Yummly http://www.yummly.com/blog Recipes, food, cooking, recommendations and more. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:19:35 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Yummlyhttp://feedburner.google.com Meet these Meat Eating Plants http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/meet-these-meat-eating-plants/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/meet-these-meat-eating-plants/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 21:36:02 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=30477 Carnivorous plants are the subversion of what’s expected from nature; it’s almost an affront to the pride of animal life that a plant could overpower a thinking, moving creature. Yet, thousands of insects are lured daily by predatory plants, slipping into slicked traps, [...]]]> Carnivorous plants are the subversion of what’s expected from nature; it’s almost an affront to the pride of animal life that a plant could overpower a thinking, moving creature. Yet, thousands of insects are lured daily by predatory plants, slipping into slicked traps, imbibing in sweetly toxic nectar, or getting snatched with surprising speed.  Insectivorous plants are scattered worldwide – and many of them evolved independently despite having similar appearances and trapping mechanisms. Here are a few awesome examples from the main categories of carnivorous plant families out there for you to check out!

Nepenthes lowiiNepenthes lowii

Many pitcher plants, such as this Nepenthes Iowii variety, trap insects with a fly-paper strategy.  When insects (or even larger animals) fall into their long, tube-like bodies, they get stuck in the plant’s sticky digestive fluids. Some of these nepenthes varieties of pitcher plants will even secrete a very slippery fluid on their outer rim so that insects slip and fall down into their lower, sticky regions.

 

Utricularia AureaUtricularia Aurea

These water-dwelling carnivorous plants commonly known as the Bladderwort (though known technically as the utricularia aurea) has a very sophisticated mechanism for trapping insects. It pumps water out of tiny bladders, lowering its internal pressure and creating a kind of vacuum. When an insect swims past, an electrical impulse is stimulated that causes the plants flaps to open and suck the creature inside.

 

Drosera TokaiensisDrosera tokaiensis

To trap insects, drosera varieties of carnivorous plant usually lure their prey in with sweet nectar. Then, once the insect is busied with the task of consuming it, the plant will curl its long, sticky tentacle-like limbs tightly around the insects body and release digestive enzymes, absorbing the now soup-y insect’s nutrients through various glands.

 

Dionaea MuscipulaDionaea Muscipula

Dionaea muscipula, colloquially known as the Venus Flytrap, lures flies and insects by secreting a sweet nectar. Once a fly lands and brushes against any one of the flytrap’s hairs, it triggers a tiny electrical charge. If another charge is triggered within a certain short amount of time, the trapping mechanism of the plant is activated and it will shut closed in about 1/10th of a second.

 

Sarracenia FlavaSarracenia Flava

This North American variety of pitcher plant actually evolved independently of the nepenthes varieties, though they share very similar visual characteristics and employ virtually identical trapping methods.

 

Most carnivorous plants are highly sensitive to environmental changes, since it is posited that only a specific type of environment could cause plants to rely on insect consumption rather than photosynthesis to acquire nutrients. Bogs, for example, have poor soil, which means that plants growing there would need to absorb their allotment of nitrogen, phosphorous, and other critical nutrients from different sources, and tons of sunlight, which means even a plant as poor at photosynthesis as these can still benefit from it if need be.

If you’d like to find out more about carnivorous plants, this article from National Geographic contributor, Carl Zimmer, is an excellent read. The photo gallery provided through National Geographic that includes many different species of carnivorous plants is also definitely worth checking out!

Photo Credits: Wikipedia Commons


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/meet-these-meat-eating-plants/feed/ 0 Hearty and Comforting Open-Faced Sandwiches http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/hearty-and-comforting-open-faced-sandwiches/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/hearty-and-comforting-open-faced-sandwiches/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:47:40 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=30500 Sometimes, nothing is as satisfying as a simple sandwich topped with your favorite fresh ingredients. Open faced sandwiches, bruschetta, and crostini are the pizzas of the sandwich world. Toasted bread is piled high with mouthwatering ingredients like smoked bacon, [...]]]> Sometimes, nothing is as satisfying as a simple sandwich topped with your favorite fresh ingredients. Open faced sandwiches, bruschetta, and crostini are the pizzas of the sandwich world. Toasted bread is piled high with mouthwatering ingredients like smoked bacon, juicy roasted vegetables, and a whole array of flavorful sauces like pesto and romesco! Take a big bite out of one of these flavorful creations today.

Sweet and Savory Roast Beef Sandwich (from Laptops & Stovetops)Sweet and Savory Roast Beef Sandwich

 

Shiitake Mushroom Tartines with Cheddar Fondue (from food & style)Shiitake Mushroom Tartines with Cheddar Fondue

 

Open-faced Barbecue Sandwich with Fried Egg (from Chase Blackwell)Open-faced Barbecue Sandwich with Fried Egg

 

Onion, Mushroom, and Bacon Sandwich (from Sophistimom)Open Faced Onion, Mushroom, and Bacon Sandwich (from Sophistimom)

 

Open Faced Roasted Vegetable Sandwich (from Picky Cook)Open Faced Roasted Vegetable Sandwich (from Picky Cook)

 

Applewood Bacon, Fig and Fontina Tartines (from The Cafe Sucre Farine)Applewood Bacon, Fig and Fontina Tartines

 

Fancy Ham and Cheese (from I Will Not Eat Oysters)Fancy Ham and Cheese

 

Tomato Basil Open Faced Grilled Cheese (from Carla’s Tasty Treats)Tomato Basil Open Faced Grilled Cheese

 

Black Forest Ham Rolls (from Amazing Sandwiches)Black Forest Ham Rolls

 

Open Face Vegetable Sandwich (from Skimbaco Lifestyle)Open Face Vegetable Sandwich

 

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/hearty-and-comforting-open-faced-sandwiches/feed/ 0 Tips for Buying Fresh Fish and Seafood http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/tips-for-buying-fresh-fish-and-seafood/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/tips-for-buying-fresh-fish-and-seafood/#comments Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:44:59 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=30540 Fresh fish can be hard to track down. Unless you caught the fish yourself (presumably by throwing  spear into the cold, hard ocean like an agile young warrior), you may have little idea as to how fresh it really is. However, with these [...]]]> Fresh fish can be hard to track down. Unless you caught the fish yourself (presumably by throwing  spear into the cold, hard ocean like an agile young warrior), you may have little idea as to how fresh it really is. However, with these tips, you should be able to choose the best, most straight-out-of-the-ocean fish available at the market!

How to Pick a Fresh Fish

  1.  For a whole fish, look for clear, bright eyes and shiny, metallic skin. If its eyes are clouded gray, and its skin has a dull patchiness to it, it’s far from optimum freshness (though still safe to eat). The color of the gills is also a good indicator of freshness; bright red gills signify newness, while brick red gills mean the fish is older. Another good sign is the smell of the fish itself: if it smells clean or a little salty, that’s great – if it stinks, leave it be.
  2. To pick a good fish fillet, look for vibrant colors in the flesh, and clean, shiny scales if the fish still has its skin. It should be free of milky-looking liquids (which is a sign of rot), and definitely should not smell bad. Further, if you’re allowed to press your finger against the fish’s flesh, the indentation should disappear in a fresh fish.

