tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60684445691189917202024-03-12T20:06:41.593-07:00Bite Size GreenHealthy food. Healthy body. Healthy planet.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.comBlogger275125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-31297214415527223032014-03-29T14:29:00.000-07:002014-03-29T14:29:23.028-07:00Whole 30 Me? Why?!For those of you who have never heard of it, the <a href="http://whole30.com/">Whole 30</a> is an elimination diet that lasts 30 days, with a staged re-introdction period afterwards. People usually try elimination diets when they suspect some food group is giving them problems, but don't know which it is.<br />
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Folks who know me know how much I enjoy eating, especially eating a wide variety of produce, meats, grains, dairy products, and fruits. They've also heard me carry on a bit over how much better I feel when I stay as gluten-free as possible (no wheat, barley or rye, including what gets snuck into packaged foods and condiments). But when they heard recently that I planned to try this experiment in eating with no added sugars, no dairy, no grains, and no legumes, responses ranged from 'call me when you're done' to 'you're going to starve.'<br />
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To be honest, the prospect of dropping that many ingredients from my normal repetoire really scared me. But I had been wondering a couple things over the last year or two:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>How could I control or eliminate my rosacea (burny, bumpy splotchy face) without drugs?</li>
<li>If cutting way back on gluten helped so much, what other keys to my health might be hiding in my everyday food choices?</li>
</ol>
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So I looked at how attached I was to certain food habits - milk in my tea, gluten-free toast for a bedtime snack, peanut butter on my afternoon apple, a breakfast Clif bar at the office, and of course rice, potatoes, and corn with practically everything. I took a few steps that couldn't possibly hurt, without actually committing to them. Skipped the little bit of alcohol I was drinking (half a beer is a lot for me), tried my tea sans milk, etc. But going whole hog still seemed very daunting. What would I eat, and could my reduced ingredient list possibly keep me happy?<br />
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While waiting for <a href="http://whole9life.com/itstartswithfood/">It Starts with Food</a> to become available to me (thank you, <a href="http://www.spl.org/">Seattle Public Library</a>!) I researched recipes. Lots and lots of dishes sounded yummy. Especially if you put them over rice - oops. Finding and testing a grain-free bread recipe helped boost my confidence greatly, because it turned out better, easier and cheaper than any gluten-free bread we've bought or made at home, so far. So, OK, I could make enough meals with enough variety to keep from getting hungry, cranky and inclined to quit before finding the answers I wanted out of this investment of 30 days of my food-loving life.<br />
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The book, written by the couple who created the Whole 30 and run the <a href="http://whole9life.com/">Whole9 website</a>, explains their research and opinions about why some foods are worth eating, some not, and some just likely to be problematic for many people. Not looking to be 100% convinced, I was more impressed than I expected. It's well explained and documented, and all the propositions are plausible. It was more than enough to keep me from my fall-back plan of taking some suggestions and leaving the rest to the believers. Nope. For 30 days, I would try my best to go the whole nine yards.<br />
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So that's the why. I'll be writing more soon on the how, and whatever ups and downs this ride may entail. Will try to include photos with those posts. Stay tuned!MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-8737529877411595372013-03-29T13:56:00.001-07:002013-03-29T13:56:32.440-07:00Aw, Shucks - the Fight for Drakes Bay Oyster FarmIf you've been lucky enough to visit the Point Reyes National Seashore, chances are you also made a stop in at the <a href="http://www.drakesbayoyster.com/">Drakes Bay Oyster Farm</a> for some ultra-fresh bi-valves.<br />
Whether you like oysters or not (I don't, but all my friends and relations seem to), it's fun to see Drakes Bay and the fascinating operation run by fourth generation of local family farmers.<br />
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Sadly, that opportunity may not last much longer.<br />
For the last few years, there has been a huge cloud hanging over the community of Drakes supporters - renewal of the lease to operate an aquaculture business within national parks land. Recently, the National Parks Service denied the lease renewal; and now the matter is going to court.<br />
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If you can make it to Petaluma on April Fool's Day (no foolin'!), enjoy some oysters for me at the fundraiser party there. If not, there's a donation button on their site, so you can throw in a few clams to help the cause.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-47786471927312253482013-03-26T19:56:00.001-07:002013-03-26T19:56:18.269-07:00The Art of Cooking for OneWhat do you fix for meals, when it's just you?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcg4o8v0B_b59x5Cys1eEIbf25x_BGd8NeyFq0BgmzEA-HhVS5KihbjY9vZev2y6V3VadAqkn5IPXwlXw5KKNyjj_N0r4gLTil42NACSiLe-kM1_hdnAdMXroMX5uzcetJvmEWNPBOGzI/s1600/IMG_0415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcg4o8v0B_b59x5Cys1eEIbf25x_BGd8NeyFq0BgmzEA-HhVS5KihbjY9vZev2y6V3VadAqkn5IPXwlXw5KKNyjj_N0r4gLTil42NACSiLe-kM1_hdnAdMXroMX5uzcetJvmEWNPBOGzI/s200/IMG_0415.jpg" width="200" /></a>I'm partial to toast with peanut butter and bananas, myself.<br />
