Foodie Friday : Winter Salad Binging

There's #FoodieFriday, #FollowFriday, #FriendlyFollow … whatever! It's the weekend!  Just pick a food and drink topic to share and run with it! 

Connie Guttersen, author, dietitian, nutritionist, a lady on Twitter (@ConnieGuttersen) inspired me to pick salad for my topic.  She shared a Tweet (below) about all the different kinds of lettuce that are “worthy”.  Appreciated the info, but from there it was a leap into “winter salads”. Why? Because during the cold months, salad is not always on my menu. Bowls and bowls of warm and hearty soups. Yes!  But salad? Not so much.  That has to change.

Lettuce is lettuce, right? Not so fast! Some lettuces (like iceberg) have 0 nutrients, while others are worthy to be included in your salad. pic.twitter.com/2zAdfzUpLq

— Connie Guttersen (@ConnieGuttersen) October 3, 2016

Raw Vegan Blood Orange Winter Salad Recipe (frivolousgirl.com)

Oldie but a goodie: Raw Vegan Blood Orange Winter Salad Recipe https://t.co/oSeh5UzxCZ
#bblogger #greenbeauty

— Isabel Ⓥ (@frivolousgirl_) October 26, 2016

Click for More Winter Salad Recipes

Foodie Friday : Apples and Pumpkins

Autumn is the season for apples and pumpkins.  My favorite recipes are apple cobbler and pumpkin pie, which (in my humble opinion) are true American holiday cuisine.  I enjoy these desserts for both Thanksgiving and Christmas.

FUN FACTS:

Cobblers originated in the British American colonies.  "The earliest recipe dates from 1824. Apple Cobbler – Cobblers (stewed fruit topped with batter, biscuit, or dumplings) originated in the British American colonies with the term “cobbler” recorded in 1859. Cobblers can be made with any type of fruit or berry and are also known as slumps, grunts, and pandowdy." (SOURCE: M. E. Bond)

A cobbler is not the same as Crisp, Crumble, Betty, Or Buckle?  What's the difference?  "Cobblers are a fruit dessert baked with biscuit-style topping. It's called a cobbler because its top crust is not smooth like a pie crust but rather “cobbled” and coarse. It's usually dropped or spooned over the fruit, then baked. Individual fruit cobblers." (SOURCE: Farmers' Almanac)

"Northeastern Native American tribes grew squash and pumpkins. The Native Americans brought pumpkins as gifts to the first settlers, and taught them the many uses for pumpkin. This led to serving pumpkin pie at the first Thanksgiving in America about 50 years later." (SOURCE: The History Behind Pumpkin Pie)

• Easy Apple Cobbler Recipe (Perfect Fall Dessert) - A Cozy Kitchen 

• Easiest-Ever Pumpkin Pie Recipe – Pillsbury.com 

Do you have a favorite recipe using these ingredients?

BONUS QUESTION:  Which do you prefer to top your apple cobbler or your pumpkin pie?

• Scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Huge squirt of whipped cream
• Other topping

History of Baked Fruit Desserts Like Buckle, Pandowdy, and Cobbler

Pumpkin Pie! A History!

Previous 5 Foodie Friday Posts;

YACR (Yet Another Chili Recipe)

Figs ~ Enjoy a Coconut Fig Slice

Childhood Memories:  COTTON CANDY

Upside-Down Cakes

Dinner Idea: Chicken with Blackberry Salsa

Mushroom: Real Food of Fantasy and Fairy Tales

When one says the word “mushroom” it might provoke various thoughts. Psychedelic dreams.  Fantasy and fairy tales.  Tiny homes for whimsical creatures.  A meat substitute for vegans and vegetarians.

For me, it provokes a memory of a romantic dinner date.  My first experience tasting a mushroom was when my late husband (my fiancé at the time) prepared dinner for me.  Steak with mushroom gravy. 

Before meeting my husband, I avoided mushrooms for two reasons.

