You might have noticed that I love funny food names. I have been sharing a few recipes with out-of-the-norm names for a while now, but I thought you'd appreciate them all in one place. I'll be, of course, working on extending this list in the near future. My grandfather passed away, at the age of 98, a few months ago and the 1st April was his birthday. He also loved … [Read more...]
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Pan-Fried Quail Eggs
Quail eggs make for a great substitute for regular chicken eggs, and they are some of our favorite eggs to fry in a pan, besides duck eggs. But they are not built the same way as chicken eggs; in fact, the shell is harder, and the size makes it a challenge. I share how to break and cook quail eggs in a pan. TL;DR Quail eggs are the eggs from several mid-sized quail … [Read more...]
24 Dessert Recipes without Eggs
No eggs? No problem. These dessert recipes skip the eggs but still deliver full flavor, great texture, and all the satisfaction you’re looking for. I have added a handful of desserts that are sure to impress, that look great, and most are simple to prepare. No weird ingredient substitutions, no loss of flavor. I think eggless desserts can be as exciting as dessert with … [Read more...]
Cheesy Baked Polenta and Egg with Bacon
Cheesy polenta with crunchy fried bacon, baked with an egg into a bubbling, comforting meal. Polenta is like grits, and it's a nutritious, budget-friendly ingredient. This recipe is super simple, and this is all yours if you love all polenta or grit meals. TL;DR I came across this baked polenta dish as we visited Sinaia back in July 2024, a town in Romania known as … [Read more...]
19 Skillet Ground Beef Recipes That Make Dinner Feel Effortless
I love cooking with ground beef because it tastes great, cooks through fast, it's versatile and very budget-friendly. Use a skillet to prepare last-minute ground beef meals that are pure comfort foods. Below, I have added a great selection of different ground beef skillets meals. I made sure to add various foods and preparation styles from around the world. I hope … [Read more...]
Pineapple Cardamom Ginger Juice
Fresh pineapple and ginger juice, flavored with a hint of aromatic green cardamom. A trio of fruity fresh and warm flavors in the shape of a homemade juice. You don't need a juicer to make this juice at home. The juice making method involves a blender. TL;DR I think I discovered this juice flavoring combo in India as we were traveling the Himalayas. One of the … [Read more...]
Homemade Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning
I'm a gigantic fan of Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning, and I use it beyond the classic chicken dish. I love it sprinkled over my meals and as a general food flavoring. That is why I have come up with my fiery version, which contains a selection of spices. Add this seasoning to your collection of hot spice blends. Ingredient Notes Process Overview Step 1 Place … [Read more...]
Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
A quick stir-fried Thai basil chicken to add to your Asian dinner rotation. Perfect if you love ground chicken meals, Thai street food classics, and effortless meals. This is my take on the popular Thai dish that I picked up from one of our visits to Thailand. TL;DR Thai basil chicken is known as a fragrant street food dish in Thailand. Locally, it's called Phat … [Read more...]
16 Salt-Free Seasoning Blends
Skip sodium packed salty herb and spice mixes with this collection of homemade salt-free seasoning recipes. I generally try to avoid adding salt to my seasoning blends because you can always add salt if needed. Salt is technically only a seasoning requirement if it's a rub, but commercial brands like to add salt because it's a cheap ingredient, and it adds umami, … [Read more...]
Garlic Sautéed Spinach and Tomatoes
Fresh spinach is sautéed with garlic and fresh cherry tomatoes. This is a simple, flavor-packed, minimal effort, side dish that you can prepare in a skillet within minutes. TL;DR Occasionally, a simple side dish is all that you need to complete a weekend dinner meal. This is the case with this skillet spinach and tomatoes. The ingredients are freshly prepared and … [Read more...]
How to Make Guava Purée from Fresh Fruits
The making of homemade Guava Purée involves a process to extract the stone hard small seeds. I explain how to do that in ease. TL;DR Guava purée is made from fresh guava fruits, and it's the base of many drinks and desserts. The purée is also known as guava pulp. You will want to make guava purée if you find yourself with a surplus of fresh fruits, which need to be … [Read more...]
Alla Vodka Sauce Recipe
The Alla Vodka Sauce is a tomato cream-based pasta sauce. It's velvety and smooth, thanks to the vodka, which binds this fantastic-tasting pasta sauce. Ingredient Notes Parmesan is used as a topping. Sprinkle some over your pasta and sauce. Process Overview Step 1 Sauté onion and garlic soft in olive oil and pour in your tomato sauce. Step 2 Stir in the … [Read more...]
11 European Seasoning Blends to Transform Your Cooking
Seasoning blends are not that common in Europe compared to Asia or the American continent, but we do have a few flavor-packed herb and spice mixes that we like to add to our food. Here you will find a handful of traditional and modern seasoning blends from across the continents, and therefore from various countries, that you can use to flavor your food. I have only … [Read more...]
