Pizza For Vegetarians And Vegans

When you think of pizza, you often imagine it covered in pepperoni, sausage, and cheese and a variety of dough made with or without eggs. This is not the only way. As a result of thorough recipe searches and restaurant ventures, we are all learning that there are so many different types of pizza out there these days. Therefore, by cutting corners on certain animal product ingredients and substitutions elsewhere, a vegetarian and the strictest vegans can enjoy this baked, tasty, and convenient finger food whenever they want to as well.

Vegetarianism and veganism are important ways of dieting and living for those who participate. Although pizza is a fun and easy food, vegans and vegetarians have to take their food consumption seriously, especially when their dietary restrictions are for reasons of morals, health, or religion. For vegetarians or vegans, this is a habitual practice either for a period of time for dietary reasons or for life. However, anyone can try out the recipes that accommodate these lifestyle choices. You can create your own combination of ingredients to make a tasty and healthy version of your favorite pie.

First, vegetarianism involves the removal of meat and animal products from your diet. However, there is some leeway here. Some vegetarians often cut out meat, but they do consume egg-containing products for dietary balance. This is where veganism comes into play. Second, well-planned veganism focuses on both diet and environmentalism. Vegans do not consume or use dairy, eggs, meat, poultry, fish, or animal products of any kind, including clothing, etc. Both diets have to be well-planned to ensure the adequate amounts of vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, calcium, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids are included in their diet. Anyone for a soy slice?

Vegetarian and vegan pizza includes, but is not limited to utilizing alternative sources of ingredients for the bread and alternative sources for the cheese and protein so that you can get the vitamins and minerals that you need each day. Whether you are trying vegetarianism or veganism for the first time or it's a long-term commitment, you have to be sure that you are making all of the necessary substitutions and ingesting the right supplements, too. Your new version of Italian pie is just one meal of your day, but you still want to be sure that you are consuming all of the good things that you need to be healthy and strong at any age.

Having The Proper Pizzeria Equipment Is Essential

We all have memories of eating pizza in our local pizzeria restaurant. It does not matter what walk of life you are from, there is a good chance that pizza is one of your favorite foods. After all, this is an American legend. Because of this, anyone who chooses to open a pizza shop is making a wise decision. Of course, there is plenty to know about running a pizzeria. Many people are under the impression that as long as they know how to cook a good pizza, and if they have the proper pizzeria equipment, they are going to be okay. However, one would also need to know how to handle the finances as well as basic business-building skills.

Having the proper type of oven is essential to the success of your pizzeria. After all, a pizza that is not baked properly is simply not going to be acceptable to any of your customers. Just any old oven is not going to do the trick when baking pizza all day long. If one were to be cooking pizza from the comfort of their own home, then that would be a different story. In addition to a high-quality pizza oven, you are going to want to have all of the proper equipment in order to make a delicious pizza. For instance, a dough-making machine is an absolute must when making pizza in a restaurant. Other necessary equipment would include a large dough mixer and a prep table for the dough. You will need to buy several cooking tools as well, including paddles, cheese graters, and bowls. You will also need to purchase knives and cutters, among other tools.

It is important to remember that starting your own pizza business is going to be very expensive. Therefore, it is a good idea to make absolutely sure that this is what you want to do. If you can make a good quality pizza, your customers will come back. Many people who make pizza from scratch consider themselves to be a pizza artist. Not everyone qualifies to be a pizza artist. It takes a special kind of person to create a delicious pizza pie from scratch. Follow your dreams and ambitions, and plan for success!

5 Side Dish Options To Serve With Steak

You've got a nice, fancy, steak dinner planned. But then-what do you serve with it? A side dish can really help make a steak night exceptional--and without a lot of work. Think simplicity. Some of these look really fancy, but actually require little effort.

This is technically more than 5 side dish options to serve with steak, because some of them have multiple suggestions for how to prepare them, but I've separated them by the main ingredient.

Mashed potatoes and butternut squash. This makes mashed potatoes special, and the butternut squash gives the potatoes a buttery/cheesy taste. You simply chop up the potatoes and squash into squares, boil them (separately because they have slightly different boiling points), and then mash them up together. I like to mix in some butter, and I like a bit more potato than squash.

Steamed pepper strips. I like to mix this up with some corn, and possibly some edamame. This really only needs a little bit of butter mixed in, but you can also mix in some salsa, or red pepper flakes. Steaming keeps this a low calorie side dish, dependent only on how much butter you decide to mix in.

Another great steamed side is green beans. Steaming them gives them a great crisp summer flavor. Mix them up with a bit of salsa, or toasted almond slivers and thyme, for two very different low calorie sides.

Brussels sprouts. If you haven't liked these in the past and are thinking about skipping to the next idea straight away, it's probably because the ones you've had were overcooked. Before you give up on them altogether, try steaming them! They should have a great nutty flavor.

Asparagus is probably the best looking side dish for a steak. You can steam it up and serve it plain, or steam it with some sliced garlic, or if you want to abandon all thought of calories pour a nice hollandaise sauce over it!

Paninis You Can Make Without Bread

If you're starting to think there is simply nothing else you can come up with to make with your sandwich press, think again! There is always a new panini to be made. If you don't believe me, it's time to start thinking about paninis you can make without bread. That's right, no bread! Below, we'll cover some ideas for ones you can make with waffles, tortillas, graham crackers, and brownies.

For waffles, you can go sweet or savory, focus on breakfast food ideas. You can mix up chocolate and bananas, or a mix of chocolate and pretty much any other fruit you have in your kitchen. Another quick idea is peanut butter and honey, which is also great to add bananas or apples to. For savory, you can fry up some eggs (scrambled or pretty much any other way, you can even slice up a boiled egg) and cheese. For a little something extra, mix in some veggies like mushrooms, asparagus, or onions. Also consider crumbling tofu instead of/with the eggs.

For tortillas, you really want to fold the tortilla around the filling like with a wrap, or burrito. You can fill it with eggs and veggies (like asparagus, avocado, and black beans) for a breakfast flavor. For a good dinner wrap, try pre-grilled eggplant, zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms with cheese and thyme. Instead of the wrap style, you can also go the quesadilla route. Try mixing different veggies in with your cheese, like avocados, black beans, olives, or asparagus. You can also mix in some crumbled up chicken or bacon.

For graham crackers go traditional and use chocolate and marshmallows.

For brownies, you'll want to be careful not to grill it for too long so this doesn't melt terribly, but press two brownies with cherries and/or blueberries and vanilla ice cream. Top it off with whipped cream once it's done.

With all of these ideas here you should be inspired and ready to go use your panini maker!

Try Homemade Recipes For Dinner Instead Of Take Out

After a long day at work, many people find it much easier to order take out or make a prepared meal than to cook from their own homemade recipes. However, with just a little bit of effort, they can have a delicious meal that will be better for the entire family. Next time a takeout menu looks appetizing, consider the benefits of cooking at home.

It is very important for people of all ages to be concerned about healthy eating, even if they are not overweight. When people cook from their own recipes, they are able to make healthy substitutions that are simply not an option with prepared food. For example, instead of frozen lasagna that is full of fat, consider making a homemade version with reduced fat cheese and whole wheat pasta.

These days, there is hardly a family out there that is not trying to think of a way to save money. Cooking meals instead of ordering them is a great way to save a ton of money each week. Although the total grocery bill may seem like a lot, remember that it includes several meals as well as ingredients that will be used to make a variety of dishes.

In the age of the Internet and smart phones, it can be difficult for families to spend time together and build their own traditions. Cooking is a great way for the whole family to spend some quality time and create their own special recipes. Kids can continue to cook these dishes into their own adulthood, starting new family traditions in the kitchen.

Making homemade recipes for dinner may seem like a hassle but it does not necessarily need to require a lot of time. A simple dish like lasagna can be made in no time and is much healthier when prepared fresh instead of frozen. Most importantly, families can spend quality time together cooking and perfecting their recipes.

Pepper The Cinderella Of The Cupboard

Pepper is an unappreciated spice. It is always there. It is called for in nearly every savory recipe, and some sweets (think Pfeffernusse). Freshly ground pepper is called for everywhere in recipes, rather like Cinderella, Cinderella! It is expected to be in its place, doing what it does best, but completely under appreciated. How many of you really taste pepper? Can you identify the different types and varieties? How many kinds of pepper can you name? Are they all pepper?

Pepper can be very exciting, and the nuances of the different types can make huge differences in the outcome of a dish. Very high quality Tellicherry peppercorns have a distinctly floral flavor with pungency and bite. Store bought ground pepper tastes noting at all like a freshly ground high quality Malabar or Tellicherry. But what are these names, you ask?

Black pepper comes from the plant Piper nigrum. The highest quality black pepper is Tellicherry. Because the berries have been allowed to ripen on the plant before picking, it ensures the most flavor and the largest berries. The berries ferment in the sun for a few days as they dry. Malabar peppercorns are just slightly less ripe when picked, have very full flavor also, and are slightly smaller. White and green peppercorns are the same berries. Green peppercorns are picked before they ripen and dried. Sometimes they are packed in brine, and when added to a dish, give a delicious burst of peppery goodness and gentle heat. These are lovely in creamed sauces. Green peppercorns have a distinct flavor, but lighter. White peppercorns are just black peppercorns soaked in water until their outer shell can be rubbed off, and then allowed to dry. The flavor of pepper is obvious, but more delicately subtle. As it is white, it is the perfect addition to dishes like Chicken and Dumplings, where the black pepper would mar the look of the finished product. It is also good for dishes where the flavor of pepper is desirable, but could easily overpower if using the black peppercorns. In recent years another method for processing white peppercorns has arisen. Sarawak white peppercorns are kept under running water until the skins peel off and the final product is a cleaner, whiter peppercorn.

