tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7282097231561451842024-03-13T16:18:50.786-07:00Forking UpAshley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.comBlogger195125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-75660683797542409002024-01-17T10:36:00.000-08:002024-01-17T10:36:38.978-08:00Bacon Cheddar Peanutbutter Dog Treats for Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've always loved Valentine's Day. It's forever been a holiday I put WAY too much effort into, but one I've always enjoyed nonetheless. Perhaps one time in Middle School I had a bad year, where I painstakingly made handmade valentines and treat bags for everyone in the class and got a grand total of ONE in return, but that was simply a reinforcement that, with any holiday, it's not about what you get, it's about what you give. And I know I had some desperately single years, where I had to fight off the grumps, but then my mom would call or show up with a little box of goodies or my Nana would send a card with her signature almost calligraphy-like penmanship and the angry feelings would subside as I realized this day, while commercialized to high-heavens (but honestly, what holiday ISN'T?), has a good core. And an important one.<br />
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So I roll my eyes at the vitriol this holiday tends to rile up, the worst of which seems to be displayed on Facebook for the world to see. Mostly from people without a significant other to love, who are feeling especially lonely on this day. I think people forget that it's not JUST about loving a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife today. Valentine's Day is simply a day of love.<br />
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And, the day before the REAL holiday--HALF OFF CHOCOLATE DAY OMG SO EXCITED--but aaanyway...<br />
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So, take today for what it is, and what it could be: yet another holiday to let those you love know that you appreciate them. And ESPECIALLY maybe that furry friend that loves you no matter what, because maybe they deserve it most.<br />
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So for a Valentine's Day treat, I decided to focus on the amazing Lily, who has brought so much joy into my life over the past 11 years she's been my girl.<br />
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It's so amazing that her life was SO hard--she was found as a stray, under a building, the coldest month of the year during a Texas cold snap, with her seven puppies... only two of which lived to get adopted themselves--but that she is SO loving and so happy to just be near her people. I can't imagine my life without this silly, sweet, gorgeous girl.<br />
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Seriously, who couldn't love that face?<br />
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Doggy treats are a great way to let your dog know you love her. Lily LOVES these, and it makes me happy to know I can use my cooking skills to her benefit as well. Plus they're probably way healthier than the ones you find in the store--and tastier!<br />
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Not gonna lie, the house smelled SO GOOD while they were cooking that I had to try one myself. They weren't bad! Kind of like weird nutty biscuits.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bacon Peanutbutter Cheddar Dog Biscuits</span><br />
(Adapted slightly from <a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/2013/10/23/homemade-peanut-butter-dog-treats/">Sally's Baking Addiction</a>)<br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup creamy peanut butter (I used what I had on hand, but organic/natural is best!)</li>
<li>3/4 cup milk</li>
<li>1 large egg</li>
<li>1 cup whole wheat flour</li>
<li>1 cup brown rice flour</li>
<li>1 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1/3 cup oats (I used quick oats)</li>
<li>3 tbs shredded cheddar cheese</li>
<li>4 strips bacon, chopped small</li></ul>
Preheat oven to 325F degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or a silpat.<br />
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In a large bowl, mix all wet ingredients together. In a separate bowl, mix together the flours, baking powder, oats, cheese, and bacon. Slowly add the wet to the dry. *A stand mixer is best for this, on the paddle attachment, because it will turn into a hard, doughy ball that will be VERY hard to mix.<br />
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Place dough ball between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper and roll to a 1/4" thickness with a rolling pin. Put dough into refrigerator and let chill for ten minutes.<br />
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Cut into shapes using a cookie cutter (I used hearts because I had no bone-shapes) and place on a baking sheet at least an inch apart. Bake for 20 minutes, then gently flip cookies and bake for another 10 minutes.<br />
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Let cool, and store in an airtight jar or bag in the fridge for about a week.<br />
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<br /></div>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-7811977258332612202023-05-23T13:10:00.001-07:002023-05-23T13:10:28.312-07:00Viral Tik-Tok Green Goddess Salad Dip but BETTER<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipM2jUfC1FExr8dkGmb29stZ3ekY2PbWmFxUKSphePSx-rUXtp0ni2mL9Q0UBBz98-KRzVfRAoyTSnEGyitxfABoVbSKbbZBU_nT-5H23WwBgQErsZpZsEvVUaVIsxwMBUWjI0Pa8RcztwaSzzZchddK-nmPXwvPzWcol99QaSaWDodu7ZjnkSFQ/s4032/IMG-6733.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipM2jUfC1FExr8dkGmb29stZ3ekY2PbWmFxUKSphePSx-rUXtp0ni2mL9Q0UBBz98-KRzVfRAoyTSnEGyitxfABoVbSKbbZBU_nT-5H23WwBgQErsZpZsEvVUaVIsxwMBUWjI0Pa8RcztwaSzzZchddK-nmPXwvPzWcol99QaSaWDodu7ZjnkSFQ/w640-h480/IMG-6733.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I finally took the plunge and created a TikTok account. I know, I know. I'm an old millennial, I have no right. Actually, I lied.</div><div><br /></div><div>I made THREE TikTok accounts.</div><div><br /></div><div>Everything I do, I do big, apparently.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3tLXq6XFYb1PSFn8Us0O0t55TGGPhT3Yfv-DQcN-KfYcba5W3_HzB4oT_Oz95g-ybT-JIRQmT5XYX5rdDXB6V_tf9wfOgB1fCqBGoaJSrDbLlk3yA8ULqjdlIaKggSVv8JBugpsUysFLiHdy7TR9uayS-Jn43lNBH8RgrSXf8JFMrr7L6M0f-A/s4032/IMG-6731.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3tLXq6XFYb1PSFn8Us0O0t55TGGPhT3Yfv-DQcN-KfYcba5W3_HzB4oT_Oz95g-ybT-JIRQmT5XYX5rdDXB6V_tf9wfOgB1fCqBGoaJSrDbLlk3yA8ULqjdlIaKggSVv8JBugpsUysFLiHdy7TR9uayS-Jn43lNBH8RgrSXf8JFMrr7L6M0f-A/w480-h640/IMG-6731.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Of course, RecipeTok was the first rabbit hole I went down. I'd heard of this viral TikTok Green Goddess Salad Dip before, but hadn't tried to make it.<div><br /></div><div>After all, how good could it be? Do you SEE how green it is? And how much oniony things... I hate oniony things.</div><div><br /></div><div>But reader, it was delicious. It just needed... something.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZ4o8otlKW0vcHiM1eucVTZXzTRc_lQeujF3kuHpyj81nYpSEg8_FskbGzLiLAo_2AnNBBDTsGhtOqwDBd7qtNCdiQLp-HF5yskRcwQa8uG9yx_EiDxPzVMsfxwMLn3fxFBu6Mtu8eHE2gJaz-4vmw7zCgmwmulLbc491_HWYa6S0sSHQzqyZSg/s4032/IMG-6728.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQZ4o8otlKW0vcHiM1eucVTZXzTRc_lQeujF3kuHpyj81nYpSEg8_FskbGzLiLAo_2AnNBBDTsGhtOqwDBd7qtNCdiQLp-HF5yskRcwQa8uG9yx_EiDxPzVMsfxwMLn3fxFBu6Mtu8eHE2gJaz-4vmw7zCgmwmulLbc491_HWYa6S0sSHQzqyZSg/w640-h480/IMG-6728.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So what did I do? I added something.</div><div><br /></div><div>A few somethings, if I'm being honest.</div><div><br /></div><div>And I'd never lie to y'all, it's not my way.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDzUG37hS8RQvxE9675x0bBkKj2qvQvaITaA0xGD-0ubFn6VPqdbsB6Vfz2PFsN03HTt03J-iR92qfUPdeMp-Kuo2DPCU7UWvvl71c3BOX7XF_905N3zrizKqhAnaEUjjbN6QuQG8F0HsVgzPsjjy7u9Tzug7mqcOAPeDhdwLUoBsFeG95iRx9w/s3489/IMG-6726.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2617" data-original-width="3489" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDzUG37hS8RQvxE9675x0bBkKj2qvQvaITaA0xGD-0ubFn6VPqdbsB6Vfz2PFsN03HTt03J-iR92qfUPdeMp-Kuo2DPCU7UWvvl71c3BOX7XF_905N3zrizKqhAnaEUjjbN6QuQG8F0HsVgzPsjjy7u9Tzug7mqcOAPeDhdwLUoBsFeG95iRx9w/w640-h480/IMG-6726.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>So here's my take on the viral TikTok Green Goddess Salad Dip that was sweeping the nation. Am I behind on the times? Of course I am. But I'm an old millennial. Be happy I finally have a TikTok, okay?</div><div><br /></div><div>This version is a lot creamier and packs even more nutritious veggies into the mix. It's perfect on its own, or with some grilled salmon or tofu, or just with chips. I prefer blue corn tortilla chips. It just looks better.</div><div><br /></div><div>Let me know what you think!</div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Even Better Tik-Tok Green Goddess Salad Dip</h2><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 small cabbage finely diced (I also used some purple cabbage I had on hand)</li><li>2 cups kale, stems removed and diced</li><li>1 large cucumber, peeled/seeded/diced</li><li>1 small green pepper, diced</li><li>5 green onions, sliced</li><li>1/4 cup chives finely sliced</li><li>1/3 cup green grapes, sliced into 4ths</li><li>1-2 avocados, cubed</li><li>NON GREENS - shredded carrots, cubed tomatoes, goat cheese crumbles, sunflower seeds</li></ul></div><div><b>Green Goddess Dressing</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>juice of 2 lemons</li><li>1/4 cup olive oil</li><li>2 tbsp red wine vinegar</li><li>2 cloves garlic</li><li>1 small shallot</li><li>1 cup fresh basil</li><li>1 cup spinach</li><li>1/4 cup tahini</li><li>1/3 cup nutritional yeast OR parm cheese</li><li>1/4 cup walnuts</li><li>2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey</li><li>salt, to taste</li></ul></div></div><div>-Combine all ingredients for the dressing in a blender and blend until smooth. Add more olive oil if it's too thick, and more spinach and basil if it's too thin.