~Number 1:  My mother never used them in any of her recipes.  Mom didn’t cook them. (???)  Maybe they don’t taste good.  (O.o)

~Number 2:  The way people describe mushrooms.  Fungus.  Toadstool.  They don’t make the mushroom sound appetizing or visually appealing.

However, many cooks and chefs use the mushroom as the main ingredient in their recipes.  Foodies are happy to share photos of amazing dishes where mushrooms are the star of the show.  

As for being visually appealing, mushrooms are quite beautiful. 

Artists often use them to illustrate fantasies. 

Nature photographers go insane! They capture incredible pics just roaming through the woods or the fields.

My first time eating mushrooms was over 40 years.  But from that day forward, I didn’t need convincing to make mushrooms a part of my diet.  However, in case you do, perhaps this health article by Popular Science will persuade you.  “4 reasons you should eat more mushrooms”.


It's good to know these reasons why, but the most important thing everybody needs to know about mushrooms is that some of them are NOT edible.  No doubt you will find these information links useful.

10 of the World's Deadliest Mushrooms - WorldAtlas.com

14 Types of Mushrooms and their Uses – Epicurious

glitter-graphics.com

Did You Know There is Such a Thing as a BLUE MUSHROOM?

SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL MUSHROOM MONTH!

Content first appeared at Virily.com

♦

Foodie Friday : Pesto Around the World

Going to take aim at pesto for my foodie Friday topic.  Another wonderful delight for enlivening salads, adorning sandwiches, dressing pasta … you name it! Always sing the praises of salsa. This time, doing a song and dance routine for pesto.

Hear the word pesto and one usually always thinks Italian. Right? But different cultures have their own version of pesto. Africa. Mexico. Australia. This link is an awesome foodie find! Not only does it tell you the main ingredients in everybody's version but it introduced me to a new word. “Permaculture”.

Preserving With Pesto – It’s Not Rocket Science

Preserving With Pesto - It's Not Rocket Science

Wheatgrass Pesto Recipe | inSpiral

Wheatgrass Pesto Recipe | inSpiral

Here is a quick recipe for Raw Wheatgrass Pesto, using our premium, organic, raw super food powder. This will m ake your taste buds go wild! Adds a good dose of vitality to any diet. Made in a blender there is virtually any preparation to do! Just the way we like it!

Mexican Pesto Recipe by emilie_ 1 - Key Ingredient

Thai Basil Pesto

Thai Basil Pesto

This one's for my Thai lovers. But before I even start talking Thai basil pesto, I feel moved to have a little rant about how much I love Thai food. It's like an instant exotic vacation right in my kitchen.

Raw Macadamia Pesto | Vegan Semi-Dried Tomato Pesto | The Blender Girl

Raw Macadamia Pesto | Vegan Semi-Dried Tomato Pesto | The Blender Girl

This raw vegan semi-dried tomato and macadamia pesto is super easy and seriously delicious. Just throw everything into your food processor.

African Blue Basil and Lavender Pesto

African Blue Basil and Lavender Pesto

Combine all ingredients, except cheese, in bowl of food processor. Process, adding additional oil or water, until desired consistency is reached. Stir in cheese. Use immediately or store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. (Tip: pesto can also be frozen in ice cube trays.)

Chimichurri Pesto Sauce - Culinary Envy

Chimichurri Pesto Sauce - Culinary Envy

Chimichurri Pesto Sauce combines Italian parsley, cilantro and basil with jalapeño and parmesan cheese. It is vibrant, nutty and tangy. Perfect for pasta. I will never forget the first time I tried Chimichurri Sauce. It was at my incredibly talented friend Bibi's home. She had me over for dinner and prepared the most mouth-watering steak.

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Content first appeared at Persona Paper on July 27, 2015.


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Foodie Friday : World Cuisine : Cooking : The Right Blend of Spices for Cajun Food Lovers

Enjoy Everyday Exotic Spices Every Day!