How to Pick Fresh Shellfish

  1. It’s usually best to only purchase shellfish at very good fish markets* where the turnover rate is quick, so you can be sure that the stock is always going to be pretty new and thus, still alive. Dead shellfish do not open when they’re cooked and must be thrown away.
  2. If the shellfish is alive, it should react to you; if you let them rest on the counter for a second and then tap on their shell, they should become slightly tighter or more closed.
  3. Scallops are an exception to the typical shellfish norm, since they are almost always sold shucked. It’s better to buy ones that have not been stored in brine, or have been frozen and vacuum-sealed. Avoid the ones that have been packed wet – they are usually surrounded by a strange, milky liquid.
  4. Shrimp should be purchased shelled and frozen: the shell keeps the shrimp from losing moisture when it’s frozen, and it frozen is best because shrimp tends to rot very quickly. If you have access to a reliable source of very fresh shrimp, obviously that will better – just buy them with the head on to keep them moister longer!

*Note: A “very good fish market” will never be stinky. If you walk into a market that reeks of low tide, walk straight back out, because there’s unlikely to be great fish to be had there.

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Photo Credits: Free Foto, NC Fresh Seafood, Iaam


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/tips-for-buying-fresh-fish-and-seafood/feed/ 0 Tasty Tofu Recipes Everyone Will Devour http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/tasty-tofu-recipes-everyone-will-devour/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/tasty-tofu-recipes-everyone-will-devour/#comments Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:25:38 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=30502 For some, tofu might seem ho-hum, but these phenomenal, flavor-blasted tofu recipes will put those rumors to rest! Coupled with bright, fresh flavors like blood orange citrus or sticky-sweet chili marinades, or even fried lightly on its own with a simple [...]]]> For some, tofu might seem ho-hum, but these phenomenal, flavor-blasted tofu recipes will put those rumors to rest! Coupled with bright, fresh flavors like blood orange citrus or sticky-sweet chili marinades, or even fried lightly on its own with a simple sauces on the side, tofu’s unfairly gotten reputation for blandness will be a thing of the past.

Sweet Chile-Pineapple Glazed Tofu (from Spoon with Me)Sweet Chile-Pineapple Glazed Tofu

 

Tofu Fries (from Simply Scrumptious)Tofu Fries

 

Thai Curry Noodles with Tofu (from Nummy Kitchen)Thai Curry Noodles with Tofu

 

Marinated Tofu with Tahini Asparagus (from Cafe Johnsonia)Marinated Tofu with Tahnini Asparagus

 

Cold Spicy Marinated Tofu (from burp and slurp)Cold Spicy Marinated Tofu

 

Grilled Tofu Tikka (from Tadka Pasta)Tofu Tikka

 

Thai Soba Noodle Bowl (from Sprouted Kitchen)Thai Soba Noodle Bowl

 

Kimchee Tofu Dumplings * not vegetarian (from Beyond Kimchee)Tofu Dumplings

 

Baked Lemon Tofu Double Citrus Salad (from Mostly Eating)Baked Lemon Tofu Double Citrus Salad

 

Pan-Seared Tofu with Soy Dipping Sauce (from cHow Divine)Pan-Seared Tofu with Soy Dipping Sauce

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/tasty-tofu-recipes-everyone-will-devour/feed/ 0 Featured Food Blog: Ria’s Collection http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/featured-food-blog-rias-collection/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/featured-food-blog-rias-collection/#comments Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:36:24 +0000 Shelley http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=30350 Name: Ria Mathew
Name of blog:  Ria’s Collection
Twitter: @RiaMathew
Location: Minneapolis, MN

How would you describe your culinary style?
As much I love cooking I hate to spend hours in the kicthen just to make a simple meal. Therefore, I would [...]]]> Name: Ria Mathew
Name of blog:  Ria’s Collection
Twitter: @RiaMathew
Location: Minneapolis, MN

How would you describe your culinary style?
As much I love cooking I hate to spend hours in the kicthen just to make a simple meal. Therefore, I would describe my culinary style as simple, fast, mostly one-pot meals and the easiest way to find my way out of the kitchen.

What is the main source of inspiration for your recipes?
Nothing inspires me like my family recipes and the local food that I grew up eating. I also get inspired from certain foods that I have tasted while travelling in India.

If you could have one food while stranded on a desert island, what would it be? 
Rice & Mango Pickle.

For someone new to your blog, which recipe do you recommend they try first? 
I would suggest Serradura, a Portuguese dessert.  It can be made in less than 10 minutes and it does not require any baking/cooking!

What is your ultimate guilty food pleasure? 
French Fries!

Define Yummly.
An Encyclopedia of Recipes.

 

 


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/featured-food-blog-rias-collection/feed/ 0 5 Ways to Ruin Homemade Cupcakes http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/5-ways-to-ruin-homemade-cupcakes/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/5-ways-to-ruin-homemade-cupcakes/#comments Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:18:28 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29962 Cupcakes and other petite baked confections are well-loved worldwide–especially here in the US. Everyone adores them, and they’re the perfect addition to any event, from birthdays to office parties! On the road to baking the perfect batch of cupcakes, you might find a few bumps [...]]]> Cupcakes and other petite baked confections are well-loved worldwide–especially here in the US. Everyone adores them, and they’re the perfect addition to any event, from birthdays to office parties! On the road to baking the perfect batch of cupcakes, you might find a few bumps along the way – and these are those bumps. Here are a few things well-meaning bakers do to ruin perfectly good cupcakes. Make sure to avoid these baking blunders the next time you make a homemade batch!

1) Using warm butter rather than “room-temperature” butter
“Room temperature” butter is approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit. When you make cupcakes from scratch, you need butter to be the right temperature so that the dough can rise the right amount and be mixed in thoroughly. When it’s too warm, it mixes in too quickly and changes the texture of the cupcakes. To get the butter’s temperature right, it’s best to take it right out of the fridge and let it defrost in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

2) Not knowing the temperature of your oven
This is one of the most common (and most frequently undetected issues) for at-home bakers. While an ideal oven would always carry even heat throughout without hot spots or anything, many ovens function at less than ideal levels. To test how hot your oven is cooking, and if it has hot spots, line the middle rack of your oven with slices of bread and bake them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes to see how the pieces cook. If you have some spots that are burned and such, remember them, and rotate and bake your goods accordingly. If the whole tray gets burned, it may be that your oven just cooks hotter all around, and if it’s barely toasted at all, it may be too cool.

3) Making unwise substitutions
Many chefs like to get creative in the kitchen, but while substituting herbs and spice in a recipe can be great – baking is not usually that forgiving. To get your foods to rise properly and have the right textures, you need to have the right ingredients in a fairly delicate balance. If you would like to make substitutions, these are a few great emergency substitutions you can use, but otherwise substituting things in a baking recipe is a bad idea because it disrupts the underlying chemistry of the dish!