But then, I'm a frequent snacker - so that's not a meal. Pair it with guacamole, chips, homemade soda, and some ice cream from the B & J's carton, and you've got a meal.<br />
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Would I serve a guest a meal like that? Nope. And many days, when it's just me in the kitchen, I'd rather serve me an elegant plate with a real entree and side dishes, too.<br />
Saturday night, for instance, I whipped up broiled asparagus, Yukon gold potatoes, and salmon deglazed with fresh orange juice and agave syrup.<br />
While it would have been great to have someone to chat with while snapping asparagus stems, cutting the spuds, etc., the Wailin Jennies on the stereo made for really pleasant company. And flipping through the new edition of Cooking Light kept my restless mind entertained while still paying attention to my plate and enjoying every bite. Not exact substitutes for the great pleasure of good conversation while creating and devouring a meal; but it was a lovely evening.<br />
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The key to cooking well for yourself? Be as thoughtful as you would for a treasured guest. If you would dress the table, use good china, put on music, plate the food elegantly, then do. To show your appreciation, you can always volunteer to do the dishes.<br />
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<br />MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-77204405356444977752013-03-17T13:55:00.000-07:002013-03-17T13:55:40.024-07:00Gluten-free at Jack's PrimeSeveral years ago, I gave a nice <a href="http://www.bite-size-green.com/2009/01/jacks-prime-burgers-and-shakes.html">review to Jack's Prime Burgers and Shakes</a>, in San Mateo, California.<br />
I was wild about their burgers from humanely raised cows and turkeys (plus a really good veggie option), as well as their stellar chocolate shakes.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowhF7vBmYzHTJo2kLVnpbWMzVfLB4FFbDziMlC0euqUVkQUfyvHRn1KRwoB9qV48Twyph26W6MPJuIaBnSLpQZbl-CVH3gOPD-OIOMlrueaVmQ-j4ui5bU1lgmZNfJuSsZk3VSyezn3qd/s1600/100_2270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowhF7vBmYzHTJo2kLVnpbWMzVfLB4FFbDziMlC0euqUVkQUfyvHRn1KRwoB9qV48Twyph26W6MPJuIaBnSLpQZbl-CVH3gOPD-OIOMlrueaVmQ-j4ui5bU1lgmZNfJuSsZk3VSyezn3qd/s320/100_2270.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burgers and a shake at<a href="http://www.jacksprime.com/"> Jack's Prime</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once I gave up eating wheat, I missed the burgers but enjoyed their excellent entree salads.<br />
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Recently I took some red meat and wheat-eating friends to experience Jack's, and was delighted to discover that they have added a gluten free bun option for the burgers. There is no upcharge for the alternative bun; and it's quite good. Better than Udi's, for instance.<br />
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So, now I'm pleased to declare Jack's my personal favorite burger joint.<br />
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<br />MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-55096317613618606382013-03-08T09:00:00.000-08:002013-03-08T09:00:01.626-08:00Leftover Sashimi Tacos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg4obU8GqFq-UjpdrZxZ3CjuIlMMtJmF6cehMfzQbuROzibpIQW_9glOPtAiB7wEKQ6Jh4wzgNN0UcESK5vuyjrmN8-pans-0kmApbP6tUyHTNPXVlRtDvEE-7OUqAba2ED_ar3di69Ef8/s1600/IMG_0407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg4obU8GqFq-UjpdrZxZ3CjuIlMMtJmF6cehMfzQbuROzibpIQW_9glOPtAiB7wEKQ6Jh4wzgNN0UcESK5vuyjrmN8-pans-0kmApbP6tUyHTNPXVlRtDvEE-7OUqAba2ED_ar3di69Ef8/s200/IMG_0407.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Revenge may be a dish best served cold; but day-old sashimi is a dish best served well-cooked.<br />
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In this case, three lovely slabs of raw fish from a local Japanese restaurant with an overly generous bento box lunch became the key ingredient in fish tacos. Sauteed onions, fresh corn tortillas, some spices - and no food poisoning! Delicious.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-81780475488967764062013-03-06T21:59:00.001-08:002013-03-06T21:59:44.502-08:00Microwaved Oats? Not Steel CutInstant oatmeal - the kind you add water to and microwave - meets expectations. Not high expectations; but that's the point. It's a last-resort convenience food, something to keep on hand for near-emergencies. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-l9AOLVvDak_kPfwFmu82WFPToPiuxxbABDcb9G0qjh4yXLhz45OxRGBBl15Acs1ychBiZEk0mkreRzfQTbJUt6vCePTDNpK7r3kdFg3UCDcH3yiFrfxeh3lchSPKXsdEDAzWAwcab4B/s1600/IMG_0402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-l9AOLVvDak_kPfwFmu82WFPToPiuxxbABDcb9G0qjh4yXLhz45OxRGBBl15Acs1ychBiZEk0mkreRzfQTbJUt6vCePTDNpK7r3kdFg3UCDcH3yiFrfxeh3lchSPKXsdEDAzWAwcab4B/s320/IMG_0402.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