Pre-ground pepper, the ugly step-sister, bears no resemblance to good peppercorns. As with all spices, pepper should be kept whole until needed, and ground just for the recipe. I have not had pre-ground pepper in my kitchen for more than 25 years. Once I discovered the differences in flavor, I could never go back. Over time, I have invested in various peppermills. One (a Turkish brass coffee grinder) grinds pepper very fine. I use this for grinding into a dish being cooked. Another mill is set to grind coarsely, and used for cracking pepper over food at the table. Another mill holds only white peppercorns. Yet another holds a mixture of white, green and pink, which is an excellent combination for chicken, pork or fish.

But wait, you ask, What about pink peppercorns? These are not pepper at all, but come from a shrub; Schinus molle. Because they look like pepper berries, and have a peppery flavor, they are added to gourmet pepper mixtures. They are aromatic, rather than pungent. Other species of pepper, such as Long Pepper (piper longum) and Cubeb Pepper (piper cubeba), have differing nuances of flavor. Long pepper is hotter than black peppercorns, with a tiny hint of cinnamon; it is wonderful left whole in stews for long cooking. Cubeb pepper, also called Tailed Pepper, is almost a cross between pepper and allspice in flavor.

Bring Cinderella to the ball, at last. Find high quality peppercorns and grind them yourself. You wont be sorry.

Thank you for taking the time to read my article. I hope it was informative and helped you along your own culinary journey. You will find many more recipes and helpful tips on my web site. I am on Facebook at A Harmony of Flavors and share a recipe or tip each day to the fans that have liked my site. I hope to see you there soon.

The Benefits Of Learning How To Make Buttermilk

Once you have used buttermilk in one of your recipes, you will love the richness it adds to foods as well as the flavor that complements anything sweet. For this reason, it is seen as a staple ingredient in the kitchens of many folks who love to cook, but it has many other uses and benefits, too. If you simply learn how to make buttermilk, you will find that it is cost-efficient and has many, many uses.

This product is extremely easy to make and requires merely two ingredients: whole milk and cream of tartar. Sometimes, cream of tartar is difficult to get your hands on--if this is the case, do not fret. Lemon juice is an ample replacement and can be used in the same proportions. For each cup of whole milk that is poured into a bowl, stir in one tablespoon of the cream of tartar or lemon juice, and allow the solution to sit out for fifteen minutes.

It is safe to leave the substance out at room temperature for some time, but be aware that it will begin to curdle. This chemical reaction, in this case, does not mean your mixture is ruined. Giving it another good stir will break up any solids and make it fit for consumption again. When finished using it, merely put it in the fridge--you will learn that it will not go bad for multiple weeks, a much longer shelf-life than that of milk.

Traditional and commercial buttermilk are two different substances and are not interchangeable in cooking. The traditional variety is the thin liquid left over after churning butter and is more popular in Asia than in Western societies. It is added to a number of Eastern dishes to give them a bit more flavor and richness, and is commonly used as the base in soups and creamier sauces.

The commercial "cultured" buttermilk is made by turning milk sugars into lactic acid via active fermentation. It is very acidic and much thicker than its traditional counterpart. Recently, salad dressings made from this substance have become increasingly popular. Most Westerners are familiar with it, though, because of its use in pancakes, breads, and other sweet dishes and desserts.

If you learn the simple process of how to make buttermilk, you will find advancement in the threshold of your cooking and that lots of money has been saved. Since it comes in a small container, it is often more expensive per gallon than regular milk to purchase, but making it is relatively cheap. All the different foods that can be made with this dairy product are delicious, and the possibilities are limitless.

Deliciously Healthy Typical Guatemalan Foods

I recently wrote an article on Guatemalan enchiladas and how they are not at all like the Mexican enchiladas we know in the US. While a Guatemalan enchilada may be served on a fried tortilla, it is also piled high with wonderful vegetables, meat and egg. The use of vegetables like beets and cabbage, along with green beans and carrots give them a variety of vitamins. The tomato sauce used in the enchilada is homemade from tomatoes, tomatillos, onion and garlic. The meat is cooked and fried and offers protein, along with a slice of egg. The enchilada is served with a sprinkling of cheese and parsley. It is a delicious, nutritious salad on a plate.

Enchiladas are not the only typical Guatemalan food to be high in nutrition. Black beans are a staple food, eaten one to three times a day, offering lots of protein and fiber. The addition of rice and corn tortillas to that meal makes a complete protein. Plantains are also eaten at any meal, and used as a vegetable if green. When green, plantains are not very sweet or soft, so cooking them in water gives a slight sweetness, making an excellent side dish to any main course. A serving of plantain is higher in fiber, vitamin C and potassium than a serving of bananas. They are also used as a dessert, simply cooked when very ripe, or made into various dessert dishes.

One dessert made with plantains is frying slices and serving them in a mole sauce. Guatemalan mole sauce is made from tomatoes, tomatillos, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds and cinnamon, with the addition of chocolate at the end. Using all the vegetables and seeds give a great addition of fiber to the diet, along with vitamins and minerals.
A common Guatemalan salad of minced radishes mixed with some chopped tomato, mint, onion and lime juice makes an extremely high flavor and low calorie dish, rich in fiber and vitamin C. Corn tortillas made from cooked field corn with the germ left in are high in fiber and vitamins and these are eaten up to three times a day.

Most any soup or thickened dish made in Guatemala is thickened with the use of shredded tortillas, bread, ground nuts or seeds, instead of flour. The various kinds of tamale eaten in Guatemala have their basis in either hominy or rice or a combination. As stated, the hominy, or cooked whole field corn, contains the whole kernel, with more nutritional value than a can of hominy without the germ. Any sauces added to the tamales are made by grinding together tomatoes, tomatillos, bell peppers, dried chiles, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, cinnamon and sometimes chocolate. These particular flavors are a common theme throughout Guatemalan foods.

Another type of tamale that is used as a treat for breakfast, dessert or any time of day is called tamalitos de helote. We all understand a tamale is usually corn, ground and wrapped into a corn husk or banana leaf and steamed. Helote is young corn not the sweet corn we know here in the US for corn on the cob, but field corn that has not matured to complete dryness. The kernels are removed from the cobs and ground, with sugar and cinnamon added for flavor. The green corn husks are used to wrap these little tamales, imparting a particular flavor and goodness. The use of the whole corn kernels in this dish is a healthier way of eating that a milled corn flour with the germ removed. My husband questioned, why not just slice the kernels from the cob and make the whole process easier? My answer is that the flavor and look would be different, and most of the nutrition would be left behind.

Guatemalan typical dishes may take time to prepare properly, but the end result with all the nutrition packed in is invaluable. I value highly all the complex and flavorful typical recipes I learned there over 30 years ago, and I use them to this day.

Thank you for taking the time to read my article. I hope it was informative and helped you along your own culinary journey. You will find many more recipes and helpful tips on my web site. I am on Facebook at A Harmony of Flavors and share a recipe or tip each day to the fans that have liked my site. I hope to see you there soon.

Just The Right Pizza Dough

The slightest variation in the ingredients of the crust and it will alter the flavor of your next slice. What are the components of a pizza? Well, there are the many toppings to choose from, the many varieties of sauce and the many ways you can use or substitute you cheese and toppings. However, anyone who enjoys a slice from time to time will tell you that the most important component in the building of that occasional slice is the dough. It is the foundation on which the flavor of the slice is built. It is what fills your mouth more than any other component. It influences the taste experience. If it is bland, too salty, very sweet, or filled with aromatic herbs, you will be able to taste it in every bite.

The base ingredient for the crust or dough is the flour without a doubt. So whether you are old fashion and go for the regular unbleached flour or you are vegan and go for the soy flour, you should always be content with the crust you make because it will make your pizza. First, you need to decide what kind of crust you are making. Are you intending to create standard pie dough or will you use a particular type of crust as your base? It can be made to be crisp and snap each time you bite into or it can be chewy or buttery with each bite. The varieties include: white, brown, whole meal, wheat germ, whole grain, rye bread, sourdough, and the simplest form, the flatbread. All have their own ingredient components that, yes, include salt but the grain or part of the grain that the flour is derived from influences the variation in flavor from one crust choice to the other.

The dough is also a part what draws you in. Even if you don't act on a craving right away, when you smell pizza baking you think about consuming it. It has the power of persuasive and suggestive smells with the salty meat and cheese, but it works particularly well with the smell of warm crust. It's the reason grocery stores have the bakery near the front doors, it draws you in. Bread is a staple of living and dietary consumption, it is the base of pizza, and so wherever necessity meets a desire, a craving is formed. So when you order or make you next pie consider the taste variety that can come with simply changing the ingredients of your dough.

Holy Food | Religious Food | Spiritual Food

Recipes for Vegetarian School Lunches

Packing school lunch for vegetarian teens is easy, using popular as well as nutritious foods such as hummus. High protein hummus is quick to prepare in the morning while your teens get ready for school. Two simple hummus recipes are included for your convenience. Sandwich recipes which use hummus are simple to create, adding in favorite veggies, cheeses and condiments.

How to Pack lunch with Vegetarian Sandwiches

Start your adventures in providing delicious, nutritious school meals by having a few basic supplies in your cupboard. Make sure you have 15 oz cans of garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, to use in your hummus recipes. Also have on hand 15 oz cans of Black Beans, to make popular and pretty Black Bean Hummus

Next, make a batch of Hummus. Puree together:

1 15 oz can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 Teaspoon minced garlic (1clove) of garlic (to your taste)
2 Tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds (or 2 T tahini)
1-3 Tablespoons of Lemon Juice (depending on how thick or thin you like your hummus)

Build the sandwich by spreading cup of the hummus on the inside of one-half of a pita pocket bread. The quality of the bread can make a big difference, so be sure to use fresh pita. Whole wheat pita is very nice with hummus, but be sure to begin with pita that your children like. Next add cheese. Feta cheese has good affinity with chickpeas, adding flavor as well as increasing the protein in the sandwich. Finally, add condiments and fillings. One lovely combination is a sprinkle of ground ginger and a filling of shredded carrots and thinly sliced apples. Another delicious sandwich is filled with shredded spinach and thinly sliced spearmint.

