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Coping with Change: Develop Your Personal Strategy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 22:30:00 +0000

Why do we resist change?

As the saying goes, the only people who like change are busy cashiers and wet babies. We find change disorienting, creating within us an anxiety similar to culture shock, the unease visitors to an alien land feel because of the absence of the familiar cues they took for granted back home. With an established routine, we don't have to think! And thinking is hard work.

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Change is a business fact of life

Coping with Change: Develop Your Personal Strategy

Is your company is currently undergoing major changes that will affect the lives of all of its employees? These changes are probably in response to the evolving needs of your customers. They are made possible because of improvements in telecommunications and digital technology. They are likely guided by accepted principles and practices of total quality management. And you can expect that they will result in significant improvements profitability--a success that all employees will share. Because our customers' needs are NOW, we must make changes swiftly, which means that all of us must cooperate with the changes, rather than resist them.

How do we resist change?

We tend to respond to change the same way we respond to anything we perceive as a threat: by flight or fight. Our first reaction is flight--we try to avoid change if we can. We do what futurist Faith Popcorn calls "cocooning": we seal ourselves off from those around us and try to ignore what is happening. This can happen in the workplace just by being passive. We don't volunteer for teams or committees; we don't make suggestions, ask questions, or offer constructive criticism. But the changes ahead are inescapable. Those who "cocoon" themselves will be left behind.

Even worse is to fight, to actively resist change. Resistance tactics might include negativity, destructive criticism, and even sabotage. If this seldom happens at your company, you are fortunate.

Take a different approach to change

Rejecting both alternatives of flight or flight, we seek a better option--one that neither avoids change nor resists it, but harnesses and guides it.

Change can be the means to your goals, not a barrier to them.
Both fight and flight are reactions to perceiving change as a threat. But if we can change our perceptions, we can avoid those reactions. An old proverb goes, "Every change brings an opportunity." In other words, we must learn to see change as a means of achieving our goals, not a barrier preventing us from reaching them.

Another way of expressing the same thought is: A change in my external circumstances provides me with an opportunity to grow as a human being. The greater the change is, the greater and faster I can grow. If we can perceive change along these lines, we will find it exciting and energizing, rather than depressing and debilitating.

Yet this restructuring of our perspective on change can take some time. In fact, coping with change follows the same steps as the grieving process.1 The steps are shock and denial that the old routine must be left behind, then anger that change is inevitable, then despair and a longing for the old ways, eventually replaced by acceptance of the new and a brighter view of the future. Everyone works through this process; for some, the transition is lightning fast, for others painfully slow.

Realize your capacity to adapt.

As one writer put it recently:

Our foreparents lived through sea changes, upheavals so cataclysmic, so devastating we may never appreciate the fortitude and resilience required to survive them. The next time you feel resistant, think about them and about what they faced--and about what they fashioned from a fraction of the options we have. They blended old and new worlds, creating family, language, cuisine and new life-affirming rhythms, and they encouraged their children to keep on stepping toward an unknown but malleable future.2

Human beings are created remarkably flexible, capable of adapting to a wide variety of environments and situations. Realizing this can help you to embrace and guide change rather than resisting or avoiding it.

Develop a coping strategy based on who you are.

Corporate employees typically follow one of four decision-making styles: analytical, directive, conceptual, and behavioral. These four styles, described in a book by Alan J. Rowe and Richard O. Mason,3 have the following characteristics:
Analytical Style - technical, logical, careful, methodical, needs much data, likes order, enjoys problem-solving, enjoys structure, enjoys scientific study, and enjoys working alone. Conceptual Style - creative and artistic, future oriented, likes to brainstorm, wants independence, uses judgment, optimistic, uses ideas vs. data, looks at the big picture, rebellious and opinionated, and committed to principles or a vision. Behavioral Style - supportive of others, empathetic, wants affiliation, nurtures others, communicates easily, uses instinct, avoids stress, avoids conflict, relies on feelings instead of data, and enjoys team/group efforts. Directive Style - aggressive, acts rapidly, takes charge, persuasive and/or is manipulative, uses rules, needs power/status, impatient, productive, single-minded, and enjoys individual achievements.

Read once more through these descriptions and identify which style best describes you. Then find and study the strategy people who share your style follow to cope with change:

Analytical coping strategy - You see change as a challenging puzzle to be solved. You need plenty of time to gather information, analyze data, and draw conclusions. You will resist change if you are not given enough time to think it through. Conceptual coping strategy - You are interested in how change fits into the big picture. You want to be involved in defining what needs to change and why. You will resist change if you feel excluded from participating in the change process. Behavioral coping strategy - You want to know how everyone feels about the changes ahead. You work best when you know that the whole group is supportive of each other and that everyone champions the change process. If the change adversely affects someone in the group, you will perceive change as a crisis. Directive coping strategy - You want specifics on how the change will affect you and what your own role will be during the change process. If you know the rules of the change process and the desired outcome, you will act rapidly and aggressively to achieve change goals. You resist change if the rules or anticipated results are not clearly defined.

Realizing what our normal decision-making style is, can enable us to develop personal change-coping tactics.

How can we cope with change?

Getting at least this much comprehension of the big picture will help us to understand where each of us fits.

2. Do some anchoring. - When everything around you is in a state of flux, it sure helps to find something stable that isn't going to change, no matter what. Your company's values (whether articulated or not) can provide that kind of stability for you. Ours include the Company Family, Focus on the Customer, Be Committed to Quality, and Maintain Mutual Respect. These values are rock-solid; they are not going to disappear or rearrange themselves into something else. Plus, each of us has personal values that perhaps are even more significant and permanent. Such immovables can serve as anchors to help us ride out the storm.

3. Keep your expectations realistic. - A big part of taking control of the change you experience is to set your expectations. You can still maintain an optimistic outlook, but aim for what is realistically attainable. That way, the negatives that come along won't be so overwhelming, and the positives will be an adrenaline rush. Here are some examples:

Invest time and energy in training. Sharpen your skills so that you can meet the challenges ahead with confidence. If the training you need is not available through Bowne, get it somewhere else, such as the community college or adult education program in your area.

Get help when you need it. If you are confused or overwhelmed with the changes swirling around you, ask for help. Your supervisor, manager, or coworkers may be able to assist you in adjusting to the changes taking place. Your human resources department and any company-provided counseling services are other resources available to you.

Make sure the change does not compromise either your company values or your personal ones. If you are not careful, the technological advances jostling each other for your attention and adoption will tend to isolate you from personal contact with your coworkers and customers. E-mail, teleconference, voice-mail, and Intranet can make us more in touch with each other, or they can keep us antiseptically detached, removed from an awareness that the digital signals we are sending reach and influence another flesh-and-blood human being.

Aware of this tendency, we must actively counteract the drift in this direction by taking an interest in people and opening up ourselves to them in return. We have to remember to invest in people--all of those around us--not just in technology.

The "new normalcy"

Ultimately, we may discover that the current state of flux is permanent. After the events of September 11, Vice President Richard Cheney said we should accept the many resultant changes in daily life as permanent rather than temporary. "Think of them," he recommended, "as the 'new normalcy.'"

You should take the same approach to the changes happening at your workplace. These are not temporary adjustments until things get "back to normal." They are probably the "new normalcy" of your life as a company. The sooner you can accept that these changes are permanent, the better you can cope with them all--and enjoy their positive results.

Notes

1. Nancy J. Barger and Linda K. Kirby, The Challenge of Change in Organizations: Helping Employees Thrive in the New Frontier (Palo Alto, CA: Davies-Black Publ., 1995). This source is summarized in Mary M. Witherspoon, "Coping with Change," Women in Business 52, 3 (May/June 2000): 22-25.

2. Susan Taylor, "Embracing Change," Essence (Feb. 2002): 5.

3. Alan J. Rowe and Richard O. Mason, Managing with Style: A Guide to Understanding, Assessing and Improving Decision-Making (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Management Series, 1987) cited in Witherspoon, "Coping with Change."

4. Emily Friedman, "Creature Comforts," Health Forum Journal 42, 3 (May/June 1999): 8-11. Futurist John Naisbitt has addressed this tendency in his book, High tech/high touch: Technology and our search for meaning (New York: Random House, 1999). Naisbitt co-wrote this book with his daughter Nana Naisbitt and Douglas Philips.

Coping with Change: Develop Your Personal Strategy

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Tempeh Versus Tofu - Which Wins the Health Competition?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:25:00 +0000

How Is Tempeh Different from Tofu, and Which Is Healthier?

Once close relatives derived from the soybean plant, Tempeh and Tofu were separated at adolescence, raised and formed for purpose in two different living environments. Yet now, they come together for one epic battle for vegetarian supremacy! Not knowing of their past, their disdain for one another is based on a misunderstanding of how similar and beautiful each is to one the other -- how... complementary... they are of one another. So we may all help to teach others and teach these native sons of soy how to better tolerate one another, we must first understand how Tempeh and Tofu came to be.

