous post, in their order:

Kathy @ Bakeaway With Me
Jill @ Dulce Dough
Marsha @ The Harried Cook
Amelia @ Amelia's De-sserts
Christine @ Christine's Pantry
Maria, and Xara @ Cookendfeed
Ping @ Ping's Pickings
Erzsebet @ Troll a Konyhámban
Lizzy @ That Skinny Chick Can Bake!!!
Nancy @ Kitchen Gypsies

Rye Bread...and Awards

2012-02-07T15:09:00.006-06:00

If you can believe it, this is my first rye bread that I have ever made...(I have made white, and whole wheat in a simple loaf pan, but not rye...and not free-form.)...thanks to finding rye flour at Whole Foods Market. They have everything there, that are healthy, organic, and totally good for you. I can spend hours there, when I shop, going down on each and every isle, and have a nice and healthy self-serve lunch there, as well.

The crust of this Rustic Rye Bread is so incredibly crunchy, and the flavor just blows you away! I made a long loaf and a round loaf with the recipe, it was really such a pleasure to get your hands on these loaves, and let the bread machine do the heavy kneading, but I did get help from my little grandson Luca. He volunteered to help, and both of us loved every minute of this fabulous bread making.

The recipe comes from a 1987 Fanny Farmer Cookbook, nothing fancy, no photos, just drawing illustrations.The ever famous James Beard has a great introduction about the book. Fanny Farmer...actually, that was her real name, had a cooking school in Boston, in the early 1900, and her first cookbook was published in 1896, the Boston Cooking-School Cookbook. She died in 1915, but her legacy has been carried on for over a century, and copies have been coming out, each time with new revised editions. This edition is also a revised edition, and the latest edition is a 2010 edition. Every cook in America should know about Fanny Farmer, and her contribution to the American Cuisine! Just a little history, to get you acquainted with!...Now, let's get on to the recipe!

Rye Bread
from the Fannie Farmer Cookbook

1 cup (1/4 L) milk
2 Tablespoon shortening
2 Tablespoon dark-brown sugar
1 Tablespoon salt
2 packages dry yeast
3 cups (420 g.) rye flour
3 cups (420 g.) white flour

Bring 1 cup water to a boil, mix it with the milk, shortening, sugar and salt in a large bowl, and let cool to lukewarm. Measure 1/2 cup warm water in a separate container, stir in yeast, and let it stand for 5 minutes to dissolve. Add the dissolved yeast to the rye flour to the first mixture, and combine thoroughly. . Add enough of the white flour, so that you can handle the dough. Turn out onto a lightly floured board, knead for a minute or two, then let rest, for 10 minutes. Resume kneading for about 10 minutes, adding the remaining flour as necessary.

(I did all the previous steps, by adding everything into the bread machine container, and set the dial on to the "dough setting" to do the kneading.)

Put the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place, until almost double in bulk.

(Now here's the fun part, my little helper waiting, in the sidelines on his favorite stool... and ready to punch down the dough)

Punch down and shape into two loaves. Place in greased loaf pans, ( I made two free-form loaves) and let rise until double in bulk. Preheat oven to 375 F. degrees
(190 C.)

Bake bread for 45-50 minutes. Remove from pans and cool on rack.

For a free-form shaped bread, fold over each side, as in making the dough for flaky biscuits.

Priceless little "angelic" helping hands folding over both sides of the dough!

Shaping the dough into a round loaf...making sure the ends are tucked in and sealed, so bread will not open up and fall apart when baking.

Such happy memories will result from bread making with little ones. (both of us shaping, and sealing the bottom of the dough)

One rectangle, and one round loaf. Place on parchment lined baking sheet, and let it rise again, until larger (not necessarily doubled)

Now, you can rub a little more flour on top, and slash the tops lightly with a sharp knife, to give it a rustic design, and follow the direction for baking.

...and the finished result! My grandchildren ate at least 2 slices of this amazing bread, while it was still warm. My grandson was so proud of himself for helping, he even had another slice for breakfast, the following morning!

Get your kids help you in the kitchen with baking, whenever they get interested...which might be more often than you think. So much fun, so many fond memories:DDD

For points value, I did the math on my little handy WW points tracker. 3 points for 1 slice of bread.
(I ate 2 slices)

Linking to: Full Plate Thursday, @ Miz Helen's Country Cottage
Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop, @ Katherines Corner

I am so honored to receive this beautiful unique award, called the Magyarok Asztala= Hungarians' Table from a Hungarian food blogger friend, Petra, @ Reformkori Konyha and also from Eszter @ Borsodi Eszter Blogja.
I do want to reveal the originality of the beautiful Award, which was at an actual dinner event, in Hungary, photographed by Katalin @ Katalin Konyhája and designed by her, as well!
Thank you so much, I will pay it forward as soon as I can!

Here's another award, which I received from Csilla @ Csilla Konyhája, another talented cook, and baker... and also from Petra. This cute little bear and the happy sunshine, is so adorable, I could not tell you what these words mean...it's in Russian. I wish I knew where this cute one originated from, so I could mention them!
Thank you Csilla, and thank you Petra, for honoring me with this adorable award!

Petra is featured in the KIFŐZTÜK Hungarian food magazine, that posts photos and recipes from food bloggers. She makes amazing dishes and desserts and several of her recipes with the photos are featured in the magazine. Now, why can't we get a cooking magazine like that, published? What a wonderful way of getting one's food blog in a special magazine!

West Palm Beach Green Market...and Race for the Cure

2012-02-04T12:38:00.014-06:00

Last Saturday , we had the best time...ever! ...and it was all for a great event, The 2012, Race for the Cure run, and walk, for Breast Cancer Awareness...in which my 10yr old granddaughter, Gabby, participated in. (bless her little heart)...in honor of my younger sister, who is 7yrs cancer free, after her mastectomy. She was 45yrs old at the time, the same age when our mother was struck with the same disease, but 40yrs ago...even 30, is not the same life expectancy, as it has been for the last twenty years, especially now. We lost our mother, in her late forties, but was a fighter to the end. No mastectomy, just remove the tumor; chemo, radiation, and let the cancer ravage her entire body over the next 3 years. What a tragedy for the family to endure, taking turns to take care of her at the last year. The pain, and agony... something, that I would not wish for anyone to have to go through, watching their loved one suffer like that, and having to lose them!

Gabby, who is so naturally athletic, and is on the track team in her school, also is on a basketball team called Upward for the 5th year.. she was barely in the first grade when she started basketball. At the age of 10, she is almost 5'3" tall, about one inch shorter than myself, so why not play basketball, when she excels in it. I was very honored and touched that she would do this, such a selfless gesture on her part!

She wasn't entirely alone with the huge crowd, some running, some walking...she went with our dear friends Dr. Eric, and his wife, Marisa, and their 2 children, Gabby's best friends, from the time day were toddlers, growing up, and just like part of the family! We of course, could not follow them, since they were running through downtown, and made their way to the Intracoastal, which is near downtown, and that is where the Green Market is located, which is open every Saturday, through May!

The vendors set up their booths with amazing food products, and live music, entertainment, which I will show you, as I walk you through! Now, you see what I mean about my once a week splurging...and NO, I did not have even one bite, I did not even buy one piece of this gorgeous french pastry, from a well known French Bakery...why?...because my daughter would not let me. She was looking out for me!
So, all I got to do, is take a few pictures, talk to the owner with the cut French accent, and that's about it! So, here it is, Friday, and exactly one month...1 lb away from my goal. I did lose 9 lbs very safely (well, almost safely) if it wasn't for my previous splurging, I would have made the goal!

So, this is the place where you get all the delicious French pastries...just don't ask me the name of the bakery...yikes! I forgot that one, but you can find them at the Green Market, every Saturday
morning.

Dr. Eric Schnirman, and wife Marisa...our dearest friends, and vet to all of our pets. They took part in the race, as well, along with their two children.

Proud and sweet Oceanna, Dr. Eric's daughter, also took part in the race...her mom Marisa, next to her.

Dr. Eric's son River...sampling some really good, sweet and spicy pickles. Even the vendors were in the "pink"

We met up with the runners, and walkers...here's Gabby, my granddaughter. I'm so proud of her doing this run, for the first time, at the age of 10. They all received pink tote bags, as a gift...she gave me one extra, as well. In the background is her mom, my daughter, Lora, with grandson Luca, and her best friend, Sydney, who came to wish her good luck!

Gabby likes to be #1, in everything...lucky for her, she was assigned the #1 tag!

My grandson Luca, just adores Sydney...as we all do! She is like another big sister to Luca! Sydney is the niece of
Dara Torres the 5-time Olympic U.S. swimmer! She is following her aunt's footsteps, and is on a swimming team!

A young model, promoting Starbucks Coffee..made hour outfit all by herself!

So, we spotted this very tall guy, as you can see, he is not only tall, by he wears these strange looking shoes, called, KANGOO ...

He did a little demonstration for us, jumping up and down...his hair bouncing, and we found out that he is from the
Palm Beach KANGOO.COM Company, from West Palm Beach. Actually, you are able to purchase these low impact exercise shoes. High intensity, and low impact "workout for your feet"...although, it may not be for me, but maybe for you!

