tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52873018274716474672010-08-09T23:32:05.453-07:00Cheri's FabulousFoodsWelcome to the blog version of FabulousFoods.com and its wandering editor, Cheri Sicard. My tastes in food range the gamut from casual comfort foods to haute cuisine and everything in between. I will blog several days a week and serve you up a tasty smorgasbord of recipes, cooking tips and tutorials, book and product reviews, chef interviews, restaurant profiles, news and editorials, and more. If it has to do with the fabulous world of food, it’s fodder for this blog.Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-35345287957318736482009-07-28T17:04:00.001-07:002009-07-28T17:06:04.818-07:002009-07-28T17:06:04.818-07:00Man and Mother Nature Collborate - Fabulous Hand Carved Wooden Bowls<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ft/usa/holland_mi/bowl5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 402px; height: 207px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ft/usa/holland_mi/bowl5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>HOLLAND, MICHIGAN, USA – The small Michigan town of Holland houses a large, rather nondescript, industrial building that locals and tourists alike ignore every day without realizing that inside, incredible works of functional art – actual collaborative efforts between man and Mother Nature -- are created on a regular basis.<br /><b><br />The Holland Bowl Mill</b> is one of only two wooden bowl manufacturers in the USA (the other is in Alaska and has a very small production). Walking through the warehouse, its cavernous space lined with shelved filled with wooden bowls in various stages of metamorphasizing from logs into exquisite carved bowls that can actually be used to serve food, it’s hard to believe that each one of these pieces was lovingly carved, sanded and finished one at a time, by hand.<br /><br />“We’re making tomorrow’s antiques,” says mill owner Dave Gier who first got a job at the mill in 1985 and went on to buy the unique company. Gier maintains an old fashioned work ethic and values, creating a quality product by hand much in the same way it was done in the late 1800s when the company was founded.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px; float: right;" title="bowl1.jpg" alt="Holland Bowl Mill, Holland, Michigan, hand carved wooden bowls" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ft/usa/holland_mi/bowl1.jpg" width="302" height="259" />His employees are skilled artisans that have been with him for years. The bowls themselves even come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee – if for any reason there’s breakage or a defect, the Holland Bowl Mill will replace it, no questions asked. Dave laughs about one customer who dropped and cracked a bowl he had owned for fifteen years. “He wanted to buy another and couldn’t believe that instead we replaced his cracked bowl for free – after fifteen years! It really is a forever bowl.”<br /><br />The bowls enter the mill in the form of huge hardwood logs, most commonly beech, but also maple, cherry and walnut, all from sustainable forests. Specialized lathes transform sections of the logs into sets of bowls, gouging out enough to leave a thin yet durable shell. Each section of log will make four bowls in a carving process called nesting, meaning the finished graduating sized carved bowls will nest in each other.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" title="bowl2.jpg" alt="Holland Bowl Mill, Holland, Michigan, hand carved wooden bowls" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ft/usa/holland_mi/bowl2.jpg" width="202" height="268" />While the lathes do the actual carving, a real live human being controls the machinery and the knives, making each bowl one at a time. The carver makes it look easy but that’s because he’s had years of practice in order to perfect exactly how much to carve, what angle to hold the knives and how much pressure to use, not to mention how to regularly sharpen and replace the lathe’s blades. ”You need to make knives to make bowls,” says Dave, and looking at the volume of wood these blades regularly plow through, it’s easy to see why.<br /><br />Most of the wood is actually used in forming the bowls’ shells, with minimal scrap, but in a further example of good old fashioned values, absolutely nothing is wasted right down to the bark and sawdust. What isn’t used to make bowls is sent to recycling centers that put it to practical use as animal bedding or composite wood.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px; float: right;" title="bowl3.jpg" alt="Holland Bowl Mill, Holland, MI" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ft/usa/holland_mi/bowl3.jpg" width="202" height="250" />After the logs have been carved into bowls, they are dried for 20 to 30 days. After that they’re carefully sanded, a process that helps to smooth out imperfections, give the rounded bowl a nice flat bottom that helps it sit on tables or countertops, and accentuate the beautiful art of the wood’s natural grain.<br /><br />Each bowl now goes through a thorough inspection to make sure there are no cracks, weak spots, or imperfections. If it passes inspection, the bowl is treated to a coating of the company’s special proprietary blend of beeswax and food grade mineral oil.<br /><br />After drying again, the bowl is ready for shipping and can now be used to serve food and washed in soapy water (although you shouldn’t let it soak).<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" title="bowl4.jpg" alt="Holland Bowl Mill, Holland, Michigan, hand carved wooden bowls" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ft/usa/holland_mi/bowl4.jpg" width="202" height="216" />During peak periods the Holland Bowl Mill can turn out as many as 1800 bowls a week. Many of these are destined for boutiques and upscale specialty stores, along with some smaller chain stores such at Sur La Table. But discriminating consumers (that means you who are reading this article) should know that you can find a much larger variety of the bowls by <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hollandbowlmill.com/">shopping the Holland Bowl Mill website</a> (or by stopping into their showroom if you happen to be visiting the Holland, Michigan area). The mill even welcomes custom orders, so you can get exactly the bowls you want – choosing the type of wood and finishes.<br /><br />Whether for a wedding gift, holiday gift, or to treat yourself to an affordable functional work of art that will be a family heirloom to be passed down for generations, you’d be hard pressed to find anything more unique and special than a hand made hardwood bowl from the Holland Bowl Mill.<br /><br /><strong>Check out the Related Travel article links below for details of our favorite things to do see and eat in and around Holland, Grand Haven, and Grand Rapids, Michigan.</strong><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Practicalities </strong><br /></div><br /><strong>The Holland Bowl Mill</strong> is located t 120 James St. in Holland, Michigan, 49417. Phone 616-842-4040 or visit their website at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hollandbowlmill.com/">www.HollandBowlMill.com</a>. <b><br /><br /></b>For more information about visiting Holland, Michigan, visit the <strong>Holland Area Convention and Visitors Bureau </strong>website at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.holland.org/">www.Holland.org</a> or phone 616-394-0000.<br /><br />For information about visiting Michigan in general, check out the official <strong>Travel Michigan </strong>website at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.michigan.org/">www.Michigan.org</a> or phone 800-373-2489.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-3534528795731873648?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-73532076881564930462009-07-22T15:25:00.000-07:002009-07-22T15:37:57.276-07:002009-07-22T15:37:57.276-07:00Fresh Tomato Tips and Recipes -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/181/18473"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 227px; height: 226px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/vegstufftom.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Fresh tomatoes are in season and whether you'<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ve</span> grown them yourselves in the garden or are picking them up at the farmer's market, fresh tomatoes are likely to be a bargain at this time of year. They also taste fabulous! There is simply no comparison between a garden fresh tomato and a commercially grown one.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Preparing Fresh Tomatoes</span><br /><br /><strong>Storage:</strong> Tomatoes will ripen to a juicy red on their own when stored at room temperature. Refrigeration kills flavor in fresh tomatoes.<br /><br /><strong>Coring: </strong>Using a sharp paring knife make several angled cuts through the stem and under the core.<br /><p><strong>Seeding:</strong> Lay the tomato on its side and halve with a sharp serrated knife. Squeeze each half firmly enough to push out the seeds. Discard seeds.</p> <p><strong>Slicing:</strong> First core the tomato and lay it on its side. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut a very thin slice off both ends and discard. Slice the tomato to desired thickness.</p> <p><strong>Peeling:</strong> To eliminate the skin in cooked dishes, gently lower 2 or 3 tomatoes at a time into enough boiling water to cover. Boil for 15 to 30 seconds, lift into a colander with a slotted spoon. Rinse briefly under cold running water. Peel off and discard skins.</p> <p><strong>Stuffing Shells: </strong>Lay the tomato on its side and cut a very thin slice off the bottom using a sharp serrated knife. Slice off the top 1/4 of the tomato and discard. (The top minus the core may be chopped and added to the filling.) Using a sharp paring knife and spoon, cut and scoop out the flesh, leaving <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">thickish</span> walls. Salt the cavities lightly and invert on a cooling rack for 15 minutes to drain.</p><p style="font-weight: bold;">More on Fresh Tomatoes</p><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/224/19960">Ingredient Feature -- Fresh Tomato Facts, Trivia, History and Nutrition Facts</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/224/19947">Cooking with Green Tomatoes</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21266&category_id=241&Itemid=177">Why Tomatoes are Good for You plus Fresh Tomato Recipe Links</a><br /></li></ul><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Formaro</span></span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Cookin</span></span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">blogosphere</span></span></span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-7353207688156493046?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-84160656697233651042009-07-17T11:24:00.001-07:002009-07-17T12:09:59.869-07:002009-07-17T12:09:59.869-07:00Fabulous Recipe Fire & Ice Tomatoes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/zoey.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 174px; height: 219px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/zoey.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Sorry I have been so quiet lately. I have been dealing with the rapid decline and subsequent death of my dear dog <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Zoey</span> (that's her picture at left, 13 years ago when she was just 6 weeks old, which is when we rescued her). If you've ever been through the heartbreak of having to put a pet to sleep, you know what I'm talking about. I am, however, slowly coming back to life and will try to post more regularly.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fire & Ice Tomatoes</span><br /><br />The other day I got some garden fresh tomatoes grown by nephew Richard, his beautiful <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">wife</span> Tracy, and my great-niece Madison. These tomatoes are to die for! Of course, I started searching for recipes to make with them (not that I didn't eat some, as is, with just a little salt), and came upon an old favorite I picked up on a long ago travel writer's press trip through Tennessee. Below is the recipe and story behind it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/159/18911"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/fireicetom.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This recipe comes to us from Vicki and Lee Morgan of the Bailey House Bed and Breakfast and Tearoom in Dayton, Tennessee. Unfortunately, the Bailey House is no longer operating, but we keep this recipe for history's sake -- and because Vicki Morgan is a darn good cook and her recipes are delicious. The building that was, for a short time, a historic inn named The Bailey House, had an important role in history. It was a boarding house and home of John Thomas Scopes, of the Scopes Evolution (Monkey) trial fame. The courthouse where that historic case took place is in close walking distance of what used to be the Bailey House.<br /><p>The better your tomatoes, the better this dish will be. Its tantalizing sweet and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">spicy</span> flavor combo is a real winner. <strong>This salad packs well for picnics or brown bag lunches.</strong></p> <p>While the Morgans usually serve this dish as a salad, I also find the lightly pickled tomatoes, onions and bell peppers make great sandwich and burger toppings.</p><p>Serves 10</p> 6 large ripe tomatoes, sliced<br />1 large bell pepper, sliced<br />1 large onion, sliced<br />3/4 cup vinegar<br />2 teaspoons salt<br />6 teaspoons sugar<br />1/4 cup water<br />1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne<br /><br />Combine veggies in a large bowl. Bring vinegar, sugar, salt, water and cayenne to a boil and boil for 1 minute. Pour boiled mixture over veggies. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours. Serve chilled.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-8416065669723365104?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-79562989665266793202009-07-01T21:00:00.000-07:002009-07-10T17:00:21.295-07:002009-07-10T17:00:21.295-07:00Favorite Summer Cocktails -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19754"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 280px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/daiquiri_straw.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Going out for cocktails has to be one of the first luxuries left out in difficult financial times, and no wonder, the markup on cocktails at bars and restaurants is astronomical. But don't <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">forgo</span> cocktails, just invite some friends over and make your own instead. You'll save a ton and still have a fabulous summer time. Below are some of my favorite fruity, frozen and refreshing summer cocktails. You'll pay upward for $7.00 to $10.00 a drink for these (at least where I live in Los Angeles). they cost a fraction of that to make at home.