4) Baking too long
Cupcakes are very delicate given their size and higher exposed surface area.  Baking them for even a little too long can cause them to dry out very quickly. If the recipe says 30 minutes, check them at 25 minutes with a toothpick just to check how they’re doing. Once the tester comes out clean, it’s time to take them out of the oven, since residual heat will continue cooking them anyway.

5) Letting them sit too long in the pan
If you leave your baked cupcakes in their hot pan for too long, you’re likely to end up with soggy cupcake wrappers and overcooked cake! After you take them out of the oven, wait 10 minutes and remove the cupcakes from the muffin tin – otherwise they will absorb too much liquid and become wet.

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Photo Credits: Teacup and Cupcakes, Martha Stewart


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/5-ways-to-ruin-homemade-cupcakes/feed/ 0 Fuss-Free Weeknight Casserole Recipes http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/fuss-free-weeknight-casserole-recipes/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/fuss-free-weeknight-casserole-recipes/#comments Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:03:28 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=30498 A great weeknight dinner isn’t as hard to come by as it might seem. Just throw together a few fabulous ingredients like creamy cheeses, roasted vegetables, and your favorite grains and let the flavors simmer together until they turn into a A great weeknight dinner isn’t as hard to come by as it might seem. Just throw together a few fabulous ingredients like creamy cheeses, roasted vegetables, and your favorite grains and let the flavors simmer together until they turn into a bubbly, delicious casserole! Perfect picks like these are sure to please every kind of taste, and are convenient enough to make any day of the week as well,

Pizza Casserole (from Cully’s Kitchen)Pizza Casserole

 

Easy Vegetarian Casserole (from Elise’s Kitchen)Easy Vegetarian Casserole

 

Eggs Florentine Casserole (from A Pookie Pantry)Eggs Florentine Casserole

 

Cornbread Casserole (from bless her heart)Cornbread Casserole

 

Rice Casserole (from Delicious Istanbul)Rice Casserole

 

Cajun Chicken Casserole (from The Bite House)Cajun Chicken Casserole

 

Chicken Enchilada Casserole (from Baking Epiphanies)Chicken Enchilada Casserole

 

Shepherd’s Pie (from The Watson Family)Shepherd's Pie

 

Baked Ziti Casserole (from my kitchen addiction)Baked Ziti Casserole

 

Chilaquiles (from Kitting a Life)Chilaquiles

 

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/fuss-free-weeknight-casserole-recipes/feed/ 0 Excellent Mexican Dishes to Make for a Crowd http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/excellent-mexican-dishes-to-make-for-a-crowd/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/excellent-mexican-dishes-to-make-for-a-crowd/#comments Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:40:36 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29488 These Mexican dishes are crowd favorites, simple to make ahead and share with all your loved ones!  Whether you’re making a good, hearty meal for a weeknight family dinner or prepping food for a big shindig, these dishes are surefire winners. Handheld meals like tacos [...]]]> These Mexican dishes are crowd favorites, simple to make ahead and share with all your loved ones!  Whether you’re making a good, hearty meal for a weeknight family dinner or prepping food for a big shindig, these dishes are surefire winners. Handheld meals like tacos and quesadillas are great for low-fuss serving, and enchiladas and nachos are inexpensive and convenient to make for any number of people!

Refried Bean and Beef Enchiladas (from Kung Fu Cafe)Refried Bean and Beef Enchiladas

 

Chili Lime Skirt Steak Fajitas (from Grill  Grrrl)Chili Lime Stirt Steak Fajitas

 

Crockpot Chicken Tacos (from Chocolate Therapy)Crockpot Chicken Tacos

 

Gourmet Dinner Nachos (from Flavor Explosions)Gourmet Dinner Nachos

 

Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas (from Kick Ass Chef)Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas

 

Mexican Shredded Beef Tacos (from Fill Your Belly)Mexican Shredded Beef Tacos

 

Turkey Enchiladas (from The Spiteful Chef)Turkey Enchiladas

 

Chili Bacon Nachos (from Coupon Clipping Cook)Chili Bacon Nachos

 

Braised Pork Shoulder Tacos (from Two Recipes)Braised Pork Shoulder Tacos

 

Brie and Brisket Quesadillas (from Taste & See)Brie and Brisket Quesadillas

 

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/excellent-mexican-dishes-to-make-for-a-crowd/feed/ 0 Fun Finger Foods You’ll Love to Get Your Hands on http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/fun-finger-foods-youll-love-to-get-your-hands-on/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/fun-finger-foods-youll-love-to-get-your-hands-on/#comments Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:57:29 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29493 Who says you shouldn’t eat with your hands? Fabulous finger foods like these can serve as the small bite before a meal, or even as the main event if you have enough of them! They make perfect party foods for people to enjoy [...]]]> Who says you shouldn’t eat with your hands? Fabulous finger foods like these can serve as the small bite before a meal, or even as the main event if you have enough of them! They make perfect party foods for people to enjoy while they mingle and walk around freely, without the inconvenience of plates, forks, and knives. Any one of these awesome dishes will knock your party out of the park, so check them out below!

Tijuana Train Wreck Nachos (from Boulder Locavore)Tijuana Train Wreck Nachos

 

Deviled Eggs with Lemon, Tarragon, and Goat Cheese (from Meat N Veggies)Deviled Eggs with Lemon, Tarragon, and Goat Cheese

 

Prosciutto Wrapped Pizza Cups (from A Bitter Sweet Wife)Prosciutto Wrapped Pizza Cups

 

Coconut Cashew Chicken Satay Skewers (from What’s For Lunch, Honey?)Coconut Cashew Chicken Satay Skewers

 

Super BLT Bites (from Return to Sunday Supper)Super BLT Bites

 

Buffalo Chicken Wontons (from Improv Kitchen)Buffalo Chicken Won Tons

 

Broccoli and Cheddar Potato Skins (from Playing House)Broccoli and Cheddar Potato Skins

 

Double Chocolate Football Cupcakes (from The Baker Chick)Double Chocolate Football Cupcakes

 

Sun-Dried Tomato Jam Crostini (from Feasts And Fotos)Sun-Dried Tomato Jam Crostini

 

Sausage Stuffed Pretzel Bites (from Picture the Recipe)Sausage Stuffed Pretzel Bites

 

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/fun-finger-foods-youll-love-to-get-your-hands-on/feed/ 0 Yummly’s Ultimate Super Bowl Food Roundup http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/yummlys-ultimate-super-bowl-food-roundup/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/yummlys-ultimate-super-bowl-food-roundup/#comments Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:44:15 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29968 Gear up for Super Bowl XLVI this weekend with the fantastic recipes featured this week on the Yummly blog!  Enhance your game day experience with the crispiest, stickiest chicken wings around; or add some serious flavor to your favorite [...]]]> Gear up for Super Bowl XLVI this weekend with the fantastic recipes featured this week on the Yummly blog!  Enhance your game day experience with the crispiest, stickiest chicken wings around; or add some serious flavor to your favorite chips and crackers with phenomenal dips and spreads! If you want more ideas for what to serve at your party (or what to bring to someone else’s), check out our football foodie party guide and our whole slew of great tailgating posts! With recipes like these, your Super Bowl party is sure to be a winner.

