tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354086504581210302024-03-12T19:48:05.344-07:00The Saffron SpoonA food enthusiast explores good food while trying to discover the golden spoon.saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-42960890986320063722009-06-16T13:25:00.001-07:002009-06-16T22:41:44.953-07:00Refrigerator Woes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiCEgipp1I/AAAAAAAAABg/c7_g_bEiUYA/s1600-h/IMGP0349.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiCEgipp1I/AAAAAAAAABg/c7_g_bEiUYA/s320/IMGP0349.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348167571468822354" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">Ever gone on vacation or left town for a few months?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The question is always, what do I do with all the stuff in my refrigerator?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is scary to think of the congealed masses in forgotten Tupperware and the curdled soymilk hidden behind the gallon of nettle infusion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And don’t get me started on the wall of condiments that live in the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I could have a dinner party.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In fact, I did invite a friend over the other night in an attempt to clean out the refrigerator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When she wasn’t looking I slipped many different questionable items into her canvas tote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>See, she came over with a tote filled with leftovers, trying to get me to eat them so they wouldn’t go to waste, so counter productive!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Over the course of that evening I managed to clean out the freezer and a few half-used items in the pantry.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>A trash bag and a few happy neighbors later, my refrigerator is looking pretty good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The condiments will make it till September and the baking soda can keep them company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I left a few beers in the door, for that day when I return from the unbearably long road trip from Alaska. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One year of Grad School down, one to go!</p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-66403114724287445102009-06-12T13:25:00.000-07:002009-06-16T22:51:19.680-07:00Road Trip Food<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiEUFL36fI/AAAAAAAAACA/SpaPs3HshCw/s1600-h/alcanmap.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiEUFL36fI/AAAAAAAAACA/SpaPs3HshCw/s320/alcanmap.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348170038026693106" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>What do I eat on a road trip that will cover 2500 miles and host 2 very large dogs as driving partners?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If this trip were merely through the United States, I would plan on grocery store stops, Farmers Markets and fun out of the way restaurants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But alas, I am driving through British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If the rest of what I’m about to say is offensive to you Canadians out there, I am sorry, but it’s the truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The food north of 100 Mile House (what a name for a town) just sucks!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>I’m whining, unfortunately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I could cook my own food, this is true, but then I would have to find my backpacking stove and something tells me it is in storage in Alaska.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I could focus on raw and processed foods…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I made a trip to Trader Joes (www.traderjoes.com) looking for inventive road trip food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I settled on fruit leather, nuts and some animal like crackers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I had to try the cookies, boy am I glad I did, blah!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They will not be going on the trip to Alaska.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The cookies in all of their cinnamon glory will be gifted to my neighbors.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>I will continue to sample the fare as I traverse north through Canada, supplementing with produce along the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Someone should really develop a blog or a website reviewing restaurants along the ALCAN…</p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-75930777724891746722009-06-04T13:38:00.000-07:002009-06-16T23:07:30.458-07:00Tapas Anyone?<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">A meal type created for the indecisive among us, namely me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I met a group of friends at Txori (http://www.txoribar.com) a new Tapas Bar in Belltown this weekend before we went to the theater.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What to<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>order, what to order?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am so excited…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>twenty different options just begging to be sampled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Of course, I should start with the potatoes, as my friends know, they are my favorite food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>One order of potato aioli later and it is time for the bread course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Yum!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This little treat reminds me of spaghettiOs, or as my dining aquintance said Chef Boyardee in general, served with a crusty baguette.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The most intriguing item on the menu is next, chorizo with chocolate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Oh, what a heavenly combination of salt, fat and sweet on a crusty bread!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I wish there were more vegetables on the menu, oh well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I think it is time for dessert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Because four of us have gathered for this experience, we should pick four desserts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Chocolate mouse with cayenne, sheep cheese cheesecake, chocolate beet cake with fresh cream and citrus flan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What a heavenly combination of goodness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A bite of this and a little of that leads to a very satisfying dining experience. Checkout this blog for great recipes http://www.tapas-recipes.com/tapas-recipes.html.