But steel cut oats are a slow-cook indulgence. I convenience-ize them by making a large pot on the weekend and reheating portions throughout the next week. That way the lovely slightly chewy texture and full flavor stay intact.<br />
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Recently I found a container of quick-cook steel cut oats, which seemed like a middle ground between the instant mush and the weekend cooking oatmeal option. The packaging gave two options: stovetop boiling for 5 to 7 minutes, or microwaving. The stovetop method yields a bowl of oats almost as nice as the traditional slow-cook variety, in about a third of the time. But the microwave method is another story.<br />
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Beware microwave directions that require stops and starts with stirring in between, and large vessels to prevent boiling over. I have tried this method several times now, in the name of emprical science, and only avoiding the big puddle of spouted oat mess once so far. <br />
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That's enough empiricism for me. By the time you follow the directions properly to avoid the mess, you might as well have pulled out a saucepan and boiled the oats. And if you don't have a stovetop available? Stick with a pouch of the actual instant variety.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-14175306557930251802013-01-01T12:29:00.000-08:002013-01-01T12:29:04.071-08:00Seltzer Rocks in a Bubbly New Year Last night, a champagne toast was perfect.<br />
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<a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=m9/BPlVMDnE&offerid=101418.10000077&type=4&subid=0" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="SodaStream Alternative Consumer Go Green" border="0" src="http://www.sodastreamusa.com/banners/static/sept2009/AC160x600Banner.gif" /></a>
But today it's back to business. So I'm keeping my first resolution - to reduce my plastic waste - by using a seltzer maker to concoct my own 'mixed drinks.'<br />
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In 2012, diet cola was a vice I wanted to shake - and I knew how. I just didn't do it. So starting today, I'm clearing out the last of the Diet Pepsi in the house and filling up the
<a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=m9/BPlVMDnE&offerid=101418.10000023&type=3&subid=0">SodaStream</a> reusable bottles to get them chilling.<br />
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When I need a sparkly drink to go with lunch, I'll fizz the tap water and mix in some 100% grape juice. It reminds me of childhood, that homemade grape soda, of how I remember the sweet elixir in the glass bottles tasted.<br />
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Could I make my own diet cola with this gizmo? Yes. But - fortunately - I just don't care for the diet cola syrup the company offers with its seltzer makers. A couple bottles from the little sampler pack of flavors - root beer, cola, lemon-lime, etc, convinced me that I'm just not much of syrup user.<br />
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If I want the seltzer flavored but not syrupy, however, the little bottle of lemon-lime essence does a really nice job. In fact, that may just supply the answer to how I'll substitute the diet cola I've drinking at the office. That change could just be worth buying a second seltzer maker to keep there. A scary idea, being left with no excuses . . .<br />
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Here's to going well-prepared into a healthier new year!MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-17130063853349799452012-12-29T19:50:00.000-08:002012-12-29T20:30:36.518-08:00Seed Catalog SeasonThe <a href="http://www.cooksgarden.com/">Cook's Garden catalog</a> arrived in the mail this week, just in time for dreaming about Spring.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJcXgpB_-mSRIe07L_rWJleE8MPIbv3SBT6sIMPJbe4uMVBsltu7KtNj7d9X47_7eehtJoTAwxVY6FdkXbiXxF_kmxYaG8DaC4KGmASK6NZCkJKAfuNkEDsiSd-UzrbiwehZcDPGRLgMH/s1600/DSCN2742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJcXgpB_-mSRIe07L_rWJleE8MPIbv3SBT6sIMPJbe4uMVBsltu7KtNj7d9X47_7eehtJoTAwxVY6FdkXbiXxF_kmxYaG8DaC4KGmASK6NZCkJKAfuNkEDsiSd-UzrbiwehZcDPGRLgMH/s320/DSCN2742.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic, dry-farmed Early Girl tomatoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Leafing through it took me back to the winters of my childhood, when the ground was too hard to sink a shovel into and bare trees reached towards bleak skies threatening (or promising, on school nights) snow.<br />
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We'd sprawl in front of the fireplace with catalogs from Burpees and Parks, making our wish lists and trying to imagine the feel of heat and humidity that the photos of verdant gardens evoked.<br />
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These days, I'm not jonesing to turn over damp earth and nestle seedlings into their beds. I'd rather be cooking the ingredients than raising them, a task I leave mostly (and gratefully) to local family farms who bring their produce to my local farmers markets.<br />
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But the Cook's Garden folks seem to know this about me, for they've included tempting recipes and alluring photos. And they've called out the heirlooms and the organics. Now the seed of doubt is germinating - what if I can't find purple asparagus or pink-and-white-swirled chiogga beets at the market?<br />