1. Sticky, Crispy, and Spicy Chicken Wings for Super Bowl Sunday – Get your hands dirty this weekend by grabbing a few of these finger lickin’ good chicken wings!

Featured: Earthy Delights, My Cooking Hut, A Little Yumminess, Tiny Test Kitchen, Globetrotter Diaries, Have Knives Will Cook, Living Lou, House of Annie, Kiss the Foodie, Cupcake Project

2. Score a Taste Touchdown with Great Game Day Dips – Add some awesome flavor to your Super Bowl party with these exceptional dips and spreads.

Featured: Food People Want, The Parsley Thief, A Communal Table, Lighter and Local, Feasting on Art, Baking = Love, Busy Mommy, The Way to His Heart, Dan’s Good Side, Confessions of a Gluten Free Mom, midEATS

3. Tips for Throwing a Winning Super Bowl Party – Not sure of what to serve at your party? We’ve got you covered.

4. Guilt-Free Versions of Your Favorite Junk Foods – With lightened up recipes like these, you can have your burgers, donuts, and fries and eat them too!

Featured: Small Talk, Food 4 Tots, Salad in a Jar, pinch of yum, My Nonna’s Kitchen, Tegyn Friedman Photography, Bake at 350 Goes Savory, Epicurean Escapism, Eden Eat Everything, A Full Measure of Happiness, Wholesome Cook

5. New York vs. New England: Whose Dessert Takes the Cake? – The battle between New York Cheesecake and Boston Cream Pie rages on!

And here are a few other posts you’ll want to plan your Super Bowl party!

Photo Credits: Earthy Delights and The Parsley Thief


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/yummlys-ultimate-super-bowl-food-roundup/feed/ 0 Simple, Smoky BBQ Sauce Smothered Foods http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/simple-smoky-bbq-sauce-smothered-foods/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/simple-smoky-bbq-sauce-smothered-foods/#comments Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:21:51 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29971 Sticky-sweet barbecue sauce and grilled foods are the perfect way to perk yourself up in the winter. The unique, smoky flavors will remind you of summer days spent basking in the warm sun, enjoying picnics outside, and taking pictures of your happy family [...]]]> Sticky-sweet barbecue sauce and grilled foods are the perfect way to perk yourself up in the winter. The unique, smoky flavors will remind you of summer days spent basking in the warm sun, enjoying picnics outside, and taking pictures of your happy family whose grinning faces are lightly stained with barbecue sauce and strawberries. These great grilled foods are also a perfect addition to any super bowl tailgating party, so there’s plenty of reason to test out these fabulous recipes today!

Oven Roasted Barbecue Baby Back Ribs (from Delish)Oven Roasted Barbecue Baby Back Ribs

 

BBQ Chicken Burgers (from Smells Like Home)BBQ Chicken Burgers

 

Barbecue Chicken Quesadilla (from Fix Me a Snack)Barbeque Chicken Quesadilla

 

Orange Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwiches (from Family Spice Blog)Orange Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwiches

 

Barbecue Chicken Pizza (from made by melis)Barbecue Chicken Pizza

 

Spicy BBQ Baked Beans (from Among the Tortillas)Spicy BBQ Baked Beans

 

Barbecued Chicken (from The Kitchen Sink)Barbecued Chicken

 

BBQ Molasses Chicken Sandwiches (from Sensible Lessons)BBQ Molasses Chicken Sandwiches

 

Chinese BBQ Pork (from Save-ory Kitchen)Chinese BBQ Pork

 

BBQ Beef Brisket Sliders (from Peggy Under Pressure)BBQ Beef Brisket

 

Baked Turkey Meatball Bites (from The Ginger Snap Girl)Baked Turkey Meatball Bites

 

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/simple-smoky-bbq-sauce-smothered-foods/feed/ 0 New York vs. New England: Whose Dessert Takes the Cake? http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/new-york-vs-new-england-whose-dessert-takes-the-cake/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/new-york-vs-new-england-whose-dessert-takes-the-cake/#comments Thu, 02 Feb 2012 22:25:25 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=30195 Sunday’s game will determine whether the New York Giants or the New England Patriots become the Super Bowl XLVI champions, but right now we want to decide which state’s signature dessert reigns supreme! In the battle of New York’s famous Cheesecake and Sunday’s game will determine whether the New York Giants or the New England Patriots become the Super Bowl XLVI champions, but right now we want to decide which state’s signature dessert reigns supreme! In the battle of New York’s famous Cheesecake and Boston’s beloved Cream Pies, which dessert will go home victorious and which won’t make the cut? Vote in our poll and then bake your favorite to serve on Super Bowl Sunday!

CAST YOUR VOTE BELOW

New York Cheesecake (Giants)

vs.

Boston Cream Pie (Patriots)

Take Our Poll

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Photo Credits: My Recipes, Country Living


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/new-york-vs-new-england-whose-dessert-takes-the-cake/feed/ 0 Guilt-Free Versions of Your Favorite Junk Foods http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/guilt-free-versions-of-your-favorite-junk-foods/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/guilt-free-versions-of-your-favorite-junk-foods/#comments Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:41:37 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29485 Junk food is an indulgence. They’re once-in-a-while treats that we enjoy in between dieting and whatever other reasonably healthy foods we eat every day. However, if you want to enjoy these foods too without cringing at the number of miles you’ll have to [...]]]> Junk food is an indulgence. They’re once-in-a-while treats that we enjoy in between dieting and whatever other reasonably healthy foods we eat every day. However, if you want to enjoy these foods too without cringing at the number of miles you’ll have to run to work it off, these guilt-free (and kid-friendly) twists on burgers, fries, and other traditionally fatty foods will satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your healthy lifestyle.

Rustic Salmon Burgers (from Small Talk)Rustic Salmon Burgers

 

Oven Baked Fries (from Food 4 Tots)Oven Baked Fries

 

Whole Wheat Powdered Sugar Donuts (from salad in a jar)Whole Wheat Powdered Sugar Donuts

 

Healthy Sweet Potato Skins (from pinch of yum)Healthy Sweet Potato Skins

 

Oven Baked Rosemary Chicken (from My Nonna’s Kitchen)Oven Baked Rosemary Chicken

 

Whole Wheat Margherita Pizza (from tegyn friedman photography)Whole Wheat Margherita Pizza

 

Rosemary Cayenne Sweet Potato Fries (from Bake at 350 Goes Savory)Rosemary Cayenne Sweet Potato Fries

 

Smoked Paprika Chicken with Mushrooms Burger (from Epicurean Escapism)Smoked Paprika Chicken with Mushrooms Burger

 

Baked Onion Rings (from Eden Eats Everything)Baked Onion Rings

 

White Chocolate Chip Zucchini Brownies (from A Full Measure of Happiness)White Chocolate Chip Zucchini Brownies

 

Healthy Fish Fingers and Ovenbaked Chips (from Wholesome Cook)Healthy Fish Fingers and Ovenbaked Chips

 

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/guilt-free-versions-of-your-favorite-junk-foods/feed/ 0 Featured Food Blog: Table for Two http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/featured-food-blog-table-for-two/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/featured-food-blog-table-for-two/#comments Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:26:57 +0000 Shelley http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29741 Name: Julie Chiou
Name of blog:  Table for Two
Twitter: @tablefortwoblog
Location: Washington, DC

How would you describe your culinary style?
I try to cook delicious, flavorful, and healthy meals for everyone. I try to be adventurous with my dishes sometimes [...]]]> Name: Julie Chiou
Name of blog:  Table for Two
Twitter: @tablefortwoblog
Location: Washington, DC

How would you describe your culinary style?
I try to cook delicious, flavorful, and healthy meals for everyone. I try to be adventurous with my dishes sometimes to give it a spin. I try not to be a stickler to rules. Trial and error is what I’ve grown accustomed to. You gotta take risks every once in a while! I believe that you have to have some sort of creativity or imagination in the kitchen. Although, sometimes I use recipes but I love adapting them and making it my own!

