Food and Beverage

French Recipe: A Concise Writeup On French Cooking & Its Advancement Over time

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 23:24:00 +0000

Author: kevinnairvij

The evolution of French Cooking is as remarkable as their flavors. When we hear of French cooking, we learn that foods embody the classiness of culinary methods and cosmetic novelty of the cooking elements used.

French cooking chiefly evolved during various political transformations, with loads of the unique creations like Bouef Bourguignon - a beef preparation in red wine. The French are always serious about cooking as they consider it an art, that can be compared with any other art form on Earth. That is why most of the French dishes are seasoned heavily.

Today we see that French cooking involves lots of presentation and preparation, which evolved during the medieval times. The sauces were much more thicker than the ones served in the present times. Because it involved lots of seasonings, which were prepared from heavy creams and butters. Also the usage of mustard in meat preparations gained prominence during this time.

During the 19th century, sauces became the integral part of French cuisine. And By the early 20th century the French cuisine have evolved into 5 stations, which were mainly known as "brigade system". These stations were roasted grilled and fried food, cold dishes, soups, vegetables, and pastries.

Each French region is differentiated due to its own culinary styles. Every French region is known for its signature food preparations. The coastal areas are famous for their seafood preparations which are made using scallops, herrings, sole, sea bass, etc. Like Brittany is famous for lobster, mussels, and crayfish preparations. And similary Normandy is well known for "moules a la creme Normande". The cauliflower thickened stews are chief attraction of North France. These stews are served with rich artichoke side-dishes. Also you can enjoy delicious "Salade Niroise" at Cote d' Azura. This salad is prepared using ingredients like tuna and black olives.

The French egg recipes are favored and savored for their creative excellence. This can be verified from simple egg omelet that is prepared using some herbs and spices.

The French cuisine has evolved with time, and today is known amongst one of the world's creative cuisines in the world.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/french-recipe-a-concise-writeup-on-french-cooking-its-advancement-over-time-3763455.html

10 Minute Recipes - What You Need During Emergencies

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 23:21:00 +0000

Author: thoughts

Your doorbell rings. You open the door and find two of your friends there smiling brightly at you. You give them a tentative smile. You are waiting for them to shout "Surprise!" Then you realize this is no surprise. You invited them to come by a month ago. You force a big smile to hide the thoughts "Do I have food on the fridge?", "What will I feed them?" and "Do I even have a bottle of soda or something?" running on your head.

Seriously, if you are confronted by a similar situation, what will you do? The first thing that will probably come into your mind is to call the nearest restaurant and order something. That is probably okay. But that could cost you a lot. And it may take a long time for good food to be delivered.

To solve your problem, here are some ‘emergency' recipes that you can do in about 10 minutes.

One of the easiest things to prepare is fruit salad. Here is a simple recipe in making fruit salad. Open your cupboard and look for a can of fruit cocktails. Empty it into a bowl – syrup not included. Look for a box of cream or a can of condensed milk. Pour it into the bowl of fruits and mix well. Refrigerate. Oh, if you have fresh fruits in fridge, cut them into small pieces and add in the mixture. While you're at it, if you have a can of nuts, use it to top the salad. Call this Tropicana Salad.

Sandwiches are also easy to prepare. Here are the steps on how to prepare leftover sandwich. Look in the fridge and get whatever leftover food you have there. It can be steak, fried chicken or boiled eggs. Chop them into small pieces and set aside. Open a pack of mayo and empty into a bowl. Add in the chopped leftovers and mix well. Sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste. Get bread slices and spread the mixture. Garnish it with lettuce if you have some in the fridge. To make it look more presentable, arrange the sandwiches in a plate and add potato chips on the side. Surely you have a bag somewhere in your kitchen – or perhaps even in the bedroom. You may call your sandwich Lovers' Sandwich -- Lover being the shortened version of leftover.

For your drinks, you can make a special coffee preparation. Get some ice cubes from the freezer. Crush it using your food blender. Then add coffee, milk and sugar. If you still have some leftover nuts – from the salad – you may also add them. Turn on the blender again and continue mixing until you see a smooth mixture. Pour the mixture in tall glasses. Sprinkle some cinnamon powder on top if you have. You may call this Coffee Chill.

All these three are easy to prepare. You can even do the coffee mix while mixing the salad or making the sandwich. With these recipes you friend need not know that you forgot that you invited them.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/10-minute-recipes-what-you-need-during-emergencies-3765285.html

Try This Tasty Vegan Recipe!

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 18:30:00 +0000

Author: Wendy Polisi

It really is not that simple switching to become a vegan, especially when you somewhat enjoy eating meats. I've got a lots of friends who wish to switch, however find it too difficult particularly when they are able to eat unpleasant vegan meals. To be able to appreciate being a vegan, you have to eat delightful and tasty vegan meals. You may think of it as not achievable, however there are plenty of fantastic vegan meals to choose from. Anytime I've got a friend who would like to get one of these scrumptious vegan meal, I create my personal rich and creamy mushroom quinoa casserole-- which is a quinoa recipe I got from one of my mom's vegan cookbooks. It such a yummy and guilt- free meal, that I am certain you'll like it. This is the steps to make this specific extremely scrumptious meal.