</div><div><br /></div><div>-Combine all ingredients EXCEPT avocado in a large bowl and toss with the dressing. Start with about 1/3 of the dressing and shake. Add more dressing if desired. </div><div><br /></div><div>-Immediately before serving, add avocado. I like to add it individually to each salad serving so that the avocado doesn't go bad in the leftovers. Serve with chips for scooping!</div><div><br /></div><div>-This salad is even BETTER the next day if you let it sit in the fridge, and will last multiple days due to the heartiness of the base.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeUPEVKQS38qBWJ-nSKWtk09BilPlD-KFD0WR2G-P97WqUtAUPQztNbOrsv7BYl1p5FKaoY1iig6J-0JZCX3BuNMhQnrUUMvYu7IAZ1knLSexbuIi7C6gAS49Z2PkTqneKW24xE8tgB4-vBF0uZgK9y2wjyYlsFbiSiK4FoBJQzzNZGKX9t6IxA/s3227/IMG-6720.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2420" data-original-width="3227" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeUPEVKQS38qBWJ-nSKWtk09BilPlD-KFD0WR2G-P97WqUtAUPQztNbOrsv7BYl1p5FKaoY1iig6J-0JZCX3BuNMhQnrUUMvYu7IAZ1knLSexbuIi7C6gAS49Z2PkTqneKW24xE8tgB4-vBF0uZgK9y2wjyYlsFbiSiK4FoBJQzzNZGKX9t6IxA/w640-h480/IMG-6720.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">What's your favorite Tik Tok recipe? Let me know in the comments!</span></i></span></div><div><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div></div>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-10581004771478996642023-03-08T11:26:00.005-08:002023-03-08T11:26:41.885-08:00What I've Been Eating - The Best Food in Tulum, Mexico!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAfT0dZUfSJUhCSqoklrGpEYv-U5HbiAJpymbJpaVeSTu5w6_WeLxvmFUypvbJzrFrfpIDc4QTcKjQJ_qeQbEukaOGnOUcn9UVEY_vWXzdXJyspDnfJhP-6SqZjY3oFoCaUBemDnRf3z5HgkHLvRp3lPoDPs0I7Y9h8KiokCT91zvmB3_VTGMYQ/s960/314585760_10101912978562551_7204284613623274452_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAfT0dZUfSJUhCSqoklrGpEYv-U5HbiAJpymbJpaVeSTu5w6_WeLxvmFUypvbJzrFrfpIDc4QTcKjQJ_qeQbEukaOGnOUcn9UVEY_vWXzdXJyspDnfJhP-6SqZjY3oFoCaUBemDnRf3z5HgkHLvRp3lPoDPs0I7Y9h8KiokCT91zvmB3_VTGMYQ/w640-h480/314585760_10101912978562551_7204284613623274452_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>It's been a long pandemic. I've been big on travel for most of my life, vowing to visit at LEAST two new cities a year for the past few years. While I've mostly kept to that pandemic nonwithstanding, it was limited to where I could drive within my new home state of California.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTHy3Wh_-NthQCOVKY3K-hDjIDukPq2lTH3H_bkPCowedm0hVTp9VcMhEdEhktTzHQp247BpP5Dg95EkG0clIe3R5suh38faf8RL9dNctDsjjT7g4g1GIgPZ_CdAl-Mgh8Pr9x1dabAipNXCn5JKWSGGh8k-T1MmuXWeMkf0K92hFTbOG03eFaQ/s960/314734884_10101912979206261_3857036771834551099_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTHy3Wh_-NthQCOVKY3K-hDjIDukPq2lTH3H_bkPCowedm0hVTp9VcMhEdEhktTzHQp247BpP5Dg95EkG0clIe3R5suh38faf8RL9dNctDsjjT7g4g1GIgPZ_CdAl-Mgh8Pr9x1dabAipNXCn5JKWSGGh8k-T1MmuXWeMkf0K92hFTbOG03eFaQ/w480-h640/314734884_10101912979206261_3857036771834551099_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>However, with my most recent booster coupled with my light brush with the virus prior to that, I finally felt safe enough to do a bit of international travel. Mexico has been on my shortlist for YEARS, so I knew it was the perfect place to resurrect my travel bug. I figured Tulum would be the ideal adventure: not as crazy a party town as Cancun, but with beautiful beaches and rain forest for exploring. I grabbed a new friend for the journey and took the leap.<br /><br />And my GOSH you guys, Tulum is GORGEOUS. We snorkeled and scuba'd in the beautiful, crystal-clear Cenotes. We lounged by the warm-water beaches. We explored the adorable town. And we ate. Oh man did we eat.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PYIgdyZ3iPgGvGOuKbVfwQZIvGGgv63UqBk97IHO3mNPer6SODqvGl672NCbrk07PHqSDJN-QPCdH8rptKafZkrtPezSydycWb7yhjzckxX_4-yb_fe-BOvVF1fpd3nXHy7lNixBj6iosdLKofRXW9eGyopNHo5X1vAN-h-OJXnqADFitF21yQ/s1800/314113151_565862042207225_5632314953471315191_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PYIgdyZ3iPgGvGOuKbVfwQZIvGGgv63UqBk97IHO3mNPer6SODqvGl672NCbrk07PHqSDJN-QPCdH8rptKafZkrtPezSydycWb7yhjzckxX_4-yb_fe-BOvVF1fpd3nXHy7lNixBj6iosdLKofRXW9eGyopNHo5X1vAN-h-OJXnqADFitF21yQ/w512-h640/314113151_565862042207225_5632314953471315191_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><p></p><p>I say I'm a half-assed vegetarian because when I travel, I don't avoid meat as much as I do in my daily life. Food is so tied to culture that I feel like I'd miss out on an authentic experience if I stuck too strictly to being fully plant-based. And plus, my own internal reasons for going plant-based do allow for some flexibility outside of the US.</p><p>So tacos were definitely on the menu.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAdwGEL0jMxyfZaUJ2d0U3f4jI1UzKPts28jylgXmA42UbrFHfDq-ArJWwaIMH8E7EC_i7-3hlVaALm64u3LwI8eZdAfAacn7ku3IzGcVIk8JHzr53cgxrz7nd1OKfu4HSyS7p1-jIaMvuOgMSmn_l6O-sH3ii8nt-JJ3Tn3c07Ir2V2jkz72FUg/s1800/314412700_565862048873891_3228916651897851873_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAdwGEL0jMxyfZaUJ2d0U3f4jI1UzKPts28jylgXmA42UbrFHfDq-ArJWwaIMH8E7EC_i7-3hlVaALm64u3LwI8eZdAfAacn7ku3IzGcVIk8JHzr53cgxrz7nd1OKfu4HSyS7p1-jIaMvuOgMSmn_l6O-sH3ii8nt-JJ3Tn3c07Ir2V2jkz72FUg/w512-h640/314412700_565862048873891_3228916651897851873_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>We seriously did not have a single bad meal the entire time we were in Tulum. If you're staying in Tulum Town, all of the places listed will be within walking distance of the main street. Keep reading for the best and tastiest food in Tulum, Mexico!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-PoZy-zXm-K2LHE8a-7LI57BcCdT3sf8xVeqCD2_h8pC4V3a--cRsJepWxG9ODinwjEDrrAsCXjF_tSmz7c2rKrgKni5CdQjMJ31fWa9V_yf_4_CpstnRhtAaAZAJ4vcBi_gSfC2WhNy-mmvAzntG9dyE2ft3muG-44IsllGpybXWYoGrnlHvcw/s1800/313975507_564745178985578_4930681192638100886_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1800" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-PoZy-zXm-K2LHE8a-7LI57BcCdT3sf8xVeqCD2_h8pC4V3a--cRsJepWxG9ODinwjEDrrAsCXjF_tSmz7c2rKrgKni5CdQjMJ31fWa9V_yf_4_CpstnRhtAaAZAJ4vcBi_gSfC2WhNy-mmvAzntG9dyE2ft3muG-44IsllGpybXWYoGrnlHvcw/w640-h512/313975507_564745178985578_4930681192638100886_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>La Hacienda Coco Tulum</b> - This was actually our hotel, but it included free breakfast and a reasonably priced cafe on site. The included breakfast was simple but generous: fresh fruit, yogurt, and pastries with your choice of juice or coffee. The lunch options at the cafe were only okay, so we opted to mostly explore outside the hotel for food.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMCwPT4RHjIQuADRHF6r6vZfn6uZOEt1weY6hnBA6ePer_3ymyQKxc2EJnj1aYKI8ZLQDEKIr1WG-oy8Zb69ppw9UYXV8Yqt--I1QTryI-HOHK3V-Kh93vJqwPp1GCNdLvTli_KkciaUG_goRafIVLYFjWuJ2ukGZLXhrhRnhUDuPVFfJAPwkPcg/s1800/314008623_564328289027267_6050602407600646554_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1800" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMCwPT4RHjIQuADRHF6r6vZfn6uZOEt1weY6hnBA6ePer_3ymyQKxc2EJnj1aYKI8ZLQDEKIr1WG-oy8Zb69ppw9UYXV8Yqt--I1QTryI-HOHK3V-Kh93vJqwPp1GCNdLvTli_KkciaUG_goRafIVLYFjWuJ2ukGZLXhrhRnhUDuPVFfJAPwkPcg/w640-h512/314008623_564328289027267_6050602407600646554_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>La Barracuda Tulum </b>- This was our first meal in town and we basically just picked a random storefront that didn't have a wait. And we were pleasantly surprised! We started with a mixed ceviche that was extremely fresh and flavorful, accompanied by a variety of hot sauces. I got some spicy shrimp tacos and a very large drink. We spent around $50 total for the meal and left incredibly full. Honestly, it ended up being one of the less memorable meals of the trip, but that's moreso a testament to the endless amazing food in town than the restaurant itself. Solid option if you're staying on the main street.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPyH1TWidxtXQYwfUyGcB2EE7WvhuUuzEnVMmRkd9zgAn2N3mIS2nRv5mLqBpF0d7fx-GW733faWQgCmqT1KDlD8k_uiFFdBLTXBJxVw035zWFX8vblMZJ2rgLINZsrKK8RRonEIvbIMmifawkUpaIEM7IGRqjuzRXz68v_-mROGWCNt8HmvF1Q/s1800/313418837_565102518949844_845555285182307909_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPyH1TWidxtXQYwfUyGcB2EE7WvhuUuzEnVMmRkd9zgAn2N3mIS2nRv5mLqBpF0d7fx-GW733faWQgCmqT1KDlD8k_uiFFdBLTXBJxVw035zWFX8vblMZJ2rgLINZsrKK8RRonEIvbIMmifawkUpaIEM7IGRqjuzRXz68v_-mROGWCNt8HmvF1Q/w512-h640/313418837_565102518949844_845555285182307909_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Potheads Tulum</b> - We kept giggling as we passed this storefront and eventually we had to duck in for a drink and "snack" but ended up getting too intrigued by the menu to pass up some chicken and waffles. The atmosphere alone will make any wannabe influencer happy (I took about a hundred pictures) but I definitely wish we'd hit this place up more for the excellent coffee and breakfast selections. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UpRYurlVHsTsp54vlQjbn_3xPlSIVVsMQsuShLm-Xc3qLrg5RiDgAY6Mlp4Tj6NenKR88ZMzI_L-UoOYlLYCdLyoNsvbpJvE9_tSMtKeuhw_tomlj1oPGmt1h-Uzh-ISqHr2Rm1CN7_a5Zajs2CIO3fNvM4Ow0Kep56PtTD4EceH_LLXJciUUw/s1795/314533931_565862045540558_3817876983877704790_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1795" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UpRYurlVHsTsp54vlQjbn_3xPlSIVVsMQsuShLm-Xc3qLrg5RiDgAY6Mlp4Tj6NenKR88ZMzI_L-UoOYlLYCdLyoNsvbpJvE9_tSMtKeuhw_tomlj1oPGmt1h-Uzh-ISqHr2Rm1CN7_a5Zajs2CIO3fNvM4Ow0Kep56PtTD4EceH_LLXJciUUw/w514-h640/314533931_565862045540558_3817876983877704790_n.jpg" width="514" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Los Aguachiles</b> - One of the best meals of the trip, and the most unique tacos we had. Aguachiles is a Mexican dish, and this restaurant takes it to the next level with all sorts of sea and land options. I highly suggest splitting as many portions as you can to truly get a culinary tour of the menu. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzn8PxQhhzQ4DS4B_fApZPdN7_iDvuaZ-HpgXv6iRSFnLLcde2C9IX89H4-vY6jsZsaU88b5WFseHuS060B63NyWlUNePl7mKmbb1ASYoWpfxpmt1NJhvplqaWJ8_r4THkUqxFtZmSGpHDgm0i2DSv4E0IG3q6jLP4c1sKuB6i3mXW8BFHcFU-g/s1800/314451890_566874662105963_4562985162111681177_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzn8PxQhhzQ4DS4B_fApZPdN7_iDvuaZ-HpgXv6iRSFnLLcde2C9IX89H4-vY6jsZsaU88b5WFseHuS060B63NyWlUNePl7mKmbb1ASYoWpfxpmt1NJhvplqaWJ8_r4THkUqxFtZmSGpHDgm0i2DSv4E0IG3q6jLP4c1sKuB6i3mXW8BFHcFU-g/w512-h640/314451890_566874662105963_4562985162111681177_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></div></div><p></p><p><b>Taqueria La Riviera Costeña </b>- I wish we'd found this place the first day of our trip--we would have saved SO much money! For $2 you get FIVE PASTOR TACOS that are absolutely incredible. Easily the best meal of our trip, and one of the least expensive. It's hard to find BAD food in Tulum, but the more touristy areas definitely have food that's less amazing. La Riviera Costena is right in the middle of the main street in town and does not disappoint. The one downside is there's no beer or alcohol served here--but there's a number of bars around the area to fill up at afterwards.<br />Av. Tulum S/N<br />77760 Tulum, Quintana Roo Mexico<br /><br /></p><p><b>Snack Bar La Chingada</b> - I don't have a picture of this one but we popped in for drinks on our last night and wish we'd found them sooner as they were hands-down the most reasonably priced cocktails we encountered. The menu also had a variety of snacks (we were too full from Taqueria La Riviera!) that are perfect for pairing with their extensive booze menu. A great place to start or end a night out on the town!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wS4wjF5ej9a_noafxvyd93wqw8Do64_RTKrE78fT21e8dt91z-2PRJdlqIJFxqWEPxKg3bOfeu7Nu7I4serJ6Zot-oZCV098jJWvGwHicR771JmxadseIeDSCp9K_sWn6Lc9ccvWp9hGyt9KHv6pUEw9AmrobgSUb0bLUfW_wDYWMpZ0oaJR8w/s960/314655529_10101912960164421_8078079181850942821_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wS4wjF5ej9a_noafxvyd93wqw8Do64_RTKrE78fT21e8dt91z-2PRJdlqIJFxqWEPxKg3bOfeu7Nu7I4serJ6Zot-oZCV098jJWvGwHicR771JmxadseIeDSCp9K_sWn6Lc9ccvWp9hGyt9KHv6pUEw9AmrobgSUb0bLUfW_wDYWMpZ0oaJR8w/w640-h480/314655529_10101912960164421_8078079181850942821_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><b>Taqueria El Sabor Mexicano </b>- I wanted street tacos and somehow it didn't happen until the very last day, as we were driving to the airport. We'd passed this tiny storefront a few times but upon investigation it looks like you've walked into someone's kitchen. Big terracotta bowls full of saucy deliciousness is spooned into homemade tortillas. For six tacos we paid some ridiculously low price and they were so tasty I tried my best to savor every bite. Pro tip: the family-run taco stands are the best. If I ever go back I'd like to use them exclusively!</p><p><br /></p><p>During Tours</p><p>We didn't REALLY have a choice for food during the tours, but I thought I'd share my experiences anyway (since the food was pretty good!)</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nxbinhUxYdyw1zMJglXtqPdUMsuZ2WTr3CkeZobgnkUSlZElWvY8LE07_mnkD3x2hEi0LPKMs3h0Hc6xf6d2AKr1KGCw4bEnwTqBuhKR9onEovvC5FOI4xCvfZ1OfKrN78vheiD6O-ZrJaGujdk3s4A-nrD_8-Mc01_nvja3E_XOqK37ZJRjoA/s2048/312707850_10101912994620371_759805040893111312_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nxbinhUxYdyw1zMJglXtqPdUMsuZ2WTr3CkeZobgnkUSlZElWvY8LE07_mnkD3x2hEi0LPKMs3h0Hc6xf6d2AKr1KGCw4bEnwTqBuhKR9onEovvC5FOI4xCvfZ1OfKrN78vheiD6O-ZrJaGujdk3s4A-nrD_8-Mc01_nvja3E_XOqK37ZJRjoA/w480-h640/312707850_10101912994620371_759805040893111312_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>-<b>Frosty's at Tulum Archaeological Site</b>: Our tour guide led us here and while I feel like he was biased or recieved a cut of profits I wasn't mad at it, because it was a ton of food for about $12. Again, super tasty, as everything is in Tulum, but not one of or more memorable dishes.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCk-V3ZgBeJn1LJtW352xNGwTAn1LrL9YQX_7D-2idOZTYQDYx7hzQ9Cgt_e1ByZbJJdGWDsDYfua9b7DX5ywuw32Dyx-SVkt9QuoRDfgDWeG0_IMO3q_olJegaKsn4NyQ0XqNULsenJZLA4fp_7H7qlLppYjin3JCvP3d6hZjy8LK84WJpP2SA/s1800/312871968_566629302130499_5754989447345896510_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1800" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheCk-V3ZgBeJn1LJtW352xNGwTAn1LrL9YQX_7D-2idOZTYQDYx7hzQ9Cgt_e1ByZbJJdGWDsDYfua9b7DX5ywuw32Dyx-SVkt9QuoRDfgDWeG0_IMO3q_olJegaKsn4NyQ0XqNULsenJZLA4fp_7H7qlLppYjin3JCvP3d6hZjy8LK84WJpP2SA/w640-h512/312871968_566629302130499_5754989447345896510_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>-<b>Now Yaca Tulum at Tulum Diving Tour</b>: Definitely the best breakfast on our tour! It was included in the price of our dive (my travel companion did SCUBA and I did snorkel) so I really don't know how much it cost, but it was so good. The standout here was the sauce--so savory and thinking about it just makes my mouth water. My travel companion got the Avocado Toast and it was everything you could hope for in an Avo Toast.... however, I was much more satisfied with the above enchiladas.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoeVldJHyokdumvhl9XW5E9wQC4ZlIBMY_EAS-9p2A91qilDYUC3DIygbL_ctt6SoNdqchFiDD3iZEPLwIMoiRGMpMWAKqAAhKrXULyiXQzIU1erNbm4hS3tuA3lZDOPmaYo_EmFRUe1D4ivC_hbwPCOkDoG-xf8kUvz6NhxH9RF8FCzjvTcLsA/s1920/312876514_10101913278182111_2251686906615045747_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoeVldJHyokdumvhl9XW5E9wQC4ZlIBMY_EAS-9p2A91qilDYUC3DIygbL_ctt6SoNdqchFiDD3iZEPLwIMoiRGMpMWAKqAAhKrXULyiXQzIU1erNbm4hS3tuA3lZDOPmaYo_EmFRUe1D4ivC_hbwPCOkDoG-xf8kUvz6NhxH9RF8FCzjvTcLsA/w640-h426/312876514_10101913278182111_2251686906615045747_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>-<b>Homemade Tacos at Selva Maya Eco Adventure Park:</b> Another included dish that I forgot to take a picture of--oops! After a day of zip lining and Cenote diving the cafeteria-style homemade tacos were a welcome treat. We were offered as many helpings as we'd like, and a complementary beer. I was so hungry I scarfed these down while barely tasting them, but from what I remember they were just as good as any other tacos we had. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEu3W-PmZUsHujcOzH7es51BlCzTY1nX5lxX5OWD8HAYq63UComCNc2FdBQvjl9-WKsmDc5QTbjg3DV-O3PsQVQgjnbEp80IJfHl7T5I0S_Xv2tjOrXRAfCG1dzTeHE1abStOMY900E6AAMvZyKQbzbM1HxazrCYXu2AVdL1WNl0IDRU_oSmYsQ/s1800/313945059_564328292360600_2605763887559487345_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxEu3W-PmZUsHujcOzH7es51BlCzTY1nX5lxX5OWD8HAYq63UComCNc2FdBQvjl9-WKsmDc5QTbjg3DV-O3PsQVQgjnbEp80IJfHl7T5I0S_Xv2tjOrXRAfCG1dzTeHE1abStOMY900E6AAMvZyKQbzbM1HxazrCYXu2AVdL1WNl0IDRU_oSmYsQ/w512-h640/313945059_564328292360600_2605763887559487345_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I will admit, the majority of these can be considered "Touristy" but for our first trip, we didn't stray far from the main street. Have you visited Tulum? Do you know of any off-the-beaten-path locations we should have tried? Let me know in the comments!</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMtSMNAQDGxfei2sWjEaDNH5KdfS1L8-1ryvYIEzyXFmgQ51v1WdcNaN8sG0wxTcLFdAwxHz-yQjyXYQBDj3osunmC0W9fcsYSNLlkvH9D15gBVHvvN2DNxnNaFJsFIcmK9ShruGqeDmEZOs5nLSytdV73C-Ez3ut8mlGzSao99RPExuoDnpHvmQ/s960/314863621_10101912959450851_1272216634663063602_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMtSMNAQDGxfei2sWjEaDNH5KdfS1L8-1ryvYIEzyXFmgQ51v1WdcNaN8sG0wxTcLFdAwxHz-yQjyXYQBDj3osunmC0W9fcsYSNLlkvH9D15gBVHvvN2DNxnNaFJsFIcmK9ShruGqeDmEZOs5nLSytdV73C-Ez3ut8mlGzSao99RPExuoDnpHvmQ/w480-h640/314863621_10101912959450851_1272216634663063602_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div></div>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-2863417276727536062022-11-14T12:00:00.003-08:002022-11-14T12:00:53.389-08:00Souped-Up Savory Butternut Squash Soup<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGibO2y45imCpF6E4v8tFgXZP7jaiGqA-OqVR5bZEdxD7H1363t5S0jrvmAu4Fv2GYw4dN0vw5sz006YFnOS84iEzi5_hvzlsVslNq4gu0VdNJYMBNC6DpWJ2de9G_9Kt4LyZgvCVeHMkMRR9JSQRbkfHfB7iiTH3C2XHGs_iyak50hgJWltHUCw/s3719/IMG-3620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Savory butternut squash soup" border="0" data-original-height="2789" data-original-width="3719" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGibO2y45imCpF6E4v8tFgXZP7jaiGqA-OqVR5bZEdxD7H1363t5S0jrvmAu4Fv2GYw4dN0vw5sz006YFnOS84iEzi5_hvzlsVslNq4gu0VdNJYMBNC6DpWJ2de9G_9Kt4LyZgvCVeHMkMRR9JSQRbkfHfB7iiTH3C2XHGs_iyak50hgJWltHUCw/w640-h480/IMG-3620.jpg" title="Savory butternut squash soup" width="640" /></a></div><p>Hey folks, it's certainly been a while! I have some upcoming posts where I'll explain in a bit more detail about where I've been (cross country move and divorce in a global pandemic can get a girl distracted!), but for now I wanted to get a real recipe out there because it truly is that good!