I really admired his "early days Michael Bolton" locks, and he said he is growing his hair so he can cut and donate it for LOCKS OF LOVE is what they are called. An organization that makes wigs for children that lose their hair, from cancer treatment.

We met up with Mrs Kangoo as well, and she was wearing the female version if these shoes!

Pets, and more Pink Colors...

I don't think this lady with the "pink Tutu" was taking part in the run, or the walk...just thought it was interesting to snap a shot of her!

A "pet friendly" place...love these cute poodles!

Awwe! Aren't they adorable?...making friends, so sweet:DDD

More doggies, making friends!

Doggies in strollers!

Doggies in their owners' arms...you get the picture, now. There's a huge "pet lover" community here!

Everybody in the "pink"...just noticed on the photo...behind the lady wearing a pink shirt...mom and daughter, wearing KANGOOS...the low impact exercise shoes. Now, for more entertainment, click over on the "read more, link"

Well, I got my slice of pizza from Pizza Girls across the street...as you can see, I did not take any other photos of foods, other than the danishes...did not have one danish, or one bite, so while my daughter actually said "yes" to let me have a slice of my favorite pepperoni, and red onion pizza. No photos of any other foods at the Green Market...since I was being "policed" from family members! A slice of this yummy pizza is more likely about 7 points, less than the bagel and cream cheese which was offered to me by Lora, which has 10 points!

I know it's Super Bowl Sunday tomorrow...may your favorite...or the BEST team win! Such an exciting event for all of us here in the U.S. Everybody will be with family, friends, at events, to watch the Super Bowl. For me, I love the commercials, and the half time entertainment...and of course all the excitement and great snacks that go with it!
I did make some yummy hot wings last year...this year, so far I am not making anything! (unless asked)

HAPPY SUPER BOWL SUNDAY!

BTW-The amazing belly dancers were all part of the West Palm Beach Green Market entertainment...FREE!...

Hot-and Spicy Chickpea Cakes with Pico de Gallo...and Guest Post

2012-01-31T08:18:00.013-06:00

Hot-and Spicy Chickpea Cakes with Pico de Gallo from Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook

I am so honored to guest post for my dear friend Swathi, @Zesty South Indian Kitchen... who at this time, needs all the rest she can get. Glad to know she also has a few other blogger friends that will guest post for her, while she is recuperating. She needs a lot of "mommy and me" time at this very fragile first few months!

I am so thrilled to celebrate the birth of Swathi's little prince...Nikhil! A beautiful, and healthy baby boy! Such a perfect addition to the happy family, and a pride and joy to his big sister, Nidhi.

Swathi dear, I just want you to know, that I wish you and your precious baby all the best of health, and happiness. Congratulations to you, your hubby, and princess Nidhi!
May you, enjoy your new bundle of joy!

This dish is one of may favorite dishes to have for lunch, and for the Pico de Gallo, it's zero points so, healthy, spicy, colorful and delicious! I will be back to add more good news, but in the meantime...here's an easy way to cut the veggies perfect!

Linking to: Full Plate Thursday, @Miz Helen's Country Cottage

just click over to: Swathi's blog to get the recipe!

Thank you Swathi, for giving me the opportunity to guest post for you, again!

Smoky Manhattan-Style Clam Chowder...

2012-01-28T00:05:00.001-06:00

Still going strong with Weight Watchers and their amazing recipes from the Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook. Also received another one from a friend, called Weight Watchers One Pot Cookbook. I can hardly wait to check out some of the delicious recipes. I actually signed up for the meetings...only, because a lot has changed in the program in the last few years, and it's a different point system now. As far as the weight loss, I'm still at 7 lbs of my weight loss, but I do splurge at least once a week, where I don't even try to count the points because it would totally fall off the points track. As you can see, that really does make a difference when you are trying to lose weight!

If you like clams, then you will most likely love Manhattan Clam Chowder. So light, rich, yet oh, so satisfying, and it's actually a Weight Watchers recipe, that I barely altered. The only difference was, that I added a dry chipotle pepper, that I soaked in boiling water, to give it the smoky taste, instead of using fire roasted diced tomatoes. Chipotle has more of a smoky flavor than fired roasted tomatoes would. I must confess, that I'm totally enjoying this new program, and are looking forward to each day with so much enthusiasm to plan a different meal every day, knowing that it's so flavorful, and healthy with lots of fresh vegetables that can be made so many ways. Just look at the robust color, texture and flavor of this gorgeous Manhattan Clam Chowder. I'm so happy to share the recipe with you.

Linking to: Cookbook Sundays @couscous-consciousness

Smoky Manhattan-Style Clam Chowder
adapted from: Weight Watchers Complete Cookbook

2 teaspoons olive oil
(I used 1 Tbsp.)
1 onion chopped
1 large garlic clove minced
1 (1/2 pound) all-purpose potato, peeled, and cut into 1/2 inch dice (I used 2 large potatoes)
1 small zucchini diced (I omitted it)
1 carrot diced (I added 3)
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes)
(I added 2 cans of diced regular tomatoes)
1 bay leaf
(1 chipotle pepper)
2 (8 ounce bottles)clam juice
( I used one bottle)
1/2 cup of water
(I used 2 cups of water with 1 Tbsp vegetable base, boiled in the microwave)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (I used 1 teaspoon)
1/8 teaspoon black pepper (I used 1/2 teaspoon)
1 (6 ounce can chopped clams (I used 2 cans of chopped clams)

Soak the dried chipotle pepper, after you have boiled it. Let it soak until soft. Cut in half, and clean the seeds out, and cut pepper into small pieces to add to the chowder.
It's optional, you don't have to use it, if you are using fire roasted diced tomatoes.

Heat the oil in a large pot, over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook stirring until onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add celery, carrots, and zucchini (if you're using it) and saute for another 5 minutes. Add the oregano, pepper, and stir through.

Add the tomatoes with their juice, the clam juice, the water, the bay leaf, the chipotle pepper, diced, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer partially cover, for about 25 minutes.

Add the clams with their juice, and cook, just until heated through, about 2 minutes. Do not boil, or the clams will toughen.
8 servings
PointsPlus value:4

Chocolate Buttermilk Bundt Cake...

2012-01-24T00:57:00.017-06:00

Just wanted to let you know that I'm back on track with my Weight Watchers recipes...and yes, this light and simple Chocolate Bundt Cake is from my Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook. Surprised?...you shouldn't be. It's only 4 points per serving, unlike the the little Pogácsa (biscuits) which I made, had at least 2 points per serving...and you just can't stop at eating one piece.We're on a new track now...still lost 1 additional lb. when I thought I gained some of the weight back...exercise does help!

On a lighter note...as in weight wise, and otherwise, I am staying on the Weight Watchers program and will be featuring mostly, my Weight Watchers' recipes, even for my Guest Post, which I am so excited about! For my Chocolate Bundt Cake recipe, ~~click over..~~.check it out!

Linking to: http://mizhelenscountrycottage.blogspot.com/
http://katherinescorner.com/

Chocolate Buttermilk Bundt Cake
from: Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook
2011 edition

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1 ounce semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
1/2 cup boiling water
1 cup low-fat buttermilk
1/3 cup canola oil
1 large egg
1 large egg white
1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Spray a 10 inch Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in medium bowl.
Combine cocoa and chopped chocolate in small bowl. Pour boiling water over cocoa mixture, stirring
until chocolate is melted.
Whisk together buttermilk, oil, egg, egg white, and vanilla in large bowl; stir in cocoa mixture. Add flour,
mixture, stirring just until no longer visible. Stir in chocolate chips. Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake until toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean, 45-50 minutes. Let cool in pan on wire
rack 10 minutes. Invert and remove pan. Let cool completely. Serves 24 slices
Points Plus value: 4

note: You can substitute low-fat buttermilk, by making your own.
To a 1 cup glass measuring cup, add 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar, and fill to 1 cup, low-fat milk.
Do not stir, just leave for a few minutes and it will get thick, just like buttermilk...only cheaper, and just as good!

Gong Xi Fa Cai...Happy Chinese New Year...The year of the Dragon!

Töpörtyüs Pogácsa-Hungarian (crackling) Biscuits

2012-01-21T11:45:00.011-06:00

This is a difficult emotional task for me...I have actually made my Hungarian tepertős...or töpörtyüs pogácsa...a savory bacon bits biscuits...strictly Hungarian style, that is from my childhood!...one caution! Do not attempt to make this, unless you want a real challenge, or it's a childhood memory recall!...It's a huge challenge, and takes about 4 to 5 hours of folding, resting, rolling out the dough at least 3 times. I did have a Weight Watchers recipe for you (will have to post it next time)...made a delicious Manhattan Clam Chowder, which was in the cookbook.

I actually made a batch and scored the top...but when I baked it it had a "mind of its own" but all is well, they are incredibly delicious!

As you can see...these biscuits turned out so flaky, savory, and delicious. A lot of work, but they were worth every minute of it!