YOU WOULD NEED:

Two cups of vegetable broth
A cup of quinoa
½ sliced white onion
One medium eggplant sliced into cubes
One teaspoon of sea salt
Two teaspoons of olive oil
One cup of thawed peas
Two cups thawed broccoli
Thirty- two ounces of vegan cream of mushroom
One cup thawed yellow corn kernels
Black pepper
Two cups of panko bread crumbs
Garlic

To Prepare:

First, you have to pre-heat the stove to 425 degrees. Place olive oil, onion, eggplant and half a teaspoon of sea salt right into a dish and toss it. After that, roast the eggplant for around 12 minutes or perhaps till it is tender. Get a tiny pan, boil vegetable broth and quinoa at the same time then prepare in lower temperature for approximately 12 minutes. Take out the quinoa out of the heat and fluff using a fork. In an additional dish, mix marsala, cream of mushroom, black pepper, garlic and 1 / 2 teaspoon of sea salt. You'll then have to shift the quinoa right into a casserole bowl, adding the corn, peas and broccoli at the top. Place the roasted eggplant at the top, after that put the cream of mushroom soup on it. Distribute the panko bread flakes at the very top, decrease the range temperatures to 350° and bake the meal for approximately thirty-five minutes.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/recipes-articles/try-this-tasty-vegan-recipe-3702189.html

Have a Delicious Holiday Dinner!

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 19:20:00 +0000

Author: Carole Johnson

Have a Delicious Holiday Dinner!

Omaha Steaks 6 (5oz) Bacon-Wrapped Filet Of Top Sirloin are delicious for a holiday dinner.

Product Features:

Weighs five ounces.

Have a beefy flavor and mouth watering bacon-wrap.

Completely trimmed and wrapped with a thick slice of bacon for a tantalizing taste.

Description:

You've got a sizzling steak sensation with bold, beefy flavor of Omaha steak and flavor of bacon. Top Sirloin's have been trimmed and wrapped with bacon.

I have had Omaha Top Sirloin Steak, and it was delicious.

Top Sirloin with mashed potatoes or twice baked potatoes.

Cranberry salad
Or Lime green jello with ½ cup of cream cheese, ½ of Cool Whip and in it pears or fruit.
Or Spinach salad with orange slices
Vegetables: peas and carrots or zucchini
Dessert: Cherry or Apple pie.

What is Coffee Direct

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 23:32:00 +0000

Author: rickey

Coffee direct offers you a great taste that many other brands of coffee cannot offer you. You will appreciate the fact that you will at all times have your nice tasking coffee at your home or at wherever place that you will be. The way it's prepared makes it of exceptional quality hence ensuring that you do not risk anything at all. You will be able to get your great drink within minutes without having to wait for longer than usual hence making it possible to have lots of time for other things.

Coffee direct encompasses many varieties of coffee which can be organic or in organic. You will appreciate that you will be at a position to choose from the many varieties and blends that are available hence making it possible for a wider choice to be enjoyed. You will at all times get what you desire to have. You will virtually get your choice at all times since you will have numerous varieties to choose from.

You will also appreciate that you will b at a position to get many sizes of the coffee bags to choose from. There are small, moderate and big ones hence depending on your personal circumstances; you will definitely be at a position to get the required size at all times.

Coffee direct sells at pretty nice prices. You will appreciate that you will be at a position to pay cheaply for them. The amount you will pay will definitely be good enough for the quality that you will be getting. It's also nice that you can get the chance to buy online at all times hence making it a great experience. Especially when you do not have the time, you will appreciate that you can be at a position to enjoy shopping online and have the product delivered to your doorstep.

Coffee directs can also make a perfect gift for your loved ones. You can buy them coffee direct to enjoy at any given time. It's one special, variety of coffee that you can enjoy at all times of the day. Whether it's for breakfast or some other time, you will appreciate that you will be at a position to get the best for yourself and your loved ones. Coffee directs will make a lot of difference in your life. You will appreciate the instant service that you will always get. You will also be at a position to enjoy a strong taste of coffee at all times.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/what-is-coffee-direct-3659977.html

Successful Grapevine Growing Techniques

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 20:40:00 +0000

Author: Nathan Jones

The first thing you need to do on your journey to growing grapes is determine how much land you have and how many vines you can support. One thing that may surprise you about grapes, as it does many people, is that they are quite hardy. Many people assume since they are a soft fruit they are fragile. All you need is enough land in a sunny location to grow grapes, and you do not have to live in France or California!

The best grapes to grow in American soil are Vitis Labrusca, you would choose these seeds if you live in anywhere in the United States. Grape vines absolutely love sunlight so you will need to plant them in direct sunlight; this is the first actual step in growing fantastic grapes. A good trellis system is also necessary for successfully growing grapes; these can be made of wood or metal and are quite similar to a fence. Set several poles about 20 feet apart and place wire mesh between them, giving the vines something to cling to for support.

Another key aspect of growing grapes is keeping them disease free; you need free flowing air to achieve that goal. If you have a crowded backyard or a tree-filled field, you do not have the best conditions for growing grapes. Next, you will want to look at the soil, grapes need the right type of soil if you want an abundant crop. The best soil is organic as it has the nutrients necessary for healthy plants.

Is this your first attempt at growing grapes? Are you unsure about the size of the vineyard you would enjoy? In either case, it is best to start out small, say about a dozen or so. When you have a small vineyard, you can devote more time to the few vines you have and not become overwhelmed by the entire process. The best time to plant is in the early spring and you can visit your local nursery for vines around this time of year. Typically, you will find bare rooted varieties at most nurseries, which is good because these are the best for new growers.

The actual planting phase is really pretty simple, the main concern you will have is getting the hole big enough to accommodate the roots. You do not have to dig the Grand Canyon in your backyard, simply something big enough to cover all the roots. Place the vine roots in the soil and carefully begin dragging dirt back in to cover the them, never pack the soil tightly. All you need to do is pat the dirt in place gently; the roots will need to get air. Most of the time you do not water the vines after placing them in the ground, that is unless the ground is extremely dry. Plant them and then wait to water until you see live the plants.