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OK. Enough of that. Let's get right down to it: a primer on the soybean.

Tempeh Versus Tofu - Which Wins the Health Competition?

What is Tempeh? Tempeh Defined

Tempeh is to the soybean as spam is to ham, except far less disgusting and much better for you. Tempeh is made through a relatively simple process: the soybean is first made tender through soaking and then it's de-hulled. The beans are partially cooked, and then pressed into a layered cake or patty form. There are other forms of tempeh that can be derived from whole wheat or a mixture of soy and grains, yet the most commonly found variation is soy tempeh.

The protein in tempeh is far more digestible than what you would ingest through animal proteins, due to tempeh's fermentation process. As a result, combining tempeh with other meats or simply using it as a substitute has been known to greatly aid in overall digestive health. Different from tofu, tempeh is a whole soybean product that offers higher amounts of protein and dietary fiber, as well as vitamin content, all due to the fermentation process preserving the whole bean.

What is Tofu? Tofu Defined

Like tempeh, tofu is derived from the soybean, yet after the bean has been processed to the soy milk product. In it's simplest form, tofu is to the soybean as cottage cheese is to dairy milk. It is the curd of soy milk pressed into chunks, slabs or bricks. Of course there are varieties of tofu, ranging from what is known as silken or soft tofu, often used in desserts, to the more common western or dried tofu that is so versatile in cooking everything from traditional Asian cuisine to filling for soups. Full of iron and calcium, as well as being cholesterol free, you can see how it serves as a great addition to any diet, especially the diet of a pregnant or aging individual.

With regards to nutritional value, tofu does one-up tempeh as it offers more protein per carbohydrate, while offering a little more versatility in terms of the dishes and foods with which it can be combined. It is easily marinated and seasoned, can be made with egg, cinnamon, fruits and nuts -- offering a fairly wide variety of flavors. It can also be found in fermented varieties, such as pickled tofu, though this isn't necessarily for everyone. Therefore, in our quest to determine which soy reigns supreme, we're slightly stumped as they both offer great edible options.

A Few of the Best Tempeh Recipes

No. I'm not going to drop a list of ingredients that you must run out to the store and purchase, because tempeh is best used in substitutions of your other favorite or former recipes. For example, the Super Bowl is right around the corner, and regardless of how you feel about football, you'll probably be at a party. How about a little vegetarian chili, prepped with tempeh, organic powders, seasoning and vegetables, served with a tasty St. Peters English Ale -- an organic favorite.

For breakfast, depending on your desire, tempeh is the perfect substitute for bacon or sausage, and is darn tasty on a bagel with egg and cheese, or egg substitute if you prefer. Tempeh is also great after it has been marinated, to create sandwich meat, or flavor for salads. And when it comes right down to it, skillet frying it with a little sea-salt and a peppercorn variety makes it a great snack in and of itself.

A Few of the Best Tofu Recipes

Do you remember the first time you dipped into Miso soup or Pad Thai, and thought, "What is this stuff?" It is so versatile, you can quite literally toss it into any of your favorite recipes. Depending on the type of tofu that is made or purchased, you can use it in anything from soups and salads, to filling a kebab skewer full of other meats and vegetables. If you're truly adventurous and have a little sweet tooth, or are attempting to convince friends and family members that a little soy in life can be a good thing, check out this recipe for Vegan Chocolate Cake.

Tempeh Versus Tofu - Which Wins the Health Competition?

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Hospitality Industry - Hotels Business Current and Future Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 22:15:00 +0000

Hospitality has long been synonymous with the hotel industry. Any changes in trends of hotel business have wide scale implications on an otherwise diverse industry. What might be an opportunity for a traveler can be a matter of survival for hotels? It will not be an oversimplification to suggest that the emerging concepts in hotel industry reveal an atmosphere of stiff competition. Here is a look at a few major issues:

Is Green better?

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Amid growing concern over environment friendly services, a majority of travelers now prefer Green and Eco lodgings. Recent surveys by trade associations such as Partnership Travel Industry Association and online retailers like Yahoo revealed that nearly seventy percent of the tourists are willing to pay extra when it comes to environmental friendly lodgings. These surveys further revealed that these guests will pay anywhere from nine to ten percent premium on the already advertised prices.

Hospitality Industry - Hotels Business Current and Future Trends

What can be stated as a welcome relief for the educated traveler might pose real challenges for the hotel business. To better understand the scenario, it should be noted that hotels are presently facing severe shortages in occupancy rates which are at their lowest since 1971. Such a crisis and lack of funds can definitely hamper any efforts to install appliances that comply with the LEEDS standards (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design). Some experts agree that a trade off may lead hotels into removing free amenities that include little bottles of shampoos, jams and free basket of fruits; all of which are the hallmark of these eco lodgings.

Where are the Workers gone?

The hotel industry gives employment at a very large proportion of part time workers, who after gaining substantial experience, leave for other lucrative jobs at restaurants and outdoors. Low wages in the hotel industry is one of the primary reasons for low retention rates.

Hotel industry Gurus are already thinking of ways to attract and retain qualified workers by increasing the pay scales and by reducing the long working hours. The top management is now devising constructive methods that will retain the existing workers by sponsoring education and creating attractive career paths.

Mega Hotels

The rising cost of construction and a struggling real estate has prompted hoteliers to deploy the pre-fabricated and cost effective solution in the construction of new hotels. In fact they are fighting back by producing highly efficient designs that utilize a greater proportion of space for revenue generating purpose. Future trends in the hotel construction will seek to maximize the use of building areas by constructing a multi purpose facility that will include Casinos, shopping outlets and Theatres. The stand alone hotel concept is likely to vanish as the new properties will be constructed as a mixed use development to provide guests with facilities such as Church, Hospitals and Theme Parks. Such a variety will ensure that guests remain at one spot which will help generate revenue for the entire hotel complex.

The evolution of savvy traveller

The evolution of internet has given rise to a phenomenon where travelers are becoming ever more demanding. Industry professionals suggest that an increase in a trend, to review properties online, will make travelers less forgiving as they are able to post their travel experiences. Such an overemphasis on web may even lead to stiff competition and price reduction strategies where only large players may be able to survive.

To ward of such threats, the small business owner is now turning towards opening a boutique establishment as an alternate to 70,s style motels. Such niche properties are popping up everywhere by advertising a more personalized "home away from home" kind of experience. The introduction of such boutique properties has also given rise to the popular and widely accepted theme of modern hostels. These hostels are keen to provide a clean and safe environment for budget conscious travelers. Their goal is to wipe out the myths associated with cheap motels and dingy guesthouses.

Whatever may be the case, one thing is for sure that constant remodeling of the hotel industry has made it more functional and practical not only for the guests but also for the hotel owners.

Hospitality Industry - Hotels Business Current and Future Trends

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The Benefits Of Avocado Juice

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 22:10:00 +0000

Avocado is sometimes known as the alligator pear because of the texture of its skin and its pear-like shape. The avocado contains a good supply of carotene, there being three times as much in a well-colored ripe fruit as in a hard one. Analysts have found no less than 11 vitamins and 17 minerals in avocado, making it a very comprehensive storehouse of the nutritional needs of man.

There is a high level of oil which contains the vitamins A, D, and E, and is rich in the mono-unsaturated fat oleic acid. This type of fat is the principal constituent of olive oil which is rapidly gaining credence for preventing of heart disease. Although the calorie count of the avocado is large, there being 165 calories in l00g (40z), it is of excellent nutritional worth

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The avocado is also rich in vitamin 86, with an impressive 530 micrograms per l00g (40z). There is evidence that the leaves and fruits of the avocado have been shown to contain a substance known to be somewhat toxic to goats, rabbits, horses and canaries. There is no evidence that there is any danger to man, but for the sake of prudence it is best to have no more than one avocado a day whether juiced or fresh.

The Benefits Of Avocado Juice

Happily the fate of the unfortunate canary need not affect the use of avocado juice in the therapy because the best effect is found when the juice is employed as an external application to the skin. Avocado juice is a good way of having a balanced quantity of the oil of avocado. The oil is second only to lanolin in being the most penetrating oil known when applied to the human skin.

Yet, unlike lanolin which is thought by many experts to be the cause of more cases of sensitivity to cosmetics than any other ingredient, avocado is emollient and innocuous without any known sensitizing effects. It can therefore be used externally as the ideal treatment for soothing sensitive skins. Avocado reduces ultra violet light and is a useful sun screening lotion for use prior to moderate exposure to the suns rays.