Hungarian Pogacsa with pork cracklings ...Töpörtyus Pogácsa
adapted from: three different sources

4 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup cold butter
1 teaspoon salt
2 Tbsp dry instant yeast
2 cups finely chopped töpörtyü,
or crispy bacon
2 eggs, beaten with a fork
1-2 cup white wine
1 1/4 cups Greek style yogurt
(I used Chobani)
1 egg
2 whole eggs beaten, for brushing

Make the the töpörtyü first. You will need 2 lbs for this recipe.(Click on the link) You can refrigerate them for a few days, and when you are ready to use them, chop them fine. Better yet, chop them in the food processor
(which I will do next time)

In a large bowl, add the 4 1/2 cup flour. Add 1/2 cup of warm water in a cup and add the 2Tbsp dry yeast to desolve and bubble up as in photo.

Cut the butter in small pieces and add it to the flour, along with the salt, and mix with a pastry blender

Add the yeast and mix it into the flour, with a wooden spoon.

In a small bowl, mix the yogurt with the egg, and the 1/2 cup white wine, and add that as well to the flour mixture.

Now, here comes the fun part...you get to mix all these ingredients with your hands until they combine, and work it well together

On a floured board, or clean counter, knead the dough several times until nice and elastic and not sticking to the board.

Place in an oiled bowl, turn over, and cover the bowl with plastic wrap, an place a clean towel on it. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

After the 30 minutes rest, roll out the dough as thin as possible, and scatter half the cracklings on it.

Now, fold over carefully envelope style, from the left, the right, and from each end to enclose.

It should look like a square, all 4 sides enclosed.

Cover with a clean dishtowel, and let it rest for about 20 minutes.

Roll the dough out again, into a 12 x 9 inches form, from and follow the same procedure, by sprinkling the second half of the cracklings on it, and fold up again, and let it rest for another 20 minutes.

(Aren't you tired yet, from just following these procedures?) Well, like I said, you need about 4 to 5 hrs. work on this, but so well worth it.

Score the dough with a sharp knife but careful not to cut through the dough. (this is where I messed up, scoring it too deep) Brush half the amount of the egg wash on it.

Cut out rounds, with a small biscuit cutter. (As you can see I messed up my nice pattern when I brushed it with the egg wash, so the scoring is not uniform) If I recall, my mother used to brush the biscuits with the egg wash, carefully, and separately. Will have to improve on the the next time.

You can re-roll the scrap dough and start again, cutting them out. The second time, I did not score the tops.

Place the pogácsa (biscuits) on a parchment lined baking sheet, let them rest uncovered for 20 minutes...bake in a preheated 425 degrees F oven for about 15-18 minutes, until it gets nice and golden brown on the top.

I'm really not happy the way the scored top turned out, but they are all light, crispy on the top, and bottom, and oh, so delicious. Eat them as snacks, of with a nice bowl of soup, or as a bread substitute with any meal. Well worth all the effort and work you put into it!
I ended up with about 4 dozen of these small treasures. Serve them while they are warm, or at room temperature.

Note:If you have leftovers, freeze them in a plastic container, and re-heat them in a 325 degrees F. oven for a few minutes, and they will be just as fresh as they were on the day you baked them...maybe even better!

Chick Pea Curry...and (not so) Weight Watchers Goodies

2012-01-17T13:03:00.001-06:00

Week 2 of my Weight Watchers program, online...I lost 5 lbs. so far. But I must tell you, planning, is the "key" to this successful way of staying on track! It's not easy, when you think about various other foods to eat...easier to make, but hard when you have to say "no" or maybe just limit it to a bite?...or a small portion! Easier said, than done, but I did it, and I'm still doing it!

Last week, I was making mostly chicken dishes, with fresh and healthy vegetables, and this week I'm concentrating on legumes...all kinds of beans, and rice, and grain dishes. The only "sidetrack" is, that in the meantime, I'm also thinking about making cakes, and other snacks...which not necessarily from the Weight Watchers cookbook! As for instance...neither is the Chickpea Curry, but I'm sure, if I would google this recipe for WW, I could find similar recipe for this delicious dish!

Chickpea Curry
by; All Recipes.com

2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
2 onions, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh ginger root, finely chopped
6 whole cloves (I used 1 teaspoon ground cloves)
2 (2inch) sticks cinnamon, crushed (I used 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt, to taste
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
2 (15 ounce) cans garbanzo beans
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat, and fry onions until tender. Stir in garlic, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, salt cayenne, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute over medium heat, stirring constantly. Mix in garbanzo beans, and the liquid. Continue to cook and stir until all ingredients are well blended and heated through. Remove from heat. Stir in cilantro just before serving, reserving reserving some, for garnish.
Note: I added 1 Tbsp. hot homemade pepper sauce for more spice, and flavor. Also served it over Jasmine rice
6- 8 servings; Points value: 7

Just because you decide to start the new year, in a more positive way, than all the previous years before, does not mean you cannot enjoy the "simple things in life" like buying yourself a special bouquet of flowers. In my case, I just happen to love fresh Baby's Breath...they are so pretty, delicate, and have such subtle fresh fragrance.

They only cost $4.00 for this gorgeous bouquet, which I trimmed back and placed in water, with ice cubes, and a Tbsp. of white vinegar to keep fresher, longer.

The beautiful hand painted dainty little vase is a "thrift find" for $.99 (cents) ...in fact, all the picture frames with my loved ones are all thrift finds, all of them, less than $5.00 and I just love brown wood frames, and these frames are all so unique, and elegant. So, there you have it, a little secret of simple happiness I wanted to share with you....and the wall paint color in my living room, is called Zen Green...a little bit of Zen goes a long way:D

You may be wondering what is this concoction, that's frying in the pan? Well, it's an old childhood favorite of mine which will be used to make the most amazing Hungarian "pogácsa" with cracklings...called "töpörtyü"...in English it would be biscuits...or scones? Not exactly sure which is the proper way to call it in English, but it's called Töpörtyüs Pogácsa!
Click on this link, and check it out. It is the most amazing pogácsa, so flaky savory, tasty, light, and delicious with the chopped little pork cracklings worked right into the dough!
Made by; none other, than a talented Hungarian/Canadian food blogger whom I happen to find quite accidentally...long story!
So here's the famous Pogácsa, made by Zsuzsa, @Zsuzsa in the kitchen

Zsuzsa explains how to purchase, and use the crackling, but does not have photos of it! Well, I went on an adventure hunt to my favorite Italian meat market...Mario's in Delray Beach (a little bit of drive, but well worth it)
Mike, was so kind and gracious to cut fresh pork fat for me...took him a little while, I should have pre-ordered it. Purchased about 2 lbs, which I diced and fried in vegetable oil to a crisp! It smelled so wonderful, as I was frying it...so, so fresh, you can smell the freshness of the aroma!

When they're fried up all crispy, and golden...remove them with a slotted spoon, and layer them on double layer paper towel, sprinkle with fine Kosher salt, and they are ready to be chopped for the Pogácsa, or just enjoy them with caution! ...I enjoyed a few pieces with a slice of fresh bakery rye bread with caraway seeds, and fresh Hungarian hot paprika...Oh, man!...Oh God!...If you love bacon...this is the Ultimate "bacon lover's dream"...I kid you not!...Just watch your cholesterol...pure fat, with just a hint of meat on it...but crispy, crunchy, and light as a "feather"...not WeightWatchers' delight...not by a long shot!

Any way, I'm going to the gym this evening...and will work out an extra 30 minutes on the cardio machines!
I'm not trying to steer you wrong...but you gotta have some kind of "guilty food pleasure"...and this is as guilty as it gets!

Black Beans and Rice...and Cuban Picadillo

2012-01-14T20:11:00.004-06:00

Being on WeightWatchers is so much fun, and versatile with all the interesting and delicious foods you can prepare, right out of the cookbook, or get recipes online. Not only that, but you can create your own menus, as long as they are not too fatty, or too much carbs. I love beans, any kind...especially black beans. Here is South Florida we have a huge population of Cuban/Americans that have brought their culture, and cuisine with them to carry on and you can find a Cuban restaurant, or market all around town, here in West Palm Beach, but mostly in Miami!

It's so easy to make Black Beans and Rice, very satisfying with the addition of the Picadillo, which is stirred into the ready made Black Beans and Rice, and if you want to keep it vegetarian...just omit the Picadillo. I will include the basic ingredients for the Picadillo, which is a Cuban hearty ground beef dish, that can be also served with rice, just by itself...combining it with the black beans is really, so hearty and delicious with a simple salad on the side!