As soon as you begin to see signs of life, you may water the vines, however do not go overboard. If you drowned the ground, you run the risk of killing your vines. Once the vines are up and going strong, you can begin tying them to the trellis system you installed. Take a bit of string and tie the plants, this tells the vines which way to travel.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/successful-grapevine-growing-techniques-3622373.html

Top Benefits Of Olive Oil

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 20:33:00 +0000

Author: Noah Houde

Olive oil is considered to be very beneficial – you check out any online forum, news or blog, you will find people talking and blogging about the benefits of olive oil. Here are some reasons why this oil is considered to be wonderful.

Healthy skin – Beauticians and health experts suggest that organic olive oil is good for skin and is also known to fight skin cancer. It acts as a great moisturizer for the skin as it contains linoleic acid which keeps the body moist. If you add gourmet olive oil to warm water it shall offer you a great healthy soak which is good for your skin and shall refresh you up.

Damaged hair – Organic olive oil works best for damaged and dry hair. If you are suffering from problems related to frizzy hair and looking for ways to tame the air, it is recommended that you apply this oil everyday and see the changes it brings to your hair. You just need to apply this oil and shampoo your hair after some time – you will simply love your hair.

Good for cat – One of the popular benefits of olive oil, is that along with human use, olive oil is said to be good for cats too. You just need to add a teaspoon of olive oil in your cat food and be assured that your cat shall have a very healthy coat which is shiny and bright. It shall also prevent hairballs.

Get rid of snoring – If snoring has been your problem always, you can use olive oil to get rid of snoring. You can drizzle olive oil on your salad or just cook your favorite food in such a oil. You can enjoy a peaceful sleep without letting others feel disturbed. This is also one of the most beneficial benefits of olive oil.

Polishing metallic surfaces and furniture – You can use organic olive oil to bring a shine to your old furniture and other metallic surfaces. You just need to slowly rub olive oil so that streaks are prevented and corrosion is avoided also. If you wish to polish up your furniture, you just need to mix some olive oil with lemon juice and polish your furniture. It shall start shining in no time.

Zippers – It is often found that zippers get stuck in between and it becomes very difficult to open the packet. What do you do in such a case? We often face this problem and get frustrated with everything. Next time, you face a similar problem, you just need to put some olive oil on the zippers and let it stay for some time. You will notice that the zippers will get easy in some time.

Ear ache – If you suffer from ear ache very often, you just need to purchase gourmet olive oil and apply it inside your ears regularly - You will notice that your ear ache has vanished in a few hours. It is very effective in getting rid of ear aches in children also.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-brewing-articles/top-benefits-of-olive-oil-3622591.html

Low Glycemic Index Foods that are required in a Healthy and balanced Diet

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 20:27:00 +0000

Author: PeterKennedy

Minimal glycemic index foods usually give out their glucose content slower and in a steady manner when digested. People suffering or susceptible to diabetes and coronary heart illness ought to instantly adopt a diet plan which involves low glycemic index meals. The glycemic index can be determined by measuring the effects of the food?s carbohydrates on a person?s blood sugar level. The slower and more steady release with the glucose, the lower is the food?s glycemic index. The index was developed to be able to find the right or safe meals for diabetics to consume.

The value within the index is classified into 3 groups. Meals that are classified as minimal in glycemic index or GI should range from 55 or below. Medium GI meals must range from 56 up to 69. Those foods which have a higher GI ranges from 70 and above. Diabetics ought to consequently consume meals that have a low GI and avoid those which are higher around the GI scale. Once in an although they can indulge on foods that are medium on GI variety but not too much.

Low glycemic index meals include fructose, mostly vegetables and fruits including legumes and nuts, eggs, meat, milk, whole grains and other goods that have minimal carbohydrate contents. Individuals in medium range are basmati rice, sucrose, sweet potato and entire wheat produce or products. Those that are higher on the GI scale are baked potatoes, corn flakes, cereals that have undergone the extrusion process, glucose, most with the white rice variety and white bread.

Several current and well-liked diet habits these days like South Beach Diet plan rely on this glycemic index. Critics have pointed out though that food usually deemed as unhealthy possess a surprisingly minimal GI. Examples of these meals are chocolate cake and ice cream. Interestingly, countries or places that have a minimal rate of diabetes appreciate eating foods like potatoes and rice which have a higher glycemic index.

There have been several clinical research nevertheless, which appears to prove that individuals who are following a minimal glycemic index diet for a long period of time are least likely to develop diabetes or coronary heart illness than most people. Study even suggests that a high GI diet plan may also improve the likelihood of obesity.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/low-glycemic-index-foods-that-are-required-in-a-healthy-and-balanced-diet-3622680.html

Best Red Wines California - California's Best Red Wines

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 20:23:00 +0000

Author: AD Russell

Best Red Wines from California - Old Vine Zinfandel

When talking about the best red wines from California, Zinfandel must be included in the conversation, especially Old Vine Zinfandel. Old Vine Zinfandel vineyards are typically 50 years old or older, and produce some of the best red wines made in California. These are red wines of exceptional depth, concentrated flavors and character.

Sonoma County is a major growing regions for Zinfandel, as well as many other red wine varietals. There are three main appellations, or regions, where Zinfandel vineyards flourish. These include Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley.