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Two blocks down the road is the Moore Theater.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are going to see a BookIt production.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Oh dear, I shouldn’t have had the martini with dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I start to yawn as I wait for the curtain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What a miserable experience, I spend the first 45 minutes tapping my foot and doing ab exercises trying to stay awake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Thankfully, my blood sugar balances for the last half and I am able to watch as the climax fizzles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Maybe I will suggest dinner after the play next time.</p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-73567595479327660692009-06-03T23:00:00.000-07:002009-06-16T23:01:19.969-07:00Yum, Donuts!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiGmgcZEiI/AAAAAAAAACc/lyDvz2qzG6k/s1600-h/1249216281_f768691ad6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiGmgcZEiI/AAAAAAAAACc/lyDvz2qzG6k/s320/1249216281_f768691ad6.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348172553604633122" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal">I have an admission to make, I love pastries (just like my friends at http://www.theblognut.net)!<span> </span>Maybe I should specify, my most recent pastry craving is for the delectable vegan donuts from Might O Donuts in Seattle.<span> </span>A guilty pleasure for me, similar to the mocha addiction that plagues a good friend, or the secret cig someone I know sneaks every now and then.<span> </span>What is life without our guilty pleasures?<span> </span>While traveling recently, my buddy sitting next to me in 24B asked what I did for work.<span> </span>Well, let me tell you how that conversation and all others like it go…<span> </span>As soon as the person registers that I study nutrition they begin to justify the food in front of them,<span> </span>the reason they prefer a specific brand of supplements and then they want to know what I’m eating.<span> </span>Uggg, if I don’t have an eating disorder now, I will in the near future.<span> </span>Because I study nutrition does not mean I am the embodiment of healthy living.<span> </span>Actually, I try to be, but my pastry addiction can get me into trouble.<span> </span>Now I feel like <span><span></span></span>I need to sneak my treats for fear of disappointing those observing me.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Maybe I will flaunt my treats!<span> </span>Yeah, that’s it, I’m going to share my addictions with the masses.<span> </span>What would life be without the small indulgences we allow ourselves?<span> </span>I try to live my life following the 80/20 rule.<span> </span>80% of the time I do what I’m supposed to: eat 9-11 servings of fruits and vegetables a day, get my teeth cleaned, go to the gym regularly, maintain a healthy body weight, wash behind my ears, you know the drill.<span> </span>But, 20% of the time I give myself a break, and so should the guy in 24B.<span> </span></p>saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-71514992242007668972009-05-16T13:08:00.000-07:002009-06-16T22:56:25.947-07:00Can you feel the heat?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiFhfDz3fI/AAAAAAAAACQ/RI6C16CicLA/s1600-h/balsamic-grilled-veggies-l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiFhfDz3fI/AAAAAAAAACQ/RI6C16CicLA/s320/balsamic-grilled-veggies-l.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348171367822122482" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">Warm sunny days inspire the grill master in all of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Often times, the best meal is a simple meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Today is a beautiful day in Seattle and I have an invitation to join a friend in her back yard for some veggie grilling, white wine and general catching up.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">While driving to her house I realize that the nice weather has encouraged everyone to come outside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Laughter bubbles up from behind hedge rows, children chase with water guns and dogs try to find respite in the shade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>On the road, windows were down as we all sought the warm breeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The parks were crowded and the beach was full.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I could tell the popular spots as I drove across town, they were the places were people were circling, desperately looking for parking.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I finally reached the safety of my friend’s quiet neighborhood I let me mind daydream about grilling and the dinner to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Asparagus on the grill adds a snap to our lanky friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Mushrooms weep over an open flame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Zucchini and bell peppers release sugars that add to their already sweet flavor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Cook up a batch of fresh pasta, toss with the grilled veggies, olive oil and a little fresh parmesan, viola – dinner is ready.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Hot days do not inspire heavy meals, instead I crave fresh fruit and vegetables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If your not burnt out on the grill, it is also a wonderful place to create dessert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Slices of fresh pineapple, with a dash of cinnamon and a sprinkle of brown sugar, caramelize into heaven on earth.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">We spent the evening enjoying lovely conversation, refreshing food and a crisp wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Eventually, we were chased inside by goose bumps and cooling temperatures.</p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-39086937909910248442009-05-11T12:41:00.000-07:002009-06-01T22:32:55.934-07:00What Makes a Pizza<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SiS5aAM-nRI/AAAAAAAAABQ/IrDhsWuATWE/s1600-h/DSCN1966.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SiS5aAM-nRI/AAAAAAAAABQ/IrDhsWuATWE/s320/DSCN1966.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342598914350423314" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in">Ah, glorious pizza, a delightful staple in modern American cuisine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The art of pizza making has been taken to the next level with stuffed crust, garlic butter dipping sauce, specialty cheeses, not so common toppings and fusion themes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Have you ever tried a spicy Thai<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>chicken pizza?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>How do people come up with these ideas?