Egg Salad Sandwiches are also popular with teens. You can boost the wow! factor as well as nutrition by adding a black bean hummus spread, veggies and herbs to your basic egg salad. Make black bean hummus by pureeing together one rinsed and drained 15 oz can of black beans, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and 1-3 tablespoons of lime juice. Spread cup of the black bean puree on the inside of one-half of a pita pocket bread. Add finely chopped hard-boiled egg, sliced avocado and tomatoes, and a sprinkling of minced flat leaf parsley and scallions.

Complete the school day meal

Add delicious extras such as apples or oranges, and simple desserts. While school meals are improving in nutrition and appeal in many school districts, finding quality vegetarian meals is still a challenge. You can support your teens desire to be vegetarian and help make sure they get the healthy nutrition they need by starting to pack lunch. Start with the simple hummus recipes you have just read, try a couple of the sandwich recipes, and then enjoy conversations with your teens about their favorite fruits and veggies. Have fun experimenting. Please share your delicious results on holy-food.org.

How To Paint Over Laminate Furniture And Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Laminate furniture may be relatively cheap, but painting it over is still cheaper than buying new furniture. Painting a piece of furniture, instead of replacing it, adds to a sustainable lifestyle. With the right kind of primer, it can be done in way, that will keep your furniture good for years. This techniques is of course also suitable for laminate kitchen cabinet doors.

Laminate looks like wood, but its plastic. Acrylic paints, latex or regular oil based paints wont stick to it or - only for a short time. Shellac will. Shellac is a very tough, but non-toxic material. Its high on VOC during the job, but when dry, it's considered safe for childrens toys and furniture. Shellac is available as a clear sealer, and as a pigmented primer, so laminate can be glazed (and look as if its stained), and it can be painted over with hiding layers of paint. Mind, that shellac can only be painted over with latex or oil-based paint - not with acrylics or polyurethane. Latex is not a very strong paint, even if you get the better quality. Youd think its not suitable for painting furniture. However, once the shellac is covered with latex, you can give the latex a coat of polyurethane, and still have a strong paint coat on your furniture.

It may seem time-consuming or like a lot of work, all these paint layers. But the shellac is dry and ready to paint over, within the hour. Latex is a fast drier too. Within one weekend, you can complete the shellac- and latex layer and have your furniture piece looking like new. But, for the best results, Its best to let the latex paint harden out for a few days, and then to give it the polyurethane coating. And of course, youll have to be careful with your piece during these days. When the paint hasnt hardened out yet, itll be vulnerable to scrathing etc. If you want to be sure, its better not to use the piece (or put back the shelves and drawers) during the days its still hardening out.

Preparations are necessary, for getting good results. If your piece of furniture can be taken apart, its best to do so. If not, take out the shelves and drawers. Sanding has to be done meticulously, with a medium sanding paper that is new and sharp. All the shine has to be sanded away. After sanding, clean the piece with alcohol or ammonium (diluted with water). Also take away dust from the rest of the room - then it wont fall into your fresh paint. Open the windows, as shellac is high on VOC during the job.

Painting shellac has to be done fast, as the paint can be dry to the touch within fifteen minutes (and ready to paint over within an hour). For priming, it's best to use rollers, and have a few extra at hand - they'll be very hard to clean. When youre doing big surfaces (like a bedroom closet), make sure the edges on the left dont dry while youre working your way to the right. Develop a system, where you get back to every edge on time, before the edge is dry. You might use some alcohol for that, or just work in thin patches from left to right, getting back to the left on time.

When you paint doors, like kitchen cabinet doors, you might use a few screw-eyes, screwed in the side of the door. Then you can hang every piece to be painted, and work the whole piece in one go (instead of first one side, drying, and then the other side). Have a horizontal stick, like one you use to hang your clothes on. With a bit of wire, the furniture slabs can be hung on clothes hangers, with the eyes you screwed in on the sides (do that on a side thats hidden when you put the furniture back together again). But on the other hand: shellac dries so fast, that you hardly have to wait. If you covered one side of every panel, your first panel will be almost dry and ready to turn over.

As for styling, the possibilities are numerous. Besides using stencils or other decorative painting techniques, latex paint is great for doing some faux marbling techniques. A stain look can be kept, when you use a clear shellac sealer, and glaze the laminate with transparent colored latex. If the laminate already has a wood-grain pattern, it will become a good imitation of stained wood. Natural results depend on doing thin, neat layers with a roller - no brushstrokes or rolling patterns. You achieve that by doing thin layrs, a few if you need to. That's better than doing only one that's too thick.

Dining On The Square In Historic Marietta, Georgia

A variety of restaurants around the historic square in downtown Marietta, Georgia offer diners many enticing options. This city in the northern Atlanta suburbs has an eclectic mix of eateries ranging from Asian to French and Mediterranean to Columbian. For just a quick breakfast pastry or sandwich, stop in at the Australian Bakery or Sugar Cakes Patisserie. For an afternoon treat try Pino Gelato or SweeTreats Ice Cream and Coffee House. Johnny MacCrackens Celtic Firehouse Irish Pub serves pub food and drinks until the wee hours of the morning. Here are some other local favorites to try.

Enjoy lunch or dinner at Blu Greek Taverna, a five star Zagat rated eatery at 26 Mill Street. Their authentic Greek cuisine includes mousaka, lamb stew, souvlaki (kebabs), and a mixed grill featuring lamb, pork, chicken, and beef. Simpatico, at 23 N. Park Square, offers a number of popular entrees cooked in parchment, including the fresh catch of the day. For a sampling of their offerings, order several small plates such as tomato rustica, spring rolls, or pumpkin ravioli. Simpatico is open for dinner only. Its sister restaurant, Willie Raes, is next door. The menu has Cajun influences and offers choices such as fish tacos, PoBoys, pasta jambalaya, and shrimp and grits. Willie Raes is open for lunch and dinner.

For American fare try Shillings on the Square, located at 19 N. Park Square. The main floor restaurant, Streetside Grille, has a casual pub-like atmosphere with a menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, steaks, and seafood. The upstairs dining room, Top of the Square, is an elegant, candlelit eatery featuring filet mignon, lobster, lamb shanks, honey glazed salmon, and chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto and mozzarella. Enjoy live piano music in the upstairs dining room Wednesday-Saturday evenings.

For authentic Italian cuisine, try La Famiglia, at 45 W. Park Square. Its Italian born owners are from Naples and Florence. The dinner menu features mussels, calamari, baked pastas, and veal. The lunch offerings are more casual and include pizzas, calzones, and meatball or Italian sausage sandwiches.

Le Caf Crepe is a delightful French bistro tucked into a remote corner at 90 Marietta Station Walk. Enjoy French onion soup, dinner crepes, and quiche. Saturday night gourmet specials are offered the second Saturday of each month by reservation only.

House of Lu is located one block off the square at 89 Cherokee Street, behind the Strand Theatre. This Asian eatery features coconut shrimp from a special family recipe. Other popular favorites include sesame chicken, Mongolian beef, and General Tsos chicken.

For Columbian cuisine try Kiosco, a couple of blocks south of the square at 48 Powder Springs Road. Specialties include seafood paella, carne asada, arroz con pollo, Columbian tamales, empanadas, and plantains.

Egyptian Dukkah, A Remarkably Versatile Middle Eastern Spice

I love spices of all kinds, and even more when they are combined to make delightful mixtures. Each time I discover another new flavor combination, I like to try it immediately. I do keep a wide variety of spices at home. I know I keep far more than most people, due to my fascination with all the flavor aspects and combinations. The more exotic the spice, the more curious I become. This all began when living in Guatemala. While the spices used there are not terribly unusual, what made them interesting was the way they were combined. Chiles with chocolate, I asked? How about sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds in desserts?

The next step was Indian spices, which was akin to finding a whole new genre of books to read. I dove in head first and tried every spice and spice mixture I could. Mixtures like Garam Masala are known nearly everywhere these days, but how about something like Panch Phoran? Not long ago I heard of a new spice mixture from the Middle East called Zahtar. I just happened to have all the ingredients, so I mixed up a batch and started using it on everything. It was wonderful.

Today I came upon a reference to Egyptian Dukkah. I immediately looked up everything I could find about this new spice. While pulling ideas from many possible recipes, I got a glimpse of the personality of this mix. Many of the mixtures of Middle Eastern spices like Zahtar or Dukkah can be used in many possible applications. One of the simplest is to mix with olive oil. Bread, pita or other flat breads are then dipped into the oil, similar to the mixture of spices with olive oil in Italian restaurants. Dukkah can be used rubbed onto meats for stewing, frying or grilling. Lamb is used often in the Middle East and is ideal for use with these particular flavors. Sprinkle Dukkah onto eggs, avocados, salads, pastas or vegetables for remarkable flavor.

Ingredients used for Dukkah

What I learned is that Dukkah is made from some basic ingredients, with other spices added in for variations. The basic ingredient is nuts. Most often hazelnuts are used in combination with almonds, and sometimes sesame seeds. Sometimes pistachios are used in place of the hazelnuts, and chickpeas are yet another option. Other nuts can be substituted, such as macadamia nuts, pine nuts or cashews. The most common spices added to this mixture are coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black pepper and salt. Other possible spices commonly added to this mixture are fennel seeds, sweet or smoked Spanish paprika, caraway, or nigella seeds. Some recipes call for a little Zahtar to be added in, and another spice mixture called Baharat. Some sweeter spices such as cinnamon, cloves or allspice can also be used. In some recipes herbs such as marjoram, mint or thyme are also added in, as well as chile flakes if heat is desired.

