It’s interesting when a traditional food is turned on its head with an attempt to make it more "mainstream." It's usually by a young, hip chef wanting to bring something new to the restaurant scene. Take for instance, Underbelly, a somewhat new ramen bar in Little Italy. It has all the signs of turning ramen... Continue Reading →
Recovery Meals: Hearty Garlic and Potato Soup
So far this year has not gone as planned. In my queue was a slew of posts (an interview, a giveaway and more recipes) to make up for the break I always take during the holidays. But as luck had it, I got sick. A cold that started in December, with a brief respite for Christmas,... Continue Reading →
Descent into Madness: Turducken of Cheeseballs
For anyone attempting to create the Turducken of Cheeseballs as made famous by the folks over at Chow, there is one warning you should taken into consideration: this whole project takes approximately three hours to complete from start to finish. In addition, I recommend two people put it together. And preferably one with sculpting skills... Continue Reading →
Cookie Swap Contender: Venetian Cookies
Cookie swaps is a genius concept: bring one large batch of cookies to a party with the intention of exchanging them for other cookies. The larger the group, the more cookie variety. While the intention is good, the idea of making a big batch of cookies -- and I'm talking over 5 dozen for a... Continue Reading →
The Best of Both Worlds: Sweet ‘N Slightly Salty Chocolate Chip Cookies
It wasn't too long ago that I didn't understand the idea of putting salt to compliment something sweet. It was weird and odd to me. If something was supposed to be sweet, why would I want to add salt? This next part you have to trust me on— salt makes anything sweet taste a bit... Continue Reading →
Tasting Ben & Jerry’s Schweddy Balls
Any long-time reader of this blog knows I have a major sweet tooth. I love cookies, cake, donuts and I try to indulge in moderation. But my favorite thing I always have room for is ice cream. I love eating sweet, creamy ice cream, regardless of weather. So when it's combined with pop culture, say... Continue Reading →
Across the Border: San Felipe, Shrimp and Giant Cacti
While everyone is recovering from Thanksgiving festivities and prepping for the upcoming holidays, I'm waxing poetic about my recent trip to Mexico. It broke all preconceived notions I've had in the past about traveling to Mexico. While much of my early adulthood revolved around going to Tijuana to partake in their nightclub scene, I've never... Continue Reading →
A Turkey-Alternative: Stuffed Breasts
I got over wanting to make a traditional Thanksgiving turkey a long time ago. When we have guests on Thanksgiving, I'm always sure to offer them the traditional spread: stuffing, potatoes, gravy, pie and of course, turkey. It's what they usually expect and I hate to disappoint. But if it's just the two of us,... Continue Reading →
An Alt-Thanksgiving Side: S.S. Spud
Here's a bit of personal info for you: every Thanksgiving has been different for me since entering adulthood. No two Thanksgivings are alike. I've spent Thanksgiving surrounded by family, another surrounded by friends, another working (that year was a dud) but my favorites have always included Paul in the picture. The one thing that has... Continue Reading →
Girls on Film — My Aha Moment
This summer, Mutual of Omaha traveled around the United States in a silver hitched trailer -- 26 stops in all -- interviewing individuals about their "aha moment." It could range from when someone decided to pursue public service or a decision to leave their full-time job for a career in art. It's an interesting project... Continue Reading →
My Burning Kitchen... on the road 