Lamb, Mint, And Burgers of Beauty
June 21, 2008
So I am a bit hungry for a light but distinctive lunch and I remember I have some mint left over from my cucumber mint sandwiches. Instantly lamb comes to mind.
The grocery had ground lamb which looked lovely and I simply couldn’t pass it up. I love its flavor and when prepared with mint it is the perfect compliment. Now, when I prepare my burgers I like to mince some fresh garlic and mix it into the meat- that way when it cooks the flavor is bursting in every bite- YUM. Combine chopped mint leaves in the mix and you are talking heaven.
Seasoned with some coarse salt and pepper and they are ready to go. Sear it in some browned butter or put it on the grill- it is to your liking and so simple to prepare and do.
Not into the lamb but like the burger idea? Make it Au Poivre and coat the sides in peppercorn. It gives it texture and a zap of great taste- simple ingredients always reveal themselves as their best in the results.
Burgers need not be boring. Either with minced garlic in the mix or on its own. What I like to do is have some goat cheese (or sometimes blue cheese) in the center of my burger before placing it on the grill or in the pan. The cheese melts but stays inside promising every bite to be a grand one.
Play with the bun and mix the toppings as much as you like. Caramelized onions are always a great choice as is a kaiser bun. But that’s just me.
Make them small and bite sized or large and rich. Above all- make them your own and make them delicious.
Delicate & Delicious Cucumber Mint Tea Sandwiches
June 17, 2008
One of my personal favorites at the tea table has always been the refreshing and delightful cucumber mint tea sandwich. A girlfriend of mine and I used to escape once every two weeks or so to this glamorous restaurant for afternoon tea. The decor was beautiful and we usually had the place nearly to ourselves. They would present a three tiered tower with scones and cookies, miniature pastries, and a small variety of tea sandwiches. It was a simple and luxurious treat.
The beautiful thing is it can be done at home either as a snack on your own or as a delight to be shared with friends. Its quite simple and you can make them as glamorous and distinctive as you like.
The recipe is quite simple-cream cheese, chopped fresh mint leaves, chopped or sliced cucumbers, and bread cut to your liking. I like to butter one side of the bread as well and season the cucumbers with just a tiny bit of salt for that extra bite.
Cutting the crust and then cutting the sandwich into halves or quarters is most common- but do not limit yourself. If you have some cute cookie cutters use them for fun and delightful results. When entertaining it looks like your a pro with all the finesse- and it takes no time or effort on your part at all.
Children may like them as well- add your own variation to their liking of course, but the shapes make them look like cookies more than food.
Use dill or tarragon to change it up or create your own unique little sandwich. Make a fun name for your friends if you like, “Cucumber me for Tea” or something playful.
Or just maybe pour yourself a nice cup of tea, sit outside or by a window, relax and have a few bites to yourself.
Grapes for Gourmet Healthy Bites
June 15, 2008
When it comes to gourmet simple natural ingredients are key. Simple and beautiful on their own, grapes are one of the easiest gourmet bites to have.
I like to wash them and place then in a comfortably sized zip lock bag- ideal for snacking anywhere and at any time.
Now, when I do this I always make at least two bags and with reason: frozen grapes.
So simple and devilishly wonderful (not to mention a great snack for those who are diet conscious). Its difficult to feel guilty about snacking on something so simple and so wonderful.
When grapes are frozen, they are like little bites of sorbet with a nice crisp peel. So velvety and smooth with just the right amount of sweet. For this reason, I always keep a bag ready in the freezer.
Grocery stores are making it easier now by boxing three styles of grapes together, making choice all the more easy.
Its a simple snack that is delicious and all so better than a bag of chips or a candy bar- not too mention the no involved mess of them.
Great at home or handy at work for the long hours between meals. It keeps you happy and your stomach as well.
Cafe Gourmet Luxury
June 12, 2008
I have spent the past few years living in Miami and began a habit of ordering cafe cubanos, cortaditos, and cafe con leches without so much the flinch of an eye. Having moved to Texas and wandering into the local coffee shop I suddenly find myself in a bind. My normal and what was quite quick and easy drink order has become an ordeal.
Cafe Cubanos are a special wonderful delight- raw sugar and espresso grounds are brewed together to create the strong sweet concoction that has just the right balance. Occasionally with some milk- as in the cortadito standard a 50/50 or 25/75 espresso to milk ratio, also a splendid delight. They are strong and just sweet enough, small in just the right amount. There is genuinely no turning back either, as those who have enjoyed them all too well know.
I have found myself ordering a “cafe cubano machiato” for those who know it, and even then its not quite right. If you are able to find it- you must have it. It is a strong burst that will get your day going and with that much needed spark. If at home, simply add the sugar to the coffee grounds and then brew the coffee through your espresso device. The key is having them brewed together. The stronger the better as far as I am concerned, Cafe Bustelo is quite popular and consistently nice. Add some evaporated steamed milk and you have a delicacy in the works. Don’t let this pleasure pass you by.
Baked Fresh And Into Your Home
June 4, 2008
Are you taking advantage of your local scene? Boulangeries are quite commonly seen all throughout France, but what about in our own backyards. Many boutique French shops, especially patisseries, are often also working boulangeries. We do not have the many specific markets as in France, but we do have fresh products available to us.