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Favorite Summer Cocktail Recipes</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19736"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mojito</span> Cocktail</a> -- If you haven't tried <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mojitos</span> before, you're in a for a treat -- rum lime and mint make a refreshing drink.<br /></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19572"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mojitos</span> by the Pitcher </a>--Same as above but enough for a crowd.<br /></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19754">Frozen Strawberry Daiquiris</a> (pictured top of this post) -- This fruity frozen version is probably the most popular of all this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">drink's</span> many incarnations. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/35/17635">Lime <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Doo</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Doo</span> Cocktail </a>- A refreshing summer cocktail made with rum or vodka. You'll just have to click to learn where the name comes from. </li><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/22107"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 254px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/97/thumbnail_table/1222382026_shagadelic.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/22107">Elizabeth Faulkner's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Shagadelic</span> Cocktail</a> (pictured right) -- When this taxi-yellow drink in a martini glass rimmed with coconut comes your way, it almost seems to be showing off. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/31/19486">Strawberry or Banana Daiquiris</a> -- This classic cocktail can be made either way or try it with both banana and strawberries. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/31/19122">Caribbean Rum Punch</a> -- This recipe serves a crowd. So get all your friends together and enjoy! </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19557"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Brazillian</span> Rum Cocktail -- <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Caipirinha</span></a> -- Who can't resist rum and lime - Brazil's signature cocktail?</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19110">Watermelon and Coconut Rum Margarita </a>-- This refreshing summer cocktail was developed by Chef Harry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Schwart</span>.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/17636">Planter's Punch Cocktail</a> -- This potent classic is sweet and fruity, perfect for brunches or summer parties. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/39/17650">Spiked Frozen Lemon or Lime Ade</a> --<br /></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/34/22117">Tropical Tequila Punch</a> -- The flavor of this punch improves with age. It will keep several days in the refrigerator, making it the ultimate alcoholic fruit punch.</li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/17634"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hurricane Cocktail </span></a>-- This New Orleans favorite drink recipe contains a tantalizing potent mixture of rums and fruit juices. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19539">Trader Vic's Molokai Mike Cocktail</a> (pictured bottom of this post) -- Recreating this two-tone Trader Vic's specialty at home is surprisingly easy. </li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/beverages/article/33/19539"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 215px; height: 252px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/molokai_mike.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Formaro</span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Cookin</span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">blogosphere</span></span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-7956298966526679320?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-61157722565447004782009-06-29T10:13:00.000-07:002009-06-29T10:37:01.851-07:002009-06-29T10:37:01.851-07:00Fabulous 4th of July Desserts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17827"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 151px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/flagcake.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Can you believe that the 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> of July is already almost here? I have been so busy, I haven't had time to plan. But luckily most of these desserts are so quick and easy to make, that I'll be able to bring a spectacular dish to the party (I won't tell anyone I didn't work hard at it). I hope you find some Independence Day desserts in the links below that your your friends and family will enjoy too!<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17827">Easy American Flag Cake </a>(pictured top of this post)<a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17860"><br /></a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17860">Red, White and Blueberry Cheesecake Pie</a> (pictured bottom of this post)</li><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17929"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 120px; height: 81px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/4thpop.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17929">Rocket Ice Pops </a>(pictured right)</li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17868">4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> of July Lemon Bar Flags</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17965">Red, White and Blueberry Parfaits</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17990">Blueberry and Custard Filled Star Puffs</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17856">Cheri's Easy Angel Food and Fruit Trifle</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/28015">Holly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Clegg's</span> Berry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Tiramisu</span></a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/18030">Fresh Strawberry Pie</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/19097">Watermelon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Faux</span> Cake with Coconut Raspberry Filling</a></li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/482/17860"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 157px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/blucheespie.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-6115772256544700478?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-66213682994793079592009-06-18T08:30:00.001-07:002009-06-18T08:40:40.093-07:002009-06-18T08:40:40.093-07:00Frugal Beef Tips -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/97/thumbnail_table/1215836369_beef3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 219px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/97/thumbnail_table/1215836369_beef3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Beef. It's one of the most expensive grocery items you can buy, both in terms of dollars and environmental impact. So my tips is to buy the best beef you can buy (organic or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">grassfed</span>), but what you need and use every bit of what you buy.<br /><br />To buy the right amount, <a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/articles/cooking-school/article/228/22086">check out our chert that will let you know how many servings you can expect to get from various cuts of beef.</a><br /><br />For the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">nd</span> half of the equation, check out tips for how long you can keep beef.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maximum Recommended Storage Times for Quality, According to the National <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Cattlemen's</span> Beef Association</span> <table width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td align="right"><br /></td> <td><strong>TYPE OF BEEF</strong></td> <td><strong>REFRIGERATOR</strong><br /><em>(35°F to 40°F)</em></td> <td><strong>FREEZER</strong><br /><em>(0°F or colder)</em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><strong>FRESH BEEF</strong></td> <td>Steaks, Roasts</td> <td>3-4 days</td> <td>6 - 12 months</td> </tr> <tr> <td><br /></td> <td>Beef for Stew</td> <td>2-3 days</td> <td>6 - 12 months</td> </tr> <tr> <td><br /></td> <td>Ground Beef</td> <td>1-2 days</td> <td>3-4 months</td> </tr> <tr> <td><strong>LEFTOVER COOKED BEEF</strong></td> <td>All types</td> <td>3-4 days</td> <td>2-3 months</td> </tr> <tr align="center"> <td colspan="4"> <p><strong>NEVER DEFROST MEATS AT ROOM TEMPERATURE!</strong></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Make Your Own Aged Beef!</span><br />For those who want to go through the trouble (and the flavor is worth it), Judy over at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Judy's Kitchen</span> has a wonderful tutorial on how to age your own beef. <a href="http://judyskitchen.blogspot.com/2009/03/dry-aging-of-beef-experiment-1-day-1.html">Click here.</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Formaro</span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Cookin</span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">blogosphere</span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-6621368299479307959?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-59139226800933446562009-06-16T16:12:00.000-07:002009-06-16T16:21:11.954-07:002009-06-16T16:21:11.954-07:00Choosing a Charcoal and/or Propane Grill<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1215480918_grillchef2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 195px; height: 211px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1215480918_grillchef2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>With so many grilling options, choosing the right grill for your needs can be confusing. Is more expensive really better? Which features are most important, and where can you skimp? The following tips will help you decide. <p><strong>Charcoal VS. Gas or Propane Grills</strong></p> <p><strong>Charcoal grills</strong> use charcoal briquettes, wood or a combination of both. Charcoal cooking imparts a more intense smoked flavor than its gas grilled counterpart. Charcoal grills burn hotter, which is handy when searing steaks and other cuts of quickly grilled foods.</p> <p>One of the biggest advantages of charcoal over gas, in my opinion, is that they are better for smoking. If you have a large kettle grill, there is no need for special smoking apparatus (unless you plan on smoking really large quantities of meat).</p> <p>On the downside, cooking over charcoal requires more time than a gas grill which is ready to cook on about 10 minutes after lighting. A charcoal grill should be ready to cook in 15-30 minutes after lighting, depending on the size of the grill and the type of wood or number and type of briquettes. Charcoal grills also need more tending and attention during the cooking process, which if you are a true grilling fan, is part of the fun.</p> <p><strong>Gas grills</strong> come with built in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">igniters</span> -- push-button, rotary or an electronic lighter -- so starting the fire is fast and easy. After about 10 minutes of preheating, you're ready to cook. A standard 20 pounds tank of liquid propane with the burners on high, should last about 9 hours. Cooking at average temperatures, you should get 25 to 30 meals per tank.</p> <p>The flavor produced by charcoal grilling comes from the food juices dripping onto the hot charcoal. Gas grills use several materials accomplish this:</p> <ul><li>Lava rock heats quickly and disperses the heat to the interior of the grill. On the downside, lava is porous and allows grease to accumulate, lessening its efficiency and increasing fire flare-ups. In order to keep your lava rock gas grill working at its peak, turn the rocks over to expose a fresh surface frequently and replace them annually.</li><li>Pumice stone works just like lava rocks, but it collects less residue and therefore needs less maintenance and doesn't need to be replaced as often.</li><li>Ceramic briquettes are more pricey than lava rocks or pumice stone and but they last much longer. The briquettes are easy to maintain as food residue bakes off during the cooking process and no other cleaning is necessary.</li><li>Metal heat plates or bars built into the grill work much the same as ceramic briquettes -- dripping juices dissipate when they fall on the hot metal. </li></ul> <p><strong>Help with Choosing a Grill</strong><br />Once you have decided on a charcoal or gas grill, narrow your search further by asking yourself these questions:</p> <p><strong>What will you be cooking? </strong><br />What you plan to cook effects the type of grill you need. A lot of people only use their grill for grilling a quick entree like steaks, burgers, chicken or fish. If that's you, then you probably don't need a very big grill. But if you want to cook ribs, brisket, roasts, turkeys or other large cut of meat, you will need a larger grill. While we're at it, why limit yourself to just entrees? We have grill recipes for an entire menu. Get a bigger grill and expand your grilling repertoire and your menu will never be limited by your grilling equipment.</p> <p><strong>How many people will you be serving? </strong><br />If you regularly cook for large crowds, you need more cooking space. Better get a bigger grill. Always do a visual inspection to see if the cooking surface is big enough for your needs, as often the manufacturer's specifications on the box include side burners or warming racks in their measurements.</p> <p><strong>How often and when will you be grilling? </strong><br />Charcoal grills can take 15 minutes or longer to get ready and they take more time and effort to light. If you use your grill often, you may want the convenience of a gas grill. If you only grill occasionally or when you have lots of time (like weekends and holidays), then the time and effort of a charcoal grill is well worth the effort.</p> <p><strong>What is your budget?</strong><br />The prices of grills vary from under $50.00 (and under $10.00 in the case of simple, disposable type grills) to thousands of dollars. Buy the best grill you can afford for your budget. In general, charcoal grills cost less to buy, but gas grill cost less to operate (unless you have a large supply of free cooking wood).</p> <p><b>Grill Grids<br /></b>The cooking grid gives your food the telltale stripes associated with grilled foods. Grids can be made of different materials, each with its own merits and detriments:</p> <ul><li>Cast iron grids require curing in the same way that cast iron cookware does in order to prevent rust. This is really not difficult (see link below for instructions in our cast iron cookware tutorial). Once cured, the heavy cast iron grill grids wear well, cook well, and distribute heat more evenly than the other types of grids.</li><li>Stainless steel grids are rust-resistant, but food can stick to hem if they are not well greased.