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMA00V-TaH4tNYfvUvn8j1iPQY5esCAeMGDZDCdwNJwCFfIOwjW6fA4CS84TvaC1WKqTKEjC1cxOdLQ1TdmOsiDL0TdbqxTI0z0Nj5VpGLzfM4d-vuRnjQeg7hQzx4fArM4H2AmGDSqNzIM1YBSqy3LYUhdUsXVGGMtNDDsE1fXbKvn6Pz3Ft6A/s2830/IMG-1355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2830" data-original-width="2123" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMA00V-TaH4tNYfvUvn8j1iPQY5esCAeMGDZDCdwNJwCFfIOwjW6fA4CS84TvaC1WKqTKEjC1cxOdLQ1TdmOsiDL0TdbqxTI0z0Nj5VpGLzfM4d-vuRnjQeg7hQzx4fArM4H2AmGDSqNzIM1YBSqy3LYUhdUsXVGGMtNDDsE1fXbKvn6Pz3Ft6A/w480-h640/IMG-1355.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Just because I haven't been blogging, doesn't mean I haven't been cooking. I came across this recipe on Buzzfeed for Florence Pugh's Butternut Squash Soup and was intrigued. I love butternut squash, and it's a staple on my Thanksgiving table. I've made butternut squash soup in the past, but it was simple. More of a side dish than the main event.<br /><br />Let me tell you, Florence Pugh's recipe is no side dish. This soup is savory, hearty, and delicious. It includes some toppings that truly elevate the soup and compliment the traditional flavors.<p></p><p>And of course, being the foodie I am, I did update it with some of my own preferences. For one, I made it fully vegetarian. The other adjustments were just things I thought would work well, and you better believe they did!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij042yJk2Ul0iSHQfUCaSeByjq-nPp62W_xmAZ2GhRA1gnz7tLWq9m-QD_qxPaievHrN5xhXsx9JM07FZCOHLtesMUBY_4FGe5xuJTT9Ir9ZT12sMswC3PnXYpQxibl4TpNGQFsHiQzpLO5ScRACYz_lZXP2gYKnqdbYmCzVeLZ2tVSxv1emNxew/s4032/IMG-3627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij042yJk2Ul0iSHQfUCaSeByjq-nPp62W_xmAZ2GhRA1gnz7tLWq9m-QD_qxPaievHrN5xhXsx9JM07FZCOHLtesMUBY_4FGe5xuJTT9Ir9ZT12sMswC3PnXYpQxibl4TpNGQFsHiQzpLO5ScRACYz_lZXP2gYKnqdbYmCzVeLZ2tVSxv1emNxew/w640-h480/IMG-3627.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>For adjustments, I...</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>used a single, large squash instead of two. It yielded about 5 servings of soup with just one, which was perfect for me.</li><li>added boiled potato to the soup itself for creaminess without additional dairy.</li><li>also added an apple to the soup for sweetness.</li><li>totally forgot the Serrano pepper, but the chorizo brought enough spice that I didn't mind much.</li></ul><p></p><p>I promise this isn't as difficult as the original article makes it out to be. Yes, you'll use a lot of pots and pans for this recipe, but it's pretty straightforward and not nearly as time consuming as it seems. And absolutely worth it for a hearty fall-themed dish!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WfqJkXF9BC34gWgeYNwE8mcYMfrdQy0nCkU6Qo9dZ-KznbL3rTR88nIrw_pNM1-1QreQlDy5muszFdYUxm8B7Fnc9WIt-RM-tRhRJly5PyjQ5l73zKD47cBTw-xNoAkqiz9UCqYQEGDYBty-QvvGVngBas7qtUp4gcyHsRn5Fgul5KffkFG_7A/s3432/IMG-3616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2574" data-original-width="3432" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WfqJkXF9BC34gWgeYNwE8mcYMfrdQy0nCkU6Qo9dZ-KznbL3rTR88nIrw_pNM1-1QreQlDy5muszFdYUxm8B7Fnc9WIt-RM-tRhRJly5PyjQ5l73zKD47cBTw-xNoAkqiz9UCqYQEGDYBty-QvvGVngBas7qtUp4gcyHsRn5Fgul5KffkFG_7A/w640-h480/IMG-3616.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"></h3><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Savory Butternut Squash Soup</span></span></h2>(Adapted from <a href="https://www.buzzfeed.com/pernellquilon/florence-pugh-butternut-squash-soup-recipe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Florence Pugh's recipe by way of Buzzfeed</a>)<p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 large butternut squash</li><li>5 cloves garlic</li><li>3 cups vegetable broth (I used my <a href="https://www.forkingup.com/2019/10/homemade-veggie-stock-making-most-of.html" target="_blank">veggie scraps recipe</a>)</li><li>1 small apple, peeled, cored, and cubed</li><li>2 medium sized yellow potatoes, peeled and cubed</li><li>1 medium sized onion, sliced thin</li><li>1 tube chorizo (or soyrizo)</li><li>3 handfuls kale</li><li>1 tsp Italian seasoning</li><li>Olive oil</li><li>Salt and pepper</li></ul><p></p><p>-Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Slice the butternut squash into 1.5 inch slices. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper, and place in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn the slices over and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Finished butternut squash should be fork-tender. Let cool while you prep the rest of the ingredients.</p><p>-Roast the garlic as you wish: you can use Florence's method of roasting the cloves individually (sliced lengthwise) alongside the butternut squash, or do my method of taking the whole head of garlic, cutting the top 1/8 or so off the top, drizzling with olive oil, and lightly wrapping with aluminum foil. You'll place this in the oven when you roast the butternut squash.<br /><br />-Take 1/3 of the cubed potatoes and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, checking for tenderness and flipping occasionally. You can do this alongside baking the butternut squash. Set aside.<br /><br />-In a large pot, bring the remaining potatoes and apple to a boil in the broth. Boil until tender, about ten minutes.</p><p>-Peel the butternut squash and garlic, and add to the pot with the potatoes and apple. Using an immersion blender, blend until smooth. Add seasonings and adjust to taste.</p><p>-In a separate pan, caramelize the onion slices. Melt a pat of butter over high heat or use a bit of olive oil, add the onions, lightly salt them, and cook until deep brown in color, stirring occasionally. Remove from pan.<br /><br />-In the same pan, brown the chorizo. Remove and set aside, then add the kale with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cook until kale is wilted and set aside.<br /><br />-Assemble: Ladle soup into bowl and top with kale, caramelized onions, roasted potatoes, and chorizo. Serve hot.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxO4UAAL6kgVYXGjk8QlOel-qTBQ3rfGmkFrerdBo_gJybD-NoMCC7BSJRvtPSQQ8do8uM6puZXIFW8bWa4xW85T5kpR3YM3Yik0oj0xAzbCOr0kK7q77SZcosDSACSiQhFs2EXPGBU8Zyc8msCVKeWV7DgimSdiweCgyrjcJh9rU_y9Wv6lz2Q/s3024/IMG-3615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2185" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxO4UAAL6kgVYXGjk8QlOel-qTBQ3rfGmkFrerdBo_gJybD-NoMCC7BSJRvtPSQQ8do8uM6puZXIFW8bWa4xW85T5kpR3YM3Yik0oj0xAzbCOr0kK7q77SZcosDSACSiQhFs2EXPGBU8Zyc8msCVKeWV7DgimSdiweCgyrjcJh9rU_y9Wv6lz2Q/w462-h640/IMG-3615.jpg" width="462" /></a></div><p></p><p><b>Tips:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Cooking times for the squash and potatoes will vary. So long as they're cooked until tender, you can adjust the timing accordingly.</li><li>So long as your oven can fit it all, you can roast the butternut squash, garlic, and potatoes at the same time.</li><li>You can peel the squash before roasting, but I've found it's MUCH easier to peel once cooked and cooled. You can use a paring knife or your fingers to pull the squash away from the skin.</li><li>Cube the potatoes small, it will ensure a crispier potato and will work best for taking bites of soup with a little bit of everything.</li><li>It tastes EVEN BETTER the next day, after the flavors have had time to meld together. I also think it'd freeze well.</li></ul><p></p><p>PROTIP: add two tablespoons of butter right at the end for extra richness.</p><p><i>Want regular content? Feel free to follow <a href="http://www.instagram.com/forking_up" target="_blank">@forking_up </a>and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/thenewcaligal" target="_blank">@thenewcaligal</a> for daily updates!</i></p>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-56291671745665845312022-01-12T12:14:00.011-08:002022-01-12T12:14:54.529-08:00Can You Be Vegetarian at Six Flags? - Vegetarian Options at Six Flags Magic Mountain<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCX0V3lCVVF97eFV3EsRmi5usbXN2rAhAzOhyqpk9zRXFwXtwzl71Pkcm28TbAK1sV3NITsfJ6pdRfFtN9j10WcuAazJ6hR4Q-Je1eYyTWccznXSCtqDVffo9RaS3heg3RZUwVc4J_VT9axRGFUFfdr3bwgtbVZdedChkjkzv0kQKeVP9OlnunWQ=s3780" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCX0V3lCVVF97eFV3EsRmi5usbXN2rAhAzOhyqpk9zRXFwXtwzl71Pkcm28TbAK1sV3NITsfJ6pdRfFtN9j10WcuAazJ6hR4Q-Je1eYyTWccznXSCtqDVffo9RaS3heg3RZUwVc4J_VT9axRGFUFfdr3bwgtbVZdedChkjkzv0kQKeVP9OlnunWQ=w512-h640" width="512" /></a></div> <p></p><p>One of the best things I've done for myself in the past year is to get a Six Flags Membership. This is different than the Season Pass, as you pay monthly instead of upfront. Yes, it does come out to a bit more $$ overall, but my Millennial budget is much more able to pay the equivalent of a Netflix subscription monthly for all the benefits the pass offers.</p><p>The one wrinkle?--my newfound vegetarian lifestyle. Can you be vegetarian at Six Flags Magic Mountain? When one drives nearly two hours to the middle of nowhere to ride rollercoasters, you can't be too picky on what to eat. And who wants to interrupt their day of thrills with a looong walk to the car for a packed lunch?