Date Passion Fruit Chutney
My date and passion fruit chutney is a sweet and tangy blender chutney that comes together within minutes. It's a velvety fruit chutney that you can spread over your bread, or use as a dip. TL;DR Modern chutneys come in all forms and are originally derived from Indian chutneys, which are traditionally pounded and nowadays usually blended. (e.g., Cilantro Mint … [Read more...]
Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
A tangy, refreshing, crisp, and spicy cucumber salad that comes together within minutes. Serve it as a salad side dish with other main course meals. Ingredient Notes Process Overview Step 1 Slice Cucumbers fine. Step 2 Prepare the dressing by combining finely grated ginger with lime juice and oil. Step 3 Pour dressing over sliced cucumbers in a bowl, top … [Read more...]
Asian Tofu Vegetable Soup Recipe
A vibrant clear, oil-free, one-pot, Asian tofu vegetable soup that you can prepare when you are short on time or tired of your day. You will love this soup if you like tofu. It's loaded with fresh vegetables and simple, balanced Asian flavors. TL;DR This soup is somewhat based on my bok choy soup, but it doesn't include oil. It's a dump and cook soup. I usually like … [Read more...]
How to Blanch Almonds to Peel
Blanching Almonds means using a cooking method to loosen the skin to peel the almonds. Here is how it's done at home. Two Methods to Blanch You can blanch your almonds two ways, and both are valid methods. I recommend using the soaking overnight method to soften your almonds. As they soak in the water for hours, they will, ultimately, turn soft. This can be handy … [Read more...]
5 Minute Everything Bagel Seasoning
Everything Bagel Seasoning is a multipurpose seasoning that you can use creatively to pep up your food. It's also one of my favorite seasoning blends if it's homemade. Here is how I make mine from scratch within minutes! Ingredient Notes Process Overview Step 1 Measure all your ingredients. Step 2 Mix them all together. Step 3 Place your homemade … [Read more...]
16 French Crêpes Recipes
Crêpes in France are thin, large delicate pancakes that are either filled with a sweet or savory filling. Many variations exist across the country, and the French traditionally prepare crêpes on fat Tuesday to mark the end of the Carnival season. If you ever get a change to wander around French towns, you will encounter a place known as a Crêperie. These food places, or … [Read more...]
3 Ingredient Mămăligă Recipe (Romanian Polenta)
Mămăligă is Romania's cooked Polenta dish. We traveled across the country last summer and I highly recommend a visit to Romania! I tried Mămăligă all over the country in different regions and tweaked my recipe to the version I'm sharing here. TL;DR Polenta is omnipresent in Romania and fortunately, I'm a huge polenta fan. This recipe is for you if you love … [Read more...]
Canned Corned Beef and Vegetables
A hearty one-pot recipe idea to use canned corned beef combined with mixed vegetables. Clear up your fridge and use all fresh vegetable leftovers before they spoil with this dinner meal, or go all budget-friendly without compromising on flavor. TL;DR I designed this dish with clearing-out-your-fridge-vegetables in mind. Paul frequently prepares his canned corned beef … [Read more...]
37 Lent Recipes That Make Meatless Meals Exciting
I collected over 37 Lent recipes that are perfect if you are looking to fast and abstain from meat and alcohol. Here, you will find a rich choice of meals from around the world. Ingredients such as vegetables, seafood, and eggs are, for once, the star of the dish. You won't have to go hungry this Lent season! Get inspired with my selection of meatless recipes and save … [Read more...]
Cabbage Ground Chicken Stir Fry
I'm a fan of ultra-fast dinner meals that can be prepared in one pan within minutes, and stir-fried chicken meals are at the top of my list. This particular dish includes subtle Asian flavors and will satisfy even the fussiest eater. TL;DR If you are looking for a budget-friendly meal, this is it! Ground chicken is also rich in protein, and the cabbage will help you … [Read more...]
Pan-Fried Spiced Eggplant Slices
Eggplant slices soaked in a spiced, umami-rich marinade and pan-fried golden brown. This is a Goan, Indian recipe that my husband's family taught me, and I thought you guys would appreciate this fun dish. TL;DR Paul's family has been making these skillet fried eggplants (aubergines). They are special because the eggplant slices are left to infuse in a marinade, and … [Read more...]
11 Ground Beef and Potato Recipes
Ground beef and potatoes is probably one of the most underestimated budget-friendly food combinations out there. Besides, both complement each other so well that you will be adding these recipes to your weekly meal rotation in no time. Most recipes taste better when the temperatures are dipping because potatoes and beef are comfort foods. Here you will find skillet … [Read more...]
Black Bean and Corn Chili with Shredded Chicken
Hearty black beans and vibrant corn are left to simmer in a concoction of aromatic spices with shredded chicken. This is a one-pot, quick, last-minute I-don't-know-what-to-cook meal. You can adjust the heat or skip adding chili or hot sauce altogether. TL;DR Add this dump-and-cook meal to your dinner rotation if you struggle coming up with effortless dishes that are … [Read more...]