The Russian River Valley of Sonoma County is a unique and ideal growing region for Old Vine Zinfandel due to the soil compositions and cooling influences of the Pacific Ocean fog that cools the vineyards.

Most old vine vineyards produce much less fruit than younger vines. For example, an old vine zinfandel vineyard may only produce as little as one-half to one tone per acre, whereas younger vines can typically produce about 4 - 6 tons per acre.

As you can imagine, there is a big trade off, but Old Vines Zinfandel grapes are very concentrated and produce highly concentrated red wines with exceptional depth and character.

The red wines made from Old Vine Zinfandel vineyards are typically full-bodied, rich wines with characteristics that include flavors of blackberries, dark cherries, raspberries, spice, and black and white pepper. Old Vine Zinfandel wines are typically very aromatic and coat the palate with red and dark berry fruit flavors with a long finish.

If you enjoy the big, rich red wines from California and have not tried an Old Vine Zinfandel, get your hands on a bottle and try it. You will experience first hand why these are some of the best red wines from California.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/best-red-wines-california-californias-best-red-wines-3622752.html

Apple cranberry sauce

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 22:21:00 +0000

Author: Chef Todd Mohr

Apple Cranberry Sauce is something unique that you can add to your holiday table this year and avoid the gelatinous creature that slides from a can every holiday meal.
I'm not crazy about cranberry sauce in the first place. Cranberries are very tart and sour. That's why they're combined with sugars and corn syrups, binders, and preservatives before being molded into the shape of a can.

Rather than eating what the cranberry cannery is serving up, I choose to make my own cranberry sauce with ingredients that I like. Apples will add a natural sweetness to the tart cranberries while contributing a special flavor to the otherwise one-dimensional side dish.
After peeling 3 Granny Smith Apples and cutting them into cubes, I add a 6 ounce bag of fresh cranberries, and a ½ cup of dried cranberries to a stove-top sauce pan. Under direct heat, the cranberries and apples will release moisture, making a chunky fruit compote.
Perhaps you like your apple cranberry sauce very chunky. That's fine, you can leave it as is. For me, I prefer a smoother side dish, so the heated fruit is added to my food processor. After a few pulses, I have the texture and consistency I'm looking for.
All I have to do now is adjust seasonings. Keeping with the holiday flavor profile, I like cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice in my new creation.
It's just that simple to avoid canned cran this holiday season. If you can peel and cut an apple, open a bag of cranberries, and heat the items together until soft, you can create an apple cranberry sauce that will beat the carved turkey to the center of the table.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/apple-cranberry-sauce-3565934.html

Tips for a Successful Whisky Tasting

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 19:53:00 +0000

Author: Oliver Klimek

When you plan to hold a whisky tasting - which can be anything from inviting a few friends to a large formal event - there are quite a few things that should be considered. After all, your guests want to have the best possible experience with the offered drams. And there are some pitfalls you should avoid.
Here are six essential tips to turn your whisky tasting event into a memorable experience for the participants

1. Start with a Meal
You are going to consume a decent amount of alcohol, so it is best to set a solid foundation by eating enough before you start with the tasting. With an empty stomach you are much more likely to encounter the undesirable effects of alcohol when you've had a few.
No Chili, no Garlic!
The meal should not by overly spiced, and you should refrain from using garlic as well. Chili paralyses your taste buds, and the taste of garlic is so persistent that it will be with you for the rest of the tasting which clearly is not something we want to happen.
Little or no Alcohol

You want to enjoy the tasting with clear senses, so try to hold your horses before. A glass of beer or light wine with the meal is OK, but don't overdo it.
2. Water and Bread.
Prepare jugs of cooled water, both for adding to the whisky and to drink in between. Don't use tap water unless you are sure it is not contaminated by chlorine. To be on the safe side it is recommendable to use still spring water.
To neutralize your senses between drams, serve bread. Other light snacks are also possible, but make sure they are not too spicy (see above).
3. Less is More

Even if you are convinced in your drinking capabilities, it is better to restrict the amount of whiskies in a tasting. Sooner or later you will notice the effect of the alcohol, and you don't want your senses to be dimmed to early.
The number of whiskies in a tasting should not exceed five or six, even if you are tempted to show off all the great whiskies you might have in your collection.
4. The Right Order
There are some useful rules of thumb when choosing the order of the whiskies in a tasting session. All can be summarized by the musical term crescendo:
From Low to High ABV
When you begin your session with a cask strength whisky, your taste buds might be numb from the start. So it is best to start with the "normal" alcohol content of 40% to 46% and them work your way up to the cask strengths (if planned at all)
From Young to Old
The older a whisky becomes, the more complexity it gains. It is therefore advisable to help your palate adapt to the growing complexity.
From Mild to Strong
This does not mean ABV but the general character of a whisky. If you have heavily peated, sherried or otherwise finished drams on your list as well "untreated" ones, save the richest ones for later.
From Cheap to Expensive
This sounds a bit cheesy but has its justification. If you are lucky enough to serve a dram of Black Bowmore, you don't really want it to be followed by a Grouse, no matter how famous.
Compromises
When trying to follow these rules, you will likely run into dilemmas like "cask strength 12yo lowland or 40% 18y madeira finish first"? In these cases you have to make a decision to break one or more rules. The rule of thumb for this kind of situation might be: break as little rules as possible but be careful with early cask strengths. In this example I would actually prefer to take the finish first.
But then again, a whisky tasting is not a Japanese Tea Ceremony. So, if in doubt, just take one first and then the other.
5. Set a Theme