Perhaps I should try growing just a few things this year . . .<br />
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<br />MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-3889983117737848232012-12-27T07:00:00.000-08:002012-12-27T07:00:08.769-08:00The Kitchen Imp Gets SpicyAre you a serious locavore, but love to cook with flavors from around the world? Then there's two pieces of good news for you:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyWNGnrLQ3nrDip0I4oSszGlzvtF3QfmKvKoGPMExpYPsDv95SW90fYLT91t44F0m5-qJPfffcRn4LN7p491O_4I3yJyvqM1vRDtnwgEUzd94LdstabK5NTPnv8wwDRhMs7Jjneye1Sik/s1600/cardamom+orange+spice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyWNGnrLQ3nrDip0I4oSszGlzvtF3QfmKvKoGPMExpYPsDv95SW90fYLT91t44F0m5-qJPfffcRn4LN7p491O_4I3yJyvqM1vRDtnwgEUzd94LdstabK5NTPnv8wwDRhMs7Jjneye1Sik/s200/cardamom+orange+spice.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of many Kitchen Imp spice mixes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1. Chef Laura Stec, author of Cool Cuisine: Taking the Bite Out of Global Warming, understands just how you feel. She suggests a pragmatic approach - buy your meat, grains, and produce as locally as you can, and save your long-distance purchases for spices and flavorings not available nearby. <br />
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2. The Kitchen Imp, a locavore cook based in Seattle, stands ready to help you spice up your culinary adventures with hand-ground and custom-blended flavorings. When you order from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheKitchenImp">her Etsy store</a>, she'll even include a recipe to fit your selection. And the photos and descriptions alone are worth the visit.<br />
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If you want a glimpse into the Kitchen Imp's magic, pre- or post-order, you can <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheKitchenImp?ref=stream&filter=1">Like the Imp on Facebook</a>.<br />
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MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-8850055164658461242012-12-26T14:13:00.000-08:002012-12-27T13:12:32.773-08:00Last Holiday - Movie ReviewLast Holiday did not make a huge splash at the box office; but for me it's keeper. Maybe it'll become a cult classic.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibgh9MgkDQ_hnaIcYMA6qeFYxdNRLeHujilq8tNJF_-zyCpYwKWIH4SIj8k__CUkZc3Nd1cSDumFBqndtPalRrPkfgA4ySWYH7NFU7LcVkfsdm1Q2bqpNKlAhfGOEP5yY2Z00jj2Ll4Qm/s1600/last+holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibgh9MgkDQ_hnaIcYMA6qeFYxdNRLeHujilq8tNJF_-zyCpYwKWIH4SIj8k__CUkZc3Nd1cSDumFBqndtPalRrPkfgA4ySWYH7NFU7LcVkfsdm1Q2bqpNKlAhfGOEP5yY2Z00jj2Ll4Qm/s200/last+holiday.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch it on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Last-Holiday/dp/B000I52LUY/bitsizgre-20">Amazon Instant Video</a>, too</td></tr>
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Queen Latifah's character, Georgia Byrd, starts out as a self-depriving good girl from New Orleans. She rushes home from her job in a department store, making gourmet dishes while Emeril gives instructions on TV. Then she feeds them to her grateful teenage neighbor while she microwaves herself a diet dinner.<br />
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Pronounced terminally ill, Georgia cashes in her savings and flies off to a posh resort in the Alps, where others mistake her for a jet-setter. There she lives out her dreams, yet manages to keep her values and speak her truth, with some hilarious moments as a result. She gambles in a high-stakes casino, base-jumps, and shows such an appreciation for Chef Didier's cuisine that he invites her into the kitchen to cook with him.<br />
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<b>Spoiler</b><br />
The happy ending involves a realization of her dream to create beautiful food, in a way that affirms her local (hometown) community.<br />
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<b>Summary</b><br />
A fairly predictable vehicle for Queen Latifah - but so delightfully executed that I didn't care. Tellingly, the bad characters don't appreciate good food but only see dining as an extension of personal power.<br />
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<b>Supporting Cast</b><br />
Gerard Depardieu, LL Cool J, Timothy Hutton, and Susan Kellermann particularly sparkle.<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=bitsizgre-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001GMH8TW&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-56527659609568856312012-12-25T12:01:00.000-08:002012-12-25T12:01:48.311-08:00Holiday Tamales de EloteGathering in the kitchen to craft hand-made tamales with fillings to suit every taste is a time-honored family tradition for the holidays. Not my family, and not only the Christmas holiday.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJCE9UqSbwcWHxUkvnMW2pQwi-I0zI7LRD70ZOne5rr_vDVNE0i7ZkFJP9Mz3B9hGt-bzpnb2qLqQrfhDUUqnnCSZ9ARTXO1Hgj2tR0fshZosIX52BiT4-Fwld-DPeFnuYmEuRCXaTw6u/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJCE9UqSbwcWHxUkvnMW2pQwi-I0zI7LRD70ZOne5rr_vDVNE0i7ZkFJP9Mz3B9hGt-bzpnb2qLqQrfhDUUqnnCSZ9ARTXO1Hgj2tR0fshZosIX52BiT4-Fwld-DPeFnuYmEuRCXaTw6u/s320/IMG_0353.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet corn tamale with a sprinkle of cheese, plus crema</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Still, when I saw sweet corn tamales for sale in the local mercado latino, I knew right away what the perfect Christmas breakfast would be. Tamales de elote can be eaten as lunch or dinner, plated elegantly on a thin layer of salsa verde and drizzled with crema.<br />
