Gastronome Tart

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 11.05.2011

Gastronome Musings is back as well this weekend and I am very excited to finally be able to post some of my favorite web finds as I have not been able to do so over these past few weeks due to the move.

It is with some sadness that I am not able to be in San Francisco this weekend for Foodbuzz's Festival. This move really took it out of me this time and due to it, I was unable to attend. However, I am looking forward to hearing all about it from all of my blogging friends who were able to attend.

Speaking of Foodbuzz, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all my reader's who may have sent some buzz our way as our welcome back post was on Foodbuzz's Top 9 yesterday! 

In case you missed it, here is what was featured on Gastronome Tart this past week:

Sweet Potato Pork Belly Hash

 

Most Popular Post this week:

Sweet Potato Pork Belly Hash

 

How many of us have found live critters in our purchased food? Okay, very few. Alright, how many have found dead critters in our purchased food? A few of you? Yes, insect parts in your PB & J does count. 

How about if you were to go to Costco, purchase a tub of organic greens and then see eyes peeking out at you? Would you keep that critter as a pet?

This is exactly what one woman did when she found a tree frog in her organic greens and due to this, the owner of the company that sold their greens to Costco stated that it just proves that her product is 100% natural. I have to agree with this one. Read the article here and tell me your thoughts on it.

 

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Having traveled to many countries including parts in Asia and Africa, there have been many times that I have passed street food vendors and wanted to go all Anthony Bourdain and eat at every single one of them. However, that pesky voice in the back of my head would always tell me otherwise. That yes, I could get sick. Funny how that never seems to happen to Bourdain. Or at least that we know of. 

Anyhow, I came across this article that chronicles in pictures,  food vendors from around the world. Every time I travel, this is a part of the culture that I love. Street food. I love to just walk and peek around and see what everyone is cooking up. Interesting indeed.

 

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Thanksgiving is literally just around the corner and I will be having some company and have been feverishly getting ready for my company (mix that with unpacking and it sure is a whirlwind!) This year along with my parents, my cousin and her family will be coming and my cousin's hubby is one big beer connoisseur. What on earth am I to serve him that will impress his taste buds? 

If you have the same dilemma, I suggest checking out this list from Justin Philips. Justin compiles a list of 6 unique brews that will be sure to please the pickiest beer fans at your table this year.

 

ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND!

 

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 10.15.2011

I feel as if I start every Gastronome Musings in recent weeks with the same expression: Happy Fall! However, I cannot say it enough. Fall is my absolute favorite season and here in Virginia the leaves are finally in the early stages of changing. The weather is starting to get a bit cooler. Although mid 70's isn't necessarily what I would consider Fall weather, but I'll take it anyhow! 

The Gastronome Tart has still been busy packing for our move next weekend. I am so looking forward to being able to cook in my new kitchen! Stay tuned for some video tutorials as I actually have gotten several requests for that. 

Due to the move, I haven't been able to post as much as I usually do. So, in case you missed it, here was what was featured on Gastronome Tart this week:

Minestrone & Parmesan Biscuit Potpie

 

 

 

Restaurant Review- Ejay Rin

 

Most Popular:

 Cheddar-Crust Apple Pie

 

Although I do post a lot of un-healthy options on here, I do still try to throw in a nice healthy meal from time to time. During most of the week, I try to eat healthy and that obviously boils down to what type of cereal I eat as well.

I am a huge fan of Kashi. Always have been. Although I do not eat their honey puffs, I was surprised to find out that their honey puffs cereal is worse for you than let's say frosted flakes! Say it isn't so! 

This surprising article states what wasn't so obvious: Majority of so-called "natural" cereals, actually aren't so naturally healthy after all.

 

                                                                                                                                                          

 

What are your top "meal breakers"? As in, I am out to eat and find object A in my food so I immediately complain or it could be object B.

After a woman found human blood on her BLT at Cracker Barrel, a slide show was compiled of some of the top meal breakers of all time. 

It is a fun read, even if it makes you just want to stay at home and  cook your own meals. In which case, Gastronome Tart will be here to help with any of your recipe needs.