The right choice of whiskies is very important for the success of a tasting session. It is not just about quality, though. If you're on a tight budget, you can have a great session even with entry level whiskies only. More important is that the choice is balanced.
It is easy to get lost in the whisky world with its thousands of available bottlings. But even when you narrow down the choice to the dozen or so bottles on your shelf, you should think of a red line to follow.
Here are a few starting points for your inspiration:
Example 1: World Wide Whisky
1. Quality blended Scotch (12yo or older)
2. Quality bourbon
3. Irish pure pot still or single malt
4. Japanese vat or single malt
5. Typical Islay
6. Speyside sherry monster
Example 2: Islay
1. Bunnahabhain 12
2. Bowmore 12
3. Caol Ila Distiller's Edition
4. Lagavulin 16
5. Laphroaig 18
6. Ardbeg Lord of The Isles
Example 3: Scotch Regions
1. Lowlands: Glenkinchie 12
2. Highlands: Dalmore Gran Reserva
3. Islands: Highland Park 18
4. Islay: Port Ellen Annual Release
5. Speyside: Glenfarclas 30yo
6. Don't Drink and Drive!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/wines-and-spirits-articles/6-tips-for-a-successful-whisky-tasting-3542580.html

Papa's Peanut Brittle

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 19:48:00 +0000

Author: Pam Brown

I can still picture Papa. He loved candy. We would arrive at his home in sunny California each winter and almost instantly begin our treasure hunt for this wonderful, sugary treasure. The glass candy jars scattered about his lavish home were more fun to look for than the many holiday gifts lined up under the glowing Christmas tree. Once we found each patch of candy, whether they were next to his bed, in the den, or on the dresser of the guest room we just had to test and sample each little piece.
Tasting the candy was part of the fun. Often the candy changed but only with little variation. One particular jar never changed and that was the jar filled with Papa's peanut brittle. This was not just any peanut brittle it was Papa's famous brittle.

It was extremely uncharacteristic of Papa to cook or bake but when it came to his candy and his peanut brittle there was nothing stopping him. Looking back, I know it tasted yummy but even more so was the fact that it came from my own Papa's hands, heart, and it was consistent. Just like he was. It was always there no matter when we arrived. It was a fun holiday gift for others but for us it was there through all the seasons. Papa is now gone and I haven't been back to the old house in years. I don't know who owns it or lives in it but that is okay because the memories in my mind and heart live on.
I decided myself to begin my own tradition in honor of my Papa. Last year I made Papa's peanut brittle and handed it out as a holiday gift to all those I knew. I told them the little story about Papa as well. I guess in my own way, it is my way of still loving him and letting others love him too.

PAPA'S PEANUT BRITTLE

Easy Mixture:

1 cup white sugar

1/2 cup light corn syrup

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup water

1 cup peanuts/pecans

2 tablespoons softened REAL butter

1 teaspoon baking soda

Directions:

Grease a nice large cookie sheet

In a heavy 2 quart saucepan, over medium heat, bring to a boil sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Stir in peanuts. Set candy thermometer in place, and continue cooking. Stir frequently until temperature reaches 300 degrees F.

After that, take if off the heat; quickly stir in butter and baking soda; pour out onto cookie sheet.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/desserts-articles/papas-peanut-brittle-3542646.html

HING: a diverse cuisine

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 18:43:00 +0000

Author: rwssolution

The city of joy is crawling with restaurants of all variety, nationality and vintage. Most of the people in Kolkata love eating. They enjoy sitting in front of the tables groaning under an astonishing array of mouth watering dishes emanating exquisite aromas and fragrance. But there are very few Cuisine which delight you with their sense of presentation. HING, leads from the front........

Hey ! have you heard about HING? In food world HING is treated as gold. It refers to quality and doesn't signify any particular cuisine.This place is cool and crispy too, serves mouth watering dishes ,like delicious Chinese, luscious north Indian preparation and fusion food. All those who think Indian cuisine begins and ends with curry, get ready for a big surprise. HING, the cosmopolitan cuisine has tickled the taste buds with its delicious dishes, known for its use of traditional herbs and spices. At HING you can relish all the flavored varities such as Kolkata Kasha Mangsho, Chili Chicken, Basanti Rice Polao, Hyderabadi Biriani without having to dig deep into your wallet.A global thumb rule applies to choose a cuisine that would fit into your budget. HING serves food that people want to eat. We're planning to offer continental also where you can get Italian Spaghetti, German Hamburgers, Mexican Chilli con Carne and many more. Not only dishes, but flavors, colors, methods of cooking, down to even the style of cutting the vegetables prior to be cooked changes as often as the landscape does.