<br />
Or they can be found at street markets, like the one where I first tried them. Fresh off a plane from Seattle, I wandered the market overdue for breakfast. The sweet corn tamales smelled so good, I couldn't resist - and what a revelation!<br />
<br />
Most of the time, one finds tamales of simple masa harina filled with savory or spicy meat or cheese mixtures. Whether in an open air market, at home, or in a restaurant, the sweet corn variety are a rare find. For me they will also be a treat, and especially good as a late morning breakfast.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-86959256816086088552012-10-31T22:30:00.000-07:002012-10-31T22:30:05.342-07:00Spooktacular BrainsIf you are what you eat, this Halloween treat will make you brainier by the spoonful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhC68A522TAQjTQQlvBmhH0oaU6YU6goVxrWObN1_gwtu8QabZYvLAyhj_E-5eH3HjCujXzzEg5cGa_uSrXid5GEBbYXHAqbJMKFOTxL24eLfqGe1nxHl3SsMv79xZ8-BfsPyu8Y4tpxR/s1600/PICT0083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhC68A522TAQjTQQlvBmhH0oaU6YU6goVxrWObN1_gwtu8QabZYvLAyhj_E-5eH3HjCujXzzEg5cGa_uSrXid5GEBbYXHAqbJMKFOTxL24eLfqGe1nxHl3SsMv79xZ8-BfsPyu8Y4tpxR/s320/PICT0083.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's ghoulishly delicious, and delightfully jiggly.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-86655190235199942642012-10-30T10:53:00.000-07:002012-10-30T10:53:58.876-07:00Halloween Bag Monster CostumeIt's not too late to be something truly frightening for Halloween - the Bag Monster!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBb-vqXx23aoP2wisoW-zgy0v7Zk4KGrVl-oFY_7FA8fN0zc0ojXs1KvKqEJozagukZEZogAqwAOu5yOOkkPM7gcedEOxXmosSZLLT0mkwtcmlc4mPjzCwGlGxQW8eiibHYztmcdAjjdp/s1600/bag+monster.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBb-vqXx23aoP2wisoW-zgy0v7Zk4KGrVl-oFY_7FA8fN0zc0ojXs1KvKqEJozagukZEZogAqwAOu5yOOkkPM7gcedEOxXmosSZLLT0mkwtcmlc4mPjzCwGlGxQW8eiibHYztmcdAjjdp/s320/bag+monster.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Can you find some old clothes (if you don't have a Tyvek suit at home) and rustle up 500 plastic bags? Sadly, most of us only have to ask a few friends and neighbors to come up with the bag supply on short notice.<br />
Then just follow these simple directions: <a href="http://smchealth.org/BagMonsterCostume">http://smchealth.org/BagMonsterCostume</a><br />
<br />
The suit will keep you warm and dry (but be careful - it's not wise to drive while wearing it). And if enough people in your social circles see the Monster this year, by next Halloween it may be difficult to rustle up enough bags to make another costume.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-9348637929727492122012-10-29T21:51:00.000-07:002012-10-29T21:51:58.641-07:00Andale at SFOGetting ready to board my flight from Terminal 2 at SFO, my bleary pre-dawn brain saw the sign for Andale cafe and couldn't quite process it. Familiar, yet . . . out of place.<br />
Ahh - the Google shoot!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTc0uXFmHH3mxPxhBr5NdaiTphSjcgk7YxQi2Otv8wxv5YVMVWcUmHxD1ATWIzxkIKo6GV3d7jcsdLZZkMYiGs1qoNsYXIyJVUkdH2AbwBgERfpfaEv9lbTX4ytKpHt2bWCwjkmnRIgVb/s1600/PICT0083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTc0uXFmHH3mxPxhBr5NdaiTphSjcgk7YxQi2Otv8wxv5YVMVWcUmHxD1ATWIzxkIKo6GV3d7jcsdLZZkMYiGs1qoNsYXIyJVUkdH2AbwBgERfpfaEv9lbTX4ytKpHt2bWCwjkmnRIgVb/s320/PICT0083.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hadn't realized there was more than one Andale when we shot the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1OabdWe_h8">Google's Green Gourmets</a> episode.<br />
<br />
At SFO, it was too early too find out if the menu was prepared as well as at the Googleplex. Possibly. But I'm certain no one gets to eat at this one for free, not even with a Google employee badge.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-21264250090604715012012-10-10T21:19:00.000-07:002012-10-10T21:19:38.049-07:00Steampunks and Food TrucksWhat do steampunks eat? (Besides tea and crumpets, of course.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSoYo3HeaZjbMisNNFAK978WlAzKOV1GUPszc8SHNCXL-828MXcLl4xGknEu96_nNkWE-WxuFi5Ok1xjqAwmdouoMyRS5tP-XK8sZuGPCM_oY5xWbfSu6l-5W3dI7leifo0J3qMA1e1IS/s1600/IMG_0334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSoYo3HeaZjbMisNNFAK978WlAzKOV1GUPszc8SHNCXL-828MXcLl4xGknEu96_nNkWE-WxuFi5Ok1xjqAwmdouoMyRS5tP-XK8sZuGPCM_oY5xWbfSu6l-5W3dI7leifo0J3qMA1e1IS/s320/IMG_0334.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Well, if they are out at Craneway Pavillion in Richmond, CA after the Boilerhouse restaurant has closed, and they want to enjoy the first ever <a href="http://www.steamstock.org/">Steamstock music festival</a> until all hours, they might subsist on any fare available.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, the <a href="http://www.nakedchorizo.com/">Naked Chorizo food truck</a> allows one to not merely subsist but thrive. In addition to chorizo, they offer traditional Phillipine dishes such as lumpia and chicken adobo, as well as a yummy Arroz a la Cubana. <br />
<br />