 

 

 

 

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 10.08.2011

 
 
Since we are in the beginning stages of Fall, that also means Fair season! For the first time last night in a multitude of years, the hubby and I went to the State Fair here in Virginia. We absolutely had a blast! Went on a few rides and of course the ferris wheel (where I took this pic from my phone. I apologize in advance for the lousy quality) and the ride that was made infamous in the movie Big (which we cursed ourselves immediatley the moment it begun) and a fair wouldn't be complete without at least some fried food. Rob and I actually were quite proud of ourselves as we shared the fried oreos and then only ate one other item for dinner (Sausage with onions and peppers) All in all, it was a blast and we can't wait to go again next year.

Here on Gastronome Tart, we had our own flirtation with fried food. Our very own Panettone French Toast Dippers. In case you missed it, read on below for that post as well as what else was featured this week.

 

Panettone French Toast Dippers with Maple Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce 

 

 

Oven-Fried Pork Cutlet with Endive-Chickpea Slaw 

 

 

Caramel Budino with Salted Caramel Sauce

 

 

Most Popular Post this week:

Panettone Cinnamon French Toast Dippers with Maple Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce

 

I admit that I have taken part in this trend and yes, I have since learned my lesson. What trend am I talking about? None other than truffle oil. As many of us know, it isn't true truffles you are tasting, yet "truffle essence". Jason Kessler of The Nitpicker, says it perfectly in this article that you obviously get what you pay for. In terms of truffle oil? That is 2,4-dithiapentane. Mmmm.... I also like to think that Gordon Ramsey on Master Chef stated it best when he told a contestant that they basically just ruined their dish by placing truffle oil over it. Hype people! That's all it is!

 

 

Ever wonder what the top food commercials of the year are? Ace Metrix (company that compiles this information) makes it easy by showing us which ones were the best food ads of 2011. I have to agree with them that the Sonic commercial with the guy riding the jalapeno like a horse is pretty hilarious!

Have a great week!

 

 

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 10.01.2011

Woo-Hoo! Today is the first day of October and I am super excited! There is literally something about fall that gets me all pumped up and October is the epitome of it all. Something about Halloween and the anticipation before Halloween with the decorations and creative, ghoulish treats that we all imbibe in during this time of the year.

Gearing up for Halloween usually requires preparation and my decor and scary gadgets are all getting packed away as we speak and getting ready for our move towards the end of the month. We are specifically moving one week before Halloween just so we can get some sort of a feel for what our new neighborhood will be like come the 31st. 

What are some the traditions and things that you like to do during the month of October? I would love to hear all about any specialty baking or cooking you all may be doing.

Since we are on full speed ahead in anticipation of Monday the 31st, here is a look back at what the last week of September 2011 that was featured on Gastronome Tart:

Blueberry Jam Coffee Crumb Cake

 

 

 

Maple Apple Crostata with Maple Ice Cream

 

Most Popular Post this week:

Blueberry Jam Coffee Crumb Cake

 

 

Ever wonder what some of the top selling cookbook's of all time are (besides the obvious)? The Daily Meal on Huffington Post actually compiled a slide show of The Top Cookbook's of All Time. There are a few in there that one would have never known. Go ahead and take a look and tell me which one's surprised you.

 

 

How many of us consumer's have heard the term that 9 out of 10 restaurants fail in their first year? Well, according to this article in Business Week (posted in 2007, but some say it still rings true) that is not the case. It is a pretty interesting read for anyone who is or has ever been interested in owning a restaurant.

 

 

Since Fall is in full swing now, you may be noticing a bunch of different types of apples grazing the supermarkets and famer's markets recently. However, Kitchen Daily has helped take out all the guess with their Cheat Sheet for Apple's.

 

Enjoy Your Week!

 

 

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 9.24.2011

 

Wow! What a week! My Mac finally was finished getting repaired AND to top it off, Friday was the official start of fall! Woo-Hoo! As I sit here writing this entry with a Pumpkin Spice Latte (Come on. Fess up! How many have you had so far?) I've been thinking about all the amazing fall recipes I've across this foodie blogospehere of ours and am so excited to start baking and cooking up a storm in honor of my favorite season. 