</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in">Making pizza at home is an experience everyone should try.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In my kitchen, we find ourselves using anything from homemade herb dough to tortillas for a pizza base.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Making a pizza doesn’t require special ingredients or much time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Instead, pizza construction requires creativity and a willingness to experiment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When you open the refrigerator door and all you have is a tortilla, why not make a pizza quesadilla?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Leftover naan or pita also work as great impromptu bases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When we are on long kayaking trips we often take Greek pitas with us as a base for quick pizzas in the field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>IF I’m in a rush, I use cheater dough from Trader Joes, Whole Foods Market or PCC, but I make sure the ingredients label is short and includes real ingredients.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If you want to dive in and go all the way, try one of the Moosewood Cookbook recipes or a recipe on the web.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If you do not eat gluten, visit the gluten free girl’s blog for a wonderful pizza dough recipe.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in">Step away from the base for a moment and contemplate with me all of the delicious toppings you could include: fresh herbs (basil, yum), goat cheese, leftover salad fixings (spinach, peppers, olives, zucchini), onions, leftover Indian food with a dot of chutney, mushrooms, taco fixings, or just about anything rolling around in the refrigerator.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in">The homemade pizza is also a wonderful meal to share with friends at a dinner party.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Because pizzas are so hands on, everyone can be involved, it brings out the children in us and often makes for a very memorable and fun evening.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-64209512702852262152009-05-10T13:27:00.000-07:002009-06-16T22:54:27.511-07:00Potatoes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiFDZEL7dI/AAAAAAAAACI/J55EyKrER5M/s1600-h/potato_all_blue.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 221px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiFDZEL7dI/AAAAAAAAACI/J55EyKrER5M/s320/potato_all_blue.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348170850817011154" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in">One fall, I took a job hand harvesting potatoes in Alaska.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was one of those cash under the table, we only need you for a day situations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What an eye opener, on so many levels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Everyone should have to harvest food, to understand where food comes from and what is required to get it from the ground to our plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Another important lesson to take away from such an experience is that of physical labor, a hard day’s work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in">My father sent me to work on my grandmother’s farm in the summers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I love food, and generally it tastes great, but nothing compares to toiling in the garden all day and stopping to snack on something growing at your fingertips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Potatoes dug fresh from the garden and prepared for a meal that day are heaven hiding in rich dark brown soil.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in">Potatoes are easy to grow and even easier to eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There are so many types of potato out there and the recipes out compete the 600 varieties.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We are all familiar with mashed potatoes, baked potatoes and potato skins, but have you ever had potato salad made with blue potatoes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Or French fries made with peanut potatoes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Potatoes come in a rainbow of colors, flavors and textures.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>It is time to embrace the rainbow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The farmers markets are back with fresh spring greens and onions, along with starts for the garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So, go ahead, plan a planter or a field.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Don’t forget the seed potatoes, why not start with blue potatoes this year?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-9579343360295933732009-05-04T20:47:00.000-07:002009-05-06T20:49:38.537-07:00Why the Garden Burger?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SgJaLnp4unI/AAAAAAAAABI/LPrHeTp52LU/s1600-h/IMGP0280.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SgJaLnp4unI/AAAAAAAAABI/LPrHeTp52LU/s320/IMGP0280.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332924064429816434" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;">I love French fries!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What goes with French fries?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Burgers!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But wait, I don’t really like the flavor of meat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What is a fry and burger lovin’ girl to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Most restaruants have a veggie burger option.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Every once in awhile you will luck out with a restaurant that makes a homemade veggie burger, yum!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Unfortunately, most rely on the freezer burned stand by, hello garden burger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Don’t get me wrong, the garden burger is ok, like a bland textured disc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A couple weeks ago we visited the Elysian Brewery in Tanglewood, now that place has one amazing black bean burger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A little mushy, but the flavor is amazing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">This past week, I skipped a day of school to visit the famous tulip fields of Skagit Valley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After hours frolicking in the tulip fields and a flat tire, we decided it was time for lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Welcome to the Mount Vernon Brewery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They have homemade strawberry lemonade!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This looks promising.