Black Beans and Rice
by; Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook

4 teaspoons olive oil
1 green bell pepper seeded and chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
5-6 garlic, minced
1 (16-ounce) can black beans, rinsed
and drained
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable stock, or broth
4 teaspoons dry sherry
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
or 1/2 teaspoon dried
1 bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper sauce
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
4 cups cooked white rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the oil. Saute the bell pepper, onion, and garlic, until very soft, about 15 minutes. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, stock, sherry, thyme, bay leaf, oregano, pepper sauce, and water; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and vegetables are tender, about 45 minutes. If the mixture becomes too thick, add hot water to thin to desired consistency. Stir in the cilantro, and season with the salt and pepper; discard the bay leaf. Serve over the rice. Makes 4 servings.
Points Value: 9

Note: with the addition of the picadillo, another 3, or 4 points are added. What I did, was have my usual coffee at breakfast, and ate an entire grapefruit (0 points)...NO OATMEAL...I saved my 4 points to have the Picadillo

For the Picadillo:
Saute 1 medium onion, 4 cloves chopped garlic, in small amt. of olive oil. Add 3/4 cup tomato sauce, 3/4 cup beef broth, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon cumin, few dashes of red hot sauce, and simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir in 8 to 10 pimento stuffed green olive (you can cut them in half) and chopped cilantro. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes. You can serve them over rice, or add, and stir in with the Black Beans and Rice.

Linking to: Cookbook Sundays @ Couscous & Consciousness

On a lighter, and brighter note: Thank you all, for your caring, and kind comments regarding my kitty, Prince, who is just about 19 years old now...Last week, I almost had to put him down, at the urging of my vet, Dr. Eric. Since Prince's eyesight came back, after mysteriously losing it for several hours (still a mystery) his pupils totally covered his beautiful green eyes, which disappeared into 2 total black eyes...lasted for hours, me...comforting him, the next morning, after a total sleepless night, it came back, but then...so, since last week, he is eating well, and is his "old" sweet, and calm self...just taking one-day at a time. Dr. Eric is out of town for 5 days, and I will have to take him to his colleague vet, if an emergency should happen...otherwise, we are just fine! Thank God!

Last, but not least...I do want to pass this beautiful award that I received from my dear friend, Amelia to 6 wonderful food blogger friends...hopefully, they will pay this forward to at least 8 to 10 deserving food bloggers. The only reason I'm passing this on to 6 food bloggers, is...because since the last year, or two...I have received just about every award out there on the Internet, and faithfully passed it on...to only have about a handful of bloggers to even acknowledge that they received it...never mind, passing it on! So now, I am passing it on to 6 food bloggers from 3 different countries, including the United States...they are all well deserving participants, and my dear followers/friends!

All you have to do, is to copy, and paste...mention who it came from, and pass it on to at least, 6 to 10 bloggers of your choice, who you think are deserving of this. Thank you Amelia, and thanks to all of you, dear friends...you all deserve an award, so please consider yourself being awarded...take the award, and pass it on!
Hugs, to all!

Gizi- @ Gizi Receptjei- from Hungary
Wanna @ Relaxotour-from Hungary
Csilla @ Csilla Konyhája -from Hungary

Jo @ChicGeorgious- from Malaysia
Ping@ Ping's Pickings- from Malaysia

Beth @Baking and Cooking, A Tale of Two Loves-from the United States
Lyndsey @ Tiny Skillet-from the United States

Lemon and Cinnamon Scented Flan...and Citrus Love Month

2012-01-11T21:41:00.006-06:00

Since I'm into my second week of the WeightWatchers ~~diet~~ program, you would think that I gave up after this super delicious flan...but I did not give up, I am continuing with more enthusiasm, as ever! I lost an additional pound...4 lbs, loss, as of this morning. Yesterday, I went to the gym to work out for 50 minutes, and I mean...really work out, cardio, 30 minutes, and weights, another 20 minutes. I wanted to join in on the Citrus Love Month with something used with citrus. I can't be spending too much time with desserts, knowing that I can only have one bite, or maybe 1 cookie for a treat, so I'm sharing my flan to link up! Also, I will show off my very well planned out dinner...but only, when I have dinner at my daughter Lora's is when I get enthusiastic about it...otherwise, it's dinner for one, and it better be from the WeightWatchers, or similar type of dish!

Lemon and Cinnamon Scented Flan
inspired by Food & Wine

2 1/2 cups whole milk
Peel of half lemon
1 medium cinnamon stick, broken
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
5 large eggs

Preheat the oven to 300°. Set six 5- to 6-ounce ramekins or custard cups in a medium baking pan.
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, lemon peel and cinnamon stick and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and let stand for 15 minutes; discard the lemon peel and cinnamon stick pieces.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, cook 1/2 cup of the sugar with the water over moderately high heat, stirring just until the sugar dissolves. Lower the heat to moderate and let the sugar syrup simmer, without stirring, until a deep amber caramel forms, about 15 minutes. Immediately pour the caramel into the ramekins, tilting them as necessary to evenly coat the bottoms.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar. Slowly whisk in the warm milk, then strain through a fine sieve into a large measuring cup or a bowl. Pour the custard into the ramekins. Pour enough hot water into the baking pan to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for about 40 minutes, until a knife inserted into a flan comes out clean. Transfer the ramekins to a rack and let the flans cool to room temperature. Refrigerate the flans for at least 4 hours or overnight.
To serve, run a thin knife around each flan. Top each flan with an inverted dessert plate and unmold, letting the caramel run over the flans. Serve at once.

Make Ahead: The flans can be refrigerated for up to 2 days in the ramekins.

Linking to: Citruslove @ Mis Pensamientos

Full Plate Thursday 1-12-12 @Miz Helen's Country Cottage

Thursday Favorite Things @ Katherines Corner

I would like to share with you my well planned day of delicious home made meals, from breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I usually have old fashioned oatmeal, with raisins, and cinnamon, sweeten it with organic agave nectar, my usual coffee with milk...actually, caffe latte, because I make it with espresso coffee, and heat up 1 cup of low-fat milk with it. Oatmeal, is 4 points, and coffee w/milk is 1 point, but this morning, I opted for half a banana bread, and my coffee=3points I made a delicious WeightWatchers Corn Chowder...minus the (turkey bacon)

Corn Chowder with Bacon (optional)

adapted from: Weight Watchers Complete Cookbook

2 Tbsp canola oil

1 onion chopped

1 yellow bell pepper chopped

1 red bell pepper chopped

salt, and white pepper to taste

4 cups basic vegetable stock

4 medium all purpose potatoes peeled

and cubed

4 whole ears of corn shaved, or 2 cups frozen

corn kernels

1/2 cup water, mixed with 1 Tbsp corn starch

1/4 cup heavy cream

In a medium soup pot, saute the chopped onions, till wilted. Add the stock, and the cubed potatoes. Cook until almost tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in the corn, simmer for about 5 minutes. (for the chopped peppers, you can microwave them in a small bowl for about 1 or 2 minutes to stir in the chowder at the end) Add the salt and pepper, and take half the portion of the soup to put into a blender. Puree, and put back into the pot. Now, you can add your cornstarch mixed in the 1/2 cup of water, and add the heavy cream. Heat gently till thickened. Stir in the steamed chopped peppers, or you can omit them. If you're using the turkey bacon, fry them till crispy, and chop them and top the chowder! Either way, it is a delicious and satisfying chowder, or soup, depending how thick you want it!

Makes 4 servings-Points value: 4

Pane e Vino-Bread and wine

Spaghetti w/homemade tomato sauce, Panko coated baked fresh Grouper fish

Pasta with sauce and Parmesan cheese: 4points, simple salad with balsamic vinegar-0, Grouper fish 4points, wine-2points a small piece of bread (from the piece in photo) 2points 1 Tbsp Flan 2 points. So, this is how the points were broken down...Total points 21, of my 22 allowed points...not too shabby, and even enjoyed that 1 Tbsp of the rich, and silky flan...yumm! If I can do it...so can you. Still not late to start a NEW YOU!

Grilled WW T-Bone Steak...Fairy Hobmother, and Award!

2012-01-09T20:34:00.005-06:00

I hope you don't find this lovely T-Bone steak repulsive...but I've been sooo good on my Weight Watchers diet, except at the end of the week. Mostly vegetarian!
Still, all you have to do is to count up all your points, and see the result at the end of the week. I was under 3 points of my allowed points, even if I "fell off the WW diet wagon"...Grilled T-Bone Steak? no way! Yes way! You are allowed to have that...of course, not this entire huge steak...half of it will do!
Did I also forgot to mention...I lost 3 lbs in one week...yeayyy!!!

I have to be honest with you, the side dishes are not in the WeightWatchers cookbook! It's just a sweet potato "nuked" in the microwave, with a pat of butter, and steamed baby spinach!

I'm not ashamed to show off my George Foreman Grill (thrift find $6.99) brand new, with book and recipes, as well! Retail price? at least double, or triple!

Grilled T-Bone Steak
Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook

4 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh sage
1 1/4 lb T-Bone steak, at least 1 1/2 inch thick
trimmed of all visible fat
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Spray the grill rack with nonstick spray. Preheat the grill.
In a small bowl, mix the oil, rosemary, and the sage. Rub the steak with the herb mixture; place on the grill rack. Grill 3 inches from the heat, turning once, 6 minutes on each side for rare. (In the George Foreman, you don't have to turn, it should be done within less than 10 minutes)...although, you can turn if the steak is a large piece!