Due to my treasured Mac being cooped up at the Apple store, I was only able to post once this week. So, in case you haven't had a chance to peruse Gastronome Tart this week, here is what you missed:

 

Ricotta Palačinke

 

Most Popular Post this week:

Cheddar-Crust Apple Pie 

For the second week! People sure do love apples this time of the year and I don't blame them!

 

 

I think one of the things that gastronome's love so much about fall is that it comes with it's own style of food. Sure the farmer's market's will be coming to a close soon, but it also  means that the kitchen is back open for business! Although I do love to barbecue from time to time and make things that are not really fussy (i.e. Food's that are served chilled would be a great example) something about getting back into the heat of the kitchen to make a warming stew or braising short ribs and we can't forget about that oven! Time to turn that baby up! So, with all the goodies that fall brings, let's not forget about the cocktails! Here is an amazing round up of Fall Cocktails courtesy of Huffington Post. I know I will be shaking up one or two this year.

 

                                                                                                                                                     

 

 

 

 

 

As I sit here still sipping this Pumpkin Spice Latte, the above video was brought to my attention. Christopher Criswell was a barista at a Starbucks in California who decided to make a song, record it on video and post it to YouTube (**Word of caution, there are a few cuss words weaved throughout**) Basically the guy is ranting about all the annoyances that come with the job. Since I obviously do like my Starbucks, and I am a customer, I found this video to be completely hilarious! Anyone who has worked with the general public will understand. Unfortunately, Chris was fired from Starbucks after the video went viral. While I do understand where Starbucks is coming from, anyone who has worked with the public will find this funny. Come on Starbucks! I'm sure you found it hilarious as well! Now just give the guy his job back. What do you think about the situation? Should Chris have been fired?

 

 

 

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 9.17.2011

 

 
 
For those of you who have been wondering why I have been down to only one post this week, I am still waiting for my desk top to be fixed. However, I have been busy baking and cooking up a storm so once it is back at home, be prepared for lot's of yummy fall treats! Can't wait to share!

However, here is the rundown for what was featured this week on Gastronome Tart:

 

Honey-Rosemary Ice Cream

 

Most popular post this week: Cheddar-Crust Apple Pie 

 

 

 

 
 
I have always wanted an excuse to make a grand cake. One complete with fondant. Even though I must admit I am not that fond of fondant. I came across this recipe and instructions for making Marshmallow Fondant on A Spicey Perspective this week. Who knew that fondant could be so easy to make and also taste great too?

 

 

Quinoa in muffins? I came across this recipe for Quinoa Streusel Muffins on Scarletta Bakes. They looked delicious and sound delicious and what a great way to make use of that quinoa that may be sitting in your fridge or pantry?

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 9.10.2011

 

 
 
 This sure has been a strange week over here on Gastronome Tart. I have been without my desktop for close to one week now as it is being fixed for the driver being off balance over at the Apple store. That Apple store. Does any one else hate going in there? I absolutely love Apple, but I really dislike venturing into there to get anything fixed. Appointment or not, I seem to wait around forever!

With or without my desktop, I was still able to manage a few posts this week.So, n case you missed them, here was the featured posts this week on Gastronome Tart:

 

Creme Fraiche Salmon 

 

 

Cheddar-Crust Applie Pie 

 

Most popular post this week:

Cheddar-Crust Apple Pie
 

 

 

 
 
I'm sure plenty of my reader's have heard all about his fiasco seeing that many of you are food blogger's yourself, however, this was news to me when I sat down for a meet up with Ryan from Ryan Bakes and Courtney from Cook Like a Champion. Con Agra apparently learned the hard way NOT to try to pull a fast one on food blogger's of all things. Imagine their surprise when the found out what they were eating was not prepared by a celebrity chef, but none other than Marie Callendar's. When Blogger's Don't Follow the Script.