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While perusing the menu I see a crab cake burger, this says to me that they are not afraid to put a little effort into their food, yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I decided on the veggie bleu cheese burger, hello garden burger hidden under something yummy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It frustrates me that restaurants will expend effort and money to make homemade foods – but only those that contain meat products, while vegetarians get stuck with salads and the “garden burger”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Why can’t they make a bean burger?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is not just me out here as the lone vegetarian, there are others, not to mention those looking for a healthier option and let me tell you, some of us <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">like</i> to dine out from time to time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Let me show how easy a black bean burger can be:<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">1 can black beans, well drained<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">1 teaspoons ground cumin<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">2 teaspoons chili powder<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">1/2 tsp sea salt<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">1/2 sweet onion, diced<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">1/4 cup cooked brown rice<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">¼ cup chopped walnuts<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">2 cloves garlic, minced<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.5in;mso-text-indent-alt: -.5in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi- font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">In a food processor or blender, puree beans, cumin, chili powder, salt and cayenne pepper until smooth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Add onions, rice, walnuts and garlic, pulse a few times until incorporated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The mixture should be moist and hold its shape when pressed into a patty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>If it feels dry or crumbles add 2 tablespoons of water.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi- font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">Form four patties and refrigerate for 15 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi- font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;">Bring a skillet to medium temperature, add oil and burgers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Cook 4-5 minutes on each side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Serve on a whole grain roll with avocado slices and salsa aioli.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria;mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi- font-family:Verdana;color:#333333;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Modified from <a href="http://www.vegetariantimes.com/">www.vegetariantimes.com</a> Black bean and Walnut Burger.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-84475250276509216302009-05-02T23:41:00.000-07:002009-06-16T22:42:33.719-07:00The Black Void That Is My Pantry<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiCQpI7JbI/AAAAAAAAABo/llj3Ed0TKxM/s1600-h/IMGP0304.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SjiCQpI7JbI/AAAAAAAAABo/llj3Ed0TKxM/s320/IMGP0304.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348167779935266226" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>While in grad school, I find myself on a time and money budget that requires diligence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Food, a meal, dinner are all ideas that often take a back seat to studying for midterms, writing papers and doing research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The grocery store requires true restraint, especially now that strawberries are in season in California.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After returning from the gym on a Saturday night I find myself peering into the black void that is my pantry and contemplating my refrigerator, home to the most amazing collection of condiments and not much else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There is food here, but first we need to identify the key ingredient for this late evening meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Ah, in the back of the pantry cabinet, under some brown basmati rice and half a bag of chocolate chips, I located a handful of red lentils.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A handful is an odd measurement, this I realize, but we all have them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You know, those bulk bags of remainders from meals past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What does one do with red lentil remnants?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Well, we continue our search for the next element of the meal, and it probably shouldn’t be the chocolate chips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In the refrigerator, I found a forgotten partial head of cauliflower and a bag of fresh spinach, I’m on to something here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>On the counter, next to a few apples and a rather brown banana sits a can of coconut milk and a can of yellow curry paste, from my last adventure at the Asian Market.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I get overly excited in the international markets around Seattle, they are a playground for the food enthusiast in me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Whip, bang, splash and sitting before me in my favorite bowl, hand delivered by a friend from Peru, steams a delicious mellow curry dish with enough leftovers for three more meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When cooking for one, leftovers go a long way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>All in all, this meal is what I would call free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The ingredients were all random hanger-oners in my small kitchen, with no particular recipe in mind and more often than not, leftovers from long ago meals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You should take a look in your pantry, you might be surprised at the meals lurking in there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My goal for the next few weeks is to consume the forgotten legumes and grains passing time in the inky black confines of the pantry cabinet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I really wouldn’t want anyone to classify me as a hoarder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But here comes the diligence and restraint part again, I really should consider going to the store for some produce with only onions and condiments left in the refrigerator, maybe tomorrow…</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Curried Pantry Lentils<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal">¾ cup red lentils</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 ½ cups water</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 (4 ounce) can Maesri yellow curry paste</p> <p class="MsoNormal">½ a head of cauliflower</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk</p> <p class="MsoNormal">6 cups fresh spinach</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Place the lentils and water in a pan over medium high heat and bring to a boil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Turn down to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Heat a skillet over medium heat; add the curry paste and cauliflower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sauté for 5 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Add the coconut milk, spinach and cooked lentils.