My Dukkah Recipe

1/2 cup shelled hazelnuts
1/2 cup shelled raw almonds
3 tablespoons coriander seeds
2 tablespoons cumin seeds
1 tablespoon fennel seeds
2 teaspoons nigella seeds
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
1/2 teaspoon dried lemon zest
2 teaspoons flake salt, or other salt to taste

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Place nuts on a baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes. Remove from oven and place the hazelnuts into a kitchen towel to remove as much of the dark skins as possible. Place all the nuts into a food processor and process to small chunks.

Separately, heat a skillet over medium high heat and add in the coriander, cumin, fennel and nigella seeds, with the peppercorns. Toast these in the dry pan, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon for about 2 minutes, until quite fragrant. Pour the seeds into a bowl to cool. Once cooled, place them in a spice grinder with the dried lemon zest and grind until well broken, but not a fine powder. Alternately, a mortar and pestle can be used. Add the spices to the nut mixture, along with the salt and mix well. This makes about 1 1/2 cups of Dukkah.

Do give this a try. It is most excellent mixed with olive oil on bread, but try other applications or make other mixtures to satisfy your taste.

Thank you for taking the time to read my article. I hope it was informative and helped you along your own culinary journey. You will find many more recipes and helpful tips on my web site. I am on Facebook at A Harmony of Flavors and share a recipe or tip each day to the fans that have liked my site. I hope to see you there soon.

Buy Fresh, Buy Local On Atlantas North Side

Buy fresh, buy local has become a popular theme for shoppers on Atlantas north side. Buyers can choose the freshest produce for their families at reasonable prices. These farmers markets support local growers and food businesses by providing venues for them to sell their products. Many vendors are committed to organic and sustainable growing practices. The markets also provide opportunities for communities to gather together and socialize. Most of the markets are held on Saturday mornings, but a few are held on other days of the week. Here are some of the more popular farmers markets in the area.

The Sandy Springs Farmers Market is held on Saturday mornings in April-October. Market hours are from 8:30am until noon. More than 45 vendors offer fresh produce, eggs, dairy products, pasture-raised meat, and baked goods. There is also a wide variety of prepared foods including jams, jellies, salsas, tamales, pastas, and gluten-free products. Artisans offer goods such as handcrafted soaps, aromatherapy items, and jewelry. The market is located at 235 Sandy Springs Circle NW.

The Dunwoody Green Market takes place on Wednesdays from mid-April to mid-November from 8am-12pm. This is a producer only market, meaning that vendors must grow what they sell. Most of the produce is organically grown. Shoppers will find fruits and vegetables, free range eggs, locally produced honey, and meats. The market has recently returned to its original location, the parking lot of Spruill Gallery, at 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road. Access to the parking lot is off Meadow Lane.

The Alpharetta Farmers Market is held on Saturdays from 8:30am-12:30pm in historic downtown Alpharetta. Vendors set up in the parking lot adjacent to City Hall on Main Street (Hwy 9). The market is held from mid-April until early October. Shoppers may purchase a variety of fresh produce, meats, fresh flowers, herbs, honey, baked goods, jellies, salsa, tamales, cheese, coffee, and organic dog biscuits. There are also non-edible products such as handmade soaps and candles.

The Marietta Square Farmers Market is held on the historic downtown square from April-November. This market is unusual in that it is scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays. The market averages 60 vendors on Saturdays and 25 vendors on Sundays. Buyers will find produce, herbs, plants, and flower arrangements. There are vendors selling gluten-free baked goods, Greek yogurt and salad dressings, local honey, jellies, meats, eggs, butter, and cheeses. More unusual items such as goats milk, pastas, boiled peanuts, and organic dog biscuits are also available. Saturday hours are 9am-noon, and Sunday hours are noon-3pm. Free downtown parking is located in two county parking garages at the corner of Lawrence and Waddell Streets.

Kitchenaid Blenders For Many Types Of Food Preparation

There are Kitchenaid blenders for all types of kitchens and methods of food preparation. Many models now come in different color options, to coordinate with other small appliances and cooking utensils. Some models come with a glass jar, while others come with polycarbonate. Add-ons like a 48 ounce glass jar or 56 ounce polycarbonate jar with black lid are available through many stores that offer the products.

The KSB565SM is a five speed model with a 48 ounce glass jar. It comes in a variety of tasteful decorator colors, like cobalt, onyx black, empire red, almond cream, white and silver. The silver model comes with a black jar base and black lid. LCD speed and function buttons are located on the base.

This model is ideal for drinks, smoothies, crushing ice and making any kind of soup or puree desired. The price ranges from $80 to $100, depending on where it is purchased. Previous buyers comment on being satisfied with the look and power of this model.

The KSB465WH is a four speed model, with a 48 ounce polycarbonate jar. This model is available in white, red and black. Reviewers love the power of this model and its ability to crush ice quickly. The price for this one ranges from $75 to $95.

Those looking for Kitchenaid blenders with more of a designer styling may be interested in the KSB580NK model. It comes in chrome and brushed nickel finishes with black trim. This model has five speeds and comes with a 56 ounce polycarbonate pitcher. The pitcher includes a stylish and contemporary looking handle in the same finish as the base. At around $160 to $170, it is one of the pricier models. It will look great in a gourmet kitchen while performing as well as other models.

There are many more products to choose from in KItchenaid blenders. A slim model with a 40 ounce polycarbonate jar takes up little space and is ideal for small families or one person homes. This model is priced under $75 and features 3 speeds. It comes in a black base with black trim. Buyers like this model for the relatively quiet motor, performance and ease of cleaning. The buttons are flush with the base, so the panel can simply be wiped off with soap and water.

A common feature of all models is the stainless steel blades, which are positioned at four different levels. This provides smoother and more complete processing of ingredients. Products are available through many online and traditional retail stores. Some retailers will offer special online order pricing for those who are willing to wait a few days for their appliance.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Culinary Schools

Deciding whether or not to enter culinary school involves major contemplation. Some people eventually decide not to pursue. But those who decide to take up cooking classes should choose the right school. There are many culinary schools, and finding the ones with good reputation should be your priority.

Look for accredited schools.

In the United States, professional chefs have an organization called the American Culinary Federation (AFC). It regulates culinary schools, making sure they adhere to national standards in instruction and school facility. Schools should seek ACF accreditation to have high standing in the country.

The requirements for ACF accreditation are tough. To be accredited, a culinary school must have good curriculum, standard facilities, acceptable teacher-student ratios, certified/licensed instructors, and adequate learning materials. When a school is accredited, you know they have what it takes to offer competent instruction.

Consider the cost of culinary arts.

Ask any culinary arts student and they will tell you tuition is high. Cooking schools can charge about forty thousand dollars or even more. Many students cannot afford the cost, so they obtain student loans. When they graduate, they have to pay the debt, but there are a few entry-level cookery and food service jobs that pay high enough.

The high cost of culinary arts is enough to discourage many aspiring students. However, there are schools that offer affordable tuition. For instance, there are community colleges in California where culinary programs cost only about a thousand dollars. That is not so bad when compared to forty thousand dollars of tuition fees offered elsewhere. And you have to note that culinary programs do not have to be expensive.

Go to schools with good reputation.

New cooking schools are being established today to meet the needs of an increasing population of people who are interested in culinary arts. These new schools are usually not better than the old ones. Old schools most likely have accreditation. New schools may only be working to be accredited. Old schools with good track of record should be your best bet. There is a good reason why they lasted long in the field. Seasoned cooking schools are already aware of the market and most definitely would be able to provide instruction congruent to current market trends in culinary discipline.

Check the facilities of the school.

You will have to visit the school in person to find out if they have good buildings, comfortable rooms, and adequate facilities and equipment. This is where low-charging culinary arts institutions fall below the high-charging ones. The latter definitely would have enough budget to buy new facilities and do school improvements. Community colleges offering culinary arts may fall behind expensive schools when it comes to facilities and equipment. But who needs state-of-the-art facilities, especially when not all restaurants and kitchens in the world use them?

Ask senior students about their on-the-job training experience.

Culinary arts students cannot finish their course without going through a simulation training, wherein they are subjected to real-world restaurant training. This training should be realistic. The best schools do not spoil their students with practical restaurant service training wherein they only serve about twenty people daily. This is unrealistic. There are schools that actually require their students to work at local restaurants to get the actual feel of what it is like to work as a cook for real.

What Are Glass Splashbacks?

Combining a sleek clean kitchen environment with the provision of colour, interest and enhanced light can be something of a challenge, but one of the latest trends in kitchen decor does just that spectacularly well - glass splashbacks and glass upstands. We are all familiar with stainless steel and enamel splashbacks, which offer a practical if rather dark solution. But with glass, the level of interest and impact can be outstanding.

So what can you expect in colour terms? Well, there are plenty of options available from a beautifully clean and sharp zest green, to the deep, and the seductive tone of fuschia pink and from the subtle, calming Atlas sea blue to the elegant statement made by shimmering gold; and many colours in between.

These glass splashbacks panels come in a variety of sizes to suit standard cooker widths and sit neatly behind the hob. They have a self-adhesive backing, which makes them extremely easy to fit. Further, they are formed in very strong glass, which also makes them incredibly difficult to break! The splashbacks naturally conform to all required BS standards.

Then, to make your splash of colour extend further, you can add to the splashbacks with matching glass 'upstands'. An upstand is a glass panel that sits against the wall extending up from the worktop, making a beautiful (and very quick and easy to fit) frieze that can extend as far as you want around the kitchen. Unlike tiles, the size of these panels means the joins are reduced to a minimum making them far easier to clean and less likely to encourage dirt and germs. So, if you want a dash of colour in the kitchen - then splash out on a new glass splashbacks!

Other accessories that can add a distinct elegance and style to your house include kitchen splashbacks, stylish mirrors Sydney, frameless shower screen and shower screen Sydney.Glass splashbacks is one of the best additions to any kind of kitchen design as not only does it offer a sophisticated look but is also exceptionally hygienic and practical. Kitchen splashbacks is highly suitable for all those applications where heat is a major issue. The Diamante Glass, which is usually used for making frameless shower screen and kitchen splashbacks, has a lower iron content imparting extreme optical clearness.