</li><li>Porcelain-coated cast iron grids are rust-resistant and are most desirable for heat retention and ease of cleaning.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">More Essential Grilling Information</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21294&view=article&category_id=706&Itemid=130">Specific Things to Look for In Charcoal and Gas Grills</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21293&category_id=706&Itemid=177">Charcoal Grill Cleaning and Maintenance Tips</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21296&category_id=706&Itemid=177">Propane Grill Cleaning and Maintenance Tips</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21297&category_id=706&Itemid=177">How To Build and Maintain a Fire in a Charcoal Grill</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21295&category_id=706&Itemid=177">The Basics of Direct and Indirect Grilling</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21298&category_id=706&Itemid=177">Grilling Safety Tips</a><br /></li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-5913922680093344656?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-28995816549303721502009-06-10T21:00:00.000-07:002009-06-10T21:00:28.269-07:002009-06-10T21:00:28.269-07:00Potato Skins -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/potatoskins.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 242px; height: 250px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/potatoskins.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Today's Thrifty Thursdays post is reprinted with permission from the terrific book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580085849?ie=UTF8&tag=fabulousfoods&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1580085849"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Teens Cook -- How to Cook the Food You Want to Eat</span></a> by <span class="small"> Megan and Jill <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Carle</span> with Judi <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Carle</span>. It makes a wonderful ways to use extra baked potatoes (you may even want to make extras while you're making tonight's dinner), as well as a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">thrifty</span> snack or main course when paired with a salad.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Makes 12 Potato Skins</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients</span><br />6 medium potatoes<br />6 slices thick-sliced bacon<br />2 tablespoons canola oil<br />1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese<br />1/2 cup sour cream<br />2 tablespoons milk<br />2 tablespoons chopped chives<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 375° F.<br /><br />Wash the potatoes and poke each one several times with a fork. Bake the potatoes for 45 minutes, or until they are fairly soft when squeezed. Remove the Potatoes from the oven and cool slightly.<br /><br />Meanwhile, cut the bacon slices into 1/8 to 1/4 inch strips. Cook the bacon in a small <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">sauté</span> pan over medium heat for 15 minutes or until crisp. Transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain.<br /><br />Preheat the broiler and adjust the oven rack to 4 to 5 inches away from the broiler. (if the rack is any closer, the Potato skins will get too dark before they get crispy.)<br /><br />Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the potato with a large spoon. (The insides can be used to make Baked potato soup, see page 51 of the book). Brush the potato skins inside and out with the oil and place them upside down on a baking sheet. Place under the broiler for 5 minutes. Turn the potato skins over and broil for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the potato skins are crispy. Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle some of the cheese and bacon bits into each Potato skin. Return the pan to the broiler for 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.<br /><br />Combine the sour cream, milk, and chives in a small bowl. Place the bowl of sour cream in the center of a large plate and arrange the Potato skins around the bowl.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580085849?ie=UTF8&tag=fabulousfoods&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1580085849"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 167px; height: 252px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416073DP4CL._SL160_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span class="small"><span style="font-weight: bold;">More about the Book</span><br /></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580085849?ie=UTF8&tag=fabulousfoods&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1580085849"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Teens Cook -- How to Cook the Food You Want to Eat</span></a> by <span class="small">Megan and Jill <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Carle</span> with Judi <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Carle</span></span><br /><br />Even though this book was written by teens, for teens, it really deserves a wider audience. No doubt teens will love the cooking tips, full color photos, and recipes for favorite foods. But this book has recipes that everyone loves to eat, and especially if you are a beginner cook, the recipes contain detailed instructions that make it simple for anyone to get great results. In between the recipes you'll find lots of cooking tips, shortcut tricks, and information that will help cooks of all ages improve their techniques and speed in the kitchen.<br /><br />The book was penned by sisters Megan and Jill <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Carle</span>, who have both been cooking since they were three. What probably makes these teens even more knowledgeable than other cooks of their tender years is the fact that their mother Judi <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Carle</span> (who helped with the book) is a chef and cookbook writer and editor who has worked on over 20 cookbooks, including the best selling Charlie Trotter series. <p>The result of this family collaboration is a useful book for anyone learning to cook and/or looking for tasty recipes that will please the entire family. It's also handy for anyone who lives alone as there is an entire chapter devoted to meals for one.</p> <p>Chapters include: Breakfast; Snacks; Soups/Salad; Dinner for One; Family Meals; Desserts.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580085849?ie=UTF8&tag=fabulousfoods&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1580085849"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Click here for more information about </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Teens Cook</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> or to order at a discount through Amazon.com.</span></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Formaro</span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Cookin</span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">blogosphere</span>.</span></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-2899581654930372150?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-2777226245206282992009-06-06T15:57:00.000-07:002009-06-06T16:37:34.411-07:002009-06-06T16:37:34.411-07:00Watermelon Season is Upon Us -- Celebrate!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/featuring/watermelon/whale.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/featuring/watermelon/whale.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Depending on where you live, it may already be watermelon season! I know that here in California, they're showing up in markets a lot, and the one I bought last week was actually good!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Think of your best and worst watermelon experiences. My watermelon memories go something like this:</span><strong></strong> <p><strong>The Good: </strong>Dark red, sweet juicy fruit served ice cold. Even as a kid, this treat was as delicious and desirable as candy.</p> <p><strong>The Bad:</strong> Pale pink, flavorless fruit, veined with stringy white pith and pebbled with dark seeds, sitting for too long on an anonymous "all you can hold down" buffet line in a casino town.</p> <p>At its best, watermelon is worth going out of your way for. Especially since as "mature and responsible" adults, we should attempt to keep candy eating to a minimum. At its worst... well, what can you expect from an "all you can hold down buffet" anyway?</p> <p><b>Tips for Choosing the Best Watermelon<br /></b>There's an art to choosing the best watermelon that makes all the difference in the world. The National Watermelon Promotion Board offers these three easy tips for choosing a great watermelon.</p> <ul><li>Choose a firm, symmetrical fruit that is free of bruises, cuts and dents. </li><li>Before you buy, pick up your melon. The heavier it feels, the better -- a good watermelon is 92% water, which makes up most of its weight. </li><li>On the underside of the watermelon there should be a creamy yellow spot from where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun.</li></ul> <p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21276"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1216101225_stroller.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><b>Watermelon Seeds<br /></b>Contrary to popular belief eating watermelon seeds does not cause a watermelon to grow in your stomach. Actually, in some cultures it is popular to bake the seeds and then eat them.</p> <p>Over 1,200 varieties of watermelon are grown worldwide. Every part of a watermelon is edible, even the seeds and rinds.</p> <p><strong>To De-Seed a Watermelon:</strong></p> <ol><li>Cut watermelon in half, then in quarters.</li><li> Cut through the flesh of the melon along the seed line with a pairing knife. Now, lift off the piece of the melon you just cut. </li><li>Using a fork, scrape the seeds from the piece you just removed and the remaining flesh on the rind. </li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold;">Watermelon Storage Tips</span><br /><p>Store watermelon on the warm side Compared to most fruits, watermelons need a more "tropical" climate - a thermometer reading of 55° F is ideal. However, whole melons will keep for 7 to 10 days at room temperature.</p> <p>Store melons too long, and they'll lose flavor and texture.</p> <p>Lower temperatures cause chill injury After two days at 32° F, watermelons develop an off-flavor, become pitted and lose color.</p> <p>Freezing causes rind to break down and produces a mealy, mushy texture.</p> <p>Once a melon is cut, it should be wrapped and stored at 37° - 39° F.</p><p><b>Safety Tips<br /></b>According to the FDA, you should wash all fruits and vegetables including all melons in clean, running water before eating them. This is true of all fruits and vegetables, rinds or not. You should also use clean knives and cutting surfaces. Additionally, persons preparing melons, fruits, vegetables or other foodstuffs should thoroughly was their hands with soap and water prior to preparing the food for eating.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21276"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 278px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/featuring/watermelon/heartbasket.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21276"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Watermelon Carving 101</span></a><br />Learn how to turn an ordinary watermelon into an edible work of art. Yes, Virginia, you too can carve a watermelon! Click the link above for a variety of fun watermelon carving designs including the whale at the top of this post, a variety of pretty baskets and a watermelon baby carriage perfect for a shower centerpiece.</p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21277"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 163px; height: 144px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/featuring/watermelon/cubes5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21277"><span style="font-weight: bold;">How to Cut a Watermelon for Serving</span></a><br />Easy photo instructions show you how to cut and serve watermelon in wedges or chunks.</p><p><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21278">Watermelon and Health - Why Your Body Needs Watermelon</a><br />Watermelon is one the world's best sources of lycopene (even better than tomatoes!). Find out what this important antioxidant can do for your body. </p><p><b><a href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/features/featuring/watermelon/melonfacts.html">Fun With Watermelon</a><br /></b>Click for lots of fun facts and watermelon trivia -- you'll never know when you'll be on a TV quiz show!</p><p><b>Need Garnishing Tools?<br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect%27tag=fabulousfoods&path=search-handle-url/field-keywords%3Dgarnish%26index%3Dkitchen%26field-product-group%3Dkitchen%7Ctarget%7Cgarden%7Chome%26field-browse%3D284507%26search-type%3Dss/qid=1055634525/sr=1-4">Click for Amazon.<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">com's</span> selection.</a></b></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/19097"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 391px; height: 288px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/wmeloncake.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Favorite Watermelon Recipes</p><ul style="font-weight: bold;" class="relateditems"><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/157/19100">Chicken Salad with Watermelon and Peaches</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/212/19462">Deborah Madison's Chilled Tropical Melon Soup</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/22/19103">Dilled Baby Shrimp and Watermelon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Napoleans</span></a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/17959">Fruit Bowl with Marshmallow Dip</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/124/19108">Grilled Watermelon Cheddar Burgers</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/175/19099">Jalapeno, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tomatillo</span> and Watermelon Salsa</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/127/19107">Maple, Citrus and Watermelon Glazed Chicken</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/149/19102">Quick Watermelon Parmesan Salad</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/204/19109">Squash Puree with Watermelon and Cinnamon</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/19096">Warm Asian Fruit Compote</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/33/19110">Watermelon and Coconut Rum Margarita</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/125/19106">Watermelon and Cranberry Glazed Pork Chops</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/160/19101">Watermelon and Mozzarella Salad with Fresh Basil</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/19098">Watermelon and Shortbread Cookie Crumble</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/74/19105">Watermelon Breakfast A Go Go</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/19097">Watermelon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Faux</span> Cake with Coconut Raspberry Filling</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/118/17948">Watermelon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mojito</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Granita</span></a></li></ul><p><b><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect%27tag=fabulousfoods&path=search-handle-url/field-keywords%3Dgarnish%26index%3Dkitchen%26field-product-group%3Dkitchen%7Ctarget%7Cgarden%7Chome%26field-browse%3D284507%26search-type%3Dss/qid=1055634525/sr=1-4"></a></b></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-277722624520628299?