Behind the establishment of HING......a deep thought evolves with the sense of innovation. The trendsetter Mr. Kamal Banerjee, CEO, HING , wanted to generate an experience to cover the major gap in the good food segment, which has to be within your means and to serve all the well-liked food from different cuisine. Before the setting up HING, Mr. Banerjee was trying to venture into different segment of the hotel industry under the brand name of Saffron Gastronomy. Having both Indian and global experience he has furnished the concept with immaculate planning. Although he used to manage 20 bars at the same time. He has been exposed to the entire gamut of hotel industry such as production, service and entire administration of food and beverage. Eying forward to the good prospect he used to teach people on various aspects of hotel management, not for money but as a hobby.
One fine morning he thought that he had already worked enough for others.The phrase revolved in his hypothalamus...."Is there any use of chasing a wild goose?" It was high time to work for ownself. He wanted to work with something which excites his interest and that was food and beverage. On 22nd February'2010, the glorious set up, HING had been inaugurated with enormous pomp and grandeur, emphasizing on the vision to offer puffed up canteen, low ranged food and serving to volume customers. The motto for the work is "uncompromised quality" and "serve the best". Mr. Banerjee started his career as a chef and even today also at HING, he hasn't appointed any chef.
Now the question is who has prepared the delicious dishes with delicacy? Surprisingly, in spite of being the CEO of this famous multi cuisine , Mr.Banerjee has been making the delicious dishes of Chandni chowk to China along with the Bengal delight, where you can get Bengali food like Chingri Malaikari, Gondhoraj Bhetki, you will also get the Kebab's , Chinese and dishes ofNorthern nazakat. You can order Luchi, best of paratha, misti doi and darshan – a form of Chinese desert. The key advantages that HING offers, is express service – where there's hardly any waiting, Good quality & quantity food and affordable price because HING is a Price friendly cosmopolitan cuisine. The additional advantage is the location... It is far away from the hustle and bustle of sector V, amongst the offices so anyone can walk down, easy parking. One can relax in a serene atmosphere or even can stop by for sometime if you have a free space in between meetings. Lets have a glimpse on a 360 degree advantages of HING
• Cosmopolitan cuisine
• Quality Food
• Price friendly
• Express Service
• Friendly ambiance
• Concept Combination
• Table buffet – unlimited
• Alacat

Mr. Banerjee has not only gifted with the sense of making delicious dishes but also create an unconventional, warm & friendly ambiance so that customers finds the tranquillity , Here everything is natural and close to heart. So take along fresh breath and unfold the menu card and order as per your desire. Bengalees thrive on fish and you would do well to have a dig at the neighborhood Bengali restaurant. For the quintessential Bengali, no meal is complete without "Machher Jhol" or "Chingri Mallai Curry". At HING you will get the special recipe Chingri Narkol Bharta, Crab Meat Fried Rice with other tasty dishes.

HING has its competitor around the corner but they are either purely Indian cuisine like "Bar B Que Nation" or Chinese cuisine like "Red Hot Chilli Piper". But the essence of HING is something different. The advantage is that it's not offering any particular cuisine, but all popular food with reasonable prise tag. Bengalis believe in finesse and variety, which is amply reflected in their act of cooking and eating. There is a fine balance in the blending of condiments to give the right heat; the art of serving and eating; when to eat and when to stop; what to eat and what not to eat.
Going to college is a rite of passage for many young men and women. It's sometimes the first time young adults get the chance to begin taking care of themselves. 90% of people eat street foods, which are not healthy, 10% use their office canteen. Even people who has a canteen at office, goes out for a lunch at least once in a week to beat the monotony. One of the main things that worries parents when their child heads out into the world of college or office is their diet. What are they going to eat if the cafeteria closes too early? Give up worrying... The restaurant is open in a long stress hours, that is mid day to mid night. What if they don't like the cafeteria food? What if they didn't sign up for cafeteria meals?

It's true that the majority of the time, college students or office goer will eat, but they will eat poorly. People today have developed their own underworld of cuisine, involving quite the array of foods....HING will deliver what HING promises...So, don't worry, enjoy your foor. If you can't come down to HING, then we have doorstep and desktop delivery.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/restaurant-reviews-articles/hing-a-diverse-cuisine-3535679.html

How to make sushi at home | Easy Sushi Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 18:30:00 +0000

Author: Jacob C. Marrero

Now a day, a lot of people enjoy sushi with friends at restaurant for evening gathering. But Some time restaurants get crowded, makes unable to enjoy the dinner relaxing night out. Now wouldn't it be nice? to being able to enjoy sushi dinner at home for half of the cost, and quiet evening. Invite your girl friend or boy friend over for quiet dinner with quality of sushi restaurant as your main dinner. The only difficult part of making sushi at home is finding quality sea food and sushi rice.

First of all, to make sushi we would need to have good rice. Anyone can steam rice, with a good a rice cooker but to make really good sushi rice, I would recommend to have a good rice cooker, that cost at least $100 sales at any asian market. or you can purchase it online. The reason for that is, because, cheap rice cooker that sale at Walmart and Target doesn't keep pressure on the rice, so the rice became hard inside. That steamed rice won't be able to make good sushi rice. So, if you would like to make good sushi rice, you should invest on a rice cooker. If you enjoy sushi, it would be a good purchase, I recommend it.
Secondly, you will need to have the right type of rice, and seasoned to your taste. Important thing is, you need to be able find the right kind of rice for sushi. The short-grain rice is used for the sushi, and it is also available at local store, not just in Asian store. This type of rice has good stickiness for sushi and keep the rice ball intact with sea food topping. Try to make rice ball with medium or long-grain rice, then you would know. They don't have stickiness like the short grain rice.
It is best to read the instructions on the rice cooker before you cook the rice, but a general suggestion is 3 to 2 ratio on water and rice. Before start cooking, you must be rinse the rice in cold water until wash away the powder on the rice or become clear. After set the rice in the rice cooker, just turn on the switch and leave it. Rice cooker will do a fine job. All you have to do is wait.
After, the rice is cooked but still hot, put it in any kind of large bowl or you can use any non-reactive bowl at your disposal. Mix the rice wine vinegar or Sushi rice mix, I would recommend mitsukan brand( also you can find it at local store or asian market)sparingly into the rice using a cut and fold motion also, gently, but to be careful, braking the rice and becoming a paste. You want to keep the rice grains as solid as possible. Do not mix with too much seasoning, so it is best to taste and carefully mix until the rice become your desired taste. You will realize, How much sushi rice for the amount of seasoning to make sushi rice at home. The rice should be later fanned to cool down the sushi rice to room-temperature. Sushi rice that too warm is undesirable for sushi rice. Now you have your seasoned sushi rice done! Also, You can make the sushi rice hours before you start making sushi at home, as long as you keep the wet towel over the top of the rice to keep it's moist.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cooking-tips-articles/how-to-make-sushi-at-home-easy-sushi-recipe-3536040.html