 

 

 

As I had posted on Gastronome Tart's Facebook Page, I was super pumped about the introduction of the new Ben and Jerry's ice cream flavor: Schweddy Balls. I know, I know. The name insinuates some pretty vulgar stuff, however, this was in honor of the famous SNL skit of the 90's with Alec Baldwin and  Molly Shannon. I was waiting until I came across it in my grocery store. So, imagine my disappointment when I read this review.

 

 

 

I am always on the lookout for new gadgets, however only if it is something that I will truly use on a constant basis. My kitchen is cluttered enough as it is. So, how amazing is it that I came across this pie crust protector on King Arthur Flour's Website? I have made plenty of tin foil pie crust shields in my lifetime. Enough of that? How unbelievably easy is this?

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 9.03.2011

 

 

This week sure has been a crazy one! Over here in our loft in Richmond, we have been cleaning up from the aftermath of Hurricane Irene. She sure did a number on the loft. There was water coming in everywhere to the point that Rob had to go out in the middle of the storm to go buy a Shop-Vac. The crazy thing was, I was in the middle of cooking for the Foodbuzz 24x24 dinner party! We were very lucky however to not have our power go out. My sister-in-law up in New Jersey was not so lucky. Their power finally came back on Tuesday at 8:00pm and New Jersey didn't even get the worse of it. Crazy!

I would love to hear how all of you have been faring from the aftermath of the storm. Any of you without power for a long period of time? Dealing with water damage? I would love to hear about all your crazy stories you may have :)

Without further a do, in case you missed it, here is what was on Gastronome Tart this past week:

 
 Foodbuzz 24x24 Party

When I was contacted a few weeks ago that my proposal had been accepted from Foodbuzz to host a party, I was ecstatic! Rob and I absolutely love Spain (as well as many other countries we have been to) and were so excited to throw a dinner party that included traditional Spanish tapas and traditional Sangria. Except for that annoying guest named Irene, we had a great time!

 

 

 
  Honey Cake with Honey Cream-Cheese Frosting

An absolutely delicious, dense, creamy cake that would be perfect at a brunch or for a dessert. Don't forget that the giveaway for my artisanl honey is still going on. Go on over to Facebook and if you haven't already, press "like". Once we reach 100 a winner will be picked at random.

 

 

 
 Fruit Granola Bars with Peanut Butter Drizzle

A perfect recipe for busy mornings and perfect for those back to school lunches.

 

 

 
 
I absolutely LOVE the idea of making drinks that can serve a crowd. With the end of Summer just around the corner and our Labor Day barbecue's happening this weekend, what better way to salute Summer's end than with involving my favorite Summer wine. With Rose wine of course! This recipe for Rose, Bourbon, and Blue wine cocktail would be perfect for this weekend!

 

I saw this recipe (or shall I say mouthwatering photo) for Mudslide Cupcakes over on Tracey's Culinary Adventures and was immediately smitten. Kahlua and Irish Cream buttercream frosting?! Yes, please!

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 8.27.2011

 

This week has been a whirlwind. Quite literally. Here in Virginia we experienced an earthquake and now we are prepping for the onslaught of Hurricane Irene. Something strange is going on, although I can't complain as Irene has allowed the hubby to stay home on a Saturday (Something that NEVER happens) So, I have been cooking and baking up a storm these past couple of days and today so that we can watch Irene do her thing. Whatever that may be.

This past week has been an easy week on Gastronome Tart. Easy and healthy meals as I have been trying not to overindulge lately :)

In case you missed it, here is a roundup of what was on Gastronome Tart this past week:

 

 

My 7 Links This was a really fun post to do. Right now in the food blogosphere, this game is being circulated around. Someone from another blog tags five people and I was tagged! The concept was to pick 7  of my posts that ranged from post beautiful to most controversial. It was a lot of fun to go back and look at some of my older posts.

 

 

 

Grilled Chicken & Orange Skewers with Zucchini Rice

A simple yet delicious weeknight meal that can be prepared in no time!

 

 

 

Roasted Okra

This may have been one of the simplest recipes I have ever posted, but a lot of people have told me that they stay away from okra because it tastes slimy. My only response is that they haven't tried roasting it. By doing so, it imparts a delicious depth of flavor that makes this veggie addictive!