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-3508531827372497502009-06-03T21:00:00.000-07:002009-06-04T16:15:04.254-07:002009-06-04T16:15:04.254-07:00Frugal Cooking with The Poor Chef -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=5287301827471647467"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 350px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1244056890_eat_cheap.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I recently posed some questions to Charles Mattocks, AKA The Poor Chef. Charles's new book <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470293365?ie=UTF8&tag=fabulousfoods&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0470293365"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eat Cheap but Eat Well</span></a> </em>couldn't have better timing. With everyone tightening their belts and eating out less often, his creative, satisfying, yet inexpensive recipes provide much needed variety to those trying to eat healthy wholesome foods while staying on a strict budget.<br /><br /><strong>Cheri <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sicard</span></strong>:<strong> It’s said that necessity if the mother of invention, and I know necessity prompted you to write this book. Can you tell our readers how you came to be “The Poor Chef?” </strong><br /><br /><strong>Charles Mattocks:</strong> I think we all have a poor chef in us, but I moved from Los Angles to Florida a few years back and had the chance to raise my son as a single father. Now my son is a very picky eater and I found it a task to be able to feed him not only healthy but affordable meals. We were walking into a restaurant one day and he said "dad wouldn't it be cool to see real people cooking on TV."<br /><br />I thought to myself that it would. I can recall my mom and my grandma how great cooks they were and I thought about making a TV show or segment that featured real people making meals, and so the poor chef was born, cause we all have a poor chef in us.<br /><br /><strong>Cheri <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Sicard</span>: What are your favorite frugal ingredients to cook with?</strong><br /><br /><strong>Charles Mattocks: </strong>Veggies, you can be so creative with veggies! I have been known to take veggies and use curry or other spices to make some great meals. I also love Spanish seasonings and Asian spices, Of course olive oil and at times feta cheese I love feta. I also use olives and onions a lot.<br /><b><br />Cheri <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Sicard</span>: What’s a common myth about frugal cooking that you want to dispel?<br /><br />Charles Mattocks:</b> That people who cook frugally are poor. I think an educated shopper can be very frugal in a good way, they may use coupons and take more time in the grocery store but they save money. The way the world is now, I think all of us are trying to save a few dollars.<br /><br />I have had single mothers that are successful business women that raise families share with me their secrets of cooking or shopping. With planning they bought fresher food because they used a budget, and that they got more for their dollar when taking time to really shop. So being frugal can be a great thing when it comes to eating healthy<em> and</em> saving money.<br /><br /><b>Cheri <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Sicard</span>: What kitchen tools or appliances are most valuable for the budget conscious cook?<br /><br />Charles Mattocks:</b> An oven! Baking, be it chicken or bread or any meat or side dish, is a great way to cook food for the week. You can bake a chicken and use that same chicken for about 3 to 4 meals. I love to bake or roast and would be at a big loss if I didn't have the oven.<br /><b><br />Cheri <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Sicard</span>: What are your most important tips for frugal cooks?<br /><br />Charles Mattocks: </b>Don't be scared to try new foods. Many people stick to what they know, they don't go outside the box. Feel free to try some different seasonings or spices, or even different meats. I know people who have never tried lamb or Indian food, or who have never ate Thai food. Those meals come from simple origins and can be made using very simple ingredients, so try new things.<br /><br /><b>Cheri <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Sicard</span>: How much money can cooks actually save using your recipes?<br /><br />Charles Mattocks: </b>Not only can they save money they can save some pounds (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">LOL</span>)! But seriously the book was created as me being a single father, so I had to find ways to make great meals that are cost effective. So I would say you can save a few hundred dollars a year easily.<br /><br /><b>Cheri <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Sicard</span>: How can home cooks adopt your frugal cooking philosophy to their own favorite recipes?<br /><br />Charles Mattocks:</b> Do it with love and you cant go wrong, have fun be creative and involve the children or the family, that's what its all about. Food is a great form of expression, it can be used to show love or to regress from emotion. I also encourage portion control, let the meat be the secondary item on the plate. Eat more fruits and veggies and let the meat, if that's what you like, be the side dish not the center of the meal.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Frugal Recipes from The Poor Chef Charles Mattocks</span><br /><ul><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/component/resource/article/135/28472">Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/component/resource/article/141/28474"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Bok</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Choy</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Shiitake</span> Mushroom Stir Fry</a></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/127/28473">Tarragon Chicken Baguettes</a><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">More on <span style="font-style: italic;">Eat Cheap but Eat Well</span></span><br /><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/reviews/book-reviews-fabulous-foods/article/28471">Click here for more information about Charles's book <span style="font-style: italic;">Eat Cheap but Eat Well</span>.</a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Formaro</span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Cookin</span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">blogosphere</span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-350853182737249750?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-72603803098952173642009-06-01T15:10:00.000-07:002009-06-01T15:23:33.835-07:002009-06-01T15:23:33.835-07:00Easy Yet Spectacular Dessert - Strawberry Kiwi Pavlova<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/pavlova.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/pavlova.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This classic dessert, which originated in Australia, was created and named for legendary ballerina Anna Pavlova. While it makes a spectacularly impressive dessert, it's really very easy to accomplish, especially if you have an electric hand mixer. The directions below are for one large Pavlova that can then be cut into 8-10 servings, but you could easily make 8 individual cream and fruit filled meringues instead.<br /><br />While strawberries and kiwi are traditional fruit fillings for a Pavlova, don't limit yourself. Try peaches, blueberries, raspberries or any other fresh fruits that appeal to you.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients:</span><br />6 egg whites at room temperature<br />1 cup sugar<br />1 teaspoon cider vinegar<br />2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />1/8 teaspoon salt<br />1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar<br />1 tablespoon cornstarch<br /><br />1 1/2 cups heavy cream, whipped<br />1/4 cup confectioner's sugar<br /><br />about 2 cups sliced strawberries and kiwi<br />OR<br />2 cups whatever fresh fruit strikes your fancy<br /><br />Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix together cornstarch, pinch of salt and pinch of cream of tartar, set aside. <p>Take enough waxed paper to make a double layer and wet it under the faucet, crinkling it a bit. Smooth the wet waxed paper onto a baking sheet. Set aside.</p> <p>Beat the egg whites -- gradually adding sugar, vinegar and vanilla --until very stiff. Fold in cornstarch mixture. Pile the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a rubber spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the pile into a rough circle, then hollow out the center slightly so the indentation makes a shallow "bowl" in the meringue<a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/17960#" onclick="popupGlossary(23797);"></a> -- see photos.</p> <p align="center"><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/recipes/dessert/fruit/pavimg/pavlova1.jpg" vspace="3" width="138" height="144" hspace="3" /><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/recipes/dessert/fruit/pavimg/pavlova2.jpg" vspace="3" width="159" height="144" hspace="3" /><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/recipes/dessert/fruit/pavimg/pavlova3.jpg" vspace="3" width="153" height="144" hspace="3" /></p> <p>Place meringue bowl in oven, close the door quickly, turn off the heat and don't open the door for 1 1/2 hours.</p> <p>Remove from oven and carefully peel off the waxed paper. If the meringue cracks a little, don't worry, you can make minor repairs with whipped cream<a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/17960#" onclick="popupGlossary(24237);"></a> later. You can prepare the meringue (or individual meringues) up to this point and store for a day or two in an airtight container before continuing.</p> <p>Whip cream and confectioner's sugar together.</p><p>Immediately before serving fill the indentation with the sweetened whipped cream and pile the sliced fruit in the center of the cream. Bring out to the table and get ready for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ooh's</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ahh's</span>!</p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">More on Strawberries</span><br /><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/224/19959">Click here for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">FabulousFoods</span>.com Strawberry feature</a>, including tips for buying and storing strawberries and tons of terrific strawberry recipes!<br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-7260380309895217364?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-58788058685107972842009-05-28T08:45:00.000-07:002009-05-28T09:03:14.228-07:002009-05-28T09:03:14.228-07:00Wild About Wings -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/28456"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 263px; height: 350px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1243374754_blk_pep_maple_wings.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Chicken wings are a great party food or snack for the family. You can make batches and batches in advance, then keep them warm in a chafing dish, or re-heat in the oven. They are also inexpensive (downright cheap) and versatile in that there is an endless array of marinades, sauces and dips to keep the munching interesting. You can fry chicken wings, bake them, or my favorite, charcoal grill them.<br /><p>But before you can get creative with chicken wing recipes, you need to prepare the wings. If you've ever ordered Buffalo Chicken Wings at a restaurant you know you are never served a whole wing. Here's the technique for preparing wings at home.</p> <p><strong>1.</strong> Take a sharp knife or meat cleaver and cup off the wing tip. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/school/cstech/wingimg/chicwing1.jpg" alt="chicken wing recipes" vspace="3" width="184" height="144" hspace="3" /></p> <p><strong>2.</strong> Cut wing at the elbow joint. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/school/cstech/wingimg/chicwing2.jpg" alt="chicken wings" vspace="3" width="213" height="144" hspace="3" /></p> <p><br />3. Discard wing tips or save to make<strong> <a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/223/19919">chicken stock</a></strong>. The remaining two parts are ready for your favorite Chicken Wing recipe. </p> <center><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/school/cstech/wingimg/chicwing3.jpg" alt="chicken wings" vspace="3" width="264" height="144" hspace="3" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/28456"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 244px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1243373660_thai_wings.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicken Wing Recipes</span><b><br /></b>Below are some some fabulous chicken wing recipes that will help you put this technique to delicious use in your kitchen.<br /><ul><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/17550">Classic Buffalo Chicken Wings</a><br /><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/28457"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/28457"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Roasted Black Pepper Wings with Maple Bourbon Sauce</span></a> (pictured above)</li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/19407">Chili Lime Chicken Wings</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/28455">Crispy Italian Fliers</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/17547">Grilled Asian Style Wings</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/17551">Grilled Drunken Wings</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/17552">Hawaiian Style Wings</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/28081">Spanish Smoked Paprika Wings</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/19551">Super Smokers Sweet and Spicy Wings</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/21/28456">Tangy Thai Style Wings</a> <span style="font-weight: normal;">(pictured right)</span></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/17553"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thai Style Grilled Peanut Wings</span></span></a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/17549">Ultra Hot Beer Wings</a><br /></span></span></li></ul></div> </center><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/519C6GHXWHL._SL160_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 97px; height: 160px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/519C6GHXWHL._SL160_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Book for Wing Lovers!