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Simmer for 10 minutes.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-90172378233832751492009-04-27T21:15:00.000-07:002009-04-27T21:42:42.891-07:00Moderation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SfaJL5PMUGI/AAAAAAAAAA4/AYiWMjVGuy0/s1600-h/IMGP0022.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_iTaW-GVLhl8/SfaJL5PMUGI/AAAAAAAAAA4/AYiWMjVGuy0/s320/IMGP0022.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329598046475669602" /></a><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">Stress and emotions trigger different eating habits in all of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When I am under pressure, life goes to hell in a hand basket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Better yet, when the pressure builds to a monumental boil and then stops abruptly, my pendulum swings in a gigantic arc back to the other extreme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Generally, I am a happy healthy eater, constantly on the prowl for a delicious, relaxed meal with friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But graduate school does funny things to a person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Winter quarter was a struggle, emotionally and physically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>By the end of the quarter I felt like a car driving on 3 flat tires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But there was a carrot at the end of my stick, I was leaving for Hawaii 3 hours after my last exam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I struggled through the quarter to make it to the gym (irregular at best) and eat well (except for the Trader Joe Cranberry Dunkers).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>By the end I wasn’t really eating, my body and mind were in a fog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>On the plane to Hawaii, I agreed with my travel partner to eat raw and vegan for the duration of our trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It sounded refreshing, rejuvenating, like hell…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I should explain that we were hiking the Napali Coast and relaxing in Kalalou Valley for six days.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Backpacking is a wonderful endeavor that I grew up enjoying, it has always been a part of my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And as a food lover, I have never shied away from good food (our its weight) on a trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But raw is a whole new game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Light packs immediately gained 15 pounds as we picked out avocados, cucumbers, apples, vinegar and oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It is only 11 miles to nirvana, slugging through the dense jungle heat and exposed cliff faces to enjoy wonderful fresh living food at the end of the rainbow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>What a crock!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>No, really, it was quite wonderful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But I was depleted on all levels, and our abrupt shift left me reeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was a wonderful adventure that left me feeling light and rested, but completely off kilter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My pendulum had swung too aggressively in one direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The balance was gone, the moderation shot.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">When I returned to the rain and cold of Seattle I immediately sought comfort in warm, rich foods, for weeks, I was still making up for the intensity of the winter quarter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>See, I made a mistake, well, several actually.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I forgot my mantra of moderation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I went from an intense situation straight into intense travel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I forgot to take a few days to adjust after the quarter ended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I through my body into an intense physical detox and purge without thought for my mental state.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">When the pendulum swings in one direction, I find that it needs to swing in the other direction before it can once again settle somewhere around the center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We weren’t designed to live permanently in the extreme of our being without a return to the middle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When you burn the candle at both ends of the stick, do yourself a favor and breathe a second before you take the next great plunge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It will add years to your life.</p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-21561063922507128162009-04-25T19:51:00.000-07:002009-04-25T19:53:09.033-07:00Craving a Crepe<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in"></p><div style="text-indent: 0px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I absolutely love crepes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>On a visit to Amsterdam, I insisted upon eating crepes everyday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Refusing to vary, I stuck with the powdered sugar and banana crepe for two weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>An addiction was born.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Street vendor crepes, café crepes and fancy restaurant crepes…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am still partial to bananas and powdered sugar, but every now and then I stray toward an adventurous crepe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><br /></div><p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in">Since moving to Seattle I have searched high and low for good crepes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This past weekend I yelped my way to Saley on First Hill in Seattle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This amazing little crepe café is a one-woman operation serving both sweet and savory crepes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I completely eschewed my failsafe and went for a whole new flavor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I had a savory crepe filled with avocado, spinach, mozzarella and tomato.