If you are a spicy food lover then more than likely Cajun food is on your list of most awesome world cuisines ever! Right? But you don’t know just the right blend of spices needed get that authentic spicy Cajun flavor. Also right. Huh?

Image credit: © Photographer: Ppy2010ha | Agency: Dreamstime.com
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Ever tried Slap Ya Mama seasonings?

Interesting name huh?. The way Walker & Sons advertise their food products is:

"Taste so good. Make you wanna slap ya mama!"

Say what??!! There is nothing in my entire life that I've eaten that ever made me want to slay my momma. But guess what? These are award-winning spice blends.

"Real Cajun Seasoning for Real Cajun Cooking."

How did I find out about these products? The Internet and Facebook, in particular, is a beautiful thing. This person saw my foodie website, Everyday Exotic Spices, which is advertised on Facebook via my business page, contacted me, and asked if they could send me samples. Of course, my response was “Yes!”
Received various products in a box delivered straight to my door. Tried them in different recipes and here's my reaction. Did I want to slap my momma? No. But I was ready go mano-y-mano with my spouse!
He wanted to keep it all to himself. I'm like: “Oh no! That ain't happening!!”

View the entire selection of Slap Ya Mama products.

Below are my favorites.

Slap Ya Mama Original Blend Seasoning

Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning White Pepper Blend

Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning Hot Blend

Slap Ya Mama Etouffee Sauce

"Étouffée or etouffee (pronounced: [e.tu.fe] ay-TOO-fay) is a dish found in both Cajun and Creole cuisine typically served with shellfish over rice." (Source: Wikipedia)

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Links of Interest:
Cajun Food History and Louisiana Creole Cuisine History
Cajun vs. Creole: What’s The Difference?

Hope you enjoyed this post.

Image credit: © Photographer: Moneca1 | Agency: Dreamstime.com

Previous #FoodieFriday posts? Indian Food: Hot n Spicy Samosas (Reblog)  Candied Jalapeño Peppers  Chinese New Year Recipes and Dishes  Pesto Around the World  Experiencing the Joy of Salsa   Spice Spotlight: Cinnamon  It's Flipping Foodie Friday!  Raw Coconut Fig Slice (Reblog)  Winter Salad Binging  Banana Brownies - Back for Seconds  Cool Foodies and Food Lovers Celebrating Their “Firsts” on Twitter

Foodie Friday : Experience the Joy of Salsa

There was once a time when the recipe for fresh salsa was simply diced tomatoes, onions, green bell peppers, lime juice, red pepper or a jalapeno pepper, salt to taste; cilantro, optional. I love salsa!  It's a great way to eat your veggies.  Several years back, I moved into a new neighborhood and was at the local grocery store. Walked down an aisle and on the shelves were bottles of every kind of salsa imaginable.

This week's Foodie Friday focus is on salsa!

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La Salsa Speciale del Chef

Some of them were made with sweet fruits like mangoes and peaches! Oh the wonder of it all! Had no idea salsa came in that many flavors. Gave me all kinds of foodie ideas. Sharing some recipes.. 

Why keep all these delicious delights to myself?

• 7 Delicious Salsa Recipes
• Black-Eyed Pea Salsa Recipe: How to Make It
• Cilantro Lime Grille Chicken with Strawberry Salsa (pic below)

Originally published at Persona Paper on Jul 3, 2015.

Sharing a bit of salsa heaven!  

Recipes found around the web.

Wild Beet Salad Company makes Wild Beet Salsa

Recipe: Roasted Pineapple Salsa (thekitchn .com)

#Recipe: Roasted Pineapple Salsa — Recipes from #TheKitchn https://t.co/uIFEtndKUY pic.twitter.com/0bJCHDwhDv

— Zesty Recipes (@zesty_recipes) May 2, 2016

Blackened Tomatillo Poblano Salsa With Habanero

17 Savory Salsa Recipes

Mango Pomegranate & Tender Coconut Salsa

Apple Salsa – Spicy, Fresh, Perfect for Fall

Foodie Friday : Banana Brownies - Back for Seconds

Scanning pins on Pinterest and came across one pin shared by food blogger, Stephanie Brubaker, (original link) that made me start looking for recipe variations. Being that it's also #foodiefriday, it's also a perfect excuse to do a little detective work.  Brownies are on my list of fave foods, right along with cheesecake. But most of the brownies I enjoy are chocolate.  Never heard of a Banana Brownie. Have you?