Season with salt and pepper as soon as the steak is done. Transfer steak to a small cutting board. Let stand for about 5 minutes before slicing.
Points value-6
In the meantime...I got this surprising letter from the Fairy Hobmother...that I won! Just haven't picked out a fabulous gift, yet...from Amazon.com! Thank you'd Fairy Hobmother!

Be sure to mention "The Fairy Hobmother"...also, you could mention what kind of small appliance you would like to receive!

Good morning Elisabeth!

Greetings, I am the Fairy Hobmother from Appliances Online from the UK! My mission is to bring joy and happiness to the world’s bloggers by providing treats for great, hard work in the blogosphere!

Whilst browsing the web this morning I stumbled across your comment on this blog post so I decided to have a look at your own blog, which I really enjoyed looking through. As I have a sweet tooth myself, I particularly enjoyed your Snowflake Muffins...and Neighborhood Christmas Lights post – those cakes look delicious! I know from your comment on the above post that you did not request anything specific. However, after seeing all the hard work that you have done on your blog I have decided to offer you a small gift – a $30 Amazon gift card. I can send this straight to your email address so you can start spending it immediately J (on whatever you wish!)

If you would like to accept this gift then the only thing that the Fairy Hobmother requests in return is that you give us a brief mention in your blog (with this link - http://www.appliances online.co.uk/looking-for/Best-Washing-Machine) (“Best Washing Machine”) . It can either be a full post or simply a brief mention at the bottom of one of your regular pieces. As an added bonus, any of your readers that leave a comment on that post and make a wish, could be visited by me!

...still have to pass forward a fabulous Inspirational Blog award from my friend....Amelia @ Amelia's De-ssert
Thank you, Amelia...I'm truly honored!

Chicken Stir-Fry...and Weight Watchers Diet

2012-01-07T16:04:00.007-06:00

I have to be all honest with you...although, I've been good this week keeping up with my points system and staying away from unhealthy snacks, but last night I kind of "fell off the wagon"...NO! not the drinking "wagon" since I decided even with my favorite Chardonnay white wine, I am only enjoying that, once a week...even if that! Every point counts, and I don't want to jeopardize it with empty points, but I did. Last night, I just didn't feel like making dinner, so I bought some freshly made sushi, from our local supermarket. Ate the entire 8 pieces...will get to that, later!

Still loving my Weight Watchers Diet, the points are easy to keep track of, knowing that every recipe in the book gives you the points per serving. I made the Stir-Fried Chicken this past Thursday, and I was really proud with my progress of eating healthy, since I started the diet this Monday. When things go wrong, my problem is munching on snacks, that I normally don't do...I end up throwing out bags of chips, crackers, (no boxed cookies), peanuts, things of that nature, but this Friday, I ended up finishing all the chips, peanuts, crackers w/ cheese, so I lost track of my points. I will go into explaining "why" ~~in another post,~~ just want to concentrate on putting this post up, before my train of thought gets carried away.

Chicken Stir-Fry
adapted slightly from; Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook

2 Tbsp. low-sodium chicken broth
( I used 1 Tbsp. organic vegetable soup base
and stirred it in 1 cup of water)
1 Tbsp. minced peeled fresh ginger
1 Tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
(I also added 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar)
2 Tbsp. packed brown sugar
1 Tbsp. corn starch
1 teaspoon Asian (dark) sesame oil
3/4 lb. skinless boneless chicken breast
cut into strips (I used skinless boneless chicken
thighs, cut into small chunks)
2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
1 Tbsp. peanut oil (I used canola oil)
8 scallions cut into 1 inch length
(I used sweet onions cut int halves,
and sliced into thin strips)
2 garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
(I used 1/2 teaspoon)
12 asparagus spears, cut into 2-inch length
I used a bunch of fresh green beans,
cleaned one ends, (you can cut them in half)
1 cup trimmed watercress
I used fresh organic carrots sliced (about 3)
also, I used yellow squash sliced thin

To prepare the marinade, in a zip-close plastic bag,
(I used a medium size bowl) combine the broth, ginger, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, (cider vinegar) brown sugar, corn starch, and sesame oil.Add the chicken. Seal the bag, squeezing out the air.(If you are using a bowl, add the chicken and turn to coat with the marinade.Cover with a plastic wrap.) Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, stirring occasionally, or if using the bag, stirring the bag, occasionally.

Drain, and discard the marinade. (I kept 1/2 cup of the marinade to add 1 more teaspoon of cornstarch, and add at the end.

Heat a large nonstick skillet (I used a wok) until very hot.
If you're using sesame seeds, add to stir-fry until golden.
2-3 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl.

In the same skillet, heat the peanut, or canola oil,. Stir-fry the scallion, or (onion) garlic, red pepper flakes for 2 minutes.( Add the asparagus, sliced carrots yellow squash, and (or if using beans, boil them first till still crisp for a few minutes) add these to the skillet, or (wok) and stir-fry.
Add the chicken and (watercress if you're using it)
Stir-fry until chicken is cooked through, 6-8 minutes.
Add the 1/2 cup of the reserved marinade, if you would like to have a nice thickened sauce, and let it come to a boil. (you can omit this process if you don't want the sauce)
Serve sprinkled with sesame seeds. (optional) I served it over Jasmine rice.
Weight Watchers points value: 4 with sauce, and rice, 6 points
4 servings

linking to: Cookbook Sundays #5 @ Couscous-Consciousness

My choice was the mango topped,sushi, with shrimp, and seaweed salad

Yesterday, late afternoon...I was on a mission to cook something healthy from my Weight Watchers cookbook, but I was feeling so "low" and sad because my poor Prince (kitty) is rapidly getting worse, and I have to make a serious decision to have him "put down" Dr. Eric wanted to do this 6 months ago, and I wouldn't let him, so now it's time because he has serious kidney failure, although he is not in pain, he is "wasting away"
(...again, I postponed it but time is running out...sigh!)

Here's the talented sushi chef, Tang, who makes theses sushi rolls fresh, every day. Prices range from $6.99 to $10.99, which are the fancy ones, that I bought! The advertisement for Publix, is "where shopping a a pleasure" and believe me, it is a huge pleasure to shop at my local Publix market, where they always greet you with a smile, and ready to help you in any way!

Time for Reality Check....Chicken Soup for the Soul!

2012-01-04T23:12:00.005-06:00

Chicken Soup for Flavor, Comfort, and for the Soul is always a welcome, whether you are on a diet...or not, but just enjoying a nice cup, or bowl of fresh homemade chicken soup!

As you know, I have announced my diet to the whole world, and also mentioned which kind of diet I am pursuing~
Well, I still stick to my WeightWatchers Diet that I lost 35 lbs in 3 months, which was 7 yrs ago, and have gained the weight back...only. because I just did not care, or keep track of what I'm actually eating...and that does add up over months and years...do not fool yourself, because, it does make a difference to keep track of what you are eating!

I think good home made soup is the best therapy for the soul, and also for a healthy DIET! Since I chose Weight Watchers Diet online, this time...knowing my point system, this is the best, of the best chicken noodle soup recipe that I already have been making for years, and years, but you can always revise it! As long as you have the basic chicken soup (stock recipe) you can always revise it to your liking! The best part of it, this is acceptable on every diet you have decided to join!

A New Year...a New You!

2012-01-02T22:14:00.005-06:00

Yes, this is a New Year...and a New You...if you let it happen! I've been putting it off for the last 7 years and now, I've made the crucial decision! I want to be at my best, and I want to look amazing! ...that means, I have to lose 35 lbs...actually, 45 lbs! According to my daughter Lora, "how about 50 lbs?"...well, that means if I do lose 50lbs it would be my weight since high school! How many of you can really say you are at the same weight since high school?...I bet, not too many! As the years pass, the weight keeps creeping up...sad, but true!

We toasted to the New Year with a glass of nice pink Prosseco...

Had my bowl of Hungarian/Italian style lentils made in the slow cooker...also, Lora's fabulous lasagne with the pumpkin, and the bechamel sauce...

Tonight...a large glass of Chardonnay (6 ozs.=2points) in the Weight Watchers system, and now...the Diet begins!

I purchased this amazing Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook...a 2006 edition, with fabulous recipes that are totally appealing, and delicious, and are perfect for today's lifestyle, if you are contiguously, thinking of healthier eating and making healthier choices...this is the best way to go about it! I actually bought this book at a favorite thrift store of ours, for $1.99 knowing that it retails for at least $32.00. Beautiful hard covered notebook, with the best, of the best light and easy recipes.

I joined Weight Watchers online, just since yesterday, and will probably have to sign up for their weekly meetings locally, in order to monitor, and maintain my weight loss! I already know my point system, and know how to figure out the points in order to lose weight, and I will be posting recipes from this book, for the next 90 days, and keep you posted of my weight loss results!
I made my own recipe, from 2 pieces of boneless chicken thighs, that I had in the freezer, to accompany with a nice dish of salad. The actual dish was 6 points, and I allowed myself 22 WW points in order to lose 35 lbs within the next 90 days!
Here's the recipe, I adapted my recipe from!