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And because I had now committed myself to several hours at the gym, I followed up with the amazing strawberry and Nutella crepe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I must admit that I had never before tried Nutella on a crepe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Generally, I try to avoid this product because of the partial hydrogenated fats, but life is all about moderation.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in">Once upon a time in a land far far away, I found myself with a Norwegian roommate in Scotland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My roommate taught me how to make a Norwegian crepe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I made crepes 4-5 times a week for a year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They were economical, delicious and calorie dense, absolutely perfect for a starving college student.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><o:p> </o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">The Norwegian Crepe<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt">This recipe produces 2 large crepes.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt">1 egg</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt">½ cup flour</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt">¾ cup milk</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt">Whisk the ingredients together until smooth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Heat a crepe pan or omelet pan over medium heat, mist with olive oil and pour a thin layer to coat the pan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When the edges are cooked, very carefully flip the crepe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Cook for 2 more minutes and place on a plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Top with your choice of fillings and roll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For the past few years I have stuck with nut butter and bananas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-55026167046590752642009-04-20T22:57:00.000-07:002009-04-20T23:32:33.967-07:00Family Dinner<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">In a world where families are divorced, scattered across 5000 miles or consist of a single individual, it is important to redefine the word family.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">My definition of family is more inclusive than Mr. Webster’s, I believe that family is a grouping of all those you hold dear, the ones you can call on in a time of need, the ones that make you laugh, the ones you cry for.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">In the century of me, it is easy to get lost in our individualism and forget the essence of family and the essential dynamic of the family meal.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Americans are criticized for convenience dining at record speeds, and it is hard to argue, we love our drive-thrus and multitasking.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">When was the last time you sat down to a homemade meal without a time constraint, with a group of cherished friends and family?</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">I want to be like the French, I want to take 4 long hours over a simple meal on Sunday afternoons laughing with those of you I love.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">It would be easy to say, "Oh, I don’t have that kind of time", but come on, really?</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">How long were you on myspace last night?</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">How is that twitter addiction going?</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Spend any time at the mall or downtown this weekend?</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">How was Friday night at the bars?</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">The point is, we all waste precious time accomplishing pretty inane tasks and entertaining ourselves.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">So, lets have a dinner party this Sunday.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Here’s what you do: 1. Put together a list of friends to invite, 2. Pick a theme, lets have a potluck (takes the pressure off of the host), 3. Select a bottle or three of your favorite adult beverages, and 4. Hide the laundry in your bedroom before your company arrives.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">This past weekend, I spent the evening with a group of old and new friends.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">I was late, but that is nothing new.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">We had taco night, everyone contributed a few ingredients and a few stories.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Moments of belly laughter turned into hours of fun and an evening that ended with deep yawns.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">For approximately $7 I had a great meal, wonderful entertainment and actual interaction with friends.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">You can’t beat that.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Spanish Quinoa</span></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Changing up the Spanish Rice a little. Go on, experiment with whole grains, there fun!</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">½ onion</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">2-3 tablespoons olive oil</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">4-6 cloves of garlic</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">1 teaspoon cumin</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">1 teaspoon red pepper flakes</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">1 cup quinoa</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">2 cups vegetable broth</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">½ tablespoon seasalt</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">2 tomatoes, diced</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">1 carrot, diced</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: 16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Warm a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and onion.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Sauté for 4 minutes, add the garlic, cumin and pepper flakes, cook for 2 minutes.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Add the quinoa, and gently toast for 5 minutes.