 

 

Most viewed this week: Bourbon Peach Barbecue Sauce

 

 

 

You either love him, or you hate him. I absolutely LOVE Anthony Bourdain. When I came across this article on Delish entitled A Timeline of Anthony Bourdain's Fighting Words, I knew I was in for a treat. It was like snuggling up with popcorn in anticipation of a movie about to start. I laughed hysterically when I read about him saying that Guy Fieri looks like a committee made him up. While I do LOVE Guy Fieri as well, let's admit it people, he kind of does look manufactured a bit right? I swear Bourdain is a true poet of words.

 

 

 

Okay, everyone knows about my obsession with Momofuku's Milk Bar over in NYC. Ever since then, I have been thinking about a Cereal Milk Ice Cream. So, I typed it into google and came across the blog Cafe Fernando where apparently he had made this ice cream I have been dreaming of for a few years now. He had a very good point that you couldn't just simply use the cereal milk per se as the flavor would drown out as the ice cream making process progressed. I will for sure be making this and soon! Summer is almost over! 

 

 

 

I love reading all about the wine selections that Bella over at the blog Wine and Good Food chooses. In case you haven't been over there, check it out. She always has amazing wine choices and speaks about what each wine would pair well with. I like to think of myself as someone who knows more about wine than the average person, yet I am always on the lookout for wines that are decently priced and are not something that you will find in the mass market grocery store aisle. Bella had reviewed this 2009 "The Slammer" Syrah as a potential wine that would be good to serve at all those end of the summer barbecue's that we are all sure to take part in. While it may not have been an A rating, for $9.99 I think it would be great to serve at a barbecue. Especially if you have a lot of friends who like to imbibe if you know what I mean ;)

 

 

Gastronome Musings- My Favorite Web Finds for 8.20.2011

As with every Gastronome Musings post, here is a quick run down of what was featured this week on Gastronome Tart in case you missed it as well as web finds and excellent bookmarked recipes! Also, please remember to head on over to Gastronome Tart on Facebook to be entered into a drawing to win a jar of my honey! Once the page reaches 100 "Likes" a winner will be picked at random.

 

Goat Cheese Ice Cream Topped with Caramelized Figs

I think the name quite literally says it all. This ice cream is absolutely to die for and one that I will make time and time again. 

 

 

 

Strawberry Honey Napoleon with Cardamom Whipped Cream

Who doesn't love strawberries and whipped cream? I like to think of this as almost a modern take on an old favorite. Besides, who doesn't love honey? Remember to head on over to Gastronome Tart's page on Facebook to be entered into a drawing to win a jar of my honey. Once the page reaches 100, a winner will be chosen at random. Unfortunately due to agriculture products being banned in customs in many countries, this contest is only open within the United States :(

 

The most viewed post this week was the Strawberry Honey Napoleon with Cardamom Whipped Cream

 

 

 

Gastronome Tart's Web Musings for 8.20.2011

 

Seriously. Just LOOK AT THIS CAKE !!!! I found this over on The Red Spoon which is written by Meg. Meg always comes up with amazing stuff and this cake just so happens to be the one he asks for time and time again. THE chocolate peanut butter cake. Stop on by, take a gather, wipe that drool off your chin and get busy in that kitchen!

 

 

 

 

I absolutely love the food blog Beloved Green and when I came across this post for grilled lemon pepper corn on the cob, I was entranced. What got me really craving it was her list about all things that must be accomplished for it to truly feel like Summer. Some I have crossed off, and others I need to get on it! Either way Summer is ending and corn will be gone soon too.

 

 

 

I always get giddy when someone comes out with a top ten list of restaurants. When that top ten list is written by Andrew Knowlton (aka The Foodist on Bon Appetit) I get really giddy. Andrew knows his stuff so I'm pretty sure that he knows his restaurants for sure. Here is a roundup of The Best New Restaurants in America in 2011. If none of them are close, then book that plane ticket, because they sound enticing!