What is the main source of inspiration for your recipes?
I get a lot of inspiration from my mom, whom I looked up to for cooking as I’d always be in the kitchen with her, whether it be helping her or cooking with her. I also get inspiration from restaurants or places to eat. I’m always thinking, “man, I bet I can make this at home too!” My boyfriend will sometimes make remarks like, “you should try this at home!” so that helps me get inspired to recreate something. I also subscribe to a ton of blogs and food magazines. I love the food blogging community and have learned so much from all of my foodie friends!

If you could have one food while stranded on a desert island, what would it be? 
Wow, this is really hard. Do I have to choose only one? Okay, fine. I’d probably choose an avocado. I love the buttery texture of an avocado and it has good, nutritious fats in it that’ll help me survive, I hope!

For someone new to your blog, which recipe do you recommend they try first? 
Definitely the Bang Bang Chicken. It’s probably the most popular recipe on the blog. And for dessert: the best chocolate chip cookies, EVER. These cookies are the softest, fluffiest, and most perfect cookies you’ll ever have!

What is your ultimate guilty food pleasure? 
I could probably eat french fries all day, everyday. Yes, so very healthy, huh? But it’s the one thing I can’t ever get enough of. I will try any and all types of french fries. I gave up french fries one year for Lent and by far, that was one of the HARDEST things for me!!

Define Yummly.
Yummly is food that causes you to have a flavor explosion in your mouth and your mind to get blown. It’s food that makes you go “WOW” and want more servings of it. It’s something you crave, it’s something you can taste in your mouth even at the slightest thought of it. It’s delicious, amazing, food!

 

 


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/featured-food-blog-table-for-two/feed/ 0 How to Eat Like an Athlete http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/how-to-eat-like-an-athlete/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/how-to-eat-like-an-athlete/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 22:57:22 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29958 It’s important for athletes in any sport to eat right given the extreme and sometimes harsh physicality of their fields. With such a high fitness requirement, it’s essential that they acquire the right balance of high-energy, protein-rich foods that will help [...]]]> It’s important for athletes in any sport to eat right given the extreme and sometimes harsh physicality of their fields. With such a high fitness requirement, it’s essential that they acquire the right balance of high-energy, protein-rich foods that will help them gain muscle and recover from strenuous training as healthily as possible. If you’re curious about what goes into an athlete’s diet, or interesting in adopting a more fitness-friendly menu, here’s a basic outline of what you should be eating.

Ideal Diet for Active Athletes

The bulk of many athlete’s diets is probably carbohydrate-rich foods. Carbohydrates yield more energy per unit than of oxygen consumed than fats, and since oxygen is typically the limiting factor for endurance-testing events, you should be as efficient with oxygen as possible. It’s not about eating carbohydrates all the time, either, since the body gains the most utilization from stored carbs – it’s best to enjoy a higher carbohydrate meals 2-3 days prior to strenuous activity.

Protein rich foods like fish and lean meats are also great to have on the menu, to a lesser degree than carbohydrates. The energy they provide is not as sustainable as that of carbohydrates, but good, lean proteins are still an important part of a healthy diet. It provides less energy than carbs and fats, but depending on what kind of exercise you are doing (particularly strength straining), your body may require more protein. With a good, varied diet, supplements are unnecessary.

Foods to Avoid

  • Alcohol consumption should be avoided. It can lead to poor recovery from strenuous activities and slower repair of injuries. It’s also a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration – which is why caffeinated drinks like coffee should also be avoided too.
  • Most high sugar content foods do not provide efficient energy to your body; sugary foods lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar, followed by a swift decline.

The Pre-Game Meal
Three to four hours before the big event, starches in the form of complex carbohydrates.  Low fat meals with whole wheat breads and pastas or vegetables are the best option, since they are digested slowly and provides consistent, long-term energy to the body. However, it’s important also, not to consume carbs less than two or so hours before the game, since strenuous activity at that time may deplete your glycogen stores in endurance-testing situations.

 

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Photo Credits: Blog Stack, The Boot Camp Blog, Happy Dietitian

 


]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/how-to-eat-like-an-athlete/feed/ 0 Score a Taste Touchdown with Great Game Day Dips http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/score-a-taste-touchdown-with-great-game-day-dips/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/score-a-taste-touchdown-with-great-game-day-dips/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:05:17 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29481 With great dips like these, it’s easy to prepare a fantastic spread that everyone will love. Carrots, crackers, chicken wings, and even celery will taste phenomenal coated in these rich, flavorful blends. Delicious cheeses combine with roasted vegetables, ales, and oils [...]]]> With great dips like these, it’s easy to prepare a fantastic spread that everyone will love. Carrots, crackers, chicken wings, and even celery will taste phenomenal coated in these rich, flavorful blends. Delicious cheeses combine with roasted vegetables, ales, and oils to make dips that will dazzle your taste buds.

Warm Piquillo & Crab Dip (from Food People Want)Warm Piquillo & Crab Dip

 

Cheddar and Guinness Dip (from the parsley thief)Cheddar and Guinness Dip

 

Mushroom, Sun Dried Tomato, and Mozzarella Dip (from A Communal Table)Mushroom, Sun Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Dip

 

Creamy Olive and Feta Dip (from Lighter and Local)Creamy Olive and Feta Dip

 

Chipotle, Chorizo & Dark Beer Fondue (from Feasting on Art)Chipotle, Chorizo & Dark Beer Fondue

 

Rosemary & Garlic Cannellini Bean Dip with Parmesan (from Baking = Love)Rosemary & Garlic Cannellini Bean Dip with Parmesan

 

Cheesy Spinach & Bacon Dip (from Busy Mommy)Cheesy Spinach & Bacon Dip

 

Pizza Dip (from The Way to His Heart)Pizza Dip

 

Garlic Zucchini And Fava Bean Dip (from Dan’s Good Side)Garlic Zucchini And Fava Bean Dip

 

Hot Artichoke and Spinach Dip (from Confessions of a Gluten Free Mom)Hot Artichoke and Spinach Dip

 

Roasted Red Pepper, Walnut and Poblano Pepper Spread (from midEATS)Roasted Red Pepper, Walnut and Poblano Pepper Spread

 

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]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/02/score-a-taste-touchdown-with-great-game-day-dips/feed/ 0 Tips for Throwing a Winning Super Bowl Party http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/tips-for-throwing-a-winning-super-bowl-party/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/tips-for-throwing-a-winning-super-bowl-party/#comments Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:00:32 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29965 Whether you’re actually tailgating in the parking lot of a stadium or having an awesome barbecue in your own back yard, there’s just something about the smell of food cooking outside amidst friends and family that just goes well with watching football. Aside [...]]]> Whether you’re actually tailgating in the parking lot of a stadium or having an awesome barbecue in your own back yard, there’s just something about the smell of food cooking outside amidst friends and family that just goes well with watching football. Aside from the game itself, food is an integral part of a good Super Bowl party, so if you’ve never thrown one (or just want confirmation as to your own killer party-throwing skills), here are a few great ideas for what to serve at your big bash.