So all the fans of alternate histories got to travel around the world as well as through time, without ever leaving the festival. A delicious happenstance, indeed.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-59228958467951189092012-09-14T12:13:00.000-07:002012-09-14T12:13:00.094-07:00Hot Harvest Nights Cool OffJust a few weeks ago, I stopped by my favorite local farmers' market after work, and really felt the "hot" in hot harvest nights. At 6pm, it was 90 degrees outside! The market was bustling with shoppers, and full of vendors with height-of-summer produce like tomatoes, eggplant, corn and zucchini. Since then, the days have shortened noticeably and the temperatures have dropped to autumn cool levels.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyH5b8jjLedsGWq-MLBz0OnvrIFmbSGrkCOJbOQWpvLoVkQ1j-yc9RQd7-ynuFq3wJEFpgpH5mrmMdtVciJOv0q2jb2iKl9qwTAfQN5WsKutAHQtsgUhwnyV_Heb3crUSG8VTdiQVzNyTF/s1600/HotHarvestNight.jpg.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyH5b8jjLedsGWq-MLBz0OnvrIFmbSGrkCOJbOQWpvLoVkQ1j-yc9RQd7-ynuFq3wJEFpgpH5mrmMdtVciJOv0q2jb2iKl9qwTAfQN5WsKutAHQtsgUhwnyV_Heb3crUSG8VTdiQVzNyTF/s1600/HotHarvestNight.jpg.png" /></a></div>
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This market is one of the Peninsula's many locations that keeps a short season, opening in May and closing down in late September. (I hope to catch the very last one, this coming Thursday.) Last year, I wrote an <a href="http://sanbruno.patch.com/articles/how-to-manage-the-changing-seasons-of-farmers-markets">article for Patch.com</a> about where to find markets open year-round, or later into the fall. Now I'll need to consult it again, myself.<br />
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While I always feel a bit sad when Hot Harvest Nights shutters for the winter, there is something that feels appropriately seasonal about the decision. Set up on the main street of San Carlos, with businesses on either side, the good light falling on the vendors visibly wanes in the last few weeks of the market season. Could the city bring in lights and draw shoppers throughout the fall and winter? Probably. But the crowds would certainly thin, along with the lovely anticipation of the market's re-opening in May.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-2447938034322036652012-07-31T20:29:00.000-07:002012-07-31T20:29:34.641-07:00Roller Derby Snacks with Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoETfUQaHyKlJbEF4xRpzpY9YNI3LWcpr02E7vyg6G7bYnDz8aSMeCdxRgxUieXKXPqHHjGwRbwK-lmoGcLRB44Aw3kFoGskv3_f8A7O14-xWLlbSGrCoysyI46h6O7lCbzIjHmUI-pCP/s1600/IMG_0179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoETfUQaHyKlJbEF4xRpzpY9YNI3LWcpr02E7vyg6G7bYnDz8aSMeCdxRgxUieXKXPqHHjGwRbwK-lmoGcLRB44Aw3kFoGskv3_f8A7O14-xWLlbSGrCoysyI46h6O7lCbzIjHmUI-pCP/s200/IMG_0179.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Roller derby is a vigorous spectator sport, calling for sustenance to sustain the raucous cheering, clapping and sign-waving involved in being a worthy crowd. Enter the Penny Roller, the <a href="http://www.peninsularollergirls.org/">Peninsula Roller Girls</a> peripatetic purveyor of snacks.<br />
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Roaming the throngs of beer and soda drinkers, she offers the perfect salty or sweet compliments at only a dollar a serving. Like McDonald's at the Olympic Village, this fare is not meant as fuel for the athletes, but treats for the loyal supporters of our homegrown team.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-25821419943705978472012-07-30T22:42:00.000-07:002012-07-30T22:42:39.733-07:00A Melon Named CharleneTwo reasons (among so many) to love your local farmer's market:<br />
1. Really ripe, just-picked produce<br />
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2. Varieties of fruits and veggies you've never heard of before<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSOaQn6V_U4zdvCRoSNfYeN0P5QjZsoWJIx02flZsSVLtbNnNrzsXWZSHQbo0T4XSrbdK3HUkO1IBNpuVTHRl0-1hjRxbMQzgkRes8Vo_rIlMWJmAEKuYP6G7pq0nm7Nu6hb50cqqxw9gp/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSOaQn6V_U4zdvCRoSNfYeN0P5QjZsoWJIx02flZsSVLtbNnNrzsXWZSHQbo0T4XSrbdK3HUkO1IBNpuVTHRl0-1hjRxbMQzgkRes8Vo_rIlMWJmAEKuYP6G7pq0nm7Nu6hb50cqqxw9gp/s320/IMG_0194.JPG" width="320" /></a>After weeks of picking up cantaloupes in the grocery store, and being disappointed that they'd come off the vine so early the stem spots were still hard and no real aroma came off them, I was delighted to find a small, yellow-orange melon at my local farmers' market. I picked it up and the sweet smell leaped towards me. The sign by it read "Charlene." Never heard of that type before, but how can I resist a melon that self-advertises so vigorously?<br />
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Charlene was delicious - delicate and a little flowery in flavor. And she told me a joke, too:<br />
Did you hear about the family with the sad puppy? It was a Melon Collie.<br />
(Really, don't blame me for that one. Terrible puns are Charlene's only natural defense system.)MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-2080594553559521832012-07-22T21:47:00.000-07:002012-07-22T21:47:33.812-07:00PB Chocolate Chip Cookies, Take 2<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9hhFZLFS3hN3hn3n42jjtmxPbl736atk0Re7SCP9zcdYOqqi75T9q49wR2kfPi03Hqktl37XWRcF-On6IStZf8M0rlhh34rk1rnJW5ZJ-8VGByDzWIY4V8Ex13CygWZV6fbxrDRe9NTeu/s1600/IMG_0186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9hhFZLFS3hN3hn3n42jjtmxPbl736atk0Re7SCP9zcdYOqqi75T9q49wR2kfPi03Hqktl37XWRcF-On6IStZf8M0rlhh34rk1rnJW5ZJ-8VGByDzWIY4V8Ex13CygWZV6fbxrDRe9NTeu/s320/IMG_0186.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Batch 2 in front of Batch 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Batch 2 of the garbanzo bean-based peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies came out really well! This time we followed <a href="http://www.texanerin.com/2012/04/grain-free-peanut-butter-chocolate-chip.html">Texanerin's recipe</a>, but with three modifications.<br />