Can You Lose Weight Fast With Paleo Diet Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 18:24:00 +0000

Author: Troy Powers

If you are looking to lose weight with safe and natural practices then gather up to read this article. In the next few minutes I will tell you what the Paleo diet is about, describe some of the many healthy and tasty foods on the Paleo diet and explain why the Paleo diet will not only have you losing weight but may just prolong your life.
First, the Paleo diet was popularized in the mid 1970's as a gastroenterologist named Walter L. Voegtlin put together a strategic diet plan based on foods that the caveman would have ate during the Paleolithic Era. Keep in mind that the cavemen had no agricultural skills and hunted for food only as needed.

Meals on the Paleo diet are very simple and basic. Usually a dinner meal is composed of a meat such as pork, beef or fish along with vegetables like carrots and onions. Mushrooms are quite popular and so are many fruits like tomatoes, strawberries, lemons and oranges. Foods are prepared fresh as no processed foods containing preservatives is on the Paleo diet.
The Paleo diet meal plan omits many harmful and weight gaining items such alcohol, salts, sugars and all the unknown additives in processed foods. The result is you as a follower of the Paleo diet experiences increased energy, clearer skin, and stronger immune system. The best part is people are preventing such growing disease from ever originating simply by following the Paleo diet. Diseases like obesity, Type 2 diabetes and colon cancer are just a small sample of diseases know to be associated from high consumption of processed foods containing preservatives.
Understand the Paleo diet is NOT a drastic change in dieting. Is simply focuses to eliminate certain items from your diets. Items like potatoes, lentils, grains, dairy products, processed sugars and preservatives. These are the things that keeping people overweight leading to disease. Unfortunately many people exclusively eat these type of foods and fail to realize the association with their poor health.
It is all about change, change for the better. Making a few changes to your daily diet will improve your health greatly. Many are unaware that they are eating unhealthy foods, it has become habitual. If you would like to follow the Paleo diet then review the Paleo Diet Cookbooks, you will learn all about healthy and natural foods.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/recipes-articles/can-you-lose-weight-fast-with-paleo-diet-recipe-3536293.html

Recipe for Charlotte Mexicaine

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 18:41:00 +0000

Author: Richard

Ingredients
For the Charlotte

55 grams Coffee Beans
570 millilitres Milk
170 grams Block Chocolate (roughly chopped)
5 Egg Yolks
55 grams Sugar
14 grams Gelatine
75 millilitres Water
220 millilitres Double Cream
1 Egg White

For Decoration

Langues de Chats or Boudoir Biscuits
285 millilitres Double Cream
Chocolate Squares or Rounds

You will also need a 20 centimetre cake tin.
Method

Dissolve the gelatine in the water.
Grease the cake tin lightly.
Infuse the coffee beans in the milk over a gentle heat for 12 minutes. Do not allow the milk to boil.
Put the block chocolate into a pan and strain on a little of the coffee flavoured milk.
Dissolve the chocolate over a slight heat.
Strain on the rest of the milk and blend well.
Whisk the egg yolks and the sugar together well.
Blend in the milk and return to the pan.
Place the pan on a slight heat and stir constantly until the custard will coat the back of a spoon.
Remove from the heat, strain and allow to cool.
Add the gelatine liquid to the custard and pour into a thin pan.
Place the pan on a bed of crushed ice or into a bowl of cold water.

When the custard has almost set you can continue.

Partially whip the cream.
Whisk the egg white.
Add the egg white to the cream and fold both of these into the custard.
Turn this into the prepared cake tin and leave to finish setting.
Once it has fully set, remove the charlotte from the cake tin.
Lightly whip the double cream for decorating.
Spread the sides of the charlotte with a little of the cream.
Arrange the biscuits around the charlotte tightly.
Decorate the top with the remaining cream.

To finish decorating the charlotte, place the chocolate rounds or squares nicely on top.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/recipes-articles/recipe-for-charlotte-mexicaine-3528355.html

Throw away Graduation caps and celebrate with chocolates

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 18:15:00 +0000

Author: colindolly

The days of graduation always occupy a large part of good old memories. The fights, the arguments, the favours, the obligations and the smiles are all time favourite memories. After all these memorable days arrives the graduation ceremony where formal and informal things merge in one occasion.
Graduation ceremony is one such occasion where dean of the college gets the opportunity to express his thoughts about that particular batch. That day, he shares the good and bad times he spent with the batch. On the other hand, all the students are lost in their own thoughts thinking about good times with their friends.
Even in the college days, the childlike craving for the chocolate truffles and the candies does not fade out. Chocolate is the constant companion for all kinds of moods. When one is sad, chocolate is an option for the change. On the other hand when one is happy, chocolate is the demand for the celebration. Let not the chocolate leave you in the last days of graduation and even in the graduation ceremony.