</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Wings -- More Than 50 High-Flying Recipes for America's Favorite Snack</span> by Debbie Moose.<br />It's hard to beat chicken wings when you need satisfying snacks to frugally feed a crowd, and it's hard to beat this book for coming with inspiring new ways to prepare them. You'll find 65 tempting recipes, most illustrated by gorgeous color photographs that highlight the ingredient's infinite versatility. Author Debbie Moose starts by showing how easy it is prepare perfect fried, baked, or grilled wings before delving into the recipes. You'll find classics like the legendary Buffalo Wings, but then she takes off on a world wide gustatory tour tour that includes influences from Italy to India and nearly everywhere in between. There are also plenty of recipes for sauces, dips, and salsas that can transform the humble chicken wing into extraordinary bites that will keep party guests coming back for more. <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/28454">Click here for more information about this book or to find out how to get a copy.<br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda Formaro from Amanda's Cookin' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the blogosphere.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-5878805868510797284?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-54723542927927125322009-05-21T08:39:00.000-07:002009-05-21T09:10:10.747-07:002009-05-21T09:10:10.747-07:00Cooking Dried Beans and Legumes - Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/223/19934"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 159px; height: 144px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1214682328_mixbeans.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Many people are baffled with how to cook dried beans. Relax, it's easy and beans and legumes are some of the healthiest foods you can eat. And if you cook your own dried beans, they are also one of the least expensive foods you can eat. Buying dried beans, as opposed to canned, has far less environmental impact too -- no wasteful packaging and manufacturing and less fuel to transport to market.<br /><br />Don't worry if your recipe calls for canned beans. Know that dried or canned beans will work interchangeably in recipes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here are some more tips to help you cook better with beans:</span><br /><ul><li>Fresher dried beans will cook faster than older dried beans, so use the cooking times as a very general guideline. Taste the beans for tenderness early and often during the cooking process.<br /><br /></li><li>Because bean cooking times can vary so widely from batch to batch, it's best to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pre</span>-cook dried beans before using in recipes.<br /><br /></li><li><strong>Cooking Method I </strong>-- Place beans in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until beans are tender.<br /><br /></li><li><strong>Cooking Method II</strong> -- Cover beans with cold water and soak overnight or for at least 6 hours. Drain and place in clean water, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until tender.<br /><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/223/19934"><img alt="beans" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/stock/blkbeans.jpg" vspace="3" width="175" align="right" height="108" hspace="3" /></a><strong>Quick Soak Method:</strong> Cover in cold water, bring to a boil. Turn off heat and let soak for 2 hours, then simmer until tender.<br /><br /></li><li>Before cooking, rinse the beans and pick through them, removing any small stones that sometimes get mixed in and throwing out any shriveled or discolored beans.<br /><br /></li><li>Even though they may be dried, the fresher the bean the better -- for flavor and for the amount of nutrients.<br /><br /></li><li>Store dried beans in covered plastic food containers.<br /><br /></li><li>After cooking beans, divide into portions and refrigerate leftovers in their own liquid for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 3 months.<br /><br /></li><li>Reheat cooked beans in the microwave, on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">stovetop</span> or even in the oven.<br /><br /></li><li>To cook beans in a slow cooker, soak as usual, then place beans in slow cooker, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">over</span> with water or other liquid by about an inch or so. Turn it on low and check in about 6-8 hours (or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">about</span> 4-5 for high).<br /><br /></li><li>To cook beans in a pressure cooker, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/223/27942">click here for complete directions and suggested cooking times for various types of beans</a>.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Favorite Recipes Using Dried Beans</span><br />Now that you know how to cook dried beans, let's put them to tasty use!<br /><ul><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/151/28187">Walnut and Three Bean Salad</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/178/18539">Beefy Cowboy Beans</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/151/18776">Black Bean Salad in Avocado Boats</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/178/18541">Boston Style Baked Beans</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/178/18542"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Charros</span> -- Cowboy Style Pinto Beans</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/151/19137">Corn and Garbanzo Bean Salad</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/151/18771">James Peterson's Mexican Style Chickpea Salad</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/141/18221">New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/175/18526">Pineapple and Black Bean Salsa</a></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/138/18384">Spicy Black Bean Pie</a><br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Did You Know?</span><br />Garbanzo Beans and Chickpeas are the same thing!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Formaro</span></span></span></span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Cookin</span></span></span></span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">blogosphere</span></span></span></span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-5472354292792712532?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-56911960281514975892009-05-13T21:00:00.000-07:002009-05-13T21:00:12.193-07:002009-05-13T21:00:12.193-07:00Use Up Those Ripe Bananas - Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/109/17813"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 252px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/bananacake.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Bananas can be a great bargain, especially if they're on the verge of getting too ripe. Grocery stores regularly mark such fruit down to ridiculously low levels. If you see some almost too ripe bananas that aren't marked down, ask the produce manager -- he or she will usually do so on the spot.<br /><br />So what can you do with too ripe bananas? Peel and freeze them to use in smoothies. The frozen banana helps make the smoothie thick without having to add ice which can water down the flavor. Be sure to peel the bananas before freezing, as it's almost impossible to do so later. Plastic zipper bags are wonderful for storing individual portions of frozen bananas, making Smoothie making a snap!<br /><br />So what else to do with those healthy, delicious bananas before they turn completely brown? Try one of these recipes at the links below:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/71/17760"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maple Banana Hot Cereal</span></a> -- This easy to make cereal recipe dresses up farina or Cream of Wheat or oatmeal with healthy bananas, cinnamon and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup.</li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/58/17779">Banana Stuffed French Toast</a> -- Stuffed French Toast always makes its recipient feel special. Why not treat your family, or better yet, yourself, to this indulgent breakfast treat.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/118/19351">Wheaties Banana Split</a> -- Top with fruit and this dish is still your breakfast of champions. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/112/17997">Banana French Silk Pie </a>-- This very elegant dessert is surprisingly easy to make. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/552/19280">Banana Peach Compote Baby Food</a> - Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber and one of the easiest foods to prepare for your baby. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/28019">Bananas with Coconut Cream</a> -- This unique quick and easy recipe provides a wonderful way to make an unusual and delicious dessert from almost too-ripe bananas.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/116/28443">Old Fashioned Southern Banana Pudding</a> --<br /></li><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/28121"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 264px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/4541/thumbnail_table/1225236896_awesome_banana_wal_shake.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/119/19412"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bananas <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Floodtide</span></span></a> (really Bananas Foster) -- Recipe from Connecticut's Inn at Mystic, a quick to prepare banana dessert that began in New Orleans -- flame for a spectacular presentation. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/123/17978">Jacques Torres' Chocolate Soup with Caramelized Bananas</a> -- This unique dessert consists of a hot chocolate soup over caramelized bananas and topped with a spectacular meringue crown.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/109/17813">Warm Banana Upside Down Cakes with Hot Chocolate Sauce</a> (pictured top of this post) -- This decadent cake, rich with the flavors of chocolate and bananas, has to be tasted to be believed. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/112/28433">Banana Meringue Pie</a> -- A light diabetic friendly recipe.<br /></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/28121">Awesome Banana Walnut Shake </a>-- (pictured right)<br /></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/33/19755">Frozen Banana Daiquiris</a> -- This fruity frozen version is one of this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">drink's</span> most popular incarnations. </li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Banana Bread and Variations</span><br />Without a doubt banana bread is one of the world's favorite ways to use ripe bananas. We have a recipe to fit nearly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">everyone's</span> tastes and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">dietary</span> requirements.<br /><ul><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/44/17711">Banana <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Poppyseed</span> Muffins</a> - These tempting muffins are like banana bread in a smaller more portable package, perfect for lunch boxes or a quick morning snack on the go. They freeze well too.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/43/17741">Strawberry Macadamia Nut Banana Bread</a> -- This great recipe by John <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Winkler</span> of San Pedro, California, was a finalist in the 1997 Oxnard, California Strawberry Festival's Berry Off Cooking Contest.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/42/19016">Guatemalan Banana Bread</a> -- Here's a unique twist on banana bread from Guatemala featuring coconut milk, raisins, and cashews. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/42/17708">Alabama Banana Bread</a> -- This dense rich banana bread is great cold or warmed. It freezes exceptionally well. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/42/17721">Healthy Banana Bread</a> -- Leanne Ely created this healthy recipe the whole family will love. Perfect for a healthy lunch box or brown bag addition, it keeps in the fridge for up to 10 days.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/42/17720">Gluten Free Banana Bread</a> -- Not only is this tasty banana bread perfect for folks with gluten sensitivities, it's also vegan.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/44/19480">Whole Grain Banana Walnut Muffins</a> -- Perfect for the kids' lunch box or as an after-school treat, these moist mini muffins make good snacking anytime.</li></ul><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Formaro</span></span></span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Cookin</span></span></span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">blogosphere</span></span></span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-5691196028151497589?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-85384021076341509952009-05-11T18:13:00.001-07:002009-05-11T18:17:36.381-07:002009-05-11T18:17:36.381-07:00Iced Tea or Seafood Lemons<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1230598155_wraplemon.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 200px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1230598155_wraplemon.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This simple yet elegant presentation for lemons served with iced tea or seafood dishes not only keeps the seeds out of the tea or off the dish, they smell terrific and add a decorative touch to the table. <p>I've garnished the lemons in the photo with fresh mint sprigs, to be served with iced tea. If the lemons were accompanying fish or other seafood, you should use an herb that complements the seafood recipe instead. Fresh Basil, rosemary or thyme often work well.</p><b>For Each Bundle You Will Need:<br /></b>1/2 fresh lemon, cut horizontally<br />4 1/2 " square of cheesecloth<br />small piece of ribbon or twine<br />fresh herbs springs (optional)<br /><p>If you are using fresh mint sprigs for a garnish, tie a mint sprig onto the middle of the small length of ribbon with a slip knot.</p> <p>Center a horizontally cut lemon slice onto the square of cheesecloth. Gather the end up so the cloth is tightly against the cut surface of the lemon and tie with a piece of ribbon or twine.</p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-8538402107634150995?