Universal Indian Curry Paste Recipe
A universal Indian curry paste recipe to add to your precious homemade curry paste collection. I designed this quick to prepare Indian-style paste as a base to use with various vegetables and proteins. You can get creative in your kitchen and adjust your curries to your liking. TL;DR A curry paste is a kitchen hack that not many people are aware of, and it can help … [Read more...]
One-Pan Ground Beef and Mixed Vegetables
A one-pan, effortless ground beef skillet or wok dish with vegetables that are sitting in your refrigerator, waiting to be used. The seasoning adds some tasty dinner elements to this dish, and you will be making this recipe on repeat. TL;DR We love this one-pan skillet/wok meal, which is packed with fresh vegetables, ground meat, and a selection of warm, flavorful … [Read more...]
Warm Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Vinaigrette
A warm flavor-packed simple broccoli salad with crispy fried bacon, topped with a vinaigrette. The vinaigrette is made with the bacon drippings, which adds depths of flavors to this salad. TL;DR I like the taste of broccoli and cauliflower lukewarm at room temperature with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. If you add a tiny amount of meat to that, such as in this … [Read more...]
French Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe
A French Vinaigrette dressing that is prepared with fresh lemon juice. This recipe is based on the classic 4 ingredient Vinaigrette Dressing that we traditionally make at home. TL;DR The difference to the classic vinaigrette is that the lemon version is brighter and citrusy, which is perfect for all those who don't like overwhelming vinegar flavors. This … [Read more...]
16 Asian Spice Blend Seasoning Ideas
Big flavors, simple blends. These Asian seasoning ideas bring a punch to any meal, adding bold, spicy, or aromatic notes. A little sprinkle goes a long way in making everyday dishes taste way better. From South, East, Central to Western Asia, here are 16 seasoning spice blends to ignite your creativity in the kitchen. There is something from all over and a few are … [Read more...]
Japanese Curry Sauce Recipe
This rich and flavorful Japanese curry sauce is a game-changer for any meal. Perfect with rice, crispy katsu, or veggies, and so easy to make at home! I break it down step by step, showing you how to make this 5 ingredient curry sauce from scratch with Japanese curry roux. Filmed with Momoko in Goa, who was so gracious to share her home recipe with us. We have prepared … [Read more...]
French Date Jam Recipe
French-style date jam is one of the easiest jams to make, and it only takes three ingredients. I follow my families classic French jam-making method, and it turns out perfect every time. TL;DR Dates are most commonly sold dried, and therefore they are dehydrated fruits. Therefore, unlike the conventional method to turning fruits into a jam, we leave the fruits to … [Read more...]
Chicken Puff Pastry Bites
Flaky, golden pastry filled with savory spiced ground chicken—these hand pie triangles are crispy on the outside and packed with flavor inside. An easy, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a light meal! TL;DR Do you love savory puff pastry recipes? I surely do because I get to prepare my filling and the result is a golden baked puffy buttery … [Read more...]
Asian Chicken Seasoning Recipe
A homemade Asian flavored chicken seasoning can come handy if you want to cut your prepping time in the kitchen. This recipe is great with most chicken cuts and can be used creatively in your food preparation. TL;DR I came up with this seasoning blend when I needed a spice blend on hand whenever I was roasting chicken or preparing a simple chicken and rice a la Asian … [Read more...]
Gourmet Beanie Weenies
Beanie Weenies is a true comfort food meal, and it brings back the 80s and 90s in my kitchen. Prepare this effortless one-pot, 20 minute dinner that comes with an upgraded, hard-to-resist, flavoring profile. TL;DR I grew up eating beanie weenies, and it was always one of my favorite meals. You might also know this dish as beans and franks or frankfurter and beans … [Read more...]
Chicken Udon Noodle Soup Recipe
An udon noodle soup with Japanese shredded chicken, and a homemade dashi broth. I prepared this recipe with Momoko, our in-house Japanese food expert. TL;DR This soup is rather simple to put together, although the list of ingredients and the process suggest otherwise. You don't need to feel intimidated because once you have prepared this soup, you will understand … [Read more...]
Asian Salad Dressing Ideas That Will Transform Your Salads
Salads don’t have to be boring, especially when you can dress them up with bold, Asian-inspired flavors. These simple dressing ideas are packed with tangy, sweet, and savory notes that’ll have you craving your greens. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never look at plain salads the same way again! … [Read more...]
Prisoner's Pasta (Pasta alla Carcerata)
The prisoner's pasta is a Roman dish with a creamy tomato, sausage, brandy sauce. This is our latest comfort meal, and you can prepare it in a skillet at the last minute, making it a perfect weeknight dinner meal. TL;DR When in Rome, look out for a Pasta alla Carcerata, which literally translates to Prisoners pasta. If you would rather not wait that long, consider … [Read more...]
Awase Dashi: Japanese Bonito Kombu Stock
Homemade awase dashi is a Japanese stock made of bonito flakes and kombu kelp. Together with Momoko, our resident Japanese food expert, we prepared awase dashi so that you can use it to make your favorite Japanese soups. TL;DR Awase Dashi is one of the most common combinations of Japanese dashi preparations, and in Japanese, Awase, means to combine or to … [Read more...]