Now it's imperative to know how many other different kinds of brownies are out there in wonderful world of food.  :)

Do you have a brownie recipe
that's not like any other?

Banana Brownies - Back for Seconds

Kelly Senyei, Just a Taste, came up with a recipe that combines three desserts into one.  Three guilty pleasures in one?  What a brilliant mind!!  :)

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe


Found this delightful treat at Kirbie’s Cravings.

Cookies and Cream Brownies


Cookies and Cream Brownies



 Another Kellie shared her recipe for vegans at her blog, Food to Glow.

Tahini Swirl Chocolate Brownies (immune-boosting and grain-free + vegan option).  [Miley Cyrus (super vegan) would be so proud of her! :)]

Tahini Swirl Chocolate Brownies (immune-boosting and grain-free + vegan option)




*This one from a fellow blogger on Blogspot, Nook & Pantry.

Green Tea Cheesecake White Chocolate Brownie



Green Tea Cheesecake White Chocolate Brownie



Blinking arrow found at glitter-graphics.com

Spinach Brownies  (???) OK!

Netflix Series: Korean Fried Chicken Rhapsody

This is the fifth (and final) post highlighting the programs in the Netflix Rhapsody series tracing the origins and evolution of the Korean cuisine that we enjoy today.

Korean Fried Chicken Rhapsody (2024)

In the USA, fried chicken is Southern food comfort and everybody brags that they have perfected the best recipe ever! Not trying to diss my Southern friends and kinfolk, but Korean fried chicken, affectionately referred to as KFC, is a global sensation. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy meat on the inside, with bold flavors, and the recipe has variations. 

One of the most popular variations is yangnyeom chicken, which is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made from a combination of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. This sticky flavorful sauce clings to the crispy chicken. (Admit it! You’re drooling aren’t you?) 

Another variation is ganjang chicken, glazed with a savory soy sauce-based marinade and garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. As can be seen in Korean dramas, it’s a social food served at gatherings, accompanied by beer or soju (Korean rice liquor). Fried chicken restaurants in Korea are known as chimaek joints.

Original source

Funtable Delicious Korean Chicken Sauce (14.1oz, Pack of 1) - Authentic Korean Flavor, Sticky & Tangy Sauce. https://t.co/MAplOZRHWB
Garlic Soy Sauce (14.1oz, Pack of 1) - Authentic Garlic Flavored Sweet Sauce, https://t.co/Lfiq42OEAh
via @amazon #grocery #fun #food #foodies pic.twitter.com/pdZl2z3XnJ

— Everyday Exotic Spices Presents Food Ways (@EverydaySpices) June 5, 2024

Netflix Series: Korean Jjajangmyeon Rhapsody (2024)

This is the fourth post highlighting the programs in the Netflix Rhapsody series tracing the origins and evolution of the Korean cuisine that we enjoy today.

Korean Jjajangmyeon Rhapsody (2024)

Korean Jjajangmyeon has been described as a culinary experience that embodies the fusion of Korean and Chinese flavors. It is a popular Korean-Chinese noodle dish characterized by its savory black bean sauce. In “Wok of Love” this dish is mentioned frequently. 

Originating from Chinese immigrants in Korea, and is now a staple of Korean cuisine. The dish consists of chewy wheat noodles topped with a thick, glossy sauce made from chunjang, a Korean black bean paste. The sauce is typically stir-fried with diced beef or pork, onions, zucchini, and other vegetables. The blend of umami-rich black bean paste black bean paste, savory meat, and sweet caramelized vegetables can be described as pure harmony and that’s why it is a beloved comfort food. People enjoy it as a standalone meal but can also be paired with other Korean-Chinese dishes.