In bathrooms, colour-backed glass Sydney is being used for designing framed mirrors Sydney, vanity tops, shower walls, vanity splashbacks, shower screen Sydney and frameless shower screen. In kitchens, coloured glass is used in designing kitchen splashbacks, cabinet doors, light boxes, feature walls and fridge insert panels. Customised colour backed glass Sydney is also being used for glass pool fencing.

With an extensive collection of colored glass, you can even get hold of glass with pearl or metallic shimmer. Now, all you need to do is visit and explore the markets for enhancing the beauty of your home.

Paleo Recipes For Toddlers

Paleo diet recipes are gluten, dairy, soy and preservative free. An ideal diet for toddlers that have food allergies. Paleo Recipes are Back to Mother Nature a whole food diet for the whole family. Founded by our ancestors, the Caveman consisting: fresh meat, poultry, fish, eggs, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices and nature food enhancers.

In this commercial society parents it is convenient getting pre-packaged baby food that may have little if any nutrients for your toddler. Check the label verifies if food contains artificial coloring and or preservatives. Paleo Diet Recipes contains no artificial coloring and are preservative free. Paleo diets toddlers a whole food diet establishes eating habits that maintain a healthier life.

-Paleo Toddler Recipes:
-Paleo Toddler Snacks
-Tomato and Basil Salad
-Paleo Broccoli and Pine-Nut Soup
-Watermelon Popsicles

Paleo Snacks for Toddlers:
Paleo Kid Snack Recipes whole food fresh fruits and vegetables.
.
Banana Peel banana and serve.

Cherry Tomatoes Bowl of cherry tomatoes. Rinse well and remove stems. Drain tomatoes. Serve

Cantaloupe Peel skin and remove all seeds. Cut cantaloupe in toddler bit-size sections.
Slightly blends lemon, lime or orange juice to taste. Mix well and refrigerate for approximately 60 minutes and serve.

Cherry Tomatoes Bowl of cherry tomatoes. Rinse well and remove stems. Drain tomatoes. Serve

Cucumber Sticks Peel skin from cucumber and cut in half. Divide halves into sixth and serve. Toddlers can chew away. You toddler may like cucumbers at room temperature or right from the refrigerator

Mango Sticks Peel ripe mango and remove seed. Cut mango into mango sticks and
Serve.

Pumpkin and Chicken Curry
Paleo Recipe
Gluten Free Recipes and Dairy Free Recipes

Ingredients
-2 chicken breasts, sliced
-5 cups pumpkin, diced
-2tbs olive oil
-1 onion, diced
-2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
-2tbs ground ginger
-1tbs ground turmeric
-2tbs ground coriander
-2tbs ground cumin
-1 cups vegetable stock
-1 bunch fresh coriander, chopped
-Salt to taste

Instructions

Fry onion and garlic in a large pan with oil on medium heat for 2minutes. Add chicken and cook stirring
constantly for 10minutes or until chicken has turned white.

Add pumpkin, ginger, turmeric, coriander and cumin and stir for 1minute.

Add stock and leave to simmer on low heat for 15minutes. Add chopped coriander, cover pan and cook
for a further 2minutes.

Season with salt to taste. Cool slightly before serving.
Provided: The Paleo Recipes Cookbook

Tomato and Basil Salad
Nutritious finger food salad for toddlers. Quick and Easy Paleo Recipe for the whole family.
Ingredients:
-Fresh organic cherry tomatoes
-Fresh chopped basil
-Olive oil

Combine all ingredients in bowl and mix well. Serve

Paleo Broccoli and Pine-Nut Soup
Family comfort food for toddlers

Ingredients:
-1 finely chopped onion ( can used white or red onion)
-3 Cups diced broccoli
-3 Cups chicken or vegetable stock
- Cup pine-nuts

Prepare
-Fry finely chopped onions in sauce pan using vegetable oil.
-Place all ingredients in food processor or blender until smooth
-Heat and Serve

Watermelon Popsicles
Fun and nutritious Paleo Toddler Dessert Recipe. This is delicious and healthy recipe for the whole family. Watermelon can be substituted with Cantaloupe, Peaches, Mango, Strawberries or pineapple.
Ingredients:
-6 Cups seedless watermelon
-2 Tablespoons of fresh lime or lemon juice
Prepare:
-Blend in food processor or blender until completely liquefied
-Mix in lime juice
-Pour liquefied mixture into popsicle molds with sticks inserted
-Freeze
-Serve when desire
Disclosure: Compensated Affiliate

En-deer-ing To The Gastronomy

If one has a need to figure out how to cook deer sausage courtesy of a kindly neighbor having recently landed a good hunt, one need not approach the package with fear and trembling hands. A cookout in the backyard is often the ideal way to enjoy these delicious links of meaty goodness. One can opt to throw them on a hot grill to contentedly spit to cooking perfection and serve them up with a fiery salsa and healthy salad to balance out the calories. This also provides an excuse for the male gender to show off his cooking prowess and give the better half a break from the stove. These sausages can also be left to stew in a family secret of a barbeque sauce atop the grill. Juicy to the knife, it certainly gives the rest of the grilled fare a run for their money.

Meals with deer sausage are probably part and parcel of daily fare for those living in the outdoors. Hunter's stew can take many forms depending on which part of the world the chef is in. As its name suggest, ingredients are generally based on what the hunter can scrounge up from a rendezvous to the nearby forest. In the event fresh meat is not obtainable due to weather or other circumstances, one can always turn to his protein stash in the larder. A common method on how to cook deer sausage for the sake of preservation is to smoke the links to last the cold winter months.

Once fresh sausages are prepared, they are immediately given the smoke treatment to prolong their shelf period. This is also an excellent opportunity to add more flavor to the meat as game stands up well to smoke flavors. Wood of choice is entirely dependent on what the cook can dig up from the local surroundings. Alternatively, a visit to the local supermarket or hardware store may score a supply of ready wood chips. Each recipe for smoking sausages dictates a ratio of soaked chips to dry ones in a bid to promote smoke without setting them ablaze. They are then placed atop smoldering coals followed by the sausages for a long and slow cooking process.

Having attained sufficient experience, one can then serve family meals with deer sausage smoked in a variety of flavors. By invoking a sense of camping out minus the cold and hard ground, insects and other uninvited guests, one can forego the actual activity.

The 3 Best Ways To Prepare Lobster

If you're a fan of fine seafood, you're sure to love the delectable lobsters found at popular online retailers such as Omaha Steaks and Kansas City Steak Company. As an added bonus, there is a wide variety of easy ways to prepare a delicious lobster dinner. So, when you're in the kitchen with your seafood, make sure to consider the following methods of preparation:

1. Steamed

One of the most popular ways to prepare lobster is steaming. The primary upside to this particular method is the fact that it leaves the meat nice and fluffy. This is particularly convenient for people who don't like the somewhat rubbery consistency of boiled lobster.

2. Boiled

Boiling is arguably the quickest and easiest way to prepare this food. As previously stated, this method tends to make the meat a little rubbery, but the short preparation time is typically worth the slightly rougher texture. Additionally, the melted butter with which the meal is served is sure make the meat flavorful despite its consistency.

3. Tails-Only

Lobster tails are becoming an increasingly popular entree among avid seafood lovers. By serving only the tails, you don't have to worry about cracking open claws and shells and get straight to the business of eating the succulent meat. So, if you love this seafood but can't stand all the work that goes into eating it, give the tails-only method of try.

Why People Are Looking Into Maple Cutting Board Care

The common use of cutting boards is to avert harm to the excellent and beauty of plates and countertops that would otherwise be employed for slicing purposes. Knives that are particularly sharp can do a good deal of damage to countertops produced of softer elements and to ceramic and plastic plates. With out utilizing a cutting board, the knife is also at threat of acquiring dull or damaged, stopping smooth slices.

Numerous cutting boards these days are created out of wood or plastic. The board desires to be particularly used to cut meat and other foods, protecting the blade and the surface of the counter. They can be bought in sizes that range from quite large to really tiny. Numerous restaurants use some of the biggest boards in their kitchens. Ones that are applied in the properties can be substantial enough to carve a massive turkey and modest adequate for an egg.

To stop colour transference or contamination of any sort, the colour of a plastic cutting board is commonly white. Marble and steel boards are known to severely harm knives and are not frequently utilised since of that reason. Wooden boards are hardly ever colored, as their organic properties are what make them so well-liked. They can, on the other hand be carved or engraved with exceptional designs around the edges and sides.

These helpful tools are typically found in modern day kitchens as decoration or for common use. They are usually pretty affordable and always worth the income. They have been applied for a lot of, a lot of years, as individuals continue to increase the design of a common board.

High cash can be spent for cutting boards that are used as decoration. Significant wooden boards handcrafted by an artist can add style and intrigue to a common nation kitchen. Steel, glass or marble cutting boards can be produced by hand for gifts or for other decorative purposes. They can be displayed as a wall hanging with other distinctive items, like oversized utensils, to add style and elegance to a tiny kitchen.

The most preferred in today's kitchens is the wooden version. Wood has antiseptic qualities and is more durable than plastic boards. It is also less difficult to maintain clean. Last but not least, they are superior for the knives that are applied. These benefits make the wooden board most peoples 1st choice

The plastic cutting board, on the other hand, does have its benefits, also. Not to be outdone by its wooden counterpart, they can be versatile for food transference and durable against harsh cleaning chemical compounds, ensuring that if they are effectively cleaned, they are as good as wooden boards. Plastic cutting boards can be cleaned with chemicals like bleach with out worrying about contamination of foods cut on it later.

Bring Enticing Appetizers And Be The Super Bowl Party Mvp Guest

Appetizer recipes abound. But face it, we are all busy, right? Who needs to put in a lot of effort when time is always short? Well, here are a couple of good ideas for party appetizers to take to wherever you are invited. They will be so good, with so little effort you will want to do it again next year.