Tips to Planning the Menu

  • Regardless of whether you’re at home or at the game, you want to serve foods that take less than 15 minutes to prepare or heat up. Barbecued and grilled foods are most popular, particularly for parking lot festivities, but the options are wide open.
  • Be aware of what people are bringing (if it’s a pot-luck style party) so there’s more options to work with (and just in case extra utensils are needed).
  • Find out what allergies / dietary preferences your guests have.  It’s always good to have a few vegetarian options (that can be as simple as a vegetable tray and dip) just for variety too.
  • Remember to bring a cooler with a variety of drinks (not just alcohol for the over-21 crowd) such as water, juice, and carbonated sodas just in case there are any kids or non-drinkers there.

Classic Tailgating/Super Bowl Party Foods
These foods will undoubtedly be a favorite in households across America come Super Bowl Sunday, and for good reason! They’re delicious, easy to make for a crowd, and cook up in no time. All you need is to buy the condiments in advance, and have plenty of buns and chips prepared!

Other foods that are excellent additions to any Super Bowl menu, but require a little time ahead to prepare include baked potatoes, potato skins, marinated meats like ribs or steak, or any cute football shaped cookies, deviled eggs, or mini-sandwiches you might want to make.

 

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  • Cheddar bacon nachos
  • Buffalo chicken wings
  • Jalapeno cheeseburger
  • Chipotle cheese dip
  • Spicy pulled pork

    • Photo Credits: Sodahead, Perfect Escapes, Panoramio


    ]]>     http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/tips-for-throwing-a-winning-super-bowl-party/feed/ 0     Sticky, Crispy and Spicy Chicken Wings for Super Bowl Sunday http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/sticky-crispy-and-spicy-chicken-wings-for-super-bowl-sunday/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/sticky-crispy-and-spicy-chicken-wings-for-super-bowl-sunday/#comments Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:41:20 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29822 Gear up for your Super Bowl XLVI party with a batch of finger-lickin’ good chicken wings! Fans in the room might disagree on which team to cheer for, everyone will agree that these wings are winners. From sticky glazed wings to [...]]]> Gear up for your Super Bowl XLVI party with a batch of finger-lickin’ good chicken wings! Fans in the room might disagree on which team to cheer for, everyone will agree that these wings are winners. From sticky glazed wings to crispy fried drumsticks – not to mention the whole range of chicken wing dips out there -  there are options here to satisfy every taste!

    Spicy Yuzu Pao Wings (from Earthy Delights)Spicy Yuzu Pao Wings

     

    Satay Chicken Wings (from my cooking hut)Satay Chicken Wings

     

    Sticky Chicken Wings (from A Little Yumminess)Sticky Chicken Wings

     

    Sticky Soy Glazed Chicken Wings (from Tiny Test Kitchen)Sticky Soy Chicken Wings

     

    Buffalo Chicken Wings (from globetrotter diaries)Buffalo Chicken Wings

     

    BBQ Wings (from Have Knives Will Cook)BBQ Wings

     

    Spice Rubbed Chicken Wings with Honey Dijon Sauce (from Living Lou)Spice Rubbed Chicken Wings with Honey Dijon Sauce

     

    Thai Fried Chicken Wings (from House of Annie)Thai Fried Chicken Wings

     

    Glazed Korean Fried Chicken (from Kiss the Foodie)Glazed Korean Fried Chicken

     

    Buffalo Chicken Cupcakes (from Cupcake Project)Buffalo Chicken Cupcakes

     

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    ]]>     http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/sticky-crispy-and-spicy-chicken-wings-for-super-bowl-sunday/feed/ 0     Featured Food Blog: Cooking with Books http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/featured-food-blog-cooking-with-books/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/featured-food-blog-cooking-with-books/#comments Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:30:53 +0000 Shelley http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29714 Name: Marnely Rodriguez
    Name of blog:  Cooking with Books
    Twitter: @nella22
    Location: Martha’s Vineyard, MA

    How would you describe your culinary style?
    Coming from a Hotel Management background and tossing in an Associate’s in Baking and Pastry Arts, I consider my [...]]]> Name: Marnely Rodriguez
    Name of blog:  Cooking with Books
    Twitter: @nella22
    Location: Martha’s Vineyard, MA

    How would you describe your culinary style?
    Coming from a Hotel Management background and tossing in an Associate’s in Baking and Pastry Arts, I consider my culinary style to be very influenced by flavors and the combination of them. I tend to cook on a whim, on a spontaneous craving or idea that takes over my mind and won’t let go until I get into the kitchen and develop it. It’s definitely not fancy (although I do like to make more complicated dishes from time to time), my style can be considered as comforting in technique and intense in flavors.

    What is the main source of inspiration for your recipes?
    My main source of inspiration is everything around me, which sounds so cliché but it’s reality. I’m inspired by my surroundings, specially now living on Martha’s Vineyard and having a vast variety of local seafood to explore. I’m inspired by my Dominican roots and upbringing, cooking traditional dishes from time to time. I’m inspired by other chefs, cooks, bloggers and the people I meet on the bus. Like I said, I’m inspired by mostly everything and everyone, in one way or the other.

    If you could have one food while stranded on a desert island, what would it be? 
    Rice! I’m a rice addict, and on a desert island jasmine rice would go a long way; tossed with wild greens for a rice salad, served with fish (that I’d learn to catch…somehow!), cooked in coconut water for delicious coconut rice. Mmhmm, all this rice talk makes me wish I was on a desert island right now!

    For someone new to your blog, which recipe do you recommend they try first? 
    Some of my favorite recipes on the blog, both savory and sweet:

    What is your ultimate guilty food pleasure? 
    Pasta, any kind and the cheesier, the better! I can eat 3 bowls of pasta in one sitting (and trust me, they aren’t small bowls!) Don’t judge me!

    Define Yummly.
    Yummly to me is food that by just looking at it, my stomach is grumbling. It’s the type of food you see and say “Dear God! It’s 2012, when are they going to invent a laptop in which you can stick your hand inside the screen and grab the Yummly food off of it!?!”