• Jjajangmyeon Rhapsody, The most heartfelt serenade to jjajangmyeon | WeVerse Magazine

Original source

Paldo Jjajangmen Chajang Noodle Vegan No MSG 8-pack, 7.05 Ounce https://t.co/QnQcuQ8OJ6 via @amazon #food #foodies #Koreanfodd #worldcuisine @goshoppingbees @EverydaySpices pic.twitter.com/UA6veB2D6k

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) June 5, 2024

Korean Black Bean Paste Sauce for Jjajangmyeon Zhajiangmian, Jjajang Chunjang 중화요리춘장 - 1.1 Pound (Pack of 2) https://t.co/Nk2jLTKq9A via @amazon #food #foodies #Koreanfood #worldcuisine @EverydaySpices #grocery #cooking pic.twitter.com/Ir9hVWcbWJ

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) June 5, 2024

Netflix Series: Korean Pork Belly Rhapsody (2020)

This is the third post highlighting the programs in the Netflix Rhapsody series tracing the origins and evolution of the Korean cuisine that we enjoy today.

Korean Porkbelly Rhapsody (2020)

(Image credit:  Whole Foods MarketWhole Foods Market)

Korean pork belly, known as samgyeopsal (삼겹살) in Korean, is a quintessential dish in Korean cuisine and it originates from South Korea. Korean barbecue culture is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Thick slices of pork belly that are marbled with layers of fat and meat, are usually grilled at the table over a charcoal or gas grill.  The grilling caramelizes the fat, and imparts a delicious smokiness and crispiness to the meat. 

What is samgyeopsal served with? various pickled vegetables, sliced garlic, green onions, fresh lettuce leaves, and ssamjang (a savory and spicy dipping sauce made from fermented soybean paste and chili paste). 

The fun is figuring out your favorite way to eat it! This is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Korean cuisine.

• Korean Pork Belly Rhapsody’ On Netflix Delightfully Veers Away From The Standard Culinary Travel Doc Template Popularized By Bourdain and Chang | Decider

Original source

Indoor Grill Electric Grill CUSIMAX Smokeless Grill Portable Korean #BBQ #Grill w/ Turbo Smoke Extractor Technology, Non-stick Removable Grill Plate, Tempered Glass Lid, Great for Party(Single Plate) https://t.co/FVekTcYxJA via @amazon @EverydaySpices @goshoppingbees #giftideas pic.twitter.com/WgZN9Ej23L

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) June 5, 2024

Netflix Series: Korean Hanwoo Rhapsody (2022)

This is the second post highlighting the programs in the Netflix Rhapsody series tracing the origins and evolution of the Korean cuisine that we enjoy today.  Korean Hanwoo Rhapsody ~ part of a Netflix series is intended to trace the origins and evolution of the Korean cuisine that we enjoy today. 

Korean Hanwoo Rhapsody (2022)

Korean Hanwoo is a premium breed of beef cattle native to South Korea. Food lovers praise it for its rich flavor, its exceptional quality, tenderness, marbling, and succulent texture. Hanwoo beef is a source of national pride. As such, South Korea has very strict standards to ensure the superior quality of Hanwoo cattle. Korean farmers are very meticulous throughout the breeding and rearing process. Hanwoo beef is used in a wide range of dishes, from traditional Korean barbecue (galbi) to hearty stews (jjigae) and savory soups (guk). Hanwoo symbolizes prosperity, celebration, and hospitality. It has been deemed a Korean culinary treasure.

Original source

Everyday Korean Hanwoo (Korean Edition) ~ "70 Hanwoo #Recipes" ... "10 kinds of Hanwoo #lunch" ... https://t.co/NBqUSRepDs via @amazon #food #foodies #KoreanFood #worldcuisine @EverydaySpices

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) June 5, 2024