<br />
First, we upped the peanut butter to almost half a cup.<br />
Second, we used a little gluten-free flour (1/8 cup coconut flour and 1/4 cup almond flour) to make them a little more cakey and a little less doughy. Even that small amount stiffened the batter up enough that the food processor strained to mix it.<br />
So we added a 1/4 cup of water, which took care of that issue.<br />
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Overall, I preferred the flavor and texture of this batch to the first. (As a side benefit, the dough was also less sticky, easy to scoop and drop onto the cookie sheet.) My co-conspirator and fellow taster, however, preferred the first batch.<br />
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Next time, we'll skip the coconut flour and halve the water. But for now, I'm delighted.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-43773094770353066942012-07-15T13:42:00.000-07:002012-07-15T13:43:03.515-07:00Gluten-free PB and Chocolate Cookies, Take 1Cookies make with a garbanzo bean base, and no flour?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2kocDVD0vifCBz8DHQ6InC-T_cAx9llUt4FWGsNewvuS5DEi0v_t_ENygmdHgrUrUadeepkYgtxa7EeXbB9jg1sHh2C_NsH8wCwiGthXA9LiOMr6ExLRPitDBYFj1eq4yzgcjPj9Xc1d/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2kocDVD0vifCBz8DHQ6InC-T_cAx9llUt4FWGsNewvuS5DEi0v_t_ENygmdHgrUrUadeepkYgtxa7EeXbB9jg1sHh2C_NsH8wCwiGthXA9LiOMr6ExLRPitDBYFj1eq4yzgcjPj9Xc1d/s320/IMG_0174.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first batch - not so pretty, but just as tasty</td></tr>
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Once again, Pinterest proves the power of the picture. If I hadn't seen the luscious-looking photo of gluten-free peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies there, I wouldn't have given the recipe a fair chance. But I tracked back to the source, <a href="http://www.texanerin.com/2012/04/grain-free-peanut-butter-chocolate-chip.html">Texanerin Baking</a>, and found not just instructions but also her notes and more yummy photos.<br />
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If you like your cookies to stay malleable and more 'doughy' when they've cooled, this recipe may meet all your needs. For me, next time I plan to up the peanut butter slightly, and add a little brown rice flour, to compensate for the increased oil and also give them a slightly more 'cakey' feel.<br />
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But don't take my propensity to tinker as criticism - these are tasty treats that seem pretty healthy. (When I report on Take 2, I'll add my estimates for calories, fat, protein, sugar, and carbs.) Try 'em!MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-44292645201108672932012-06-30T16:41:00.002-07:002012-06-30T16:41:45.308-07:00Fabulous Food Photos on PinterestWarning: may be habit forming.<br />
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Pinterest has added a new dimension to my love affair with food - photos, photos, photos.<br />
Not a lot of links to recipes for the items shown; but they are inspirational nonetheless.<br />
<br />
Sometimes I have ingredients, and go a Googling to find a recipe to put them to creative use.<br />
Sometimes I find a recipe, usually in the paper or a magazine, and just reading through the ingredient list gives me the nudge to get up and put something new together.<br />
<br />
But photos of food on Pinterest (a social media site, where each account holder 'pins' photos found on the internet to their digital scrapbook, which other account holders can see, comment on, and even 'repin' to their own accounts' 'boards') work some other part of my brain. That part where images live, I guess, apart from words or smells or even the memory of foods indulged in in the past.<br />
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When I scan through a board of food pins, not everything looks good to me. And I don't have an irrepressible urge to get up and cook. I just re-pin what looks most attractive to my own board, titled Fabulous Food, and know I can go there any time for inspiration.<br />
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Soon I should be going back through my recipe posts here, pinning the photos from them, and giving folks on Pinterest a link to my recipe, in case the photo inspires them to make the dish.<br />
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Want to see what's in my scrapbook so far? Just visit http://pinterest.com/steamtour/MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-26087441847682156462012-06-29T22:01:00.000-07:002012-06-29T22:01:24.697-07:00Polenta Indoors or OutPolenta, which many Americans know as cornmeal mush, makes a quick and easy alternative to rice or mashed potatoes. It makes a nice side dish (especially with herbs and cheese added), or a base for a savory dish like ratatouille.<br />
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<b>Ingredients and Amounts</b><br />
Most stovetop recipes call for a 1 to 3 or 4 ratio, such as 1 cup coarse cornmeal to 3 or 4 cups water. Salt varies according to taste, additions, and the entrée planned.<br />
The recipe for solar cooking found in Cooking with Sunshine calls for 1.5 to 3.5; but I liked it with more water for a softer consistency.<br />