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">Add the vegetable broth and remaining ingredients, cover and simmer over low-medium heat for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and do not disturb for 5 minutes. Before serving, remove lid and fluff with a fork. </span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-76808354087520174642009-04-15T19:47:00.000-07:002009-04-15T19:54:01.145-07:00Hallelujah, the sun is out in Seattle!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">The sun is out in Seattle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>That is not the first thought that entered my mind this morning when I cracked a weary eye toward the window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The first thought was a little less positive, I was more concerned with the spotlight smacking me in the face!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The whiny voice in my head cried, “I just want to sleep 45 minutes more, is that too much to ask?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I immediately realized my sin in thinking such a thought, the sun is out, hallelujah!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Get your ass out of bed and outside!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A bathroom visit and a glass of water later I found myself wandering in the field behind my house contemplating the day as the early morning sun filtered through air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I decided I could use some natural Prozac and I set to work weeding in the house garden, saying hello to my dandelion and slug friends along the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Mid-April is the perfect time to find solace in the garden in Seattle, it isn’t quite time to start planting, but it is close.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">My short sojourn in the garden left me thinking about vegetables, more specifically young greens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I ventured to the grocery, picking out baby spinach and other young greens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I also took advantage of the pears and before I knew it, I had the most amazing spring salad growing in the basket on my arm. I have plans to plant my own spring greens this weekend.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Spring Salad for 1</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 pear</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 cup baby spinach</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 cup mixed baby greens</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 ounce feta, crumbled</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1/8 cup dried cranberries</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 thin slice sweet onion</p> <p class="MsoNormal">¼ cup mixed beans – garbanzo, kidney, pinto</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 tablespoon olive oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal">fresh cracked black pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-40472918297374305372009-04-12T22:44:00.000-07:002009-04-15T19:53:26.363-07:00Easter<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:13px;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">Easter Weekend!<span> </span>A time for decadent chocolate shaped like bunnies and a rousing search for the infamous golden egg.<span> </span>I spent the weekend with friends, or rather my extended family here in Washington.<span> </span>After a day of kayaking, we gathered around a late night fire to make smores and drink wine.<span> </span>Smores, a product of childhood that can’t really be improved upon although some have tried and failed miserably.<span> </span>I explained this concept to our friends, but they insisted on trying to toast a “peep”.<span> </span>I really hate to say “I told you so”, but in this case it is warranted.<span> </span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">On the actual day of Easter the seven of us gathered around the dining room table to enjoy a homemade brunch as the rain beat a tattoo on the metal roof and the house was encased in the soft light of dark grey rain clouds.<span> </span>Easy conversation rolled through the house along with the scent of fresh brewed coffee.<span> </span>Breakfast foods are the best!<span> </span>We dined on cinnamon rolls, potato hash, biscuits and scrambled eggs.<span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">A great holiday weekend, spent with friends over a collection of delicious meals and adventures.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Potato Hash for 7</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">olive oil<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">1 small sweet onion, diced</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">4 cloves of garlic, diced</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">2 Garnet Yams, diced</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">4 Yukon Gold Potatoes, diced</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">1 red bell pepper, diced</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">1 zucchini, diced</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">1 cup mixed mushrooms, diced</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">vegetarian breakfast sausage, crumbled</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">*Note: when at home in Alaska or sea kayak guiding in Prince William Sound, we sometimes use Reindeer Sausage</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">Bring a large skillet to temperature over medium heat.<span> </span>Add the olive oil and dice onion, sauté until soft.<span> </span>Add the garlic, sauté for another 2 minutes.<span> </span>Cook the diced yams and potatoes with the onions and garlic until tender.<span> </span>Add olive oil as needed.<span> </span>When the potatoes are soft and beginning to brown, add the other vegetables and crumbled breakfast sausage, cook for 10 more minutes.<span> </span>Season with salt and pepper to taste.<span> </span>Serve with salsa.</p></span>saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-635408650458121030.post-8461210790210620872009-04-12T22:28:00.000-07:002009-04-12T22:30:32.084-07:00Ode to the Golden Spoon<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; font-size: 13px; ">Oh golden spoon of mine, I wouldn’t choose another color for you.<span> </span>The warmth you bring to the table enhances the taste of the most subtle root, the softest grain…<span> </span>I wouldn’t choose a red spoon, because I do not want anger at my table.<span> </span>And a blue spoon might dampen the mood.<span> </span>Green simply wouldn’t do because I do not want to envy yesterday or or be jealous of tomorrow, I would rather enjoy this moment today. <span> </span>The golden beauty of the saffron spoon creates a warm atmosphere, filled with joy, placing a glowing spotlight on the meal of the moment.</span>saffron threadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06550375363480491668noreply@blogger.com0