The Benefits Of Avocado Juice

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Discover the Authentic & Delicious Cuisine and Cooking of Brunei

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 22:05:00 +0000

Bruneians are known for their exquisite variety of native cuisines. Their cuisine consists mainly of fish, mixed with herbs and spices; very similar to that of the Malaysian and Singaporean cuisines and some other Asian countries where the staple food include rice and noodles. Most of the cooking contains coconut milk and chili, together with fried fish and other meats. Some of the foods also consist of vegetables and cereals. Meat is being served only during certain events for meat prices like cow's meat are particularly costly in Brunei. However, visitors and locals alike have plenty of recipes to choose from, because the people of Brunei have a tradition of serving loads of foods for every meal.

A Bruneian lunch is more like a feast. They often prepare plenty of foods on the table, which the Bruneians are famously known for. They also have certain foods prepared for special occasions like during their National Day and other public holidays, where they prepare a great deal of Bruneian dishes. Menus for such special occasions includes beef or what the Bruneians called Satay, as well as chicken, and mutton kebabs which is a dish made of minced meat sautéed with spices. Another is the Ketupat or Lontong, a form of dumpling which is widely known in Southeast Asia. These dishes together with rice cakes and variety of noodles are arranged all together on a coconut or banana leaf; which is an Asian native practice. Carefully designed, for visually attractive dishes are important to the Bruneians, and foods are always arranged in a striking manner.

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There are a number of ethnic restaurants in Brunei where visitors can try it out and have a taste of a delicious Bruneian cuisine. Also, eateries always offer high-quality services for tourists, and each can enjoy a festive meal at any time. A place where everyone is considered a special, you'll definitely feel Bruneian's exceptional hospitality.

Discover the Authentic & Delicious Cuisine and Cooking of Brunei

Though Bruneian foods are quiet spicy, similar to the rest of the Asian country cuisines, people would certainly enjoy trying these mouth-watering choices of foods. Accompanied with colorful food arrangements, this makes Bruneian cuisine eye-catching and mouth-watering everyone.

People from around the world love to visit Brunei and have a taste of their very own native cuisines. Enjoy the experience of having a banquet of foods served for every meal, and you'll surely be back to Brunei for more.

Discover the Authentic & Delicious Cuisine and Cooking of Brunei

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Sandals Holidays - Promoting the Caribbean

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 21:55:00 +0000

As world leading all inclusive resorts 14 years in a row at the world travel awards, Sandals holidays are much more than an all comprehensive holiday, so much so that a new type of holiday called the luxury incorporated holidays has been created. Sandals offers some of the most romantic and luxurious holidays in the Caribbean. These unrivalled resorts with luxury as standard housing, fantastic facilities, and a wide range of dining options, activities and entertainment are only for you. Sandals offer the choice of resorts in Jamaica, St Lucia, Antigua or the Bahamas all with beautiful beaches, perfect for two people in love. Sandals also offer an array of land and water sports, including golf and scuba-diving. You can prefer from premier and all wide-ranging luxury included Caribbean resorts. These are Sandals Jamaica with a choice of gorgeous hotels, Sandals Antigua with attractive hotel available and Sandals St Luciawith hotel being available.

Sandals Resorts is an operative of wide-ranging resorts in the Caribbean and division of Sandals Resorts International. Inspiring beachfront sites, excellent standards of service and brilliant cuisine choices, as well as housing that are truly world class with a choice of suites that culminate in private plunge pools and butler service are exclusive. Enfold this with outstanding ground and water sports, scuba-diving for skilled divers and boundless greens fees at personal golf clubs. Openly, these places catch the concept of luxury to new heights of abandon. Amazingly hedonistic, Sandals holidays come complete with gourmet cuisine, breathtaking tropical settings and some of the most exquisite and deserted private beaches our lovely blue planet has to offer. Choose from resorts in Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua and the Bahamas. You drive the boat out and spend a little fortune on the nuptials of the century. Request your guests over and hang concerning for your celebratory, all in the most implausible magnificence. You can renew your wedding vows at Sandals too.

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Sandals Holidays - Promoting the Caribbean

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Gewurztraminer, Perfect With Indian, Thai and Chinese Food

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:40:00 +0000

Gewurztraminer, meaning 'spiced or perfumed traminer' is a wine grape variety grown in cooler wine growing areas of the world. Often referred to simply as Gewurtz, the grapes have a pink to red skin colour which produce a white wine with a high natural sugar content. The style of wine made is usually off dry which emphasises the flavour of exotic fruits.

The Gewurztraminer grape is grown in Alsace in France, as well as in Germany, Australia, New Zealand and the U.S. The advantage of any vine grown at altitude is the long slow ripening period which concentrates the sugars without losing much of the valuable acidity. This prolonged ripening process is what gives varieties like Gewurtz their uniqueness.

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Like Riesling, Gewurztraminer is a challenging grape variety to grow. It buds early in the spring, so is vulnerable to frost damage, which in turn causes a reduction in yields (though desirable for quality), but can make the wines more expensive. Harvesting at precisely the right time is vital to capture the fresh acidity as well as the luscious flavours. Get this wrong and the typical Gewurtz character of a flamboyant bouquet of lychees, passion fruit and roses will be lost.

Gewurztraminer, Perfect With Indian, Thai and Chinese Food

Hygiene during winemaking will ensure that some carbon dioxide bubbles from the fermentation may be captured giving the the wine a slight 'spritz' or fizz. This is highly desirable as it gives the wine an attractive, delicate, citrus freshness, which complements the spicy food flavours.

In Alsace, the traditional home of Gewurztraminer, rich foods such as duck, roast goose, onion tart and chicken liver pâté all make the perfect accompaniment to this aromatic wine. But it is with Indian, Chinese and Thai cuisine that Gewurtz has found some perfect matches. The spices in these eastern foods are beautifully balanced by the aromatics and low acidity in this wine, while the underlying sweetness of the fruit softens any heat.

Gewurtztraminer really is the perfect wine to accompany Indian, Thai or Chinese meal. So if you haven't tried it before, next time you have a curry, instead of washing it down with a beer or glass of water, pour out a glass of Gewurtz and see for yourself. You will be surprised by the balance and interaction of flavours.

Gewurztraminer, Perfect With Indian, Thai and Chinese Food

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Nairobi Kenya Restaurants - Chinese, Japanese & Thai Restaurants Kenya

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 21:35:00 +0000

Nairobi has plenty of Chinese restaurants but they aren't a cheap option. Almost all offer 'large' (good for two people) and 'small' portions (enough for one). Food is generally excellent, but all these places add 16% VAT to the bill, so prices can soon mount up.

Chinese & Thai Nairobi Restaurants

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Panda Chinese Restaurant
Fedha towers, Kaunda St; mains kshs380-1480)

Nairobi Kenya Restaurants - Chinese, Japanese & Thai Restaurants Kenya

A spacious very classy Asian restaurant hidden away on Kaunda St. The staffs are attentive to the point of overzealousness, especially when its quiet and the food is the best Chinese chow I have seen in Nairobi. Lovers of Muzak will also be at their element here.

Hong Kong Restaurant
(College House, Koinange St; Mains Kshs 300-600)

A bright red restaurant with good food and not too much clichéd décor. It's the cheapest proper Chinese in town and is accordingly popular.

Bangkok Chinese restaurant
(Rank Xerox House, Parklands Rd, Westlands; Mains Kshs290-890)

The Bangkok has been in business for a number of years but was clearly named by someone with no grasp of geography, as there's virtually nothing Thai on the menu at all. If the disappointment gets too much you can always crack open a bottle of Moet (Kshs 8990)

Tanager Bar & Restaurant
(Rehema House, Kaunda St. mains Kshs 280-350)

A cheap and simple Chinese African eatery right in the city centre.

China Jiangsu Restaurant
(Westlands Rd mains Kshs 200-600)

A stylish rooftop restaurant above Soin arcade shopping centre. Prices are very reasonable considering the classy balcony setting, and the food's not to be sniffed at either.

Siam Thai
(Unga House, Muthithi Rd, Westlands, mains Kshs 250-680)

This attractive restaurant has an extensive menu of actual Thai food and a very good reputation. Unga House can be reached from either Woodvale grove or Muthithi Rd.

Japanese Nairobi Kenya Restaurants

Restaurant Akasaka
(Standard St, mains Kshs 450-800)

A wonderful Japanese restaurant next to the six eighty Hotel. It's always a little quiet, but this fits the stylish Japanese décor and the food is very authentic. There's even a tatami room (reserve in advance) where you can eat at traditional low tables. Akasaka runs the full gamut of Japanese cuisine including udon noodles, sushi sets, tempura, teriyaki, and sukiyaki as well as great miso soup. Good value set lunches is also available.

Furasato Japanese Restaurant
(Karuna Rd, Westlands; set meals Kshs 700-1500)

Behind the sarit centre, this is a very stylish place with seductive set Japanese meals including sushi, teppanyaki and tempura. The sushi and sashimi are delicious. Reservations are recommended.