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-72627999974214755722009-05-06T16:45:00.000-07:002009-05-07T08:13:21.322-07:002009-05-07T08:13:21.322-07:00How to Make Tinted Sugar or Coconut - Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1214610737_colorsugar3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 171px; height: 180px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1214610737_colorsugar3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Sugar tinted in a rainbow of colors is a handy item to have in the kitchen for adding a special decorative touch to cakes, cookies and other desserts. But why spend exorbitant prices buying colored sugar when you can easily make your own for much less. Doing it yourself also broadens your color palette considerably as you can custom blend the perfect shades to meet your needs. <strong>And keep in mind that the identical technique also works for tinting coconut!</strong> <p>All you need are some small, heavy duty, plastic zipper bags, some sugar (or coconut) and some food colors. Paste colors work best, as they help keep the sugar from getting overly soggy and it's easier to mix, but you can get away with a drop or two of liquid if that's what you have on hand. Place the desired amount of sugar or coconut in the plastic bag, add a small dab of color on a toothpick. Close the bag and mix and shake until color is evenly distributed.</p> <p>The secret to beautifully colored sugar is to take your time and make sure that all of the color is evenly distributed. Keep working the color through the sugar until you are sure there are no more concentrated little clumps left.</p> <p align="center"><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/school/cstech/sugarimg/colorsugar.jpg" width="162" height="180" hspace="2" /><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/school/cstech/sugarimg/colorsugar2.jpg" width="189" height="180" hspace="2" /></p> <p>The other thing to keep in mind is that food coloring is concentrated, so start with a little bit and add more later if needed. The color can be deceiving when making colored sugars, in that you won't get the true hue until all the color is COMPLETELY incorporated into the sugar. The more you mix, the darker it gets.</p> Don't worry about it too much, though. If the color becomes darker than you wanted, it's simple to fix. Just add more sugar or coconut and continue to mix.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related Links</span><br /><ul><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="ttp://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=19998&category_id=226&Itemid=177">Cake Decorating Basics</a> -- Learn basic techniques of decorating beautiful cakes.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=19938&category_id=224&Itemid=177">Sugar Tutorial</a> -- Learn about the different types of sugars and how to use them.<br /></li></ul><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/05/thrifty-thursday-week-11.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Formaro</span></span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Cookin</span></span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/05/thrifty-thursday-week-11.html">be sure to visit Amanda's blog </a>for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">blogosphere</span></span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-7262799997421475572?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-41360510454210678672009-05-02T17:00:00.000-07:002009-05-02T17:11:07.884-07:002009-05-02T17:11:07.884-07:00The Basics of Tempura<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/postfry.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 174px; height: 144px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/postfry.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Sorry I have been so quiet this last week. I had a major computer crash -- got a virus and lost everything. But am back up and running! Now on to today's post.<br /><br />Tempura is a fun food to cook right at the table, Japanese style. If you have a fondue pot (an easy item to find at garage sales and thrift stores if you don't), you already have everything you need.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/saltnbat.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/saltnbat.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>A Japanese classic, tempura consists of foods that are battered and deep fried. Tempura is limited only by your imagination. Traditional foods included a variety of vegetables and seafood such as shrimp or scallops, but don't be afraid to experiment and such western staples as chicken or even cubes of beef. The fried food can then be dipped in a traditional Japanese dipping sauce (<a href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=22082&category_id=19">click here for recipe</a>) or dipped in salt. In Japan you will often be served salt that's mixed with various seasonings. You can do this at home by using coarse sea salt and mixing in curry powder, hot <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">chiles</span> or paprika to taste. In Japan each plate has tiny piles of the various seasoned salts on it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/vegbaskt.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 221px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/vegbaskt.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>It is important to make your batter just before frying, so make sure the oil is hot first. Always sift your flour first and use ice water. Stir only enough to mix the batter, for if you over-beat the batter you will develop the gluten in the flour and it won't work properly. <strong>Tempura batter should be lumpy.</strong> <p>Test to make sure the oil is hot enough before frying your foods. To do this, drop a drop of batter into the oil, if the drop quickly floats to the surface, the oil is hot enough. If it takes its time in floating, let the oil heat longer.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Cut food for frying into bite sized pieces. Below are some photos showing how to cut Japanese eggplant for tempura.</p><center> <img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/cuteggplnt.jpg" alt="Cutting Eggplant" vspace="3" hspace="3" /> <img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/cuteggplnt2.jpg" alt="Cutting Eggplant" vspace="3" hspace="3" /> </center> <p>If desired, you can cut fancy little stars in your mushrooms caps. While this is not necessary, it is traditional in Japan. The photos below will show you how.</p> <p align="center"><img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/cutmush.jpg" alt="Cutting Mushrooms" vspace="3" hspace="3" /> <img src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/cutmush2.jpg" alt="Cutting Mushrooms" vspace="3" hspace="3" /></p> <p>Cutting small slits along the under curve of a peeled shrimp will keep the shrimp from curling while it cooks. The photo below will show you how.</p> <p align="center"><img alt="Cutting Shrimp" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/features/fondueimg/cutshrimp.jpg" /></p> <p>Below are some of our favorite foods for tempura. Feel free to use your imagination and add your own.</p> <ul><li>Shrimp </li><li>Scallops </li><li>Calamari </li><li>Chicken Breast Cubes </li><li>Steak Cubes </li><li>Mushrooms </li><li>Asparagus </li><li>Japanese Eggplant </li><li>Green Beans </li><li>Squash </li></ul> <p>To cook tempura, spear a piece of food on a bamboo skewer or fondue fork, dip into the batter cup, then deep fry it in the oil filled fondue pot. The length of cooking time depends on what is being cooked. Seafood will take less time (2-3 minutes) than chicken or most vegetables. 4-5 minutes will usually be the most time you'll need to leave anything cook.<br /><br />Like most fondue meals, tempura provides a relaxed, slow, social dinner. People cook, eat, and converse. What better way to spend an evening?</p><p><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=22082&category_id=19">Click here for my Tempura batter and dipping sauce recipes.</a><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-4136051045421067867?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-39583281145491970882009-04-24T15:21:00.000-07:002009-04-24T15:40:22.571-07:002009-04-24T15:40:22.571-07:00Book Feature and Recipes -- Biggest Loser 30-Day Jump Start<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=1605297828/fabulousfoodsA/"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 219px; height: 234px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/519ADHa52rL._SL160_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>If you need to lose weight and start getting your life under control - food and health-wise, this easy to follow 30 day plan will start you on the way.<br /><br />The book is formatted so you can take it one day at a time, giving you a menu plan and exercises to do each day for thirty days. At the end of that period you'll look better, feel better, and have established some healthy habits that you can continue to lose more weight or maintain a happy healthy way of living. Throughout the book are Trainer Tips from Jillian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Michaels</span> and Bob Harper, along with insight from actual show contestants who have been there.<br /><br />Even if you have a lot of weight to lose and/or are extremely out of shape, this book will give you the tools to actually tackle the problem in small steps that you can handle, so you can start moving forward and do something about it. Supposedly this was the plan the contestants who were sent home from the ranch on the television show were given to follow.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/44/28411"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 283px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1239756421_minimuffin.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>If you're already working out regularly, the workout plan may be too light for you (I know I already work out more than the book recommends), so be assured the contestants you see on the actual show are doing MUCH more than what you'll be expected to follow on this plan. But if you're just getting started, this will give you a practical guide to help you on your way to better fitness. The exercises don't require any special equipment save a couple of light dumbbells, and can be done anywhere.<br /><br />The best part of this book, however, is the recipes. Cheryl <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Forberg</span>, who serves as the nutritionist for the show and co-wrote this book, was a classically trained chef <em>before</em> she became a dietitian. Her recipes are amazing! Low calorie, low fat, high fiber, and healthy...and delicious! She gets maximum flavor out of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">quality</span> ingredients she uses. Several of the recipes in this book (like the muffin recipe linked to below) have become everyday staples in my kitchen. The food is easy to prepare and especially for "diet" fare is unbelievably tasty and satisfying . You get three balanced meals plus two snacks a day.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/56/28412"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 348px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1239757993_egg_turkey_cups.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I loosely followed the program and am now down 14 pounds. The plan actually gave me more food than I'm used to eating on other weight loss plans, so I was never hungry, and it was just the kick start I needed to break through some bad habits I'd slipped back into and get back to a healthy lifestyle.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=1605297828/fabulousfoodsA/">For more information about this book, or to order through Amazon.com, click here.</a><br /><b><br /></b><b>Sample Recipes -- Check This Book Out!<br /><br /></b><ul><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/44/28411">Mini-Blueberry Bran Muffins</a> (pictured above left)</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/56/28412">Baked Eggs in Turkey Cups</a> (pictured right)<br /></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/118/28410">Easy Raspberry Sorbet</a> (pictured bottom of this post)</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">More Biggest Loser Fun!</span><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/component/resource/article/238/21380">Click here for Cheri's interview with Biggest Loser trainer Bob Harper.</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/118/28410"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 276px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1239755211_easy_sorbet.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-3958328114549197088?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-83568248564378842582009-04-22T21:00:00.000-07:002009-04-23T08:57:48.395-07:002009-04-23T08:57:48.395-07:00The Fit Freezer -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1215042395_tangirl.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 252px; height: 135px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1215042395_tangirl.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a>If you like frozen dinners like those made by Lean Cuisine®, Weight Watchers® or Jenny Craig®, you'll love these homemade alternatives. The meals offer the speed and convenience of going from microwave to table in minutes. More importantly, they cut down the urge to cheat, as they give you a portion controlled amount of food that takes the guesswork out of dieting.<br /><p>With the recipes and instructions in this article, you can stock your home freezer with delicious homemade, portion controlled low fat foods that have many advantages over their store bought counterparts:</p> <ul><li><strong>More Wholesome</strong> - A lot of commercially prepared foods are loaded with unnecessary sodium, sugars, preservatives and other ingredients that you don't need. By making your own meals at home, you control what goes into the foods you eat and you can season them according to your own tastes. </li><li><strong>Less Expensive</strong> - The prepared diet meals you buy at the supermarket are pricey and those sold at commercial diet centers like Jenny Craig cost even more. By preparing your own meals at home, you can easily save 50%-75% or more. </li><li><strong>Greater Flexibility</strong> - When you're counting fat and calories, every little bit counts. Who wants to waste calories on foods you don't really like? When buying prepackaged diet meals, you're unfortunately stuck with whatever combos the manufacturer has chosen - you might like the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">entrée</span> but not the side dish. Maybe you'd prefer high fiber, nutrient rich brown or wild rice instead of white rice. By making your own meals, you can mix and match <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">entrées</span> and side dishes to create low calorie, low fat healthy meals that suit your individual tastes and needs. </li><li><strong>Saves Time</strong> - As each recipe makes several meals, you can plan to cook several recipes in a single session and have enough food in the freezer to last for weeks. Get together with your diet buddy or a group of health conscious friends and have a "cooking party" -- you can all eat well, stay on your diets, and have a fun day preparing meals together. </li></ul> <p><b><br />Cooking for the Freezer Basics:<br /></b>If you've never prepared foods for the freezer before, don't worry. It's easy. And don't worry if you only have a small, fridge-top freezer -- if you pack carefully you can easily fit a month's worth of meals in the space you have. In order to prevent freezer burn, which occurs when large ice crystals form during the freezing process, cool foods completely before freezing (cool for no more than 1 hour at room temperature -- otherwise cool in the refrigerator to prevent foods from sitting in the danger zone for bacteria growth between 40°F and 140°F).