</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAEZw0vbHpijoUVDRFDhmS0eIakolXK9rRgxYO5MXFGpfr7iYxHYAWsbfjn4D9X7ackAtNuhbv17J36DAZEcrcCmdrcLdyy_ZA7iqC4w45xa5nD7J9PPl5XOOxT3HGxD8ixg_dlpAQ2iGp7rH5-JQOY515t3gkcweuxF4uwus-euFsRxLK6ZmgzA=s1440" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1223" data-original-width="1440" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAEZw0vbHpijoUVDRFDhmS0eIakolXK9rRgxYO5MXFGpfr7iYxHYAWsbfjn4D9X7ackAtNuhbv17J36DAZEcrcCmdrcLdyy_ZA7iqC4w45xa5nD7J9PPl5XOOxT3HGxD8ixg_dlpAQ2iGp7rH5-JQOY515t3gkcweuxF4uwus-euFsRxLK6ZmgzA=w640-h544" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>So, I took a chance and got a meal plan. Now that I've been to Six Flags about 10 times (!!) I have tasted nearly every meat free option in the park. AND I HAVE OPINIONS. Read on for my tips and tricks for the best vegetarian options at Six Flags Magic Mountain (as of 2021/2022).</p><p><b><a href="https://www.sixflags.com/magicmountain/things-to-do/restaurants" target="_blank">Click here to see a full list of dining options at Six Flags Magic Mountain</a></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Burgers</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The easiest way to keep a vegetarian diet at Six Flags Magic Mountain is to make your way to a burger place, as they all offer meatless burgers.<p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgd7Tj3aaTWDOKnS9YECZIlV2mmksl_yvDynMyyltv6VM1Hps0wx1wYPVVPVSZ5srfaVwGXGEApzRUknLbxVhLPILoZDsj_Ol8A31UFpZBThExOuruqylt2FqV0KtStrqtcFMGnmbMWmudTOtGTUGbRwxQ9Bxam-IbHg3xRGL-_Rjo0_CShpluGuQ=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgd7Tj3aaTWDOKnS9YECZIlV2mmksl_yvDynMyyltv6VM1Hps0wx1wYPVVPVSZ5srfaVwGXGEApzRUknLbxVhLPILoZDsj_Ol8A31UFpZBThExOuruqylt2FqV0KtStrqtcFMGnmbMWmudTOtGTUGbRwxQ9Bxam-IbHg3xRGL-_Rjo0_CShpluGuQ=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><p></p><p><b>Johnny Rockets</b> - Johnny Rockets recently introduced an Impossible Burger option nationwide, and the Magic Mountain location is no exception. I was able to order this tasty burger on the app and pick it up no problem.</p><p><b>Full Throttle Sports Bar</b> - If you prefer Beyond as your fake meat of choice, head over to Full Throttle Sports Bar. Bonus: you can grab a beer while you wait and catch up on your sports.</p><p><b>Big Belly Burger </b>- Fake meat not your thing? Big Belly Burger offers a bean burger instead. I found this one a little dry, but definitely flavorful as I tasted some taco seasoning in the mix.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Pizza & Subs</span></p><p>Strangely not as popular as burgers in the park, but a solid option to go meatless.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO_JlGfpcfl6iLpGDt27LrxYQyP73yv1fuON_iCYIFtARjUjmd8UkE5--qLO1avzM3aIwFKO_cuctV4idTrnivEvSW1o7UXWzlyofZNZ44BQZShU5r289uMMSIi3VZhpb2RuVY7AtoqfCoYY-SBMQJyu_-QYlX6fEZU1gtW32mXCcFcl5CqtNvkQ=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO_JlGfpcfl6iLpGDt27LrxYQyP73yv1fuON_iCYIFtARjUjmd8UkE5--qLO1avzM3aIwFKO_cuctV4idTrnivEvSW1o7UXWzlyofZNZ44BQZShU5r289uMMSIi3VZhpb2RuVY7AtoqfCoYY-SBMQJyu_-QYlX6fEZU1gtW32mXCcFcl5CqtNvkQ=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><b>Carlini's Pizza</b> - Pretty standard amusement park fare: cheese pizza and two garlic knots. You get one slice with the meal plan, but can upgrade in-person (not on app) for a bit more. They also have salad options.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdI4NJ0yXeBxlvcyHZbaUnobiFX7tfB0HuNI_J-o-WbaRQ1dzLxrmbkVosoo2s1uqtyhjE_55z1AXEiL9o6LWdZgRezIv_cl85ZBaZ5HlboUNoB2kJv2mympAc1ozI-FV9y_7iQhtTXZ4NWQ7P5q5ZHw2VEJn4pED2z5aXQSKO9_xImh-EmkawJw=s3088" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdI4NJ0yXeBxlvcyHZbaUnobiFX7tfB0HuNI_J-o-WbaRQ1dzLxrmbkVosoo2s1uqtyhjE_55z1AXEiL9o6LWdZgRezIv_cl85ZBaZ5HlboUNoB2kJv2mympAc1ozI-FV9y_7iQhtTXZ4NWQ7P5q5ZHw2VEJn4pED2z5aXQSKO9_xImh-EmkawJw=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Twisted 'Wiches</b> - This is probably my favorite option in the park: a meatless meatball sub! My omnivore friends actually ordered this too and said it tasted just like the real thing. It's not huge by any means, but a solid meal to fuel you up for more adventure.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Other</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Outside of typical amusement park food, Six Flags Magic Mountain has some other assorted options of interest.<p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDHvVIsSe6TZZE1EH5teEVcbV6KqsfQ588QKcsfi_SCcQgK_amKBXFqVzDukwRKVgcKQ73kyuZN8jQncSQ4Oj738lZ7cHHTVDZziSivOCWF8BoHlIQMioh_ueoMLhJ-RRBzCCEhSh7HHRitS_wkuO7mhdC7iAsPwsaHjJ8v29t_FfSHzbua4xnWg=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDHvVIsSe6TZZE1EH5teEVcbV6KqsfQ588QKcsfi_SCcQgK_amKBXFqVzDukwRKVgcKQ73kyuZN8jQncSQ4Oj738lZ7cHHTVDZziSivOCWF8BoHlIQMioh_ueoMLhJ-RRBzCCEhSh7HHRitS_wkuO7mhdC7iAsPwsaHjJ8v29t_FfSHzbua4xnWg=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p><b>Max'd Out Mac & Screaming Spuds</b> - Yes, the menu shows these delicious carbs topped with a pile of meat. But you CAN get them without (hint: try the kids meal) and it's more than decent. The "holiday special" was a potato stuffed with mac and cheese. It sounds weird, but it was delicious. I hope it ends up making a comeback to the full time menu.</p><p><b>Tofu Veggie at Chop Six</b> - Full disclosure: I haven't tried this yet, but the smells coming from this dining location have my interest piqued. The portions look generous and seem to be what you'd expect from a a counter service Asian-inspired restaurant. I will report back!</p><p><b>Cheese Quesadilla at Food Etc.</b> - Simple, tasty, filling. So much cheese. </p><p><b>Plaza Cafe </b>- Another one I haven't tried yet, mostly because the lines are often long (it's the first food stand in the park). However, those who are gluten free will be happy to know that the menu is mostly made up of gluten free pastas! There are a variety of meatless pasta options, as well as the only place in the park to get coffee.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Snacks</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibXcYmmK5TQqmtsJLJ__hmxfeOC0SwCfLbv6Pc50MCYYiB6zQBpkx_EwQRJh8j4JZFuiiKEghAn0dvWDHHemIq7T0SNdPHTAHm_NBUvjiRVaLoNwTkRnCvwyGXGvV_pIh7j6kBOm_FJmO8GhNpdNmOmPqkuvQjnftKB_YrmS4mg24DfVUUspkt-g=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibXcYmmK5TQqmtsJLJ__hmxfeOC0SwCfLbv6Pc50MCYYiB6zQBpkx_EwQRJh8j4JZFuiiKEghAn0dvWDHHemIq7T0SNdPHTAHm_NBUvjiRVaLoNwTkRnCvwyGXGvV_pIh7j6kBOm_FJmO8GhNpdNmOmPqkuvQjnftKB_YrmS4mg24DfVUUspkt-g=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>In the meal plan, you get a "snack" which can be anything from a bag of chips to a full on sundae. I suggest skipping the chips and getting more bang for your buck with the following.<p></p><p><b>Dole Soft Serv Float </b>- Six Flag's response to another amusement park favorite, this decadent dessert is included as a "snack" in the meal plan and is always my go-to on a hot day. So refreshing! You can find it in Food Etc.</p><p><b>Giant Pretzel</b> - If you want to maximize your food volume on your snack option, the pretzel is where it's at. Huge soft pretzel with a side of nacho cheese.</p><p><b>Churros</b> - Not the most cost-effective option, but the churros are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and a delicious treat to pick up on your way out of the park.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8blASaiMNw4H-vZoBb00XIHIoqfIKyl7765_gii4sHNpt34zliCs7EQcmJNa6rYQy87bj9LR45zWb7SsGI33W69mPUbpdP0BEsUfZRZmP7IVq_EABng_67aHTJicv6_LTZhR6EBbJ0jpdpZk1wQWs5Hp_XLMTBrWUaywvLFia_z5sHm0CKxwYKQ=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8blASaiMNw4H-vZoBb00XIHIoqfIKyl7765_gii4sHNpt34zliCs7EQcmJNa6rYQy87bj9LR45zWb7SsGI33W69mPUbpdP0BEsUfZRZmP7IVq_EABng_67aHTJicv6_LTZhR6EBbJ0jpdpZk1wQWs5Hp_XLMTBrWUaywvLFia_z5sHm0CKxwYKQ=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: large;">Vegan? </span><p></p><p>I'm not vegan, so I haven't investigated this too much, but here is what I noticed during my many trips to the park.</p><p><b>Tofu Veggie and steamed rice and veggies at Chop Six</b> - Again, I haven't been here but looking at the menu this seems like one of the best options for a vegan at Six Flags.</p><p><b>Burgers no cheese</b> - Any of the burger spots that offer a meatless burger will gladly make it sans-cheese if you don't do the dairy.</p><p><b>Vegetable roll at Sushi in Food Etc.</b> - Amusement park sushi? Sounds like an oxymoron. But the fish-free option of the vegetable roll is a safe bet for those staying totally animal-free.</p><p><b>Acai Bowl at Food Etc. </b>- A great snack option (though the pretzel and churro are also vegan) if you want a cool treat that's vegan-friendly, this is the best one.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvfJ1LfENeWB4BD3zOVO-vIOKHHScyHrQvTz3Z44HsH_i00apZ5M3_RBGjYhbGXvpJtpkPrKkf6ezrAoWQp2TvNxH3jltb5JXQOLN50lcaKnm-1_d3wwaZ3RGOLQv23aygbu7_5LPJRPJgGJiTCZMxAyBomEtjkvnVyzZIYQYN07ttrdwizMVwwA=s3088" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvfJ1LfENeWB4BD3zOVO-vIOKHHScyHrQvTz3Z44HsH_i00apZ5M3_RBGjYhbGXvpJtpkPrKkf6ezrAoWQp2TvNxH3jltb5JXQOLN50lcaKnm-1_d3wwaZ3RGOLQv23aygbu7_5LPJRPJgGJiTCZMxAyBomEtjkvnVyzZIYQYN07ttrdwizMVwwA=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Things to Keep in Mind About the Meal Plan</span></p><p>As I mentioned before, my friends and I all purchased the meal plan that allows two meals and a snack. Here are some things we've discovered.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>In previous years you were limited to certain times a day to get your "lunch" and "dinner" meals, but this is no longer the case. You do need to wait 1-2 hours between meals though, or your card will not process.<br /><br /></li><li>Take advantage of online ordering on the app! On a busy day, it can cut your wait time down significantly, giving you more time to ride those rides!