There are many other Asian restaurants in Nairobi including some in leafy suburbs that may cost even twice as much as the ones included here. Depending on your taste you can enquire of the Chinese and Japanese restaurants in such areas.

Remember here that at this level of class, what your bill not only includes the food mass but also the dining ambience-something you are unlikely to take home in your tummy though.

All in all you are most likely going to find a restaurant, if not two that suits your tastes and pocket size. There is simply no lack in Asian restaurants here.

Nairobi Kenya Restaurants - Chinese, Japanese & Thai Restaurants Kenya

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Is Chinese Food Unhealthy?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:30:00 +0000

Next to Pizza, Chinese food has to be on of the more popular takeout foods for Americans. So, is it bad for you?

Chinese food is a favorite of both the native Chinese and American foreigners alike. Their spicy dishes and authentic cuisine suits almost any palate and has endless possibilities. Unfortunately, sometimes Chinese food can be anything but a healthful dinner. Lucky for many Chinese food lovers, there are healthy alternatives that are equally tasty but lower in saturated fats and simple carbohydrates.

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Choosing the right type of foods when ordering Chinese takeout can make a world of difference in the nutritional value you will receive. Picking foods that are high in protein, such as chicken or beef dishes and full of veggies are great healthy choices. As a substitute to fried dishes such as sweet and sour or sesame chicken, opt for a sautéed alternative such as cashew chicken or beef and broccoli. These dishes provide nutritional value that other traditional plates such as lo mein lack. Lo mein provides several sources of bad fats and carbohydrates due to the large amounts of noodles and the oil it is stir fried in. Always make sure that the Chinese restaurant you choose serves food without MSG. There have been conflicting reports about the poor nutritional value contained within.

Is Chinese Food Unhealthy?

For healthy side dishes, skip the fried egg roll and wontons and instead have a cup of soup. Skip the order of fried rice. It is an unnecessary supply of large amounts of calories. It also contains high concentrations of cholesterol. If available, brown rice is the most healthful alternative to fried or white rice. If possible, on the day you choose to order Chinese takeout, limit your intake of sodium rich foods. Many Chinese meals are high in sodium content due to the use of soy sauce and other additives. Don't add any more salt than necessary once your meal arrives! Additionally, if you are ordering a dish with peanuts, eat them in moderation. Peanuts can be very beneficial and contain many good fats and nutrients. However, eating too many can make a somewhat healthy dish unhealthy quite quickly.

Choosing between inexpensive restaurants and high end Chinese restaurants can also increase or decrease the health of the food served. As a generalization, many high end Chinese food restaurants will have a special menu with specifically healthy options as well as a list of their nutritional content.

When all else fails, do not hesitate to question your server or the manager of the Chinese restaurant. Most are eager and willing to provide you information on their native dishes and are usually very knowledgeable about their cuisine. The majority of restaurants are required to have nutritional content information on site. This could be useful in helping you decide on the best healthy Chinese takeout options.

Is Chinese Food Unhealthy?

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British Food - Cuisine and Culture

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 21:25:00 +0000

Some of my fondest memories as a child are of visiting my grandparents in both the North of England and the Eastern coastal area of England. Those visits were not only wonderful times, but they were also accompanied with delicious food. I had one grandmother who could be equated with a British version of Martha Stewart and another grandmother who'd open her handbag which was laden with penguin bars and bar clubs, or an assorted variety of flavored crisps.

Let me reminisce a minute and with that reminiscing share some favorite traditional British cuisine. I do have to acknowledge, however, that the Brit's cuisine, especially the English dishes, hasn't always had the greatest reputation. Still, they have some of the finest restaurants in the world and with the added diversity in the population, and an increased experimentation with new dishes, the culture has created new culinary styles - curry recipes being one of the most popular trends right now.

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So back to the reminiscing, back to my Martha Stewart nanny. Every morning in her home, on schedule, was a full English breakfast which would usually consist of sausages, bacon, fried eggs, fried tomatoes, and fried bread or toast. Some would opt for scrambled eggs, or throw in some fried mushrooms, baked beans, and if you were really adventurous -- black pudding. Black pudding is a type of blood sausage - something I've never opted for, but others love.

British Food - Cuisine and Culture

Next would be the traditional lunch, which is a bit like a Sunday dinner in my home today. Nanny would cook some kind of roast meat - beef, pork or lamb - and with that were her crispy roast potatoes and a fresh garden vegetable. Steaming windows from boiling cabbage was a common occurrence. The lamb would be complimented with mint sauce, and the beef with gravy and Yorkshire pudding. Yorkshire pudding was always a favorite of mine, a dish made from baked dough - almost like roasted bread.

Tea-time was promptly at five o'clock. This was one of my favorite meals: cakes and biscuits, scones and jams. Both my grandmothers usually had jam tarts (bakewell tarts) pre-made and stowed in their pantries. This consisted of a pastry shell filled with jam and a spongy filling. Shortbread biscuits - melt in your mouth buttery cookies - were always stocked and stored in old Christmas tins. Now remember our cookies are their biscuits, and our biscuits are their scones. To this day, I've never discovered a version of our scones overseas.

Supper-time was just before bed - a quick snack before lights out. My supper was cheese on toast and hot cocoa.

My other grandmother wasn't as much about order and tradition, but loved filling her cupboards with food her grandchildren loved. She was famous, at least to me, for her sausage pie. And never would a visit go by without at least one trip to the fish and chip shop: Battered and fried cod or plaice with chips (French fries) and usually sprinkled with salt and lathered with vinegar. Some would opt for the mushy peas on the side which was merely a green soup made from peas.

Let me list briefly some of the most traditional dishes that I haven't included up to this point.

Roast chicken with chipolata sausages (thin sausages), bread sauce, and cranberry sauce or redcurrant jam. Bangers (sausages) and mash (mashed potatoes). Toad in the hole (sausages cooked in Yorkshire pudding batter), somewhat similar to piggies in a blanket. Shepherd's pie. Traditionally the bottom layer was ground lamb, although in my family we used ground beef, and this was followed with a layer of mashed potatoes. We also usually put cooked carrots in between the beef and potatoes. There are many variations to this though and also under the names of cottage pie and fisherman's pie. Steak and kidney pie -- speaks for itself. Lancashire hotpot which was meat, onion and potatoes baked in a pot or casserole dish for a long time on low heat. Cornish pasty. This is a baked pie is smaller distinct shape which was traditionally filled with beef, onion, and potato. Kedgeree. This is flaked fish combined with boiled rice, eggs and butter. Smoked haddock was usually the fish of choice and this dish dates back to the time of the British Indian Empire. Mince (ground beef) and tatties (mashed potatoes). Spotted dick. This is a steamed pudding which contains dried fruit and raisins, and is usually served with custard.

So there you have it, a quick version of my enjoyment of English cuisine and some of the traditional dishes. Good luck on your English cooking adventure!

British Food - Cuisine and Culture

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Three Delicious Soya Recipes - Indian Cuisine

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 21:20:00 +0000

Being one of the richest sources of protein, it is surprising to note that Soya is not used very much in Indian cooking. Many prefer the high-fat paneer to Soya, which is similar in texture.

Here you can liven up your cooking with 3 healthy Indian Soya recipes.

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There are three Soya recipes - Indian style featured here:

Three Delicious Soya Recipes - Indian Cuisine

How to make 'Indian - Chinese' Soya Manchurian (an alternative to Gobi Manchurian) Soya Dosa - A healthy dish of this South Indian bread variety Soya in Kofta Curry - Perfect for a weekend menu
1. Soya Manchurian

Who says you can only taste Gobi Manchurian in restaurants? Well, now there is a healthier alternative to this Indo-Chinese recipe.

Ingredients

Soya Chunks- 1 small cup Maida- ½ tbsp Corn Flour- ½ tablespoon Pepper Powder- For taste Aji-no-moto- 1 pinch Finely Chopped Garlic- 10 pods Green chillies- 5 Soya Sauce- 1 teaspoon Capsicum- 1 Salt- to taste Oil- For frying Finely chopped spring onions- little
How to make

Soak the Soya chunks in hot-water for 10 minutes. Then squeeze them to remove the excess water from it and keep aside. Mix Maida, corn-flour, salt, Pepper powder well in a bowl. Mix water if required to get a batter form , add the squeezed Soya chunks into it and deep fry it in oil and keep those fried soya aside. Heat little oil in another kadai or pan. Add chopped garlic, green chillies, Chopped capsicum, and sauté for a while. Add Soya sauce, Aji-no-moto, and little water and cook for a while. Then add those fried Soya ones into it and sauté it for sometime. Sprinkle chopped spring onions and serve.
2. Soya Kofta Curry

With simple ingredients and a simpler recipe, you could turn any dull cooking day with this recipe for Soya Kofta Curry.