Southern Oven "Fried" Chicken

1/4 cup fat free buttermilk
1/4 cup cornflakes crushed
3 Tbsp all-purp flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 lbs. chicken parts, skinned
4 teaspoons canola oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
Pour the buttermilk into a large shallow bowl. On a sheet of wax paper, combine the cornflake crumbs, flour, salt, and pepper. Dip the chicken in buttermilk, then dredge in the cornflake mixture, coating completely. Place the chicken on the baking sheet; drizzle with the oil. Bake 30 minutes, then turn the chicken over. Bake until cooked through, 16-20 minutes longer.
Points value: 5

My version of my Boneless Baked Chicken Thighs...based on the WW recipe, using 2 boneless skinless chicken thighs, rubbed with Cajun Blackened spice, and 1 teaspoon each of extra virgin olive oil for the chicken thighs drizzled on, and dredge in 1/4 cup of Matzo Meal, also adding a dash of salt, and pepper. Bake in a 350 degree F. oven till crispy, and light brown for about 25-30 min. turning once. Serve it over a garden salad, topped with 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil, and white wine vinegar. Slicing the chicken, and serving it on top of the salad. Total points- 6

For my first day, I consumed 24 of my 22 allowed points, from breakfast to lunch, and dinner...not too bad for the first day! For breakfast, I had home made oatmeal with raisins, sweetened with Blue Agave organic nectar- 4 points. For lunch I had lentil soup from my huge pot of lentils, added more vegetable broth to make a nice soup- 4 points. For snack crackers, and peanut butter-3 points. Also, cashew peanuts for more snacks, another 2 points. I think I actually stayed within my point system, just have to keep a closer eye on it, and start to exercise, as well! Will keep you more informed of my progress!

Out With the Old...and In With the New Year!

2011-12-31T16:01:00.003-06:00

Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls- click on the link, for the recipe!

With the new year quickly approaching upon us, where as in Australia, New Zealand, China, Malaysia, and Japan, already has celebrated the New Year 2012...we will be be doing the same, at midnight! I will be featuring some of my dishes from 2011 that in our Hungarian/Italian tradition we celebrate.Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, or Sweet Stuffed Cabbage Rolls is our tradition, to start the New Year off. The ground meat stuffed cabbage, is made with beef, but the fresh sausage is pork, and pork is traditionally eaten, for good luck!

Italian Sausage with Grilled Cheddar Polenta-click on the link for recipe

Here's another suggestion: Italian Sausage with Grilled Cheddar Polenta. One of our very favorites, but if you're a vegetarian, you can omit the sausage...in fact, ~~don't omit the sausage,~~ just try the delicious polenta, filled with chopped jalapeno pepper, and grilled potatoes, onions, and zucchini, is sure to satisfy your hunger, and it's such a fabulous meal combination.

Garden Lentil Balls

No...these are not meatballs, they are actually Garden Lentil Balls and are packed with fresh gremolata, made with a combination of fresh herbs and fresh garlic, of course. Check for the recipe for the gremolata, as well. You can use lemon, in place of orange to make it traditional.You can also add Marinara sauce on top of these yummy lentil balls, and eat it as a main dish, with past

In Southern Italy, there is a tradition: OUT WITH THE OLD...meaning, on New Year's day, you throw out old objects, out the window, or over the balcony...just with caution!

Last...but not least, another Italian tradition, I don't know exactly which region it comes from, but listen to this one...WEAR RED UNDERWEAR!...yes, it's a tradition, but not just any old "ratty" red underwear, it has to be a new one!...most importantly, a gift from someone...LOL

...another suggestion for New Year's, is brunch... too early for breakfast, and maybe you want to chuck the suggested tradition, and go with BRUNCH!

Home fries-click on the link for recipe

There's nothing more comforting for a brunch than Home fries, bacon, scrambled eggs, or pancakes, waffles, and most comforting and so yummy, are the french toast!

Mark Bittman's Perfect Pancakes

...or how about these totally delicious and perfect pancakes...Mark Bittman's Perfect Pancakes. I was on a blueberry "kick, when I made these yummy pancakes! So amazing, really good!

It has been such a blessed year, with family, and friends, my life is fulfilled with such joy, you have all given me...by supporting my blog with all your sweet comments, love, and caring!

Wishing all of you a Very Happy New Year, in health and prosperity...with Love!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days o’ lang syne!

Chorus:

For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne,
We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet
For auld lang syne!

Best Potato Latkes...and end of Holidays

2011-12-29T20:07:00.003-06:00

As the holidays are winding down, and we're facing the new year, we can reflect back to last year, at this time, already thinking about the changes we are going to make in our lives, our homes, our friends, our bad habits, and start our diets for the hundredth time!...Yeah, sure! I do this every year, and keep promising to go back to Weight Watchers where I actually successfully lost 35 lbs, and kept it off for about 3 years, but gradually gained it back...and then some! So now, I will try the Weight Watchers online, and don't have to go to those boring meetings!

Well, let me tell you...it's a good thing that the year is ending, because December is the last month we can "pig out" with all the good food, and desserts...never say "never" to latkes, at least once a year, which is at Hanukkah! I promise you that I stand by my "best potato latkes recipe!"...it's not even a recipe it's really from all the failures of trying out different ways, but the best kept secret, is adding equal amount of Matzo Meal to your flour, a small amount of baking powder, and to make sure your grated potatoes do not turn brown, adding a tablespoon of whit distilled vinegar to the water. I will be glad to show you the directions, and promise that your latkes will come out crispy, light, and you don't even have to blot any excess grease if you use parchment paper...honest!

Having a 10 or 12 inch well seasoned cast iron skillet is another helpful utensil, that I feel every kitchen should have. It has so many uses, and will never, ever wear out....the older it gets if it's treated properly, the more use you get out of it. Just look at the fresh clean vegetable oil bubbling away, and the potatoes so light, and crispy. Never overcrowd the pan, or it will slow down the cooking process!

Best Potato Latkes
recipe by; Elisabeth

For single batch:

4-5 medium Russet (baking) potatoes, or your favorite
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup Matzo Meal
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs lightly beaten
1 medium onion chopped
vegetable, or canola oil, for frying
1 Tbsp. white vinegar

In a large bowl add water, and add the peeled potatoes and vinegar.
(you can use double batch by doubling the potatoes, 8 to 10, but it's less work with half the amount)
Cut the potatoes in half lenghtwise and in a food processor feed them right into the water, just like it's show in the photo.
Note: The starchier the water gets, but not dark, the crispier and lighter the latkes will be.

This is how the grated potatoes will look in the water...all starchy, cloudy, and beautiful. That's how you want it.

Now, you're ready to put the potatoes with the liquid, and strain it. Rinse it if you like, but you don't have to. The important thing, is to squeeze out all the liquid.

Add the potatoes back into the cleaned out bowl, and add all the ingredients, (except the oil, and vinegar)

With clean hands, or wear plastic gloves, mix together all the ingredients to combine well.

With a small ice cream scooper, scoop out portions, and add to the preheated heavy skillet, if you don't have cast iron skillet.

You can easily scoop out as much as it can fit, but make sure when you drop the scoop, do not touch it for a couple minutes, fry them over med-high heat, without disturbing them.

You can now flatten them down with a spatula, and turn them over to fry until lightly golden. Have your oven ready, at 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet, or two, with parchment paper. When all the latkes are ready to be taken out of the frying pan, just line them up on the parchment lined baking sheet, and bake for an additional 25 minutes, turning them once.

You should have about 12 small latkes. Serve them with apple sauce, and sour cream!
Yields about 4- 6 servings

When you see the jagged, lacy edges, is how you know it is perfect, lightly golden...no need to blot with paper towel, no grease is left on the parchment paper!
The latkes are also really delicious with brisket, or pot roast, you can serve them with chicken, or just on the side. Every one loves this, especially young children, and adults alike!

Linking to:
Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop 16 @ Katherines Corner
Full Plate Thursday 12-29-11 @ Miz Helen's Country Cottage

I would like to share this special event with you...I enjoyed taking these special photos. The photo below, is my granddaughter Mattia at her violin concert. She is in kindergarten, and a beginner, with children in her age group.they did an awesome performance of Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star!
It was such a beautiful event...beginners, intermediate, and advanced students took part!

Before the concert...

Such a beautiful concert with amazing and talented kids!

Hungarian Nut Roll...and Counting Our Blessings

2011-12-27T00:15:00.002-06:00

The holidays are almost over, and the new year will begin, in less than one week. We have so much to be thankful for...but mostly for our life, our freedom, to enjoy our choice of practicing our religion, our ethnic tradition, and respect one-another. This is the time of year when families get together and celebrate the "gift of giving!" It's not about how expensive, or how bright the gift should be...it's about the true meaning of our giving from the heart, and not putting a price on it!

My daughter Lora specifically asked me to make her Kalács (Hungarian Nut Roll) and I just put it off not realizing that it's the traditional value of the holiday season that she still remembers from the time she was little and my aunt making all the wonderful bake goods every Christmas! So, on Christmas Eve...just a few hours before we went to our dear friends for their Southern American/Italian dinner, I, at the last minute literally threw this wonderful quick nut roll together to have it for Christmas day! I rarely make yeast dough, but I made this with the full recipe, and freezing half of the dough! The filling is the same filling, that I used for my Kifli, in my previous post. I just did not have the time to make it the traditional way.