<br /><br /></li><li>That said, while most counter-services places will let you edit your meals (for example, ordering a plain baked potato at Screamin' Spuds) the app does NOT. This is something to consider, as many counter service stations are going app-only during busy times.<br /><br /></li><li>Portions are NOT huge. While it's more than enough for me, a moderately active 30-something female, one of my Six Flags buddies is a large man with a healthy appetite and he ends up scooping up the rest of our leftovers as he's still hungry afterwards.<br /><br /></li><li>The meal plan does NOT include drinks. I suggest that you either bring your own water, or invest in a daily or season long drink cup. The cups range in price from $20-$30 but are a solid deal for people who visit often. The day cup will give you unlimited refills the day of purchase, but for the rest of the year you'll get refills for only $1 (and, if the counter staff isn't paying close enough attention, you may get some free refills regardless... it's happened to me a few times!). The season long drink cup is unlimited refills all season. Typically, we'll bring water and all share the season bottle at mealtimes. It definitely has saved us a bundle and kept us happily hydrated!</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgYla4GrXHk7FeNdJq7K6dC31q5nCBRot9VEpKZgP5t8NJiss8XRqUmVZAeDxxqxhZ1H_B9SvAlIJycXJwTOTGS8qbGDdDIcOlnEGR74dxbcyy72PRxULua4Nz5Khlx7uDZMjSLEMQiEAflpQN54WEjMLLdNn4TpCnxgErvHK13Jqx-AiLF_47RFQ=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgYla4GrXHk7FeNdJq7K6dC31q5nCBRot9VEpKZgP5t8NJiss8XRqUmVZAeDxxqxhZ1H_B9SvAlIJycXJwTOTGS8qbGDdDIcOlnEGR74dxbcyy72PRxULua4Nz5Khlx7uDZMjSLEMQiEAflpQN54WEjMLLdNn4TpCnxgErvHK13Jqx-AiLF_47RFQ=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><p><b>So, Is the meal plan worth it for a vegetarian?</b> - In my opinion, yes. For a little over $20/month I can go to Six Flags and get two meals and a snack while I'm there. And as anyone who frequents amusement parks knows, meals can add up quickly. There are certainly enough meat free options to make it worth it, and the pass pays for itself with just one trip a month. I typically visit twice a month, so it's already paid for itself many times over. I would caution vegans against purchasing however, since the options are extremely limited and require a bit of configuration on the order, which is impossible in the app.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizZAZ8LvCx8-GplhFciO-KRUZAO9hEpeEvx3rF5mH4d7fCwqhSOjXowDasfeKWkW-AoomUxXoPYkUAg-HWFMm257Waz-PrOa743GxiYkl9oq1TSXtVyezVYx4jgT7l9OwRmrqgLN8atdz71Q28lpW6wzDdyj_gh3HwmxOAjWWVmP9My60lrFv0Mw=s1440" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizZAZ8LvCx8-GplhFciO-KRUZAO9hEpeEvx3rF5mH4d7fCwqhSOjXowDasfeKWkW-AoomUxXoPYkUAg-HWFMm257Waz-PrOa743GxiYkl9oq1TSXtVyezVYx4jgT7l9OwRmrqgLN8atdz71Q28lpW6wzDdyj_gh3HwmxOAjWWVmP9My60lrFv0Mw=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">Do you frequent your local Six Flags? Do you have a meal plan? Let me know what you think in the comments!</span></i></p>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-85011193847392560842021-12-16T11:12:00.009-08:002021-12-16T11:20:01.119-08:00The Newly Vegetarian Survival Guide and Lentil “Beef” Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO_7YNXUMUA20Kr8i-qBdEaXCT3BWVAsSpaNXJYiv5dWl4hpJI9db9i7I8k1zqsLTAooZwXnVNb50dPFXtP9zKzqaPh6lGq8XFy8XJVVhhoiTjwqlgiQ8Hvv9e6PTKnBGOk-iB02Q8tr66dV40BujA7XGLZEj9RfdSiHLPchTv9_Dohl6WeUU_5Q=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO_7YNXUMUA20Kr8i-qBdEaXCT3BWVAsSpaNXJYiv5dWl4hpJI9db9i7I8k1zqsLTAooZwXnVNb50dPFXtP9zKzqaPh6lGq8XFy8XJVVhhoiTjwqlgiQ8Hvv9e6PTKnBGOk-iB02Q8tr66dV40BujA7XGLZEj9RfdSiHLPchTv9_Dohl6WeUU_5Q=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span id="docs-internal-guid-de382fb7-7fff-b61b-533a-eb35c3caf0f9"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Newly Vegetarian Survival Guide and Lentil “Beef” Recipe</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A few years ago I did something kind of crazy, especially for a self-described foodie and food blogger--I stopped eating land animals. Do y’all remember the Great Straw Debacle of 2017? When everyone stopped using plastic straws? I researched it a bit, and discovered individuals using straws didn’t make a huge impact on the environment, as our plastic problem is a bit more intense than that. So, what could a single person do to reduce their carbon footprint?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The answer is simple--just <a href="https://www.greenamerica.org/eat-less-meat-cool-planet">reduce the amount of meat you eat</a>. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I didn’t even mean to stop eating meat entirely. It started with Meatless Monday. Easy enough to accomplish, simply don’t eat meat once a week. And something cool started to happen: I got excited about cooking again. Suddenly I was looking forward to Monday all week.</span></p><div><span><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1TT536kuv7YFWTwJu27ctPj7AnH-3SavApAGDhFG4DmVm7vtAyUekZjdHC4_DrosYEbH-B_YicsXA9nYAbRNJ8q9Iz0OM-1HyPHxl39wnDpywDgNPzck7LOYHorf23qwBSbrrz9STNQQBxkDWlTYuDNdhxs_KDMVcD1gN_5KpHXgc0pEX2q0vUw=s1440" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A plate of steak, mashed potatoes, and green beans totally plant-based" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1TT536kuv7YFWTwJu27ctPj7AnH-3SavApAGDhFG4DmVm7vtAyUekZjdHC4_DrosYEbH-B_YicsXA9nYAbRNJ8q9Iz0OM-1HyPHxl39wnDpywDgNPzck7LOYHorf23qwBSbrrz9STNQQBxkDWlTYuDNdhxs_KDMVcD1gN_5KpHXgc0pEX2q0vUw=w640-h640" title="A fully vegetarian meal with homemade seitan "steak"" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, this is all 100% animal free!</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Meatless Monday soon became Meatless Weekdays, and eventually I just didn’t have an appetite for meat at all anymore. I still will have the occasional fish, and when I travel I give myself some room to try the local cuisine, but overall I don’t keep meat in my house and I opt for meat free options when at a restaurant. Is this a slow trek to being fully vegan? Maybe! But it'll be quite slow if that's the case.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Don't worry, I don't press this on anyone nor do I think it's the ideal diet for everyone. But, if you want to make some positive environmental impact, I encourage you to check it out!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, sometimes you just need a burger. What is the best meat-free burger that actually tastes meaty? Over the past few years I’ve collected my favorite meat-free alternatives and wanted to share them with anyone who wants to help the environment (and our furry friends!) but feel like they “just can’t” give up something tasty. These truly are the best meatless alternatives for new vegetarians!</span></p><div><span><br /></span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2HreFqt_L0bdNTkQAre179A2V0vJ3zmdyr7fqJ-8PfYauSVmtNYgW5DBvKFABbCZtWETgep57qLG19K3sJIlf_wermkc4wzNLBRhqLT6z23b8IKfnOqgIHm145nP3biXWQqrnj3pddY0myy8lcA5XCf1VRLjx6bKWLOp9tInOLq6AXtEUNs_XJQ=s1440" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vegetarian Tacos" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2HreFqt_L0bdNTkQAre179A2V0vJ3zmdyr7fqJ-8PfYauSVmtNYgW5DBvKFABbCZtWETgep57qLG19K3sJIlf_wermkc4wzNLBRhqLT6z23b8IKfnOqgIHm145nP3biXWQqrnj3pddY0myy8lcA5XCf1VRLjx6bKWLOp9tInOLq6AXtEUNs_XJQ=w640-h640" title="Vegetarian Tacos" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fully vegetarian tacos from Rascal's in Santa Barbara</td></tr></tbody></table><span><br /></span></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Read on for my New Vegetarian Survival Guide and the best meat free alternatives! I’ve even included a recipe for my homemade meat-free alternative.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<i>Please note: this is NOT SPONSORED, just simply a roundup of my favorite meatless meats!</i></span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnzG2MYDcbx-hfKCnuUaKWyBnpS_cvS05GBDuSrR582aysBy6vauQLpTyg89L9SBZbdA5UV_RI8dBhdsJ2sFsKgCg2zOSQDi6heSx0bPaxoJVDmyxqeHi03ENz9sVzmYMHJw5bq56DNLsK1iezlAsHmQvA4d8WI6zJvjl6qd4gRx10Tn4suoBx7Q=s1000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnzG2MYDcbx-hfKCnuUaKWyBnpS_cvS05GBDuSrR582aysBy6vauQLpTyg89L9SBZbdA5UV_RI8dBhdsJ2sFsKgCg2zOSQDi6heSx0bPaxoJVDmyxqeHi03ENz9sVzmYMHJw5bq56DNLsK1iezlAsHmQvA4d8WI6zJvjl6qd4gRx10Tn4suoBx7Q=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Beef & Burgers - Impossible Burger</b></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don’t know how to describe the first experience with Impossible. It’s a bit weird, a bit scary, and definitely delicious. I know it’s the most common plant based burger out there right now, but trust me when I say it’s truly the best if you’re looking for a real meaty tasting burger. It even BLEEDS. And it’s not just burgers, you can use it any place you would ground beef. I’ve even made a killer meatloaf that fooled my carnivore friends. Plus, it’s gone down significantly in price since its debut. Definitely top of the list to try!