     

     


    ]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/featured-food-blog-cooking-with-books/feed/ 0     Baking Solutions to Every Cookie Concern http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/baking-solutions-to-every-cookie-concern/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/baking-solutions-to-every-cookie-concern/#comments Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:01:21 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29960 Dainty, perfectly spherical little cookies like the ones you see in bakeries and magazines are hard to make! Baking is a delicate process, and even slight inconsistencies in ingredients or temperature can change the results in unexpected ways.  If you’re having issues baking consistently good [...]]]> Dainty, perfectly spherical little cookies like the ones you see in bakeries and magazines are hard to make! Baking is a delicate process, and even slight inconsistencies in ingredients or temperature can change the results in unexpected ways.  If you’re having issues baking consistently good cookies, this simple trouble-shooting guide might help!

    Are your cookies…
    - too tough or hard?
    - too crumbly?
    - not baking evenly?
    - too brown on the bottom?
    - overly dry?
    - too soft?
    - spreading too much?
    - not browning enough?
    - hardening too quickly / no good the next day?
    - falling apart upon transfer / packaging?

    My cookies are too hard!
    Usually, very hard cookies are a result of adding too much flour in proportion to the other ingredients, meaning that you either added too much flour, or not enough sugar or butter.  It could also come as a result of over-mixing. Next time, check the measurements again and avoid overmixing once the ingredients come together.

    My cookies are crumbling too much.
    This is usually a result of having too much sugar or shortening; next time, adding a little more egg could help hold it together. Another possible cause of this is that your dough isn’t quite mixed enough, so spending a little more time there could help too.

    My cookies aren’t baking evenly.
    If your cookies are baking inconsistently in the same pan, this may be a result of unevenly shaped cookies to begin with – try rolling the dough as evenly as possible and distributing it evenly – or your oven has hot spots. To find out where your oven’s hot spots are, line one row in your oven with slices of bread and bake them until browned. If some are darker than others, those are where your hot spots are! Turn your pans accordingly.

    My cookies are browning too much on the bottoms.
    Try using a heavier gauge cookie sheet; darker or thinner cookie sheets may cause your cookie bottoms to heat up too much and overcook.

    My cookies are too dry.
    It could be that they were baked too long, or at too low a temperature; in the future, you might want to bake them at a higher temperature for a shorter period of time. Additionally, substituting brown sugar for some of the granulated sugar may help your cookies retain moisture, since brown sugar has a higher moisture content.

    My cookies are too soft.
    If your cookies are too soft, particularly your drop cookies, it could be that you just need to let them cool for longer. Many cookies tend to be overly soft straight out of the oven – just leave them be!

    My cookies are spreading too much!
    Spreading in cookies happens for a few reasons. It could be that you’re baking them at too low a temperature – a higher temperature and shorter cooking time may be to blame, or your oven’s temperature itself is not quite where it should be. Adding too much sugar or oil (in the recipe itself or in the pan), or not enough flour could also be a factor. Again, double check your measurements and adjust them accordingly.

    My cookies aren’t browning enough.
    You want that nice, lightly browned exterior in your cookies! If you don’t get that look, it’s possible that you’re not baking them at a high enough temperature (your oven may not be holding its temperature accurately). Not adding enough sugar could also cause your cookies to be paler than desired.

    The next day, my cookies are always hard as rocks.
    Exposure to air will usually harden cookies pretty quickly. Packaging them in a nice, sealed container covered with a slice of bread will usually keep them much softer for a longer period of time.

    My cookies just fall apart whenever I try to move them or package them.
    As soon are your cookies are cool (and you really should let them cool down completely first), package them in a tight-fitting container lined with plastic wrap or wax paper. Don’t stack your cookies on top of each other; put them in even, unstacked layers and separate each layer with wax paper – including one sheet at the very top.

     

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    Photo Credits: quick-dish, Cooking Light, mouth from the south, sugatreats


    ]]>     http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/baking-solutions-to-every-cookie-concern/feed/ 0     Great Wraps to Grab on the Go http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/great-wraps-to-grab-on-the-go/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/great-wraps-to-grab-on-the-go/#comments Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:29:14 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29490 When you’re in a hurry, it’s hard to remember to eat right. With everything else on your plate – waking up early, rushing into the shower, wrangling the kids, and darting out the door to get to work on time – grabbing a good square [...]]]> When you’re in a hurry, it’s hard to remember to eat right. With everything else on your plate – waking up early, rushing into the shower, wrangling the kids, and darting out the door to get to work on time – grabbing a good square meal in the morning or afternoon may fall to a lower position in your list of priorities. These easy-to-make-ahead, quick, and portable wraps are a great option for anyone with a busy schedule (and they’re kid-friendly too!)  The next time you’re in a hurry, just whip up one of these delicious wraps to get the energy you need to tackle your day head on.

    Greek Pita Wraps (from Steinway Street)Greek Pita Wrap

     

    Black Bean and Barley Wraps (from The Kitchen Twist)Black Bean and Barley Wrap

     

    Tandoori Chicken Wraps (from Create with mom)Tandoori Chicken Wrap

     

    Roast Beef Wraps (from Good Cooks)Roast Beef Wrap

     

    Grilled Chicken Wraps (from Cardamom Hills)Grilled Chicken Wrap

     

    Grilled Catfish Lettuce Wraps (from My Feasts)Grilled Catfish Lettuce Wrap

     

    Ham and Cheese Apple Wraps (from Some the Wiser)Ham and Cheese Apple Wraps

     

    Chicken Enchilada Wraps (from my fabulous recipes)Chicken Enchilada Wrap

     

    Thai Beef Cabbage Wraps (from Budget Gourmet Mom)Thai Beef Lettuce Wrap

     

    Chicken Shawarma (from kurryleaves)Chicken Shawarma

     

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    ]]>     http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/great-wraps-to-grab-on-the-go/feed/ 0     Sweet and Juicy Citrus Recipes http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/sweet-and-juicy-citrus-recipes/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/sweet-and-juicy-citrus-recipes/#comments Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:09:56 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29531 Who doesn’t love peeling away an orange or grapefruit‘s zesty, vibrant skin and savoring its pre-segmented slices of refreshing sweetness bite by bite? Or chomping down on a wedge of orange to entertain kids and try on our best Who doesn’t love peeling away an orange or grapefruit‘s zesty, vibrant skin and savoring its pre-segmented slices of refreshing sweetness bite by bite? Or chomping down on a wedge of orange to entertain kids and try on our best Marlon Brando impressions? If you love citrus and want to add more of it to your meals, these recipes are must-haves for your collection.