Ingredients

Soya Granules- 1 ¼ cup Boiled Mashed Potatoes- 2 Tomato Puree- 2 tablespoon Onion Paste- 1 tablespoon Pepper Powder- 1 teaspoon Ginger-Garlic Paste- 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder- 1 teaspoon Saunf Fennel Seeds) - ½ teaspoon Garam Masala Powder- 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder- 1 pinch Salt- To taste Oil- 1 tbsp Coriander- For garnishing
How to make / Method

Mix mashed potatoes, Soya granules, salt, and pepper powder in a bowl If the mixture is watery, mix a little corn/rice flour and then make smalls out of it and deep fry it in oil Keep this aside. Heat oil in a pan and add saunf, ginger-garlic paste, onion Paste, tomato puree, and fry for a while. Then add Pepper Powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, turmeric powder, salt and cook for a while. Then add fried Soya koftas or balls into it and stir for sometime. Add fresh cream and cashew paste to add more flavor (optional) Garnish with coriander leaves and serve with chapathi, Rotis, Pulkas, Kulchas or Nan. You could even enjoy this with plain rice
3. Soya Dosa

Ingredients
Soya Chunks - 30 Toor dhal (Pigeon Peas) - ½ cup Bengal Gram dhal - ½ cup Rice - ½ cup Finely chopped fenugreek leaves - 1 cup Chopped onions- 1 cup Coconut Milk - 1 cup Red Chillies - 10 Ginger - 1 small piece - chopped finely Saunf (fennel seeds) - 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds - 1 teaspoon Salt and Oil - to taste.
How to make / method:

Soak the rice and the dhals in water for about 2 hours. Remove this soaked mixture and add red chillies, salt, ginger, saunf, cumin seeds, and grind it coarsely. Put the Soya chunks in hot water. Squeeze them and add it to the coarsely grinded mixture. To this batter, add chopped onions, fenugreek leaves, and coconut milk and mix well. Then heat a dosa tava, Pour the batter like a dosa but little thick in size. Serve with chutney

Three Delicious Soya Recipes - Indian Cuisine

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The Amazing Greek Cuisine

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 21:15:00 +0000

Reaching a country's history can become a sinuous process. One can be the privileged explorer of times that were set millennia ago. Passing time determines evolution, determines breaking the limits and brings about the marvels of the human being. But wouldn't it be enticing to be given the chance of exploring the protruding of the origins and gradual development of what the present has to offer?

The Hellenic Republic represents one of the heavenly corners of the world we see today. When talking about Greece, several names become imminent: Homer and his mesmerizing Iliad and Odyssey, Herodotus, Heraclitus, Aristotle, Plato are only few of the specter of great Greek minds that managed to be the immovable original stone of western literature and philosophy, drama and mathematics. Greek's evolution is not necessarily unique, but it can definitely determine you to indulge in a marvelous state of knowledge.

Thai Cuisine

Knowledge gained through the senses may remain confused, but nevertheless senses are one aspect that makes the human body an extraordinary receiver for the world's offerings.

The Amazing Greek Cuisine

There is one element that creates pearls of wisdom in a highly unique way: the Greek gastronomy. Generally speaking, gastronomy is a treasure embraced by continuous discovery. It seems to be an infinite spring of marvels that we are lucky enough to receive and capable enough to explore and further develop.

The Greek kitchen is not a clearly divided area. It actually functions as a whole that spreads equal intensity, regardless of the geographic area. Nevertheless, there are regions where the confluence between history and geography is so visible, that it manifests throughout all the branches, especially gastronomy.

Ancient Greeks had an exquisite culinary taste. Sesame, honey, certain local fruit, goat's and ewe's cheeses, wild fennel, wild greens, lentils, broad beans were used in deeply remote Greek times and are also used in present. Local gastronomy in general and Greek's regional culinary approaches in particular represent an area of various influences that have been embedded by the migratory peoples, by all the goings back and forth and resettlements.

Greek's mountains are of great importance, but the coastline is equally important when it comes to moderating the influences that have built up the Greek cuisine.

There are regions in which the pastoral ways have been visibly conserved. At a closer look, an amazing phenomenon can be inferred. These regions managed to gather the other influences in ways that created a bridge in the deep eclecticism of Greece's culinary expressions.

The glow of the Greek cuisine resides in a variety of factors, but amongst them arises one element that wins out over all the others. Greek cuisine is not only about abolishing hunger and satisfying basic needs. It transcends these human needs, entering an esoteric level, beyond the common human psyche.

The marvels of the Greek kitchen are a vast subject that may not encounter a clear ending. It could be that this impossibility itself is what feeds the increasing passion of so many wonderers.

The Amazing Greek Cuisine

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The Advantages of Eating Apricots

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:15:00 +0000

Summer is the season of apricots. These are very tasty and they are also rich in vitamins. There are so many advantages they present when it comes to your health that all people should have their share of apricots during the summer. Here are some of these miracles apricots can perform.

Apricots contain about eighty-five per cent water, as well as vitamins A, C, B1, B2, P and PP, fibres, minerals and many other substances. Obviously, the large amount of water helps with detoxifying your body and cleans it, fortifying your organism and making apricots a very useful aliment for your diets or for your recovery periods.

Thai Cuisine

These fruits are beneficial to your nervous system, they have a regenerative effect and they can help you fight insomnia and asthenia, also filling your body with the vitamins it needs. Apricots are highly recommended to the rachitic children and to those people who feel weakened. You can also choose a dissociated diet and only consume apricots once a week, this method forcing your body to extract all the substances it needs from fruits. Given the large amount of water they contain, these fruits are very useful to those who have kidney and liver problems.

The Advantages of Eating Apricots

However, there are people who shouldn't even think about eating apricots and we now refer to those who have diabetes. On the other hand, these fruits are highly recommended to pregnant women, to anaemic kids and to the elderly.

You can improve your face skin, apricots being used with facial masks. You just have to keep half an apricot on your face and let it be absorbed by your skin. The oil extracted from the core is also used with cosmetics and it highly recommended for those whose face skin looks older, wrinkled and dry, this oil revitalizing your tissues.

The Advantages of Eating Apricots

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The Scent Of Thai Food

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:05:00 +0000

Thai food is globally popular due to its tasty combination of sweet, sour and saltiness, appetizingly enhanced by tanginess from an assortment of chilies used in typical dishes. This flavorful blend which has become characteristic of traditional Thai food remains distinctive in local fare until present days.

Thai food combines the best of several Eastern cuisines: the oriental bite of Szechwan Chinese, the tropical flavour of Malaysian, the creamy coconut sauces of Southern Indian and the aromatic spices of Arabian food. Thais then add an abundance of fresh ingredients, coriander plants, chilies and pepper. The result is like a cuisine minceur' of the Orient, with small portions of lean meat, poultry and seafood, and plenty of fresh vegetables and salads.

Thai Cuisine

Thai food is lightly cooked so it's crisp, colourful, sharply flavoured and nutritious. The distinctive taste comes from a handful of fundamental ingredients, all widely available at Asian foodstores. Ingredients that are essential in Thai cooking are spices and herbs, which, beside their aromatic quality, are known to have diverse health benefits. The essence of many types of herbs can aid in regularizing the circulatory system of the body. The knowledge of using herbs in Thai cooking, derived from traditional Thai medicine, makes Thai food a healthy choice in a real sense.

The Scent Of Thai Food

A Thai meal normally consists of a variety of dishes such as a curry, a soup, a stir-fry and a dipping sauce or salad. There is normally a balance of spicy and mild dishes with at least one mild dish to counter the spicy dishes.

Thai cooking is not difficult. Once you are familiar with the main ingredients and we can guarantee that you will amaze yourself with the delicious food that you can cook. The Thai way of life is laid back and this translates into their cooking too, so do not worry too much, relax, keep a smile on your face and enjoy!

The Scent Of Thai Food

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Exotic Spices

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:00:00 +0000

Spices and herbs have been sought after since the beginning of written history for culinary and medicinal purposes, but many people confuse the terms spice and herb. A spice is the dried fruiting body of a plant, whole fruit, kernel or seed. A spice can also be the dried roots and bark of a plant, where as an herb is generally considered the dried leaves of a plant. There are a few exceptions to these definitions, for example the dried leaves of the fenugreek plant, Methi curry, is considered a spice instead of an herb.

Many of our spices come from faraway places like India and South East Asia or Mexico and the Caribbean. The spice trade that brought these once rare spices back to Europe created huge fortunes for many trading companies. Indeed, the spice trade can be traced back over 5000 years and was instrumental in establishing commerce and trade around the world.