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjvKICC8XXFviXIXrSIbkRcdcHYONV_4m5KYyB4D38HwIs8eKlHX2V2QizSUeJLtzWz9z8GmOlsiSKDyYwBqvoBsD1uLGR74vpB0DYFYFGPrqq2K4omgG9DfnN0WnxsSQ2Otm0fzLW_w5C3a81D9eUjvioEwZHoylBTLtopGgxaKrm2KhKa509VWg=s325" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="325" data-original-width="325" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjvKICC8XXFviXIXrSIbkRcdcHYONV_4m5KYyB4D38HwIs8eKlHX2V2QizSUeJLtzWz9z8GmOlsiSKDyYwBqvoBsD1uLGR74vpB0DYFYFGPrqq2K4omgG9DfnN0WnxsSQ2Otm0fzLW_w5C3a81D9eUjvioEwZHoylBTLtopGgxaKrm2KhKa509VWg=s320" width="320" /></a></div></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Hot Dogs - Field Roast Ballpark</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hot dogs were always my favorite cookout treat. Tofu dogs… not so much. Somehow that salty, squelchy, mystery meat-y flavor profile that hot dogs have just seemed to not be able to be replicated by plants. While Field Roast’s Ballparks aren’t perfect, they certainly scratch the itch in a way other plant based meat tubes can’t. It’s my favorite replacement so far, especially charred to the dickens on a grill.</span></p><div><br /></div><div><span><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpQAGggk2r6tlqwuK0SI7IDl2AjlD7VUs3v0pMNGwRCYRl_E1Dk7GTIWlMh-CVo5Lxqn7-RriqQAVYv0l7PG8X7NA3sIHxbLkAlDvyAyB7hDaRSUAa8ieIElhiA8AaXAoLlDHZ-YEV381wIzyegLlLo_KfVmcQ_aZDRcfNRcmJbb9A0jK_IPK7aA=s500" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpQAGggk2r6tlqwuK0SI7IDl2AjlD7VUs3v0pMNGwRCYRl_E1Dk7GTIWlMh-CVo5Lxqn7-RriqQAVYv0l7PG8X7NA3sIHxbLkAlDvyAyB7hDaRSUAa8ieIElhiA8AaXAoLlDHZ-YEV381wIzyegLlLo_KfVmcQ_aZDRcfNRcmJbb9A0jK_IPK7aA=s320" width="320" /></a></div></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Chicken Patty/Tenders/Nuggets - Gardein Ultimate</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I know that Gardein is the entry level fake meat, but trust me when I say that you will never know you’re eating plant protein and not pink sludge (gross...) when you bite into a juicy, crispy piece of Gardein Ultimate. I keep one of each in my freezer and have made copycat chicken sandwiches with spicy mayo that do the trick when I’m craving my favorite fast food fix (Popeye’s, it’s Popeyes). I know that chicken nuggets/patties are pretty easy to do sufficiently in plant based protein, but somehow Gardein hits it out of the park with this particular line.</span></p><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0JhF5RicYTQXxV0oSnpBSSMSfs0aKUk4B1bAYgnFKTkL9vi0rU0Qw6l5BsS8cg41hDVtGxfWSQlBVc_UA3-jSu6qsbayJ30h98MCuK_eup-RrDOgjfC4kGeZv0u3rG4aL-WphyeZh9nGyHizDkWnqhohTRKipYeEaKL4B7apimNN5ILy06qDPHA=s2560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2186" data-original-width="2560" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0JhF5RicYTQXxV0oSnpBSSMSfs0aKUk4B1bAYgnFKTkL9vi0rU0Qw6l5BsS8cg41hDVtGxfWSQlBVc_UA3-jSu6qsbayJ30h98MCuK_eup-RrDOgjfC4kGeZv0u3rG4aL-WphyeZh9nGyHizDkWnqhohTRKipYeEaKL4B7apimNN5ILy06qDPHA=s320" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Hooray Foods - Bacon</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the hardest animal product to replicate, and I’ve had my heart broken multiple times by lesser plant bacon. But in came Hooray foods and saved the day. I always liked my bacon only slightly crispy, with a bit more chew, and fake bacons always just tasted like pure carbon. Hooray Foods uses tapioca starch to get that same texture and doesn’t go overboard with the liquid smoke. It’s only found at Whole Foods (and more recently Imperfect Produce), but you better believe I make a monthly trek to pick up a package of it to get my BLT cravings on.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And now, onto the recipe! When I don’t want to use an overly processed, store-bought plant-based ground beef, I pull out some lentils and make this Lentil Ground Beef Alternative instead. It’s protein rich and packed with flavor. You won’t even miss the moo, I promise!</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Lentil Ground Beef Alternative</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 cup cooked lentils (pro-tip: cook them in a savory veggie stock!)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 cup mushrooms, diced small</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">¼ cup diced mushrooms</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">¼ cup red wine</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2 cloves garlic, crushed</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 tbsp butter (omit if vegan) + 1 tbsp olive oil</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">½ tsp liquid smoke</span></li></ul><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In a saute pan over medium heat, melt the butter with the oil. Add the mushrooms, onions, and garlic, and saute until the onion is translucent. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pour in the red wine and let reduce a bit, then add the rest of the ingredients.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Use the back of a spoon to crush the lentils a bit, mixing well into the rest of the ingredients.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Remove from heat and use anywhere you’d use ground beef--I like using it in a shepherd’s pie, or adding taco seasoning for tacos!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you want to use it in place of a burger: add the mix to a bowl and add either breadcrumbs (about ⅓ cup) or cooked quinoa (½ cup) with an egg or egg replacement. Mix until a dough-like texture forms. Form into patties and refrigerate until ready to use. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivCPgunx2H-fbTAkAyNIn5cLLaELYNmRCalbPGxF4Tu91YB-VWIlIAYVLlTnz2pbScquHdybIfcEdqi9tIBgaUJx1q5Zar_-oVw3-ta4VuhQriRCCSl6KneOu_xAqY0ml6vBAWnfvdrBpt6y6fLMYjalCa-LEQUZxueY-UGCv7Vk0rRmx3aCRosA=s1800" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivCPgunx2H-fbTAkAyNIn5cLLaELYNmRCalbPGxF4Tu91YB-VWIlIAYVLlTnz2pbScquHdybIfcEdqi9tIBgaUJx1q5Zar_-oVw3-ta4VuhQriRCCSl6KneOu_xAqY0ml6vBAWnfvdrBpt6y6fLMYjalCa-LEQUZxueY-UGCv7Vk0rRmx3aCRosA=w512-h640" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First ever totally meatless Thanksgiving!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Friends, what do you think? Have you tried going meatless? Let me know in the comments!</i></span></p></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-31135325086607213132021-02-25T12:36:00.002-08:002021-02-25T12:36:24.798-08:00Life Updates & My New Home<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hi, Friends. Dang, it’s been a while, hasn’t it?</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-c8f93dc5-7fff-5a04-4806-0a727f585c75"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f8F780J_4q0/YDgJfHmDtSI/AAAAAAAAWSY/jqaUXXDtTEAlgy1ahHCJf1xy8ByOR8HXACLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/119433296_1625756644252424_5980700825690048893_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f8F780J_4q0/YDgJfHmDtSI/AAAAAAAAWSY/jqaUXXDtTEAlgy1ahHCJf1xy8ByOR8HXACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h640/119433296_1625756644252424_5980700825690048893_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2020 was a year that seemed like a decade. You would think all the time inside would give me ample time to develop recipes… right?</span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Well, to put it simply, my photographer quit both the gig and our marriage. Naturally, this led to me not having much energy for anything, and my lack of photography skills kept me from really documenting the few things I managed to eat. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">And a breakup wasn't even the worst thing to happen to me in 2020! A host of deaths, drama, health issues, and more piled on me.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I was in a depression hole, digging itself deeper into the rocky Texas ground.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">...Until I decided the best way to catapult myself out of my depression would be to totally shake up my life and create a situation where I could focus on nothing but the adventure at hand.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9-7oWCIvnI/YDgJfA_rL_I/AAAAAAAAWSc/VqLKTsTQju8Xjdqhh9D6NIwfauTTQPsMwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/119728784_10101576322933131_5289966318577048117_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9-7oWCIvnI/YDgJfA_rL_I/AAAAAAAAWSc/VqLKTsTQju8Xjdqhh9D6NIwfauTTQPsMwCLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h640/119728784_10101576322933131_5289966318577048117_o.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, I packed up my life and moved to the place that has always called to me from across the country--California. It’s me, two cats, and my amazing dog, and so far I’ve just been adjusting to this totally new existence in Santa Barbara.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guess what, guys: this place has incredible food and even better wine. It might be a bit harder to find the foodie hotspots than Austin, but with the backdrop of the California coastline on one side and the gorgeous mountains on the other, you can definitely find something tasty.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rvgqc59vqlQ/YDgJfCVWnmI/AAAAAAAAWSU/ktMTedC76HsTrtRXdcadBho6Lg7Q7XcZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/127995457_10101612887387671_1736659510137238908_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rvgqc59vqlQ/YDgJfCVWnmI/AAAAAAAAWSU/ktMTedC76HsTrtRXdcadBho6Lg7Q7XcZQCLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h640/127995457_10101612887387671_1736659510137238908_o.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I’ve decided it’s time to revive this blog. It may be mostly pictures taken with my iPhone, but at least it’ll be alive again. At this time, it’ll probably be heavier on the restaurant reviews, but knowing me a recipe or two will probably find its way into the mix.