Find Out What is Needed

First thing to do is ascertain the type of appetizer required. If you are heading to celebrate with friends and were asked to bring something, find out first what they are serving, and what might be needed. Do they need something hot, or something cold? Will they need to provide utensils? Will they have a convenient outlet, if you bring a crock pot, or even enough room for one? Will use of the oven be available?

Plan Around Your Time

If you are very busy, make a plan. Do you have time the day of the party? Can you work on something just before leaving? Will you need to make something early in the day? First decide when you will have some time to dedicate to putting together something simple, and then decide on the recipe.

Little Smokies in Puff Pastry make later in the day

If you have time a couple of hours before leaving for the party, you might try making Smokies in Puff Pastry. Allow a half hour for thawing the pastry while you are free for other things. Another half hour or less is needed for rolling them, plus a half hour cooking time. Get a package of Frozen Puff Pastry Sheets and a package of Little Smokies. Thaw the puff pastry. Leave it on the counter, out of the package for at least 20 minutes. Check to see if it will unfold, being careful not to crack it, if it is still frozen. Allow the pastry to unfold naturally. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Once it is thawed, roll out the pastry to about a 14 inch square on a floured surface. Cut into strips about 1 1/2 inches wide. Further cut these strips into about 3 1/2 to 4 inch lengths. Have handy a little bowl of water. Take a Smokie and set at one end of a strip and roll up. Moisten the end with water so it will adhere and place on a baking sheet, seam side down. Continue until all the Smokies are used. Bake for about 25 minutes or until they are puffed and brown. These are nice served warm, but just fine at room temperature.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs make ahead in Crock Pot, or later in the day on the stove.

You will need bite sized premade meatballs. If you have a good meatball recipe of your own, make them ahead and freeze them until needed. Otherwise, buy a bag or two of frozen meatballs of choice. Other ingredients are one 14 ounce bottle of ketchup, one regular sized can of sauerkraut, one can of whole cranberry sauce and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. If sauerkraut is something you turn your nose up at, please set that aside, because this odd combination is the best, ever. It can even be served as dinner for the kids too, over mashed potatoes. If using a crock pot, you can start early in the day and set all the ingredients in the pot on low, adding 14 ounces of water. Use the emptied bottle of ketchup to measure, and rinse out the bottle at the same time. Allow the ingredients to heat all day. If you prefer, this can be made in a pot on the stove. Place all ingredients in the pot and bring to a boil. If the meatballs were frozen, allow about a half hour of simmer time to heat through. If taking the crock pot, make sure there is an outlet. These do not have to be piping hot, but are great that way. It is nice to have either a serving spoon to put these on a dish, or little picks to fish meatballs out one at a time.

Thank you for taking the time to read my article. I hope it was informative and helped you along your own culinary journey. You will find many more recipes and helpful tips on my web site. I am on Facebook at A Harmony of Flavors and share a recipe or tip each day to the fans that have liked my site. I hope to see you there soon.

How Do You Cook Pearl Barley

One of the oldest grains is barley and this grain is extremely versatile. It used to be cultivated as a cereal grain in the traditional days by nomadic tribes before people started using it in brewing of beer. Barley is known to be a great source of complex carbohydrates, proteins and fiber while it is also full of vitamins. Barley has an unique flavor and can be used for different purposes and this will include in stews, soups, casseroles, curries, desserts as well as salads. It is also low in fat as well as no cholesterol. If you wish to know how to cook barley you first have to get familiar with several basics. It is available in many forms and the nosy common one is the pearl barley which has the outer hull removed.

Pearl barley is classified into two namely the regular one and the easy to cook one. Pearl barley can be used in making hot cereals in a similar way as making oatmeal. Baked goods can also use pearl barley. Parley barley can be prepared using different recipes an example being the soothing barley and chicken soup recipe and after using this you will never ask how do you cook pearl barley again. This recipe requires you to have a couple of ingredients.

These ingredients will include 4 large chicken thighs, 6 cups chicken stock, 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms, 1 medium peeled and diced onion, canned tomatoes with the juice, 1 tablespoons olive oil, ? cup pearl washed barley, 4 medium peeled and diced carrots, 2 cloves freshly minced garlic, 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley leaves, ? tablespoon oregano, ? tablespoon basil, ? tablespoon thyme as well as salt and pepper to taste. You can now start to cook the pearl barley starting with placing a big pot on medium heat and pouring 1 tablespoon olive oil.

The chicken thighs are then supposed to be added when their skin is facing down and wait for them to turn golden brown. The 2 cups of the stock should then be added and the heat reduced to medium low. This mixture should be covered and left to cook for approx 40 minutes. The cooked chicken can now be removed and put aside for cooling and later refrigerate it. You should then use the remaining stock with 2 cloves of freshly minced garlic, ? cup pearl barley, ? a teaspoon each of basil, thyme and oregano, 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms, 4 medium sized peeled and diced carrots, 1 peeled and diced onion as well as 1 can of tomatoes with its juice.

This mixture is then supposed to be covered and cooked for about 1 ? hours on low heat and this should be until the barley and the vegetables are properly cooked. The chicken should then be taken out of refrigeration and its skin removed while discarding its bones. The meat should then be chopped and added to the already cooking soup during the last hour of the cooking process. The salt and pepper can then be added to the soup to taste. Regular check ups are required for determining the consistency of the soup especially its thickness and if it is too thick you can add water. Garnish the dish using the finely chopped parsley.

The 3 Best Ways To Prepare Lobster

If you're a fan of fine seafood, you're sure to love the delectable lobsters found at popular online retailers such as Omaha Steaks and Kansas City Steak Company. As an added bonus, there is a wide variety of easy ways to prepare a delicious lobster dinner. So, when you're in the kitchen with your seafood, make sure to consider the following methods of preparation:

1. Steamed

One of the most popular ways to prepare lobster is steaming. The primary upside to this particular method is the fact that it leaves the meat nice and fluffy. This is particularly convenient for people who don't like the somewhat rubbery consistency of boiled lobster.

2. Boiled

Boiling is arguably the quickest and easiest way to prepare this food. As previously stated, this method tends to make the meat a little rubbery, but the short preparation time is typically worth the slightly rougher texture. Additionally, the melted butter with which the meal is served is sure make the meat flavorful despite its consistency.

3. Tails-Only

Lobster tails are becoming an increasingly popular entree among avid seafood lovers. By serving only the tails, you don't have to worry about cracking open claws and shells and get straight to the business of eating the succulent meat. So, if you love this seafood but can't stand all the work that goes into eating it, give the tails-only method of try.

George Foreman Grill Reviews: More Grilling Technologies To Find Out!

Healthy Grilling Advantage

Who could ever resist the advantage of fat-free grilling? Of course you would like to enjoy your grilled chicken wings and breasts less the fat. Now here is a great chance for your family to finally get a share of healthy cookery. And this is simply made possible by superb cooking techniques exclusive to George Foreman series. Equipped with sloping grooves, the grilling plates facilitate getting rid of excess oil and grease. In turn, these are accumulated into the drip tray to prevent getting absorbed back into the meatpiece. Discover more healthy grilling components in George Foreman Grill reviews.

Powerful Cooking Operation

Now here is wonderful news for you can be able to experience great cooking efficiency. The truth is, you can even make the most of the grilling activity therefore bringing out the genuine flavour and aroma of the meat. Thanks to the unique cooking mechanism integrated on each Foreman grilling machine that facilitates even heating to serve no less than the best grilled cuisine. What is even more exciting is the fact that you can be able to deliver your family members lean meat dish without the fat. And all you have to do is basically set time and temperature controls to start operation. The next thing you know is that your meatpiece is ready for serving. In turn, your entire household will certainly be delighted to share such sumptuous meal. Isn't it the best way to make reminiscences?

Convenient Grill Maintenance

Another great thing about this manufacturer brand is the expedient set of components. In particular, it features completely detachable stainless steel parts that render clean up done quick and easy. Not just these elements are likewise dishwasher safe to keep it spanking new at all times less the hassle. Apart from that, the grilling plates are non-stick so rest assured you will not have a hard time removing the cooking debris glued on the surface. See, you don't have to lift a finger only to keep your grill good as new. Besides, it comes completely durable in the first place ready to endure typical wear and tear. And you can find more convenient deals on George Foreman Grill reviews.

Breadmakers For Easy Baking

A bread maker is a home appliance that has revolutionized the process of making breads. First manufactured in 1986 in Japan, breadmaker since then moved its way to homes in the United States and United Kingdom. By means of a breadmaker, automatic baking has become possible and more convenient.

As with ordinary baking, ingredients must first be measured according to the recipe. The mixture is then poured into the bread pan that is placed in the machine. The breadmaker will then take some hours to bake the bread by first turning the mixture into dough and eventually baking it. The process of making dough is helped by a built-in paddle. Once the baking is done and has been allowed to cool down, the bread is then freed from the bread pan. The paddle at the bottom of the loaf should be removed from its place.

Breadmaker breads are much easier to get spoiled as compared with the commercial breads due to the absence of additives. However, it is possible that sourdough starter may be added to the ingredients to prolong the shelf life of the breads.

Breadmakers have built-in timers that may be set for easier baking. Other machines can be programmed to only prepare the dough and not to bake the bread later, in this case the dough is baked in an oven. Breadmakers have other uses as well. They may be set to make jams, pizza bases, wheat-free loaf, cakes, and pasta and in some instances, mochi- a Japanese rice bread.

Considerations in choosing a breadmaker:

- the over-all capacity of baking loafs
- the quality of bread produced
- the duration of time it takes to make one loaf
- the featured programs
- type: may either be single loaf breadmaker or multi loaf breadmaker

However, like with normal baking there may arise several problems concerning the quality of the bread produced. These may either be caused by the process of baking or the quality of breadmaker itself.