Thai Cuisine

Today, spices that were once practically unavailable to the general public have been naturalized in many parts of the world. Due to advances in commerce and shipping, these once rare and expensive spices can easily be purchased at specialty stores or online. Still, many people are not aware of the variety of spices that exists beyond the local market. Here is a list of some of the more exotic spices that you may not find locally, but are worth seeking out.

Exotic Spices

Saffron- Saffron is easily the most expensive spice in the world. It comes from the stigma of the blue flowering crocus (crocus sativus). The stigma must be handpicked and it takes a lot of stigmas (200-500) to make 1 gram of saffron which explains why it is so expensive. Fortunately, only a small amount is necessary to impart its beautiful color and flavor to food. Saffron is used in paella plus many sauces, rice, and seafood dishes.

Grains of Paradise- Also known as Melegueta pepper or Guinea grains. It comes from the Amomum melegueta tree that grows in Western Africa. This tree is related to both ginger and cardamom. It was commonly used as a pepper substitute when the price of pepper became too high. Grains of Paradise are widely used in Caribbean and African cooking and will impart a hot, spicy, aromatic flavor to any dish.

Sumac-Sumac comes from the dried berries of the plant Rhus coriaria also known as Sicilian Sumac or the North American Sumac Rhus aromatica. There are many varieties of Sumac and some are poisonous so care must be taken to avoid those varieties .The berry or the powder is used as a souring agent. It imparts a sour lemony flavor and complements fish and red meat nicely. It is widely used in North African, Middle Eastern and Southern Mediterranean cooking.

Amchur Powder-Amchur powder is made from unripe mangos that have been sliced, sun dried and then ground into a fine powder. It is commonly used as a souring agent in North Indian cooking.

Ajwain-Also known as Ajowan caraway, Carom seeds or Bishops weed. It has a flavor similar to thyme or caraway seeds, only stronger. It is used in small quantities after it has been dry roasted or fried in ghee or oil. It belongs to the Apiaceae family along with coriander and cumin. It is used in Indian and Pakistani cuisine.

Machalepi-Also spelled Mahleb or Mahlebi, this spice comes from the pit of the St. Lucie cherry, Cerasus mahaleb, which is a member of the Rosaceae or rose family. Its flavor has a hint of almond with rose and cherry accents. It is popular in Greece, Middle Eastern Countries and Mediterranean cooking. It is used in baking.

Anardana- Anardana is the dried seed of various wild pomegranate plants. It has a sour and slightly fruity flavor. It works well in a dry seasoning mix for fish or as a marinade to season meats especially venison. It is a common ingredient in chutney.

Juniper berries-Juniper berries are thought to be the only spice that comes from a conifer and from a cold climate. They grow on small juniper shrub that is common throughout the Northern hemisphere. They are use a prime ingredient in gin. The seeds can take three years to mature and are picked when they turn blue. They have an aromatic flavor with a sweet accent and are popular in European cuisines.

Kala Jeera- It is in the parsley family and is popular in Northern Indian Cuisine to flavor rice and meat dishes. It has a rich nutty flavor that is slightly grassy. The seeds are small and crescent shaped and has a sharp bitter odor. Also known as black cumin.

Long Pepper-(pipalli) Also known as Bengal pepper, Long Pepper is a close relative of Black Pepper, but is hotter with sweet undertones. It is a small long catkin that can be grated or crushed just before use. It is popular in Indian, African, Indonesian and Mediterranean cooking. It compliments any rich buttery food.

Nigella seed-Also known as fennel flower. It has a pungent and slightly bitter flavor with a hint of sweetness. It is a small, black, sharply pointed seed that is commonly used in Bengali cooking.

So if you are looking for something a bit out of the ordinary when it comes to cooking spices this is a pretty good place to start.

Exotic Spices

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History of Italian Cooking

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:55:00 +0000

When many people think of Italian culture, they think of cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes are pizza and pasta. However, the world of Italian cooking is more than that, and the history of Italian cooking is very diverse. Different regions of Italy have developed their own styles of cooking centered around local ingredient, and other influences throughout history have influenced Italian food.

Culinary History

Thai Cuisine

The history of Italian cooking actually goes back over two thousand years. It flourished during the Roman Empire. During that time, food preparation was very important, though much of the earlier art of cooking has since been lost. After the Roman Empire fell, Italian food started to become more diverse. The different city states throughout the area started to develop their own ways of cooking, as well as their own distinct flavors that came from the foods that grew in the area. Meats, cheese, and even the wine became distinct.

History of Italian Cooking

Regional Diversity

The diversity of the history of Italian cooking can be traced back to the different areas where it was conceived. The north utilized Tuscan beef, while in Marches the black truffles became popular. Many Italian cheeses, such as provolone and mozzarella, were developed in the south. Citrus fruits were used in the south as well. Breads and pasta differed from region to region as well.

The south used more pasta like the hard-boiled spaghetti, while in the north softer egg noodles were popular. Milan was known for its risotto. Naples, on the other hand, became known for its pizza. The coastal regions became known for their seafood dishes. Anchovies, lobster, sardines, and swordfish became incorporated into much of the history of Italian cooking.

Outside Influences

Another factor of the history of Italian cooking was the influence of other cultures on the cuisine. Ancient Greek cooking was integrated as part of the dishes, but the Roman Empire also brought in other flavors, such as wheat wine, and fine spices. Ingredients for Italian cooking came as far as China, contributing to the wide variety of flavors and dishes. The island of Sardinian was influenced by the Mediterranean, while Sicily received many influences from North Africa. The southern parts of the country were also affected by influences from the Arabs, especially when it came to the sweets, such as the popular dessert cassata.

A Continuation

Some of the most popular dishes throughout the history of Italian cooking have seen a rebirth. For instance, some believe that pasta was actually brought to Italy from China during the time of Marco Polo. However, this was actually a rediscovery of a food that had been popular in Roman times. That early pasta is not much different than the ones enjoyed around the world today.

The history of Italian cooking continues to evolve, and today there are still distinct differences between the northern and southern regions of the country. The traditions reflect the deep culture and history that originally inspired them. So every time you cook an authentic Italian dish, you are cooking a piece of history.

History of Italian Cooking

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Attractive Ways to Package Popcorn For Gift Giving

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 20:45:00 +0000

Popcorn, in kernel form anyway, is one of the cheapest snacks you can buy and it comes in handy when you need a gift for any occasion but don't have a lot of money to spend. Just like people make great gifts out of soup mixes, dip mixes, and cookie mixes, you can make an attractive gift out of popcorn kernels. If you like, you can even add a packet of your favorite seasoning blend or include a recipe card for caramel popcorn or popcorn balls.

Jars make the most wonderful gift holders. They come in all shapes and sizes and most of the time, you don't even have to buy them. Just save the jars you normally empty and dress them up with paint, ribbon, and doilies. You can also layer regular popcorn with rainbow colored popcorn or the black variety as well.

Thai Cuisine

Also, keep your eye out for cheap little boxes and buckets, especially around the holidays. You can always find cute containers around the Christmas holidays when people are baking cookies and fudge. Of course, popcorn will probably look better in a glass jar but a box may work well if you would like to take some fresh popped popcorn to someone.

Attractive Ways to Package Popcorn For Gift Giving

You can also find glass jars and interesting containers at flea markets and garage sales. Sometimes, you can find old soda bottles or other kinds of bottles that would make a wonderful popcorn filled gift. Just be sure and sterilize anything you buy used and use your imagination to dress up the outer container to make the gift look as great as it tastes.

Attractive Ways to Package Popcorn For Gift Giving

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Omaha Steaks -- Possibly The World's Finest Steaks

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 20:40:00 +0000

Among the finest sources for steaks available, Omaha Steaks is renowned for providing high quality beef and gourmet products to customers across the country and around the world. Their name is well-known among cooks and grillmasters thanks to their continued commitment to providing the best food available. And Omaha Steaks works to make sure that they deliver on that commitment.

Starting in 1917, Omaha Steaks built its reputation on supplying high quality Midwestern steaks to people and businesses looking for choice cuts of excellent beef. This family owned business started out in Omaha, Nebraska and has kept its headquarters there throughout its history and expansion. And this expansion has seen the business stretch into areas including food service, mail order, incentive marketing, telesales, retail and even online sales. And with each successive step, Omaha Steaks further cements its reputation as the place to turn to when looking for quality beef.

World Cuisine

However, despite their name, beef is not the only thing on offer from Omaha Steaks. In fact, they also provide very good selections of poultry, veal, pork and lamb and have even moved into offerings of pastas, side dishes and desserts for their customers. And as Omaha Steaks continues to grow, they will undoubtedly expand into new areas of food offerings, giving their customers even more options when they look to Omaha Steaks. And with this wide selection, customers can put something on the menu for those people who want something tasty, but don't want it to be as heavy as steak.