    Kale and Blood Orange Salad (from The Incuisition)Kale and Blood Orange Salad (from The Incuisition)

     

    Orange Glazed Blueberry Donuts (from Cooking with the Big Dogs)Orange glazed blueberry donuts

     

    Blood Orange Custard Tart (from grown to cook)Blood orange custard tart

     

    Wild Striped Bass with Farro, Black Rice, Baby Spinach & Tangerine (from Zen Can Cook)Wild Striped Bass with Farro, Black Rice, Baby Spinach & Tangerine

     

    Grapefruit French Macarons (from fête)Grapefruit French Macaron

     

    Grapefruit Salad with Honey Dressing (from chubbette)Grapefruit Salad with Honey

     

    Citrus Bars (from From Scratch)Citrus Bars

     

    Orange Ginger Chicken (from A Sweet Simple Life)Orange Ginger Chicken

     

    Grapefruit Tea Cake (from dlyn)Grapefruit Tea Cake

     

    Lemon Tart (from Stasty)Lemon Tart

     

    Roasted Beet and Orange Salad with Feta (from girl in the green apron)Roasted Beet and Orange Salad with Feta

     

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    ]]> http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/sweet-and-juicy-citrus-recipes/feed/ 0     Pistachio Recipes to Go Nuts for http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/pistachio-recipes-to-go-nuts-for/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/pistachio-recipes-to-go-nuts-for/#comments Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:25:16 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29524 Oh, pistachios! These little green, crunchy nuts ar  beloved around the world and enjoyed cracked fresh from the shell or in a whole plethora of delicious home-cooked recipes. These are just a few of those spectacular options, ranging from delicious savory main courses [...]]]> Oh, pistachios! These little green, crunchy nuts ar  beloved around the world and enjoyed cracked fresh from the shell or in a whole plethora of delicious home-cooked recipes. These are just a few of those spectacular options, ranging from delicious savory main courses to absolutely decadent desserts! Wake up to a spectacular batch of pistachio-topped waffles, or finish off your night with a rich cream-topped pistachio cake.  All pistachio-paved roads lead to a delicious meal!

    Lemon Pistachio Biscotti (from The Larissa Monologues)Lemon Pistachio Biscotti

     

    Chicken Pistachio Salad with Lime-Balsamic Dressing (from Cooking with Chopin)Chicken Pistachio Salad with Lime-Balsamic Dressing

     

    Carrot, Orange & Pistachio Cake (from Dear Love Blog)Carrot, Orange & Pistachio Cake

     

    Pecorino Pistachio Pesto (from Flyin’ Food)Pecorino Pistachio Pesto

     

    Coconut and Pistachio Coated Date Desserts (from The Silk Road Gourmet)Coconut and Pistachio Coated Date Desserts

     

    Pistachio Honey Ice Cream (from Belly Up)Pistachio Honey Ice Cream

     

    Toasted Oat Cookies with Sour Cherries and Pistachios (from A cat in the kitchen)Toasted Oat Cookies with Sour Cherries and Pistachios

     

    Orecchiette with Pistachio & Picholine Olive Sauce (from Cooking Weekends)Pistachio Sauce Pasta

     

    Pistachio Baklava (from Food Endeavors of the Blue Apocalypse)Pistachio Baklava

     

    Chocolate Chip and Pistachio Waffles (from For the love of food!)Chocolate Chip and Pistachio Waffles

     

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    ]]>     http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/pistachio-recipes-to-go-nuts-for/feed/ 0     Yummly’s Friday Food Roundup http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/yummlys-friday-food-roundup-23/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/yummlys-friday-food-roundup-23/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:36:22 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29759 Kick back and relax this weekend with something sweet – like the delicious peanut buttery confections featured this week from cookies to cupcakes! Top it off with fluffy homemade frosting and you’re set for a night of sugary bliss.  If [...]]]> Kick back and relax this weekend with something sweet – like the delicious peanut buttery confections featured this week from cookies to cupcakes! Top it off with fluffy homemade frosting and you’re set for a night of sugary bliss.  If you’d rather enjoy a day snacking on simple, savory treats, just grab something good from your newly perfect pantry and whip up some great Asian foods for yourself at home! Either way, cooking up great recipes like the ones featured this week are an excellent way to spend your weekend!

    1. Awesome Kit Kat Flavors You’ve Probably Never Tried – Regular Kit Kats are great, but these varieties are out of this world!

    2. Creamy, Crunchy Confections for National Peanut Butter Day – You don’t need the holiday to appreciate how good these peanut butter recipes are.

    Featured: the Kitchenist, the chocolate peanut butter gallery, Thursday Night Baking, anchors & feathers, Keep it Sweet, scaling back, My Baking Heart, Foodie-bia, The Live-In Kitchen, Family Food and Fun

    3. How to Stock the Perfect Pantry – If you keep your supplies stocked right, a great meal is always close by!

    4. 10 Lucky Foods for the Lunar New Year – Egg rolls, longevity noodles, and crispy potstickers are just a few of the yummy treats you can add to your menu.

    Featured: Cuisine Paradise, Hot From My Oven, Nomz, Sugar & Everything Nice, sugarlens, The Unseasoned Wok, tarts & typography, The Malaysian Cuisine, a bird in the kitchen, A Tale of Crumbs

    5. Luscious Frostings to Top Your Favorite Desserts  – These recipes are the icing on the cake – literally!

    Featured: See Brooke Cook, Maria’s Menu, Be Confectionate, Penguin in the Kitchen, Vegan Yack Attack, A Food Photography Blog, Food for Swaps, The Hungry Excavator, Velvet Lava Cafe, Buttercream & Chantilly Factory

     

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    Photo Credits: Velvet Lava Cafe and Sugar & Everything Nice



    ]]>     http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/yummlys-friday-food-roundup-23/feed/ 0     10 Fun and Fresh Sushi Rolls to Make at Home http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/10-fun-and-fresh-sushi-rolls-to-make-at-home/ http://www.yummly.com/blog/2012/01/10-fun-and-fresh-sushi-rolls-to-make-at-home/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:35:00 +0000 Katherine http://www.yummly.com/blog/?p=29540 You don’t have to be a Japanese sushi chef to make your own delicious sushi! It takes a little practice, but creating your own custom sushi can be a fun and very rewarding activity.  Make a batch of tasty sushi rice, [...]]]> You don’t have to be a Japanese sushi chef to make your own delicious sushi! It takes a little practice, but creating your own custom sushi can be a fun and very rewarding activity.  Make a batch of tasty sushi rice, grab some toasted nori, and pick up plenty of your favorite sushi ingredients like crab, avocado, and cucumber, because once you start rolling you’ll never want to stop! (Plus, if your rolls don’t come out perfectly, you can always enjoy a nice sushi salad while you keep practicing). Check out these tasty sushi rolls, traditional and non-traditional, and get inspired to create your own unique rolls!

    Red Dragon Roll (from Sushi Day)Red Dragon Roll (from Sushi Day)

     

    Cucumber and Crab Rolls (from Bits of Taste)Cucumber and Crab Rolls

     

    Caterpillar Roll (from The Bite Me Kitchen)Caterpillar Roll

     

    Raw Zucchini Sushi Rolls (from For The Love of Food)Raw Zucchini Sushi Rolls

     

    Teriyaki Tofu and Soba Sushi Rolls (from Cate’s World Kitchen)Teriyaki Tofu and Soba Sushi Rolls

     

    Salmon Roe Sushi (from 2 peas & a pot)Salmon Roe Sushi (from 2 peas & a pot)

     

    Wasabi Tuna Sushi (from Eatin’ on the Cheap)Wasabi Tuna Sushi

     

    Salmon and Avocado Sushi (from Ang Sarap)Salmon and Avocado Sushi

     

    Chicken Asparagus Sushi (from Cook. Play. Explore)Chicken Asparagus Sushi

     

    Gimbap Rolls (from La Kocinera)Gimbap Rolls

     

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