The supermarket can get so dull sometimes, over processed foods and bland brand name after bland brand name. Start taking advantage of your local bakeries and be rewarded with warm freshly baked bread in your home. Its marvelous to enjoy and without the mess and fuss of making it yourself.
Sandwiches gain more life and flavor as do all your meals and snacks. There is nothing like the smell or warmth of freshly baked bread.
I remember as a child, my parents would take me with them to this little local French bakery and we would purchase fresh bread that would last for the week- every Sunday we would go. Its the small things that make differences in our lives, and food and memories go hand in hand.
Wild Wonders & Elk Endeavors
May 31, 2008
Of all the meats I have had the pleasure of tasting, by far and beyond elk is my favorite. A very lean game meat with a taste and texture that is truly luxurious and a must try for all if ever the chance is given to you.
Knowing many hunters, a freezer full of elk is not uncommon for me and quite the happy luxury. However when traveling and moving about, I find I miss it most of all. Many restaurants are beginning to popularize in exotic game cuisine, and elk is definitely making an appearance.
From filets to burgers, it is a must. Keep it simple, as not much is needed. Rare is best ( as is for all my meats) and I would not stray from it especially for this one. Medium Rare at most, please. If it is too alarming for you, then it is best passed all together. There is nothing more frightening to me than a piece of tough dried cooked through meat.
Color, texture, that perfect juicy element and taste are crucial and rewarding in their own respect.
So the next time you go to your favorite restaurant and an elk special finds its way to you- take it, love it, and enjoy it. Don’t let the chance pass you by.
Irresistible Bites Of Bruschetta
May 21, 2008
Bruschetta is a wonderful appetizer for an event or snack at home, and the best part is that it can be anything. As are many of my gourmet loves-simplicity reigns above all else. Fresh wonderful ingredients, a toasted lovely bread, and herbs or cheeses to your liking. Tomatoes, basil, and cream cheese are quite popular and common, however there are no limitations.
Prosciutto with some Gruyere or Goat Cheese and balsamic vinegar is an easy to make and enjoyable to consume snack of mine. Add some basil for that extra taste, too.
Use asparagus or a fig spread- be completely different. Mango’s or maybe a cucumber medley can freshen things up.
Here’s an idea for a simple dessert- strawberries and a bit of sweet cream. Make your own creative fruit tart a la bruschetta style. For a party your guests are bound to love it.
Its a no fuss easy clean up-what’s not to love about that. Purchase a baguette and slice it yourself or purchase it pre-sliced if you prefer even. Toast it and top it as creatively as you like.
Who ever said snacking can’t be glamorous.
Glamorous Dining At Home
May 14, 2008
Fine Dining consists of simple statements defined and glamorized. Set rules and expectations, that extra care and attention to detail-being comfortable and achieving a vision.
Why cannot the same be said of the home. Maybe not every night, but once in a while its nice to recreate the dining room and set the stage for a special occasion- even if the occasion is simply the desire of making it one.
Set the table, light some candles, maybe bring in some flowers and some music to set the tone. Design a course to complete your vision and taste- and for that of your friends and loved ones.
Want something really special-set a night for yourself. That’s right- set the table for one, design a beautiful course and display it as you would expect it given to you. Laugh if you like, but its quite fun and a wonderful treat as well as an escape from the hectic noise of the day. Follow it with a bath or movie if you like even.
Including friends and loved ones makes it magical, and is a great reason to get them involved and enjoy each others company. Create a few simple appetizers and an easy and delicious entree with some glamorous sides- what makes it glamorous is up to you. Maybe its the colors you use in your vegetables and fruits, maybe its the distinct herbs or cheeses you like. Make it your own, make it beautiful, and make it enjoyable. It will give a whole new meaning to the cleaning up the house chore if its for something you are creating. That’s always a nice little extra.
And don’t ever forget the dessert. A small little taste is never a bad thing, particularly as I myself take as many tastes as possible.
Have a little fun with your meals.
Lychee Litchi Delight in a Drink
May 8, 2008
Absolute favorite of all favorites when it comes to drinks and and exotic fruits is the Lychee- and a martini especially. I used to bring a bowl of frozen lychees with me when I would lay out on the beach, a favorite luxury of mine. Great anywhere, too- not just out in the sun, and should be often practiced. But I cannot help but involve another love of mine: vodka. They work so beautifully together with just the right balance of smooth and delicate hint of sweetness.
Oh the lovely wonders of the lychee, or litchi depending where you may go. A friend of mine from Japan recognized the fruit as the litchi rather than lychee. She loved them too, and I do not think you could ever eat too much.
Making your own at home is quite simple, provided you can find the lychee- fresh is most desirable, however the canned version are an alright substitute. You can use the juice they are kept in for the drink as well. Maaza provides a great Lychee juice that is delicious on its own.
Look for the lychee next time you are out and about-sorbet, martini, juice, or the fruit alone are all a delightful indulgence.
If its appearance alarms you- worry not, you don’t eat the red pointy shell, only the delicate fruit inside. There is no intense acquired taste about it either, I have yet to find anyone who doesn’t enjoy them- even the pickiest of eaters.
Bring a little luxury into your drink.