Sugar-Plum gives you different exciting choices for graduation ceremony celebration. In their choco world, they have given separate special category of graduation ceremony. They have made it big with the Extra Large Graduation Day Tray which has Popcorn, Oreos, Peanut butter cookies, Marshmallows in it. Now just a picture is left to be clicked with the degree in one hand and chocolate tray in the other.
If you are not happy with the large or extra large graduation day tray, Sugar-Plum has another option of graduation gift box which is perfect for any and everyone. It has Taxi cab caramel crunch, chocolate pretzel logs, Cookie N Cream supreme cup, chocolate dipped potato chips, and a milk chocolate "Good Luck" which is too tempting to be left apart. It is a new way if bidding goodbye to the graduates.
While you say goodbye to each other hoping to meet again, it is a good idea to exchange the candy gift baskets which will sweeten your relations and your mouth as well at least for a limited period. Once you empty that basket, it can also be used later for other purposes. Whenever you will find that basket in your hand, it will remind you of your friends and the smallest of things related to your friendship. All this is followed by a smile on your face which is worth millions and you may even end up giving a call to your friend.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/chocolate-articles/throw-away-graduation-caps-and-celebrate-with-chocolates-3524911.html

The Difference Between Charcoal, Gas and Electric Barbecue Grills

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 18:03:00 +0000

Author: contact

There are two alternatives to charcoal fired barbecue grills are those that are heated by either gas or electricity. These barbecue grills are available in all sorts of shapes and sizes from compact countertop type bbq grills to bigger free standing grills that are suitable for balconies or patios.
Probably the most obvious benefits of using a gas or electric grill is you don't have to light any fires or clean up any ash after wards. Also, there is less time to wait for pre-heating the grill or griddle then a charcoal grill.

Electric grills are the most popular indoors grills because they are easy to setup and use. And you all able to use them when due to hire fire danger season when open barbecue grills are not permitted.
Indoors, permanently installed gas or electric units are often located near range tops so that they can share the existing overhead exhaust fan. Some barbecues have their own, though.

Gas grills are simple to use and are very convenient because they can be ready at a moments notice. Volcanic rock is usually spread out below the grill and is heated by gas burners to give the food an authentic barbecue flavor. Rotisserie cooking is also an option for most of the larger gas grills. Most gas grills have cooking surfaces that are normally half open grill for direct open flame cooking and the other half a griddle.

From the two types of gas grills the natural gas grills are more practical as they save you the time and cost of having to drive to your nearest LP gas depot to refill your gas bottle and you will never run out of gas half way through a BBQ. Also natural gas is much cheaper and burns a lot cleaner then propane gas.

Here are some basic tools you need for everyday use of the barbecue; a long fork and tong for for turning and removing the food of the grills once it is ready; a stiff metal brush for scrubbing the grill; heatproof mitts for emergency adjustment for the grill or spit, and long handled spatulas; and a dozen or so long-handled skewers.

You may want to include a grill basket for holding and turning fish and smaller meat cuts and vegetables, packages of aluminum pans in different sizes to use as drip pans under large roasts and when rotisserie food, a meat thermometer and a roast holder is a must for cooking roast, turkeys lamb or vegetables.

If in case you have a fat fire and your gas grill is a natural gas type, shut off the supply at the mains, put out any open flame. if the smell continues, without delay phone your gas supplier or fire department.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/the-difference-between-charcoal-gas-and-electric-barbecue-grills-3532326.html

About the Author

We only feature the best selling electric grills which have scored the most by people who have bought and used the bbq grill featured. We would hope to make the decision simpler for by providing the pro's and cons on each Gas Grill featured on this our web site.

Jamaican Cooking - Rich Heritage That is Jamaica

noreply@blogger.com (Food) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:30:00 +0000

Author: kevinnairvij

Jamaican recipes are the most amazing and sumptuous of all in the Caribbean cooking that can be savored with almost 30 variety of food items.

One of the largely famous and local fruit of Jamaica is 'Ackee' that is fondly included along with 'salted cod' to prepare the National dish of the Isle. Though Ackee is a decorative tree cultivated in barely only some islands, but the edible fruit of the tree is indigenous to Jamaican dishes only. When developed, the dazzling red berry of ackee opens up and turned into a yellow plump fruit including lots of black seeds of big size. In Jamaican breakfast, ackee flesh is is widely served, although if this fruit is consumed earlier than it gets mature is it malicious, and not at all expose an ackee pod, it will open on its own when it turns into an edible fruit.

Jamaican preparations are significantly influenced by different styles of cooking around the planet. The ease and the exotic savor of Jamaican food is the consequence of the rich historical heritage of the island as well as the Caribbean traditions.

Jamaican food is long on flavor and variety with a tendency to very hot recipes like the famous Jamaican Jerk Chicken and pork that is available to the tourists and locals from the roadside Jerk huts. The term 'jerk' in the Jamaican cuisine is said to come from the expression charqui and jerk also originates from a blend of cultures that are part of Jamaica's exclusive history. 'Jerk' flavored food is hot and filled with spices due to the presence of 'Pimiento', the most essential food item in Jamaican preparations. Pimiento, also identified as allspice contains various savors of spices such as clove, cinnamon and nutmeg.

Among the world cuisines, Indian and Chinese cuisines had largely inspired the methods of cooking in Jamaica. The food of Jamaica is very healthy which encompasses food with plenty of raw and unprocessed food items, relatively diverse, and justifiably so, than what one may come across in more northern states.

Jamaican cuisine is the product of a wealthy heritage and culture of the Caribbean. There have been many habits convincing their eating oproviding it a very exclusive savor, flavor and aroma which attracts many tourists to the country. The food in Jamaica is the most significant reason to pay a visit the island, and is a great discovery for most travelers, and is a genuine calling card for Jamaica.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/jamaican-cooking-rich-heritage-that-is-jamaica-3517545.html