Doughy loaf

This problem basically concerns the temperature of the breadmaker. The built-in thermometer must read 190 F. Once the baking is over and the loaf is still doughy, you may choose to continue baking it in a conventional oven or wait till the breadmaker cools down and start the whole process over.

Small bread

Lack of liquid added to the dough. The problem starts with the dissolving of the yeast. If too little liquid is used, the yeast may not be stimulated to produce the necessary carbon dioxide, which is instrumental in making the dough rise. Without this, the loaf may become dense and will be much smaller.

Collapsed or flat-topped bread

Collapsing is mainly due to too much addition of liquid to the dough. The yeast in this case is overly stimulated, producing more gluten than the dough may withhold. This leads to the collapsing of loaf structure.

Bread sticking in the breadmaker pan

This can be resolved by brushing the breadmaker pan with oil before adding the water into the dough. This works well in the majority of conventional ovens as well.

Too much rising of the loaf

This problem may be controlled with the use of salt. Adding one half teaspoon of salt may be sufficient to keep the rising of the bread in balance.

One need not be an Einstein to run a simple machine such as the breadmaker. For more instruction and self-help tips, users may check the manual of the machine.

Steps To Reusing Your Old Kitchen Cabinets As Garage Storage Cabinets

Garage Storage Cabinets are the most useful easy solutions for one crowded garage. Garage storage cabinets are an easily affordable and secure way to maintain workshop tools. Garage storage cabinets help you to convert an untidy garage towards a more useful workspace, decreasing the cluster and providing easy accessibility from the stored items.Garage storage cabinets can also be used to hold lawn and garden supplies, tools, sports equipment, workbenches, and trashcans. Common household chemicals and various hazardous substances are generally safely trapped in secure garage storage cabinets. Adequate cabinets may possibly protect workshop tools and supplies from moisture and dirt.

For those who have a garage in your residence, never give up you wish to do could be to tidy it down. That's why why plenty of garages look like a junk shop rather than special submit one's home. However, while you are seeking something, designing primary you think of to commence your search. These reasons make garage cabinets essential in virtually any home's garage.

The earliest stage in reclaiming garage space may be to organize a 'cull'. What this means is ruthlessly checking out what the heck is stored there and deciding specifically what might be. Products that are surplus to requirement will be donated to charity, sold with regard to a yard sale or obsessed about online auction marketplace sites for instance eBay. Often there's valuables in garages that are inconvenient to maneuver. Guidelines the truth, charities are going to arrange pick-up and anything sold online can offer that proviso attached.

Something else you need to consider can be to install garage cabinets for any bigger things that you no doubt know you'll end up using often. In this manner it's possible to obtain them quickly. Also overhead racks are good to help keep bicycles and other bulky items off the floor.One can find Garage Storage Cabinets just about anywhere you look however, websites will be the best position to commence study. Here it is also possible to review a wide range of variations and storage systems. Additionally, you will be capable of shop around to be sure that you're getting the hottest deal.

Don't forget that once you add Garage Storage Cabinets to your property, depending upon the scope with the project you can greatly enhance the property value of your residence out there. A number of extra shelves or cabinets undoubtedly won't change anything, but when you undergo a well designed renovation you can generate your private home a great deal more irresistible to potential customers. It is an great way to conserve the investment which you have within your house including your property, also to make certain that you'll will have a position.

Country Apple Kitchen Decor Themes

The kitchen is the focal point of many homes. Today, new homes are being built with open and inviting floor plans that include a kitchen that is open to the dining area as well as the family room area. Because of this, more and more people are paying attention to their kitchens and trying to bring a fun and inviting theme to their kitchen space. A country apple kitchen decor is a great idea for any kitchen.
How to Implement It
If you want to use country apple kitchen decor in your kitchen, there are a few right ways to implement it and a few wrong ways. First, never overwhelm your kitchen with your theme. Whether you are doing a green apple kitchen decor or a red country apple kitchen decor, you should never overwhelm the space with too much of any one theme or idea.
This means that your kitchen walls should not be covered in apple wall paper. Instead, try something simpler like an apple themed boarder around the middle or top of the room. If you do not like wall paper at all and want a more modern country apple kitchen decor concept, try painting your walls in a nice apple red.
This works especially well if you have limited wall space on most walls and one large open wall. That way the color does not overwhelm either. Another great way to implement your country apple kitchen decor is to put small, unique country apple pieces in the space. You could hang a shelf on the wall and put some interesting apple items like a golden apple or a bronze apple or a set of metal apples.
You could also get apple themed wash cloths and drying cloths to hang on the stove. In addition, a great small rug to go in front of the sink or the dishwasher could follow along with your country apple kitchen decor.
Final Ideas
Simplicity is best when going for a theme like a country apple kitchen. The decor should be moderate and interesting to highlight your ideas, but not so overwhelming to make it seem ridiculous.
Look at a local antique store for some cheap buys to put in your kitchen, and look at department stores or online for some more modern touches for your country apple kitchen decor. If you still find that you need help, look in some kitchen decor magazines to see how the professionals implement a country apple kitchen decor.

Cleaning And Organizing Kitchen Cabinets

Having disorganized kitchen cabinets can put a strain on your day to day life. Its hard to find all of your utensils without an organizational system. While organizing doesnt come easily for everyone, with a few tips and tricks, anyone can have the clean and organized kitchen of their dreams! There a few simple steps you can take to clean and reorganize your kitchen cabinets.

Things you will need

- Contact paper
- Silverware Organizer
- Pantry
- Wall shelf

Step One

Take all of the dishes, cups, Tupperware and silverware out of your cabinets and kitchen shelves and divvy them up into these particular groups

Storage/Tupperware
Glasses
Coffee mugs
Large plates
Small Plates
Bowls
Silverware
Large bowls
Casserole dishes
Pots and Pans
Grocery Items
Spices

Step Two

Wipe down all of your kitchen cabinets, shelves and counter tops. Then, using contact paper, cover the insides of the cabinets and drawers. This will make the drawers easier to clean, and will make them look more attractive.

Step Three

Find the shelf nearest to your stove or oven, and put all of your spices in a spice rack. Having a clear, organized method for storing spices, allows you to reach and find them easily while cooking. Make sure everything is in a Tupperware or glass container and has a label.

Step Four

Now it is time to rearrange your dishes. Starting on the bottom right side of your cabinet, stack the large plates first and then stack the small plates or saucers. On the shelf above the plates, set all of your bowls.

Step Five

You will need a separate storage cabinet for storage containers. Many people have mountains of Tupperware. Do not fret. Its best to find a separate cabinet just for the storage containers to live. You can arrange them by size and keep the lids separate so that stacking your containers is much easier.

Step Six

In another cabinet, put all of your breakable drink ware with the tops pointed down. This will help dry cups faster. You can put the glass and ceramic glasses or mugs on the bottom and all of the plastic drink ware on the higher shelves.

Step Seven

On a separate wall, install hooks to hang your mugs. You can buy wall shelves with hooks that run along the bottom. Not only will you have a convenient way to hang all of your coffee mugs, but you will also have additional storage space to further organize your kitchen.

Step Eight

Get rid of what you are not using. Too many people these days hold on to old relics, or outdated dishes or trinkets they no longer use. Try to analyze each item and decide whether or not you use it enough to justify it taking up space in your kitchen. If not, you can donate it to a family that really needs dishware!

Step Nine

Organize the silverware in your drawer into categories. Make sure to purchase a plastic divider system that has enough slots for your varying types of silverware.

Restaurant Supplies Include Efficient Commercial Dishwashers

Anyone who manages a restaurant or is a restaurant owner surely spends a good amount of time making sure that everything is running efficiently. If any one part of the system is disrupted, it can slow down the entire operation. This is especially true in the area of restaurant supplies. If the staff does not have the necessary items to do their work, or if the cooks do not have the right ingredients, it may interfere with serving the customers satisfactorily. An owner or manager knows very well that customer satisfaction must be the top priority. Diners will return often if they have enjoyed good food and excellent service. One part of the system in a well-run restaurant is keeping clean dishes ready at all times. Even a hard-working and well-trained staff cannot function well if their equipment breaks down. Therefore, to make sure you are purchasing the right commercial dishwashers for your kitchen staff, follow certain steps.

First, determine the capacity you will need for your restaurant size. Not all commercial dishwashers can handle the same volume of dishes and eating utensils. If you are just starting out, research same-size restaurants in your local area. Then buy larger dishwashers than you estimate you will need. While this may seem an unnecessary expense, once your business grows, you will be glad you have the extra capacity. You can feel confident that you can handle extra customers without replacing your equipment. If, however, you are looking for dishwashers for a restaurant that is already established, then you know what kind of volume you will need to keep everything running smoothly. Before buying anything, talk to your dishwashing staff and ask how well the old equipment is working and what they would suggest. If you have a well-trained, competent staff you can safely listen to their ideas and concerns. If they are having a hard time keeping up with the volume, then you will need to increase the capacity of the new equipment. It is always a good idea, anyway, to have more room than you need so that you have room to grow.

Since the dishwashing process is not a one-step operation, consider the workflow when getting ready to purchase new commercial dishwashers. Take into account how each task flows into the next, and look at how well your system is working. You want to optimize the procedure for the greatest efficiency your staff can produce. Look at each individual step and determine if it is working well and not causing a bottleneck at any one point. The usual steps are rinsing, putting dishes in a rack, washing, and then restocking them for the next use. All tasks should flow smoothly into the next for optimum efficiency.