Googled the recipe, for the dough...just did not have the time to figure out the metric system to our American system. Turned out real moist, and everyone loved it. I got the nicest compliment from Lora, telling me that this was the best Christmas gift...better than any other present!

Hungarian Nut Roll
Adapted from Taste of Home

2 packages (1/4 ounce each active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm 2% milk
1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoon sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter softened
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
3 eggs, lightly beaten
6 to 6-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Filling:
my own recipe

1/2 lb. walnuts
1 cup apricot preserves
1/4 cup sugar
Grated zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup light raisins (optional)

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Add the sugar, salt, butter, sour cream, eggs, and 3 cups flour. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.( Dough will be sticky.)

Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-9 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

This is how the dough will look, doubled in size, nice and puffy!

Recipe calls for dividing dough into 4 portions, I divided mine into three. Roll out dough on a floured surface. Roll each into a 12x10 inch rectangle. Spread filling within 1/2 inch of edges. Roll up jelly roll style, starting with the long side; pinch seam to seal. Place seam side down on parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. This is how it looks after 30 minutes...doubled in size. You can use egg wash with 2 eggs beaten with about 1 Tbsp. water, and with a pastry brush, just paint the tops and sides. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 30-40 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from pan to wire rack, and cool.

For traditional walnut filling:

4 cups walnuts
1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 Tbsp. brandy
1/3 cup hot milk

Mix all the ingredients in a food processor, ending with the brandy, and hot milk. Spread on the rectangles, and roll up jelly roll fashion, and proceed with the instructions!

Having our Christmas Eve dinner celebration with our friends...saying "grace"...with our Southern Baptist friends, and Italian/American Catholic, with traditional Southern and Italian feast!

Nicest people you would ever want to meet...One family, of extended family!

The weather was exceptionally warm, in the upper seventies, with a nice breeze...dinner was buffet style, held outside on their patio.

You guessed it...that's my plate of yummy food!

Such delicious homemade foods. I really loved the meatballs, and the sauce, the sausage looked really good, but I didn't have any of that. Loved the Broccoli Rabe, as well!

Anne's Southern Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting....The BEST...ever. She graciously offered to share her recipe with me.

My contribution of New York Style Cheesecake, with Christmas decoration.

Lora's contribution of pear, and chocolate chip cake.

Yummy fudge...different kinds!

Such a beautiful, blessed, and joyful Christmas Eve...finally crashing for the night at Lora's

Taking my last photo of the night, just the Christmas tree light glowing in the dark of the night...everyone sleeping, and grandchildren waiting for Santa Claus to arrive!

Snowflake Muffins...and Neighborhood Christmas Lights

2011-12-23T23:16:00.010-06:00

Since I noticed these ultra gorgeous muffins on my Hungarian food blogger friend's blog Citromhab...which literally means Lemonfoam! I would like you to meet the talent behind these amazing cupcakes, and the snowflakes made with royal icing, has caught my attention that I haven't seen on any of the foodblogs, yet!

Erzsébet has a tremendous talent for baking cakes, and yeast breads and rolls, as do quite a few of the other Hungarian ladies, which you can see on my blogroll list.Their cakes are the traditional European cakes that differ from ours! Another favorite of mine, among others, is Gizi with her amazing cake and dessert creations...but oh, my!...can that lady cook. Her cooking is truly delicious and authentic Hungarian!

With Erzsebet's permission, I am proud to present her festive Snowflake Muffins and please, do visit her blog to check out her other fabulous cakes, and various other delightful desserts!

If anyone has the "little elves" working in her kitchen... well, in case you don't see them around since the last week or so, they are busily working away in her kitchen, baking all the beautiful things!

I know I can't fool you, and I'm not even trying to, because I don't decorate like this but I am a ~~fairly~~ good baker. What I meant to say, I ~~don't~~ can't decorate like this...it is just not possible~~, yet!~~

"Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people; for unto you is born, this day, in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord"
(Luke 2:10 )

Wishing all my friends, a Blessed Christmas in Peace, love, and joy...may your hearts be merry and your holidays be ...bright!

Boldog Karácsonyt,(Hungarian) Feliz Navidad,(Spanish) Buon Natale! (Italian)

with love!

do check out our local neighbors' Christmas lights!

There's a tradition in our local West Palm Beach, Florida neighborhood... every Christmas, each house "decks the halls" with the utmost and beautiful decorations...outdoing each other. At least this is not the neighborhood that I saw on the news that were sabotaging each others' houses by shutting off the main power for the lights, stealing decorations, of all things...Gee whiz...you'd think the Grinch was here, stealing Christmas! Well, it didn't happen in our town, so that's good! We have good cheers, and "love thy neighbor" feeling in the air!

Linzer Cookies...and White Christmas Recipe Challenge

2011-12-20T13:02:00.005-06:00

I am such a procrastinator...always the last one to join an event, unless someone is pushing me to do so! I did join the Very Good Recipes, as you can see the badge on my sidebar, and I do love this group, and to think that I didn't have to do a thing, just to sign up and they do all the work for you, to feature your blog with your latest posts automatically linked into your own page...now how ~~hard~~ awesome is that!? I'm also entering in this fun event with the Very Good Recipes White Christmas Challenge

Just click on, to see what the challenge is about, and check out the fabulous judges, including my dear friend Veronica, from Quay Po Cooks!

linking to: Full Plate Thursday, 12-22-2011 @ Miz Helen's Country Cottage
Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop 15 @ Katherines Corner

There's so many different versions of these lovely Viennese cookies that each country calls it their own, but it was actually originated during the 19th century
what was then, the famous well know Austria-Hungary empire! So, there you have the short history on these delicate buttery sandwich cookies...filled with apricot and various other fruit jams.
As a child, I have fond memories of these Linzer cookies, and I don't have my mom's or my aunt's recipes...only just remembering how it was made, so I adapted my version, from a trusted source!

Linzer Cookies

adapted from, Joy of Baking

1 cup (110 grams) blanched sliced almonds
1/4 cup (50 grams)

1 cup (227 grams) (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp.
2/3 cup (135 grams) granulated white sugar, divided
2 large egg yolks
2 cups (220grams) all purpose flour
14 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Zest of 1 lemon

Confectioners' icing sugar, for dusting
choice of jams; raspberry (seedless preferred) blackberry
I used organic apricot, and organic blueberry, but you can use
choice of your own, even Nutella, which is great for chocolate lovers,
recipe, continued...

For the almonds:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. (177 degrees C) and rack in the center of the oven. Place almond on a baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 min. until light brown and fragrant. In a food processor, process with sugar, until finely ground.

For the dough:
In a separate bowl, stir your dry ingredients.

In a bowl of your electric mixer, or large bowl, with a hand mixer, beat the butter, and the 2/3 cup sugar, until creamy, and fluffy, beat in the vanilla extract, the egg yolks, and lemon zest. Add the flour mixture beating, just until incorporated. Divide the dough into two rectangular shapes, and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate until firm, at least one hour, or overnight. Remove dough from the refrigerator, and on a lightly floured board, or surface, roll the dough, until it's about 1/4 inch (1cm) thick.

Cut our shapes with a cookie cutter; circle, heart, star, square, or any other shapes you like, making sure to cut a hole in the center (cutter not shown), to let the jam show through!

Cut the shapes, making sure that every-other is cut with a smaller cutter in the center, to make it ready to sandwich the cookies.

Slide the cookies with a spatula (very important, so they stay in shape) on a parchment lined baking sheet, and bake in a 350 degrees, (177C) oven for 8-10 min. until lightly browned. Remove from the oven, to cool.

Re-roll scraps of dough to cut out more cookies, and bake to make more. When they are finished, and cooled on a rack, on the bottom half, spread a small amount of jam, and place cookie with hole, which you already have sprinkled with confectioners' sugar, lightly place on top.
(do not put too much jam on the bottom of the cookies, or it will ooze out when you sandwich it)

Now, I have to run to make Latkes, with my daughter Lora, (Cake Duchess) for Hanukkah...which begins at sundown tonight!
Happy, Hanukkah, to all my Jewish friends, non Jewish friends, as well... and those who celebrate this festive event with extended families, and friends!
Big hugs!

Chocolate Drop Cookies...Cookbook Sundays!

2011-12-18T00:17:00.014-06:00

Please don't be too judgemental with these yummy Chocolate Drop Cookies, made by me...but totally designed,and decorated by my "loves of my life"...2 of my 4 grandchildren! Luca (boy w/long hair) and Gabby (not shown in photo)...and I assure you, it was made with love, and lots of fun, which will be remembered for fond memories, for years to come!
I am so happy to join once again...Cookbook Sundays... now hosted by Sue!