Omaha Steaks -- Possibly The World's Finest Steaks

In order to serve their customers better, Omaha Steaks provides a few ways to shop. The most common method for purchasing Omaha Steaks' products is through their mail order and online business. Their steaks are shipped to ensure delivery within seven days of going out, so they will still be fresh when they arrive. Omaha Steaks takes every precaution to ensure that their food is just as good when it arrives as the day it was packed. Which means that your purchases will be consistently excellent.

However, some areas have access to Omaha Steaks through their retail stores. This growing portion of the business is not as large as their mail order and online services, but it is expanding as the company moves into new markets. This not only allows people to have a more personal experience while they are choosing just the right steak, but also gives people the opportunity to take their selections home immediately and get them on the grill in no time. And, as you would expect, their retail stores provide the same level of quality and commitment to excellence as every other portion of their business.

By taking pride in their service and the quality of their products, Omaha Steaks has moved from a small business in Nebraska to a multinational company providing its customers with a wide selection of foods that have them coming back again and again. And by taking care to take care of their customers, Omaha Steaks is making sure that they are always worth coming back to.

Omaha Steaks -- Possibly The World's Finest Steaks

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Thai Food - Rich in Culture and Flavor

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:30:00 +0000

Thailand, located in Southeast Asia, is known for its gorgeous mountains, scenic beaches and bustling shopping districts. One of Thailand's most memorable features is its delectable cuisine. Thai Food is a mixture of several flavors blended into perfect harmony. Balance is essential in the Thai culture and is exemplified in its cuisine. There are 5 fundamental tastes that are merged in each dish. Thai dishes often consist of foods that maintain a delicate balance between being salty, sweet, sour, bitter or spicy. It is this detailed attention that garners the praise that Thai food is often given. Thai food is among the most internationally known cuisines available in the world.

Thai food is most commonly known for being spicy. Dishes like Kaeng khae and Tom khlong are just a few examples. Kaeng khae is a spicy curry that consists of vegetables, herbs, meat and leaves from an acacia tree. Tom khlong is a spicy soup with a sourness that is derived through the addition of tamarind juice. Vegetables like tomato, mushroom and drilled chillies along with meat are common in the dish. The Thai cuisine balances certain flavors together. Spicy and sour foods are often paired to balance the taste as well as sweet and salty foods. No one flavor ever truly overshadows the other.

Thai Cuisine

Thai food is said to be a blend of flavors from the four regions in the country. Each region, ranging from Isan to Southern Thailand, has cuisines that have been influenced by their surrounding cultures. Isan, for example, has dishes that are unique to its particular area. The food is slightly different from that of other Thailand regions. In Isan, sticky rice and chillies are an essential part of every meal served. The Isan cuisine consists of hotter, spicier foods with increased sourness. Central Thailand, in contrast, consists of milder flavors with jasmine rice served at many meals. Southern Thailand, located along the Malay Peninsula, has a cuisine that is uses coconuts heavily. Coconut is used as a garnishment for meals as well as for oil and milk.

Thai Food - Rich in Culture and Flavor

In addition to specific tastes from the four regions, Thai food is also influenced by the Chinese cuisine. Techniques such as deep frying and products such as soy were introduced to the Thai culture from China. Chinese influence as well as the influence from various areas around the culture all share in shaping the exotic and flavorsome cuisines that Thailand is well known for.

Thai Food - Rich in Culture and Flavor

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What's in Filipino Food - Ube

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 20:20:00 +0000

Purple yams, officially referred to as ubes, are a common ingredient in Filipino kitchens. These yams are actually violet in color and are used in all different types of recipes. They have even been known to make a pleasant looking violet-colored cake.

Many yam aficionados will tell you that true Filipino ubes have a darker skin than the purple yams, referred to as such, which are available in the United States.

World Cuisine

Yams are not potatoes and should not be confused with purple Peruvian potatoes that are available, at some grocery stores and farm stands.

What's in Filipino Food - Ube

One of the most common Filipino ube recipes is Halayang Ube or purple yam jam. This is made from powdered ube, milk, condensed milk, egg yolks and butter.

Ube Balls are common, as well. This dish consists of condensed milk, mashed ube, cornstarch and water. The condensed milk and ube are heated over low heat, until somewhat warm.

At that point, cornstarch and violet food coloring is added. Continue cooking until mixture thickens. Stir constantly. Mixture is ready to cool, when it separates from the pan.

Once ube mixture has completely cooled, shape into small balls. Roll in sugar and tightly wrap in plastic wrap, to store.

Other uses for ube yams in Filipino food is as an ingredient in cakes, cupcakes and the beverage Halo-Halo.

Filipino food is highly regarded an exotic cuisine in many parts of the world and the ube yam is one of the ingredients that sets Filipino food apart from other cuisines of the region.

What's in Filipino Food - Ube

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India Food

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 20:10:00 +0000

The food in India is just as diverse as its people and cultures. When you're traveling in India you start to get the impression that it's not just one big country. It seems almost like it's made up of thousands of individual countries each with its own traditions, culture but most noticeably, flavor!

Indian cuisine

World Cuisine

The sometimes overwhelming aroma of India is the light scent of roses and lavender flowing on the warm air mixing with the heavy fragrance of spices coming from every home. Oils and spices are a vital part of pretty much every aspect of Indian food and are used to enhance the taste of a dish. Exact blending methods and combinations of flavors have been passed down through families for thousands of years so you're unlikely to eat two meals that are the same. The English word 'curry' translates to Hindi as 'Kari' which basically means 'spice sauce'.

India Food

Indian cuisine has many depths to it and each unique dish can be identified by different cooking techniques, by its region and by its chef. India's various religions and cultures have played a major part in modern day Indian food. For nearly two millenia, mass immigration and religious and cultural fusing along with its massive geographical differences (climate, altitude, etc) have had a huge influence on the evolution of food in India.

Trade routes from the Middle East, China and South East Asia (Thailand, Cambodia etc) brought a whole new range of ingredients to light. Various occupation such as the Portuguese and British brought a touch of the Mediterranean to Indian cooking.

North Indian food

North Indian cuisine has some of the most exotic foods available in India and some say that if you are going to India for just the food, then the north is the place to be.

The staple of north Indian food consists predominately of Lentils, Vegetables and Roti (round, flat wheat bread). North Indian cuisine is also noted for its high use of dairy products. Milk, paneer, butter and yogurt are all used as either an ingredient in the cooking process or served as a side dish.

The Thali is a good example of a standard meal in North India and would usually consist of Roti, Rice and a selection of side dishes. Sometimes you will only get a couple consisting of a chutney and a Dal (Lentil gravy) but if your lucky or go to a restaurant specializing in Thalis you can get up to 12 side dishes with things like Fried vegetables, curd, mango puree, chutneys, pickles, the list goes on. A typical dessert would be a choice of sweet meats which originated in Bengal. Things like Rasagulla (cheese balls dipped in syrup), Sandesh (Coconut and sugar balls) and Gulab Jamuns (cream, sugar, flour and saffron).

Cuisine in the north utilities the use of the 'Tawa' (griddle) for baking the flat breads such as Roti and Paranthas and the 'Tandoor" which is a large round oven used for baking Naan bread and Tandoori chicken.

The North also eat more meat than the rest of the country, Goat and lamb are popular, obviously no steak (holy cows) and pork is rare because of the large Muslim population.

The Samosa has been a large part of North Indian lives for centuries and can now be found all over India and the rest of the world. Each street seller or chef will have there own secret recipes but popular ingredients consist of fried or mashed potato with spices or minced meat, cheese, mushroom or chick peas.

Because of the large Muslim population in North India, Kebabs and other meat dishes have become very popular.

For more complete information on the regional food in India follow the link below

India Food

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A Few of the World's Best Pizzas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:05:00 +0000

From deep-dish to thin crust, it's hard to resist a good pizza! Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat lover-type, we've compiled a list of the hottest pizza spots from around the country. Ever feel like there is not enough cheese on your pizza, too many onions or too little sauce? Worry no more! When you check out one of these places, you'll have no complaints - just a mouth-full of pie.

Everyone is loyal to the pizza from their home town. The west coast loves pizza their way. The mid-west loves their pizza. Don't even get us started on the Chicago's Deep Dish vs. New York Pizza. Even other countries feel their pizza is the best. One thing we can all be certain about: We love pizza and so do you and it doesn't matter where you live or your favorite style.

World Cuisine

Any way you slice it, these are some of the picks for the best pizza:

A Few of the World's Best Pizzas

Da Silvio Pizzeria (Venice, Italy) - Guests here enjoy their slices outside in the garden. Known for its endless possibilities when it comes to Pizza and their slogan "come te vuole" (as you wish), Da Silvio's selections offer some of the freshest ingredients in Italy. Just make sure you save room for their decadent chocolate biscotti!

