Simple Beef Stew

Last night, I went to the Artesia, California branch of Lee’s Sandwiches to take pictures of the place. Since I am a regular customer of their vietnamese sandwiches and a great fan of their pocket-friendly prices, I wanted to share a little view of the restaurant here. But what can I say? I came for the pictures and left with four 10-in sandwiches and two 2-ft long baguettes instead. I am certainly not one to resist the aroma of freshly-baked bread! And what goes best with freshly-baked baguette but a steaming, hearty bowl of beef stew? That’s exactly what I had for lunch today~beef stew and bread. Read more

Champagne Sorbet

This champagne sorbet dessert is an elegant and stylish way to greet the coming New Year!
The bottle I used reads California Champagne, so officially it is a sparkling wine, as only wines made in specified areas of Champagne under strict regulations can legally bear the name Champagne Read more

Vietnamese Sandwich (Banh-Mi)

This is no ordinary sandwich! Banh Mi is an euro-asian take on submarine sandwiches, featuring a crunchy-on-the-outside-chewy-in-the-inside baguette, filled with pate spread, daikon radish and carrot relish, slices of jalapenos, sprigs of cilantro and meat choices such as sardines, barbecued pork, grilled chicken, ham, and head cheese slices. Read more

For the Love of Chocolate

Here are some helpful tips in melting and storing chocolate to maintain optimum quality. Read more

Tuna with Pimiento-Stuffed Olives

This tuna and olives recipe is delicious way to greet your guests this holiday season! As the tuna steaks need to be marinated, start preparing the dish a day before it is going to be served. Make sure to cut the tuna steaks across the grain to form 1-inch thick cubes. Read more

Sinigang Big Head Carp (Carp Fish in Tamarind Broth)

This was my first culinary encounter with this asian variety of carp and I must admit it was a very pleasant experience. I found the fish very meaty and tasty, and with its firm texture, I am sure it will be as remarkable in fried, teriyaki, and sweet and sour dishes. And at a friendly price of $1.99 a pound versus $4.00 and up for salmon or halibut steaks, this ‘big-headed” fish is turning out to be my hands down favorite! Read more

Sugared Curried Pecans

These sugared-and-spiced nuts are perfect to keep on hand as welcome treats for drop-in guests or to give as hostess gifts. They are satisfying as pick-me-up snacks, delicious with cheese and crackers, or chopped and sprinkled on a salad or on top of a creamy tomato pasta sauce. Stored in an air-tight container, Read more

Rosemary Olives

This is a quick and easy way to revitalize a familiar party food. Heating up the olives with herbs and spices fills the kitchen with an exotic, welcoming aroma. Read more

Lemon Delights

Tis’ the season to be giving…lalalala, tis’ the season to be sharing…lalalala! I am checking my list and checking it twice…gotta find out what I can afford or not… Read more

Lasang Pinoy 22 Entry-Binagoongan Rice

Through the kindness of another food blogger, Gay of A Scientist in the Kitchen, I discovered this blogging event called Lasang Pinoy 22, the Rice Challenge. If you read through her comments section, you’ll discover a person nice enough to help another. Thanks Gay! So, here I am, RICING to the occasion with my recipe for binagoongan rice. I am providing a recipe for that here but check out my shrimp fried rice recipe for a discussion of the Filipino rice culture and another way to make use of leftover rice. Read more

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