Linking to: Cookbook Sundays #2 @Couscous and Consciousness

Since I'm a "thrifter"...and has mentioned about a 100th time, that I got this GEM of a cookbook for only 79cents...which was the cost of paperback books, about 3 years ago!...someone obviously donated this GEM of a fabulous book...which you will never find again, at this price...anywhere!!! My lucky day! I have mentioned a few times that this is my "bible cookbook"...and it is!

Oops... first cookie got too much sprinkles

Chocolate Drop Cookies
How to Cook Everything...by Mark Bittman

adapted from the...Butter Drop Cookies

2 cups all-purpose four
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
8 Tbsp. unsalted butter softened
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
1/4 cup milk, plus more, if needed

For Chocolate Drop Cookies
melt 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, and add to the mixture, after combining wet, and dry ingredients.

Luca, standing on a stool to decorate cookies

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
To combine the ingredients by hand, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a small bowl. Cream the butter with a fork, then, mash in the sugar until well blended. Stir in the vanilla and the egg, then about half the flour mixture.

Add the milk, then the remaining flour, then a little more milk if necessary, to make a soft batter that can be dropped from a spoon.

For the Drop Chocolate Cookies:
Melt 1 ounce of unsweetened chocolate, and add to the mixture, after combining wet, and dry ingredients.

Drop rounded teaspoons of the batter onto parchment lined baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until edges are browned. Let each sheet sit on a rack for 2 minutes before removing the cookies with a spatula, and cooling them on a rack. Store in a covered container at room temperature, for no more than a day or two. Be sure to refrigerate them, afterwards!

Gabby...sprinkles the colored sugars on the yummy cookies, but the best part of the frosting was...the Pillsbury Creamy Supreme Peppermint Frosting

Drop rounded teaspoons of the batter unto greased baking sheets an bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are browned. Let each sheet sit on a rack for 2 minutes before removing the cookies with a spatula and cooling them on a rack
Store in a covered container at room temperature for no
more than a day or two.
If you still have some leftover, be sure to refrigerate it!

Just a reminder...there's only 8 days before Christmas! What are you waiting for?...get busy! do a GOOD DEED!
We went around the local neighborhood, and to our delight, and this local neighborhood has teamed up with the decoration, and the lights...

We Wish You a Merry Christmas... a Restaurant Review!

2011-12-15T10:57:00.008-06:00

Wednesday, December 14, at Cafe Sapori West Palm Beach, Florida

Undoubtedly, you know the song...but seriously, in case I forget to wish all of my dear blogger friends, a peaceful and Blessed Holiday Season! As far as baking, I'm so not ready, as for Christmas shopping...same issues, but I did make an awesome Chocolate Chip Date Nut Spice Loaf...for recipe, click on to Claudia's blog...my Florida friend, @ What's Cookin' Italian Style Cuisine! She has all the old fashioned Italian style recipes, from her dear mom. and grandmother!

Linking my Chocolate Chip Date Nut Spice Loaf to:
Full Plate Thursday, 12-15-2011 @ Miz Helen's Country Cottage

I was so impressed with this old fashioned Date Nut...(minus the nuts) bread, with chocolate chips, and the dates steeped in Kahlua liquor! ...but as in my case, I had to substitute the Kahlua, for my homemade coffee made instantly, with 3/4 cup cold espresso coffee, 1/4 cup vodka, sweetened with 1 Tbsp. Organic Blue Agave nectar. I added all this to 1cup of halved seedless dates and stored in a Mason jar for overnight!

I remember, Christmas pasts, my Hungarian aunt would make coffee liquor, with vodka, and strong espresso coffee, but it was too sweet, just like any other sweet liquors are. The only time I would have sweet liquors around, if a recipe requires it, but then again...they are way too expensive, and as for vodka, I had to use my son-in-law's, since I don't keep that around, either. I just keep nice bottles of wines...both red, and white! So, now you know what I keep in my liquor cabinet!

Allow me to take you on a fabulous tour and check out the most beautiful Christmas tree...just wait to sample the desserts, as well!

For the past six years, Cafe Sapori has been quite the "spotlight" of Northern Italian cuisine, at affordable prices. It's not often I dine there; even though my son-in-law, Executive Chef Fabrizio, and Francesco, his long time friend own it Can't go there, just unexpectedly, but invitation only...with my daughter Lora, and grandchildren. They are quite busy at this time of the year, and of course during the Florida busy season.

Simple, elegant sign, no flashy neon sign.Tuscan gold color building is easily recognized with beautiful tall neatly manicured shrubs, all around the building, located close to the Intracoastal waterway, which divides West Palm Beach from the island of Palm Beach...an easy access from the Palm Beacher clientele to find the restaurant, as well as the locals.

The entrance to the restaurant is from the side, since it's located on a busy main road...Southern Blvd. It gives you such an incredible feeling with the beautiful green plants, the happy gold color of the building, the Christmas lights festively and tastefully decorated all around!

So here we are...just look at the healthy and vibrant plants literally growing on the wall. (somebody has a green thumb, around here...which is Fabrizio) He has the same method with gorgeous plants at their home.

note: these photos are all taken with my little Canon camera...no flash!

We arrived about 6:15, still early before it gets real busy.
Huge beautiful Christmas tree is the first thing we notice, of course!

I would have loved to dine on the beautiful and charming patio, but my grandchildren wanted to be close to their daddy, popping out from the kitchen to keep checking on use with each portion (I was banned from taking photos of the several courses, so I just sneaked in a few of the most important ones....desserts...yeayyy!)

We were seated at this little corner table...the closest to the kitchen, so my son-in-law could pop in and out to check on us, and the kids couldn't be happier!
(you guessed it, that empty corner seat was mine...no patio for me!)...but all was good. Got a good spot of the entire dining room!

Didn't even have to get up from the table...taking photo of the gorgeous tree from the corner where I was sitting!
I noticed an elderly gentleman wearing a Christmas light garland around his neck, with the lights flashing...again, I was cautioned not only by Lora, but Gabby as well!
"Don't take a picture!)...OK, no picture! It was quite a sight, couldn't take my eyes off the flashing lights around his collar. Wonder how his seating companions put up with the distraction?...eventually he shut the flashing lights off!

Now, if you think I'm kidding...I am not...see the finger of my 10yr old granddaughter Gabby? ...what does that mean, Nonna?..."Stop! or was it wait?)...OK, now you've witnessed it for yourself. Three generations of "bossy" females...seriously. All three of us are so alike...

Took a photo of them anyway...while they were smiling for their mommy, but not for me!

I sneaked a photo of one of the appetizers...what seemed to be sliced salame, sauteed with roasted chestnuts, and the most enticing delicious sweet and savory sauce!

...after this, my camera had to be turned off for the main courses...ordered by my daughter, Lora; but in the meantime, I kept telling her "eat"...why are you eating so slow?...courses just kept coming out, and my grandchildren ate everything that was on their plate!

Desserts are up...no stopping me! Grabbed my camera, and took quick photos! We shared all these amazing desserts...most with various gelatos, and semi freddo, also with a coffee creme brulee which was my favorite!

Gabby's favorite and mine too!

Coffee Creme Brulee...with puff pastry and vanilla cream!

This was a traditional cheesecake, with cranberry sauce, and fresh cranberries, sauteed! Lora's favorite!

Lemon cake with lemon curd...lemon gelato...yumm!!

food and thrift

Chick- Peas in Chunky Tomato Sauce...and Red Gold Giveaway

Paula Deen's Banana Nut Bread...and Awards

Rajma...and WW Corn Bread

Strawberry Whipped Sensation...for your Valentine!

Oven Roasted Tomato Crostini...and with Rigatoni

Rye Bread...and Awards

West Palm Beach Green Market...and Race for the Cure

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Chicken Stir-Fry...and Weight Watchers Diet

Time for Reality Check....Chicken Soup for the Soul!

Basic Chicken Stock

adapted from Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook

4 lbs of chicken wings, legs, and thighs, or just all chicken legs, and thighs

12 cups of water

1 large onion quartered

a bunch of carrots, scrubbed, and ends cut off

1 bunch of parsnsip scrubbed, and ends cut off

1 bunch of celery, ends cut off

a bunch of fresh flat leaf Italian parsley

a bunch of fresh dill

12 black peppercorns

salt to taste

2 Tbsp. of organic vegetable soup base

2 bay leaves

In a mesh colander, pour the stock over, and strain the stock. Discard the vegetables, since they are overcooked any way, and refrigerate the stock. At this point, you can use it for any other soups, sauces, or which ever recipe you prefer for an amazing recipe! Points value-1

linking to: Full Plate Thursday 1-5-12 @ Miz Helen's Country Cottage

Thursday Favorite Things 17 Blog Hop @ Katherines Corner

Chicken Noodle Soup...for the Soul

recipe, by Elisabeth

2 quarts=8 cups home made chicken broth

1 1/2 cups diced 1 inch pieces of carrots

1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion

1 cup 1 inch pieces of celery

chicken pieces from parts, separated

16 ounces of pappardelle noodles, or any other noodles

1 teaspoon salt

1 Tbsp organic vegetable soup base

salt, and freshly ground pepper

2 Bay Leaves