</p> <p>Unless you like playing dinner roulette, be sure to label your freezer dinners, not only so you'll know what inside, but also in order to use the oldest foods first. Permanent markers, like Sharpies® work great -- you can even write directly onto aluminum foil or freezer bags. Or you might want to tape an index card on the package with heating instructions (especially handy if other family members will be doing the reheating).</p> <p><strong>Packaging Freezer Meals:</strong><br />You probably already have some containers in your pantry that will work -- small glass dishes that can go from freezer to microwave or conventional oven. These containers work great for freezer cooking, although most people don't have enough of them. Keep your eyes peeled for sales at department stores or you might even get lucky and pick some up dirt cheap at garage sales or thrift stores.</p> <p>Another option is to purchase some of the great containers made by Glad® or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ziplock</span>® (you can use and re-use them over and over again), as they are designed to go from freezer to microwave. But don't limit yourself. Get creative -- any food-grade containers will do, like margarine or whipped topping tubs, Tupperware® or whatever other small containers you might have in the house.</p> <p>If you plan on cooking your meals in a conventional oven, foil take-out containers like those used by restaurants are terrific (again, I use and re-use mine multiple times). They are quite inexpensive when bought in quantity at a local restaurant supply house.</p> <p>Of course some recipes, like the French Bread Pizzas, need no more packaging than a tight wrap in aluminum foil. Others you can carefully place in a zippered freezer bag, freeze flat, then place in a baking dish when you are ready to heat them.</p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">For lots more information on what does and doesn't freeze well, </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/component/search/freezing%20primer?ordering=&searchphrase=all">click here for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">FabulousFoods</span>.com Freezing Primer.</a><br /></p> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0762425970/fabulousfoodsA/"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 180px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/310YDN7PKAL._SL500_AA180_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><strong>Fit Freezer Recipes<br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">I'll be adding to our archives of Fit Freezer recipes as time goes on. In the meantime, here are a few of mine and a few from Holly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Clegg</span> (who has a terrific <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0762425970/fabulousfoodsA/">Trim and Terrific freezer cookbook, click here for details</a>) to get you started.<br /></span></strong><ul><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/19858">Holly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Clegg's</span> Italian Pizza Rolls for the Freezer</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/moderate-comment.g?blogID=5287301827471647467"></a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/135/19859">Holly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Clegg's</span> Quick Chicken Lasagna for the Freezer</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/216/19857">Holly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Clegg's</span> Freezer Friendly Pulled Pork Chili</a><br /></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/142/18981">Cheri's Black Bean and Tofu Enchiladas for the Freezer</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/136/18980">Cheri's French Bread Pizzas for the Freezer</a></li><li style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/112/19860">Holly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Clegg's</span> German Chocolate Angel Pie for the Freezer</a></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/42/19861">Holly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Clegg's</span> Freezer Friendly Lemon Blueberry Bread</a><br /></li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/04/thrifty-thursday-week-9.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Formaro</span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Cookin</span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/04/thrifty-thursday-week-9.html">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">blogosphere</span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-8356824856437884258?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-4673266404125991622009-04-17T07:00:00.000-07:002009-04-17T07:00:10.982-07:002009-04-17T07:00:10.982-07:00Cooking with All Things Trader Joe's - Book Feature<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0979938414/fabulousfoodsA/"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 195px; height: 255px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51geBxenXQL._SL160_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I believe there has long been a need for a Trader Joe's cookbook, so much so in fact that I approached the Trader Joe's company about the idea several years ago. They wanted no part of it, citing the reason that they don't always keep the same items in stock at all times. While that may be true, they keep plenty enough of them, and often when one goes out, something similar takes its place.<br /><br /><span class="mceItemHidden">Authors Deana <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">Gunn</span> and <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">Wona</span> <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">Miniatihad</span> the same idea for a <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">cookbook</span>, but they didn't let <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">TJ's</span> reticence keep them from pursuing the project. They wrote and produced a Trader Joe's cookbook on their own. And they've done a fabulous job. I couldn't have done it better myself!</span><br /><br />Each and every recipe in this book can be made <i>entirely </i><span class="mceItemHidden">from ingredients typically found at your local Trader Joe's store. This alone should cut down on the amount of running around you do when grocery shopping. Like the merchandise at Trader Joe's, the fare is modern and current -- the kinds of food you and your family will run to the table for. Full color photos accompany each recipe, enticing you to head out for <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">TJ's</span> and start cooking.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/135/28406"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 224px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1239667673_lemon_linguine.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>While the recipes we chose for samples can be made from ingredients that you can get at Trader Joe's or other stores (so as not to leave out those <a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com">FabulousFoods.com</a> readers who are not lucky enough to have a Trader Joe's store nearby), know that many of the recipes in the book utilized Trader Joe's signature brand items -- such as sauces, salsas, and prepared foods. As the authors say, having a Trader Joe's nearby is like having your own chef staffed prep kitchen.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Recipe chapters include:</span><br />A Few of Our Favorite Things; Appealing Appetizers; Soups, Salads, and Light Meals; Main Meals; On the Side; Delicious Desserts and Daring Drinks; Begin with Breakfast; Bachelor Quickies; Trader Joe's Store Locations.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/127/28407"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 284px; height: 189px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/104/thumbnail_table/1239668621_honey_mustard_chick.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><b>Sample Recipes from Cooking with All Things Trader Joe's</b><br /><br /><ul><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/127/28407">Honey Mustard Chicken</a> (pictured right)</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/135/28406">Creamy Lemony Linguine</a> (pictured middle left)</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/116/28408">Almond Pudding</a><br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">For more information about </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0979938414/fabulousfoodsA/"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Cooking with All Things Trader Joe's</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> or to order through Amazon.com, click here.</span></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-467326640412599162?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-75782232399117655792009-04-15T21:23:00.000-07:002009-04-16T08:49:38.744-07:002009-04-16T08:49:38.744-07:00Easy Anytime Salsa -- Thrifty ThursdaysWhy buy store made salsa when it so much less expensive to make your own. If you have a food processor it takes just minutes (dare I say seconds) to make. OK, minutes if you count the time it takes to assemble the ingredients.<br /><br />My nephew Richard introduced me to the fact that you can actually make a darn good salsa with canned tomatoes – so good, most people will never suspect it’s not fresh. Ive since come to learn that most restaurants use this trick for making their salsas.<br /><br />Of course, if your garden is overflowing with gorgeous ripe tomatoes, by all means use them. But the rest of the year good canned tomatoes are always preferable to inferior fresh ones. One more bonus -- canned tomatoes actually contain more healthy lycopene than their fresh counterparts. Go figure. So if you find a good sale on canned tomatoes, stock up and you can whip this salsa recipe together anytime.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/component/resource/article/877/28193"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 283px; height: 250px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1225755840_spanish_rice.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Extra Frugal Tip Alert!</span><br />Save the juice from your canned tomatoes and use it to make a batch of <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/component/resource/article/877/28193">Spanish Style Rice </a><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/component/resource/article/877/28193">(click link for recipe)</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients</span><br />1 can, 28 ounces, whole tomatoes<br />1 can, 14.5 ounces, whole tomatoes<br />1 can, 7 ounces, diced green chiles<br />1 medium-large onion, about 1 3/4 cups coarsely chopped<br />1 to 2 fresh jalapeno chiles, stemmed, seeded and chopped, about 1-3 tablespoons chopped<br />1 small bunch cilantro, stems removed, coarsely chopped, about 3/4 cup chopped<br />salt and pepper to taste<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Instructions</span><br />Place the tomatoes and chiles in a colander, squeeze out as much juice as possible and set aside for at least 15 minutes to drain well. Press out additional moisture before continuing with recipe. Be sure to catch the juice if you plan on making <a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/component/resource/article/877/28193">Spanish Style Rice</a>.<br /><br />Transfer the drained tomatoes and chiles, along with the remaining ingredients to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse about 6 to 10 times – mixture should be well chopped and combined but still have some small chunks for texture. Serve as a dip for tortillas chips or anywhere else you'd use fresh salsa.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Variations, Substitutions and Embellishments</span><br /><ul><li>Don’t have any fresh jalapenos on hand? Substitute pickled sliced jalapenos, like those typically served on nachos.</li><li>A quarter or half of a pureed chipotle chile (or more to taste) will add smoky flavor and additional spicy heat.<br /></li><li>Garlic lovers will want to add a clove or two of minced garlic to the mix.</li><li>Cooking for kids or wimps? Leave out all the jalapenos and definitely do not add the chipotle.</li></ul><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/04/thrifty-thursday-week-8.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Formaro</span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Cookin</span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/04/thrifty-thursday-week-8.html">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">blogosphere</span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-7578223239911765579?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-84289877089432853662009-04-14T16:01:00.000-07:002009-04-14T16:22:44.279-07:002009-04-14T16:22:44.279-07:00A Unique American Regional Cuisine Experience - The Door County Fish Boil<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabuloustravel.com/usa/article/392/28399"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 263px;" src="http://www.fabuloustravel.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1239414243_fish_boil.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>DOOR COUNTY, WISCONSIN, USA -- What do you get when you cross the primitive tribal elements of a huge cast iron communal cooking pot set over a blazing raging hot fire with down home Midwest sensibility and hospitality? Answer – the Door County, Wisconsin fish boil.<br /><br />What began as an economical way to feed large, hungry crowds of lumberjacks and fishermen has evolved into a bonafide culinary tourist attraction and Door County is the only place you can regularly experience it.<br /><br />Steaks of delicate whitefish taken from the waters of Lake Michigan which surrounds the peninsula of Door County, along with small red potatoes, onions, and sometimes corn on the cob are placed in perforated metal baskets and lowered into heavily salted boiling water.<br /><br />The “Boil Master” oversees the entire operation, stoking and feeding the wood fire under the huge black cast iron cauldron to keep the water rolling and adding the various ingredients at just the right moments to insure that everything is cooked just the right amount to retain flavor and texture.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabuloustravel.com/usa/article/392/28399"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 250px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ft/usa/door_county/fish_bucket.