Totonnos (New York City, NY) - If you ask what time they close, the owner will tell you it's when they run out of dough. This can cut the night short, since the place is hopping from as early as 11 am. So if you are in the mood for one of these mouthwatering slices, just make sure you call ahead. The oldest continuously operating pizza joint in the US run by the same family, Totonnos continues to satisfy regulars and tourists alike.

Spris (Miami, FL) - A virtuous Italian pizzeria and more, Spris (pronounced "sprees") is named after the famous aperitif from the Veneto Region. Awarded "Best Pizza" by the Miami New Times, Spris is considered "Best Gourmet Pizza" by Sun Post and has received an "Excellent" critique by the Zagat Survey. With over 30 mouth-watering varieties baked in a wood-burning brick oven, Spris' famed thin-crust pizza is sure to please just about anyone. (And what's best - they're open till 3 a.m. - perfect for those South Beach night crawlers!)

To see the complete list of best pizzas around the world, visit journeyPod's article.

A Few of the World's Best Pizzas

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Philippine Culture Uniquely Distinct From the Rest of the World

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 19:40:00 +0000

The Philippine culture defines the unique distinctiveness of Filipinos from the rest of the world. Its richness in culture makes it highly different and more prominent from other countries. The Philippines have diverse cultural heritage, arts, traditions and spoken languages. The country has innumerable museums that take account to the wide historical and cultural evolution of its nation with churches, museums and galleries available throughout the Philippine Islands and are found in the different key cities of its provinces.

Each province has its own cultural folk dances showcasing the elegant styles of Filipino dances and the beauty of its people. They also follow their own unique traditions and have a way of celebrating their cultural practices through fiestas and events. The Filipinos naturally love arts and they can depict certain historical events through paintings, poems, songs and writings.

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Historical Influence to the Philippine Culture

Philippine Culture Uniquely Distinct From the Rest of the World

The culture of the Philippines is highly influenced by history and the blending of foreign influences and its indigenous civilization. The Philippines has been colonized by Spain for over three centuries. Hispanic influences are dominant in the Philippine's folk music, foods, art, religion, language and folk dances.

The Malayo-Polynesian has influences to the Philippines during its pre-Hispanic and non-Christian era. It influenced the country's mythology and indigenous culture along with the Buddhism, Hinduism, Islamic and Christianity traditions.

The United States also has an influence to the Philippine culture signified by the love of the Filipinos to contemporary pop music, film, basketball, music and fast foods. The Chinese and Japanese introduced martial arts, mahjong and other gambling forms. They also influenced the people's natural preference to Asian cuisines.

The Philippine Cultural Heritage

The culture of the Philippine is diverse. About 90% of the Filipinos are Christians and 5% are Muslims. The rest practice other religions and others do not seem to have any religion at all. Despite the westernization of the country and foreign influences, many of its people remain to believe in superstitions. This cultural belief came from their ancient ancestors.

The country has beautiful traditional folk dances that showcase the elegance, beauty and grace of the Filipinos. They use flaunting Filipino dress and play Filipino music. The dances showcase the Filipino culture.

The Philippines is also a land of artists. Filipino artists are renowned in the world in the fields of music and art. They are highly respectable in these fields and brought honor and glory to their country. The Filipino people are great optimists. They always see light in the midst of darkness and always keep a positive point of view. This makes them endure the various challenges that arise in the economic, political, socio-cultural, religious and other aspects of their way of life.

There are several dialects that Filipinos can speak. They rank high as the country with most dialects spoken. The country has the most traditions to follow which continues to prevail despite its westernization. Most of these traditions are handed down in generations and continue to be practiced by majority of the Filipinos.

The diverse cultures and traditions in the Philippines make the country shine throughout the world. It has solicited fame and uniqueness to the country and its people. There is no wonder that the Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality and innumerable cultural traditions and heritage. The blend of foreign and ancient influences in Philippine culture makes the country uniquely distinct from the rest of the world.

Philippine Culture Uniquely Distinct From the Rest of the World

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Swedish Recipes

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 19:35:00 +0000

Swedish cuisine is such an interesting food to taste. Scandinavian ancestors and foreign immigrants have contributed a wide array of food ideas towards Swedish people. Hence, it gives them an insight to create an extraordinary kind of food which is very nutritious in flavor. Additionally, most people in Sweden are very proud of their culture because they had influenced a lot of practices to other foreign cultures and this include the smorgasbord cooking style. Nowadays, buffet table setting is one of the most famous styles of food preparation. The idea was influenced from the Swedish smorgasbord. Today, the traditional large smorgasbord with its lavish of food can be found in any restaurants, usually at Christmas time.

Aside from gaining international credits, normally, the typical Swedish families also eat three meals a day -- breakfast, lunch and dinner with snacks in between the meals. They also loves to eat fish including herring, salmon, trout and whitefish. In addition to that, Swedes enjoy the abundance of berries which is often made to different kind of jam. Of course, cooked potatoes are always included on the list of every Swedish recipes.

Thai Cuisine

To know more authentic Swedish recipes, here are the common traditional dishes which are usually present in every Swedish meals:
Artsoppa Falukorv Gravalax Janssons frestelse Kaldolmar Kottbullar Kottsoppa Kroppkaka Lutfisk Pyttipanna

Swedish Recipes

There could be other delicious authentic recipe in Sweden but the foods mentioned above are one of the best and popular recipes in Sweden. Eating Swedish recipes leave you an impression the luxury of life. With the influence of mass media, learning Swedish culture helps people to realize how complex and diverse life could be. Just by watching television and browsing over the internet you can able to learn Swedish remarkable history, its people and most especially Swedish culinary tradition.

If you love adventures and a food enthusiasts, then, visiting Sweden is an experience that you may never forget.

Swedish Recipes

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Food in Tahiti - Delicious Delights

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 19:30:00 +0000

Exotic and beautiful, Tahiti is for many, the most idyllic destination in the world. Tropical weather, palm fringed white sand beaches, clear blue skies, and azure lagoons, make this tiny island in the South Pacific, the perfect getaway. If you are looking for a stress-free retreat, come to Tahiti and enjoy a vacation like no other!

While in Tahiti, one of the best ways to experience French Polynesian culture is through the food here. Delicious and tasty, the food in Tahiti gives fine dining a whole new meaning. Fish and seafood reign supreme in the kitchens out here, however, do not be deceived. Tahiti offers plenty of natural produce for the vegetarian and even meat-lovers can find some of the most succulent steaks prepared to perfection. If you wish to sample traditional Polynesian cuisine or maa'a tahiti as it is known, your best bet is to visit the capital Papeete, reputed to have some of the finest restaurants in the world.

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Food in Tahiti - Papeete

Food in Tahiti - Delicious Delights

Papeete is Tahiti's food capital and is home to a wide variety of gourmet restaurants and first class eateries. Here you can sample everything from fine French cuisine to Chinese, Malay, Vietnamese, Italian and Continental cooking. And though eating out can be quite pricey, you are treated to some truly sublime dishes. A great way to enjoy your an evenings is to try a dinner and dance show, with a buffet fit for a king!

Food in Tahiti - Traditional Fare

When in Tahiti don't forget to sample the delicious local cuisine which is an amazing experience. Here each mouthful of food is a burst of flavor and freshness, making eating here an experience to truly savor! The food in Tahiti is generally eaten with your fingers, however, you may request for a fork and spoon if you are eating at a food stall. Most dining establishments in Tahiti have western table settings, complete with a fork, spoon and knife.

In Tahiti, food is traditionally cooked in an ahimaa or oven, which is a hole dug into the ground. In here the food is placed, usually wrapped in banana leaves, and the hole is then covered with sand to make it airtight. The cooking process can take up to several hours, but it is worth the wait, as the food comes out soft and tender, in many cases literally falling off the bone.

Food in Tahiti - Exotic Fruits

Fruits and vegetables are available easily throughout Tahiti. Some excellent fruits to enjoy here include mangoes, melons, pineapples, watermelons, grapefruits and bananas. Sold in most markets and by vendors all over the island, you will find many locals indulging in a mid-morning fruit snack. Also don't forget to try out some rambutans, while you are here. They are incredibly delicious. November to April is the best time to buy fresh fruits as it is the summer season.

Food in Tahiti - Must try delicacies

Of all the foods in Tahiti, some must try items on the menu are; poisson cru or raw fish and casse-croute, which is a local sandwich. Both these items can be found on the menu of any food stall and snack bar, and should definitely be given a try.

Faraoa coco or coconut bread is a mouth-watering dessert worth tasting as is firifiri or donuts, which are shaped like the number eight. A yummy treat, firifiri is best had when dipped with coffee. Poe is perhaps the most famous dessert on the island and is a baked papaya dish wrapped in banana leaves.

Food in Tahiti - Delicious Delights

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