<br />
<b>In the Solar Oven:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Measure cornmeal and place in a mixing bowl</li>
<li>Add salt</li>
<li>Pour water into bowl and stir</li>
<li>Place in solar cooker for 1 – 2 hours</li>
<li>Stir occasionally, and check to make sure it does not dry out</li>
</ul>
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<b>Stovetop Method:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Measure cornmeal and place in a mixing bowl</li>
<li>Add salt</li>
<li>Pour 1 cup water into bowl and stir</li>
<li>Heat rest of water in a saucepan to boiling, then pour wet mix in and stir well</li>
<li>Bring to boil, then stir and reduce heat to low</li>
<li>Simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally (10 -15 minutes)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Variations</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>In place of water, vegetable or chicken stock can be used (watch the salt!).</li>
<li>For a richer, creamier version, replace some water with milk and add a little butter.</li>
<li>For savory flair, add sautéed onions, roasted garlic or red peppers, cheese, fresh basil, or other herbs.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Serving </b><br />
The easiest way is to place on a plate or bowl while still soft and hot.<br />
As a gourmet alternative, spoon the hot mix into a pan, smooth out and chill. Then bake or top and heat to serve.<br />
Baked polenta can be used as a gluten-free alternative to pasta, for instance layering with sauce and cheese in a variation on lasagna.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-47086730958376691952012-06-28T15:35:00.000-07:002012-06-28T15:35:48.814-07:00Eating your own Trash? Food for Thought.An intriguing info-graphic that brings home the health issues created by plastic waste.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mastersdegree.net/ocean-garbage/"><img alt="Ocean of Garbage" border="0" src="http://images.mastersdegree.net.s3.amazonaws.com/ocean-of-garbage.gif" width="500" /></a><br />
Created by: <a href="http://www.mastersdegree.net/">MastersDegree.net</a>MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-14248761814719008732012-04-30T21:59:00.000-07:002012-04-30T21:59:33.064-07:00Let the Strawberry Bonanza Begin!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgAoXRbZYoizqyBfZ-Nppi3_RqLdv7y6GgeS-Jzr5EIow45bwLencAkvhkOBUO4d0sySyWbhKXVhO31Vn4vRsqCAHX2DiN_OhqU2jw5DQP_2EuKeX9LAko6Skm-rGqTJc-cOT12IGs5NkH/s1600/Zi6_9905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgAoXRbZYoizqyBfZ-Nppi3_RqLdv7y6GgeS-Jzr5EIow45bwLencAkvhkOBUO4d0sySyWbhKXVhO31Vn4vRsqCAHX2DiN_OhqU2jw5DQP_2EuKeX9LAko6Skm-rGqTJc-cOT12IGs5NkH/s200/Zi6_9905.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frosty freezer strawberries</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After years of living in the Bay Area, the start of strawberry season still takes me by surprise. April just seems so early. But the berries in my local farmers' markets are the real deal; and they are plentiful.<br />
This weekend I bought a three-basket set of organics, and enjoyed passing them out to neighbors on the way home. Then I ate some more, froze a bunch, and well - snacked on some more.<br />
The frozen ones make great ice cubes, as well as smoothie and yogurt parfait ingredients.<br />
Best of all? From now until the seasons wanes in early fall (really! it's that long), they just get sweeter. This year, I pledge to find even more ways to enjoy them.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6068444569118991720.post-26943236905734219392012-04-28T16:16:00.000-07:002012-04-28T16:16:28.149-07:00Tuscan Bean DipCannellini, also known as white kidney beans, are the star of any Tuscan bean dip. They provide the creamy base, to which just about anything complementary can be added for spice or texture.<br />
They are also remarkably healthy. One 15-oz can has 0 grams of fat, 35 grams of fiber, 28 grams of protein, and only 3.5 grams sugar. They are also rich in calcium and iron.<br />
<br />
You won't want to eat a whole batch yourself - it's too filling - but you could, without guilt.<br />
<br />
<b>Key Ingredients</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 15-oz can of cannellini beans, partially drained</li>
<li>2 cloves garlic (or two cubes frozen, or 2 Tbsp from a jar)</li>
<li>Cumin, to taste</li>
<li>Italian herbs (fresh, if possible; otherwise dried) to taste</li>
<li>1 Tbsp olive oil (unless you use an option, below, that has oil in it)</li>
<li>Salt, to taste</li>
<li>Optional Ingredients:</li>
<li>6 to 8 good black olives (such as kalamatas)</li>
<li>Roasted red peppers</li>
<li>Dried tomatoes</li>
<li>Parsley</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Easy Prep Steps</b><br />
Toss the key ingredients into a food processor, and blend til smooth.<br />
Add any optional ingredients desired, and blend lightly to leave some small chunks for texture and color.<br />
Taste and adjust.<br />
<br />
<b>Serving Tips</b><br />
As a dip: <br />
* Pretzel chips, pita chips and thin bread slices all work well.<br />
<br />
As a sandwich spread: <br />
* Toast slices of a good bread (an artisanal olive or rosemary, for instance)<br />
* Spead a layer on, as thin or thick as you prefer<br />
* Top with raw or roasted veggies, such as sweet red peppers<br />
* Enjoy open-faced, or with a top.MB Austinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02687690209387791171noreply@blogger.com0