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Depending on the time of year you visit Door County, you may or may not want to stand outside to view the entire process (can you tell I experienced my fish boil in December?), but either way be sure to get everybody outside in plenty of time for the “boil over.”<br /><br />For the Fish Boil's spectacular fiery finale, the Boil Master douses the already robust fire with a hefty supply of kerosene, thereby causing the eruption of a flaming volcano, which is ultimately doused by the water boiling over from the cauldron above. Aside from serving as a must-get Door County photo op for your vacation album, the boil over does serve a practical purpose. As the fish cooks, the oil from their flesh rises to the top of the cauldron. When the water boils over, it takes this layer of oil floating at the top with it, leaving food behind that’s perfectly cooked, but never greasy or oily.<br /><br />Zen-like in its simplicity – the salted water during cooking and a drizzle of drawn butter at the table provide the only seasoning, the Fish Boil’s wholesome ingredients nonetheless satisfy today’s diners just as they did the working Door County residents of yesteryear.<br /><br />You’ll find restaurants throughout Door County offering Fish Boils year round (although in off season, they are only offered on the weekends). Most offer a complete meal including side dishes and a slice of Door County Cherry Pie to complete your dinner, like they do at the White Gull Inn where I went for the Fish Boil experience. This elegant historic (built in 1896) hotel and restaurant in the beautiful bayside town of Fish Creek also makes a great choice as a home base for a romantic Door County getaway.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.fabuloustravel.com/usa/article/392/28396"><strong>Click here for more of my articles on the fun things to do, see, and eat in Door County, Wisconsin. </strong></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Practicalities</strong><br /></div> <b><br />Be sure to make reservations to attend a Fish Boil in advance</b>, especially during the high seasons of summer and fall when they frequently sell out. During the high seasons most restaurants offer several seatings per evening. Fewer restaurants offer Fish Boils in winter, and usually only on weekends so be sure to check schedules in advance to avoid disappointment.<br /><b><br />The White Gull Inn and Restaurant</b> is located at 4225 Main Street in Fish Creek, WI 54212; call 920-868-3517 or visit their website at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.whitegullinn.com/">www.whitegullinn.com</a>.<br /><b><br />To find other restaurants offering Fish Boils</b>, click to the Door County Visitor’s bureau website at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.doorcounty.com/dine/fish-boils.aspx">www.doorcounty.com/dine/fish-boils.aspx</a>.<br /><br />For trip planning, contact the <strong>Door County Visitor’s Bureau</strong> at 1015 Green Bay Rd. Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 call 800-52-RELAX or 920-743-4456 or click to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.doorcounty.com/">www.DoorCounty.com</a>.<br /><br />(Photo at top of post by Jon Jarosh.)<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-8428987708943285366?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-13261653164954283172009-04-12T10:38:00.001-07:002009-04-12T16:04:52.327-07:002009-04-12T16:04:52.327-07:00The 10 Best Things To Do With Leftover Easter Eggs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/16/27973"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1215633005_devileggs.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Okay. Easter is over. A good time was had by all. There were chocolates and grand style feasting, and of course, Easter Eggs. Lots and lots of Easter Eggs. So many Easter Eggs. Never have you and your family turned out such masterpieces of Easter art. You just couldn't stop! <p align="left">But what are you left with after the bunny goes home? A couple of extra pounds from all the chocolate, a pile of brightly colored egg shells and lots and lots of hard boiled eggs.</p> <p align="left"><strong>WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH ALL THOSE EGGS?</strong><br />We love coloring eggs as much as anyone. But we HATE wasting food. What follows is a list of ten fabulous things to make with leftover eggs. Oh, by the way, you don't have to wait till Easter to <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=17621&category_id=16"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 216px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/scotcheggs.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>enjoy these recipes.</p><ul><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=17621&category_id=16">Scotch Eggs</a> (pictured right) -- Britain's favorite bar food makes a great snack, hot or cold.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=19811&category_id=550">Deviled Eggs</a> (pictured top of this post) - Why wait till your next party to serve this great hors d'ouervre?</li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/16/18985"><span style="font-weight: bold;">BBQ Eggs </span></a>-- I know Bar-B-Q eggs may sound strange, but they are really delicious. Try them, you'll be surprised. </li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=17614&category_id=15"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pickled Eggs</span></a> -- Another pub favorite!</li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=17602&category_id=15"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Beet Pickled Eggs</span></a> -- Brightly colored pub food. Yummm!</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=18852&category_id=155">Egg Salad Sandwich </a>-- A classic: egg salad spread it on bread, topped with lettuce and sliced tomato (pumpernickel bread is especially good).</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21320&category_id=232">Meatloaf</a> -- Bury a few of hard boiled eggs in a meatloaf for a visual and taste surprise.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=18768&category_id=154">Potato Salad</a> -- Bet you never think of this favorite picnic side dish until summer, but it makes a great way to use extra boiled eggs now.</li><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=18786&category_id=156"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 322px; height: 180px;" src="http://www.fabulousliving.com/images/ff/recipes/salads/cobbsalad.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=17773&category_id=56">Scalloped Eggs</a> -- This is an old fashioned recipe that was a favorite in your grandmother's (or great grandmother's) day.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=18786&category_id=156">Cobb Salad</a> (pictured right) -- Eggs add the perfect flavor touch to Hollywood's most famous salad.</li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-1326165316495428317?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-80294950768535460422009-04-12T07:00:00.000-07:002009-04-12T16:04:26.246-07:002009-04-12T16:04:26.246-07:00Use Up That Leftover Easter HamEaster dinner is over and you've still got tons of ham left? Join the club, but don't despair. The recipes at the links below will help you use up every last but of that Easter ham, even the bones.<br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/126/19073"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 288px; height: 203px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/images/recipe/thumbnail/pnutham.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/550/19437">Spicy Ham Balls</a> -- Recipe from Cajun Chef Jude W. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Theriot</span></li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/56/17774">Scrambled Eggs with Ham</a> -- This is such a quick and easy egg dish that there's no need to wait for the weekend to treat yourself. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/44/22191">Ham and Cheese Yogurt Muffins</a> -- Ah, breakfast in a muffin. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/137/18906">Grilled Ham, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tapenade</span> and Cheese Sandwiches</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>-- Olive <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tapenade</span> adds a spectacular flavor to these grilled ham and cheese sandwiches. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/135/19401"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Emeril</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Lagasse's</span> Fettuccine Alfredo with Ham</a> -- A family friendly recipe from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Emeril</span> that the kids can help make.<br /> </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/56/19660"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ramen</span> Noodles and Ham Omelets</a> -- A quick, easy and hearty meal that kids and adults will love. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/126/19073">Peanut Glazed Ham Steaks</a> (pictured right) -- A unique take on ham steaks featuring peanut butter.<br /> </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/126/18204">Ham Steaks with Irish Whisky Sauce</a> -- This Irish recipe takes advantage of one of the Emerald Isle's best exports, Irish Whisky. </li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/211/19181">White Bean and Ham Soup</a> -- This is a great hearty bean soup.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/178/18540">Black Eyed Peas with Ham</a> -- A classic Southern preparation.</li><li><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/723/19650">Slow Cooker French Style Meatloaf</a> -- This French meatloaf recipe features ground ham.<br /> </li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-8029495076853546042?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5287301827471647467.post-79636595730134960592009-04-08T17:35:00.000-07:002009-04-09T13:50:31.465-07:002009-04-09T13:50:31.465-07:00Make Your Own Salad Dressing -- Thrifty Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/28214"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 314px; height: 271px;" src="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/uploads/picture/96/thumbnail_table/1227736293_basic_vinegrette.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I never cease to be amazed at the amount of shelf (and in some cases cooler) space grocery stores devote to salad dressings. There's a never ending array. I almost never buy any of them. Why? because it's quick, easy, cheap and environmentally friendly to make my own. Not to mention healthier -- just try to find a salad dressing these days that doesn't contain high fructose corn syrup.<br /><br />If you have a food processor or mini food <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">processor</span> it's ultra quick to make dressing. Otherwise, use a whisk and incorporate the oil in a thin stream while whisking into order to emulsify the oil into the other ingredients.<br /><br />And don't forget, vinaigrette dressings can easily do double duty as marinades -- now there's another supermarket aisle that's way too big.<br /><br />Check out these recipe and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">forgo</span> the dressing aisle of the market, you'll save money and valuable resources.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Variations on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Vinaigrettes</span></span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/28214">Cheri's Basic Vinaigrette</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/19878">Raspberry Vinaigrette<br /></a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/19727">Red Wine Vinaigrette</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18463">Blueberry Vinaigrette</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/22205"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Chipotle</span> Sherry Vinaigrette</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/19295">Apricot Vinaigrette<br /></a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/17611">Fennel Vinaigrette </a></li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Favorite Homemade Salad Dressings<br /></span><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/19498">Creamiest Parmesan Salad Dressing</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18484">Classic 1000 Island Salad Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18486">Classic Blue Cheese Dressing</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18529">Orange Salsa Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18464">Almost Caesar Salad Dressing</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/19140">Cilantro Lime Yogurt Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/19497">Lemon Avocado Salad Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18465">Honey Mustard Citrus Dressing</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18493">Creamy Tarragon Dressing</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/19394">Maple Mustard Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18492">Asian Style Salad Dressing</a></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Low Fat Salad Dressings</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18490">Low Fat Creamy Italian Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18489">Low Fat Citrus Ginger Dressing</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18491">Low Fat Ranch Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18488">Low Fat Blue Cheese Dressing</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/sauces/article/174/18487">Low Fat 1000 Island Dressing</a><br /></li></ul><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/04/thrifty-thursday-week-7.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ywvV-d3ePCk/ScD-HdusUyI/AAAAAAAACBQ/Q18Le94mB64/s400/thriftythursdays.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Thrifty Thursdays is a blog event created by my fried Amanda <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Formaro</span></span> from Amanda's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Cookin</span></span>' blog. I've agreed to participate, so look for a frugal themed post here each Thursday.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">In addition to reading my posts, <a href="http://amandascookin.blogspot.com/2009/04/thrifty-thursday-week-7.html">be sure to visit Amanda's blog</a> for a round-up of all the thrifty home and cooking tips and recipes that came in this week from folks around the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">blogosphere</span>.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for viewing Cheri's FabulousFoods.<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5287301827471647467-7963659573013496059?l=blogs.fabulousfoods.com' alt='' /></div>Cheri Sicardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10294934690243879582noreply@blogger.com2