It is important to set up the different work stations that will help move the workflow along. You can customize your dishwashing and kitchen area with stainless steel countertops, tables, and sinks. A large sink should be the first step in your dishwashing system, and it needs a strong rinsing hose and nozzle, as well as scrubbing pads to clear food particles stuck to the dishes. You do not want a lot of food residue to get into the dishwasher, so proper rinsing as a first step is very important. Your commercial dishwashers will perform much better if the rinsing is sufficient. There should also be enough room in this area so the incoming used dishes can pile up a bit without getting in the way of the rinsing. After a good rinsing, the dishes will then be racked, or transferred onto the dishwasher racks. This will be done between the rinsing area and the dishwasher, and needs to be able to accommodate several racks at a time to keep the rinsing operation moving while the dishwasher is working on the current load.

The last step is actually setting up the station for the dishwasher itself. By now you have made your choice among the various models of commercial dishwashers. Since you have planned well, your new equipment will fit perfectly into the line-up of the other dishwashing stations and will be ready to work. The most efficient of the models is a straight-through unit that allows the rack of dishes to be placed in one end and retrieved from the other side, all washed and ready to re-use. With this type of unit, you will need a large enough area on the side where the clean dishes come out to have staff inspect and stack them before taking them to the serving area.

Old Kitchen Cabinets For Garage Storage Units

In remodeling the kitchen in your house, you will find that the old kitchen cabinets will be changed with new ones. Many of the contractors do this thing since the old cabinets might not fit the decoration of new kitchen that you build. Some of them are thrown away in the dumpster. Actually this is not a good decision since you can reuse the cabinets.

When you want to reuse the kitchen cabinets that you have, you have to make sure that those cabinets are still in very good condition. In this case, you can use them as the storage units for your garage. Instead of saving your money, reusing old cabinets will make you more creative.

Before doing this project, you have to make a layout on how the cabinets are installed in the garage for the storage. In this case, you might use the combination of the overhead cabinets and base cabinets so that they will become new storage units in your garage.

After you get the layout, you can start working in your garage to install these cabinets. The corner is the perfect space to start your work. From this space, install the cabinets one by one. When you want to make it easier and faster, you can ask someone to help you in doing the installation. Additionally, start with the upper cabinets will give you the easiness.

Additionally, if you want to gather one cabinet to other, you can clamp the cabinets side by side and drive the screw to gather them. This will give you more space in your garage. But, do not forget to reinstall the doors of the cabinets after you have finished installing them on the walls.

However, there is one thing that you have to pay attention before screwing the cabinets on the wall. You have to look at the walls of your garage to get the correct installation. If the walls are covered with sheetrock, you have to install the cabinets straight forward and you have to know the type of the walls. If it is usual walls, you can directly screw the cabinets into the walls. But, if the wall is poured concrete wall, you should use the 1 x 4 nail strips to install them on the walls. To give brighter look, paint the wall with bright color.

Now, you have new storage units in your garage by using your old cabinets. If you do such thing, you will find that there are many benefits that you can take.

Kitchen Remodeling And Ideas On A Budget

While at one point in time the kitchen was primarily viewed as a service area for cooking, now days the kitchen has turned into a room that is multi-functional and central to many of the activities in the family. The past century has brought about the emergence of both function and interior design within the room we call a kitchen.

When it comes to kitchen remodeling and other kitchen ideas, it can take a huge budget to remodel and update the interior design within this room. Believe it or not, the average costs for remodeling kitchens in the past few years have topped $25,000. It definitely is no wonder that the kitchen has been considered one of the most expensive remodeling projects that most homeowners undertake.

If you are one of the many people wanting to remodel your kitchen, inspired by the beautiful photos of lovely kitchens on television and in magazines, you may feel that your budget is keeping your dream kitchen out of reach. However, even if you dont have a huge budget, you do have some options. There are a variety of ways that you can remodel and update your kitchen without totally going broke.

Believe it or not, kitchen remodeling and ideas do not always have to be very expensive. You may be shocked at the variety of ways that you can get a beautiful kitchen while still saving money and staying within your limited budget.

While you may not want to undertake an entire kitchen remodeling project, there are a variety of great kitchen ideas that can update the way your kitchen looks, even without spending a great deal of money. The following are some great kitchen ideas that will improve the look of your kitchen without breaking your budget.

Improve the Lighting One of the most cost effective kitchen ideas to get a modern look is to update the lighting in your kitchen. There are a variety of economical ways that you can change the lighting to give your kitchen a great look. Halogen lights may be a great idea as well, but if you choose them, consider the ones that bounce off the ceiling. Many come with a dimmer that will allow you to choose the amount of light you need. Task lighting is also inexpensive to install in your kitchen. This type of lighting is great above the sink or above countertops as well. If you want to make a fashion statement or highlight a specific part of your kitchen, accent lighting may be a great choice.

Use Some Paint If you want a new kitchen look, one of the best kitchen ideas is to add a few coats of paint. Paint is fairly inexpensive, and you can totally change the look of your kitchen with a bit of paint. Consider painting your kitchen cabinets. You can add some color to your drab kitchen, just by painting your cabinets. When it comes to your kitchen walls, you can get creative with the paint as well for a modern look. Sponging, rag rolling, or even mottling are great painting techniques that will add some texture and class to your kitchen.

New Accessories Believe it or not, something as simple as adding new accessories can make a huge difference in your kitchen. Just getting new pulls and knobs for cabinets and drawers will add a new look in your kitchen. You can find these pulls and knobs in stone, resin, glass, wood, rubber, and metal. There are also a variety of styles that you can choose from too, so pick accessories that give you a nice modern touch.

So, as you can see, when it comes to kitchen remodeling and ideas, you dont have to spend thousands to get a great look. If you want a new look in your kitchen without having to spend a great deal of money, why not use these budget friendly ideas for a kitchen that is multifunctional and beautiful as well.

Healthy Eating With A Food Steamer

Are you looking for ways to provide more healthy options for you and your family? Healthy living includes choosing and cooking vegetables that will be nutritious and low in fat. Of course, you already know that you diet needs to be rich in fruits and vegetables. However, did you know that if you cook the vegetables the wrong way, you will actually be taking away their nutritious qualities? Unfortunately, many of the standard methods of cooking removes nutrients from foods, so you will need to find a method to keep the nutritious nature of the vegetables while making them flavorful and delicious for you and your family.

This is why many people choose a food steamer, and this is why you will want to consider a food steamer for your own healthy cooking. Here are some of the many benefits of the food steamer that will provide you with nutritious and tasteful foods.

Overcooking vegetables is the number one way to take away their nutritional value. When you overcook them, they lose vital nutrients, and they lose taste. No one wants a limp green bean. However, when you choose to use a food steamer, the vegetables will not be overcooked, so they will retain both nutrients and taste.

Steaming vegetables is a great way to create a low fat meal. In fact, foods that are cooked in a steamer do not require any sort of fat filled cooking medium. However, you do not have to worry about losing taste. When your vegetables are cooked, you can add olive oil or other low fat oils to add a hearty flavor without losing nutritional value.

Another great reason to choose a food steamer is that it is much easier to use. Instead of having to carefully watch a boiling pot of water to steam your foods, you can set the steamer and then work on other things while your vegetables cook. This adds a great deal of convenience in the kitchen since you will have more free time to work on other things.

When you are looking for a way to add healthy cooking for you and your family, then choosing a food steamer is a good option. This way, you can cook flavorful and tasteful vegetables that do not lose any of their health and nutritional value as they would when cooked in other methods. Your whole family will be able to enjoy the benefits of freshly steamed vegetables.

When you begin looking for your food steamer, please keep in mind one very important thing for your familys health. Be sure to avoid plastic tray food steamers and look for those that include stainless steel. Plastic can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, especially when it becomes scratched from regular use. Additionally, it is unknown what types of toxic chemicals may be released into your food from plastic containers that reach a high heat during cooking. Stainless steel is hygienic and easier to keep clean.

How To Choose Your Food Steamer

A food steamer can be the perfect way to cook foods in a more healthy way for you and your family. If you are thinking about purchasing a new food steamer, then one of the first things you will need to do is learn how to shop for one. There are so many options out there and they are not all the same. Finding the perfect food steamer means doing a little research into the different models from which you can choose, and picking the one that will make your cooking the most convenient, healthy, and flavorful as possible.

Here is what you need to know about how to choose the right food steamer for your kitchen. Follow these steps and you will find it much easier to shop for and find the right model.

Consider material. Before you make any other decision about your food steamer choices, you will want to weed out any that are made to include plastic trays. Plastic is not a healthy option when it comes to cooking your food. It can hold bacteria because it is more porous and it tends to scratch easily, and it may release toxic chemicals when it reaches high temperatures. Above all other considerations, it is most healthy and safe to choose only food steamers that include stainless steel trays.

Consider cooking times. When you use a food steamer, you will have to remember that your vegetables will cook on a vastly different time scale than what you are used to with standard cooking methods. However, different models of food steamers use different amounts of energy, so their cooking times can vary. Consider what is most important to you. Would you prefer a steamer that will use more electricity but cook your vegetables more quickly, or would you prefer one that cooks more slowly but will use much less energy?

Consider cooking style. Many food steamers work by sending steam through the bottom and up through the trays. When this happens, the taste and aromas of any food on the bottom tray could be transferred to the foods on the upper trays. Instead, you can look for food steamers that use a side cooking method, sending steam through holes on the sides so each level of foods is cooked individually. This way, all of your cooked items will taste as they should.

Consider capacity. This should be directly affected by the size of the family for which you will be cooking. If you are cooking for just yourself or you and one other person, you may wish to choose a small capacity model that will not take up much counter space. However, if you will be cooking foods for the whole family, then you will want to choose a large capacity food steamer to guarantee you are able to cook all that you need.

Finally, consider options. Many food steamers include timers so that you can cook your foods more easily. Some good steamers include extras that can come in handy, like serving bowls or even small cook books. Consider the options and extras that will come with the steamer you choose and make sure that they best suit your needs.

When shopping for a food steamer, remember the most important thing is that you need to be able to cook the vegetables you want in the capacity that you need in the healthiest manner. Once you have chosen the right stainless steel steamer, you can get started on a healthier diet and lifestyle for you and your whole family.