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YU-1S_3YztY/YDgJf4OOiMI/AAAAAAAAWSg/X6pjmS-WScIC-ArV0Sh_zfVgzW4lYLxZwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/128820029_10101616075723221_6823456628625932649_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YU-1S_3YztY/YDgJf4OOiMI/AAAAAAAAWSg/X6pjmS-WScIC-ArV0Sh_zfVgzW4lYLxZwCLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h640/128820029_10101616075723221_6823456628625932649_o.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Oh, side note: I haven’t eaten a land animal since 2019! So this blog will be shifting a bit of focus to include vegetarian (and sometimes pescatarian) content. </span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dwPzh2vwDdU/YDgJf-rsgwI/AAAAAAAAWSk/RK1f02P9SKInIDA6OCeYmBXaCnKLO3e-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1800/138802293_10101637740566701_3907134171342805162_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dwPzh2vwDdU/YDgJf-rsgwI/AAAAAAAAWSk/RK1f02P9SKInIDA6OCeYmBXaCnKLO3e-ACLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h640/138802293_10101637740566701_3907134171342805162_o.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you’d like more regular content, please follow my <a href="http://www.instagram.com/forking_up">Instagram</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/forkups">Facebook</a>.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">See y’all real soon, and thanks for continuing to read!</span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">--Ashley</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-62473524255717073132020-11-13T08:42:00.005-08:002020-11-13T08:42:44.936-08:00Loaded Potato Waffle Bites<p> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N3eUxp4ccDM/U0HuEOYzizI/AAAAAAAAF_A/1mC384tSS8E/s1600/IMG_5001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N3eUxp4ccDM/U0HuEOYzizI/AAAAAAAAF_A/1mC384tSS8E/s1600/IMG_5001.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><br />These waffle things are all over Pinterest. I know.<br /><br />But they were too good NOT to try myself. And the pictures came out decent, so on the off chance someone hasn't tried these yet and needs some MORE convincing, here. Let me try to convince you.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Tiny, crispy potato waffles, with melted cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives. Delicious. The perfect party app.<br /><br />Then I got cocky--If I could do this with regular potatoes, IMAGINE what sweet potatoes would be like! I started fantasizing about the paleo-friendly treats I would soon create.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ViMFbSfSWc/U0HuOB_Wo7I/AAAAAAAAF_Y/bE0vvuhS7aU/s1600/IMG_5011.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ViMFbSfSWc/U0HuOB_Wo7I/AAAAAAAAF_Y/bE0vvuhS7aU/s1600/IMG_5011.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />...Sweet potatoes = messy waffle iron, and burnt mush. Oh well. Can't win them all.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Loaded Potato Waffle Bites</span><br /><br /><ul><li>1 cup leftover mashed potatoes (or 1-2 cooked, mashed potatoes with added milk, butter, and salt and pepper)</li><li>2 tsp smashed garlic</li><li>1 egg</li><li>1 handful cheese</li><li>2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled</li><li>3 tbs sour cream</li></ul><br />-Preheat oven to 350, and warm up your waffle iron to high.<br /><br />-In a small dish, mis together the mashed potatoes, garlic, and egg until well combined.<br /><br />-Drop by the over-flowing spoonful (ideally, a couple tablespoons) into the waffle iron.<br /><br />-Cook on high until browned on both sides.<br /><br />-Place on a cookie sheet, sprinkle with cheese and bacon. Bake for 5 minutes, or until cheese is melty.<br /><br />-Top with sour cream and chives, serve.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c-mk-tUix8w/U0HuEeGdygI/AAAAAAAAF_E/RoILYMAH9_s/s1600/IMG_5007.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c-mk-tUix8w/U0HuEeGdygI/AAAAAAAAF_E/RoILYMAH9_s/s1600/IMG_5007.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Note: While I was inspired by a Pinterest post I cannot find at the moment, I threw together this recipe from my own brain. Any resemblance to another recipe is totally accidental.</i></div>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-3360893193515452462020-10-28T11:30:00.009-07:002020-10-28T11:30:57.406-07:00Halloween Candy and Wine Pairing - Testing Viral Wine Activity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZe4i81xJB8/Xe2-a5ddPdI/AAAAAAAAVWw/XP7wVKs5g340cUt4rnKn7XjUpw6mY4tcACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/8A980FAA-4D03-4CDF-966D-C7E8590037E6.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZe4i81xJB8/Xe2-a5ddPdI/AAAAAAAAVWw/XP7wVKs5g340cUt4rnKn7XjUpw6mY4tcACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h480/8A980FAA-4D03-4CDF-966D-C7E8590037E6.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I don't want to say it's tragic that Halloween falls on a Saturday the one year that we all cannot take advantage of the holiday, since the reason WHY it's a lame Halloween has resulted in so many more tragedies than missing out on a party, but it definitely is bumming me out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, what to do when you're stuck inside on Halloween?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Drink, of course.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And don't just drink, make use of all that Halloween candy hanging around and do a fancy wine pairing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vcKDH8H52A/X5mvi5X4JeI/AAAAAAAAWE8/N9aPCB1O2ewvX7eb_cUPnJbbsCnNwiqCACLcBGAsYHQ/s846/a65fc70edba43440ba18bc33646ee408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vcKDH8H52A/X5mvi5X4JeI/AAAAAAAAWE8/N9aPCB1O2ewvX7eb_cUPnJbbsCnNwiqCACLcBGAsYHQ/w426-h640/a65fc70edba43440ba18bc33646ee408.jpg" title="Source: https://www.coravin.com/" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">https://www.coravin.com/</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did this last year and it was pretty fun. I was super surprised at how the (cheap) candy and (cheap) wine enhanced each other's flavors and made it all feel super fancy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Despite my current budget of not buying wine over $15, this was still a pretty expensive endeavor. If you have the wine and candy on hand, it's a fun activity, but otherwise it's probably not worth the cost. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As a reminder, here is how you taste wine:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>See </b>- Look at the wine, notice the color and transparency.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Swirl</b> - This is how you see the texture and density of the wine. Watch how the liquid sticks to and flows down the glass (this is called the legs).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Smell</b> - After swirling, stick your nose into the glass. Breathe in deeply. Smell is 75% of taste, so you're actually getting a bit of flavor in with the fragrance. Make note of what you smell. Fruits? Leather? Smoke? This will give you a sense of what flavors you'll be looking for when you taste.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Sip</b> - Take a sip! Let it sit on your mouth a bit. Then...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Savor</b> - Open your mouth and breathe in a bit, letting the air make bubbles in the wine. This opens up the flavors a bit more and makes them easier to detect.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>(Spit) </b>- Optional step but, why would you do this...?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>To pair wine with food:</b> Take a bite of the food, hold a bit of it in your mouth, and take a sip of wine. Notice the flavors that are expanded or muted with the wine. Swallow.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bi6LIiuEt_c/Xe2-a9A_MxI/AAAAAAAAVW0/MZFGdGEkmyI8juFHsQazk7_fTIQ2FwUrgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/849B9368-8EEA-4646-8959-54A97ABACB68.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bi6LIiuEt_c/Xe2-a9A_MxI/AAAAAAAAVW0/MZFGdGEkmyI8juFHsQazk7_fTIQ2FwUrgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h480/849B9368-8EEA-4646-8959-54A97ABACB68.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here were my takeaways:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Whoppers - Pinot Noir:</b> Started off amazingly! I loved how the chocolate was enhanced by the wine, and then once you hit the malted middle you had a whole new flavor experience! Pinot Noir is one of my favorite wines, and while Whoppers are not my favorite candy, it certainly made them taste better. Win!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Skittles - Sauvignon Blanc:</b> And the second was kind of a dud. The Sauvignon Blanc wasn't very sweet, and the Skittles tasted too sugary and intense as a result. I feel like the rule is to not have wine that is sweeter than your dessert (rendering this whole experiment pointless if that's a hard and fast rule?) and it certainly was in play here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Snickers - Shiraz:</b> I prefer Milky Way, but the Shiraz enhanced the peanut flavor in the Snickers to an insane level. They tasted roasty, toasty, and perfectly paired with the smooth Shiraz. Again, a higher quality chocolate would have helped, but it still worked!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Sour Patch Kids - Pinot Grigio</b>: My surprise favorite! The bold colors in SPKs would trick nobody but the tiniest child into thinking they're real fruit flavors, but as soon as the Pinot hit my tongue I was tasting crazy intense flavors. The red tasted like fresh raspberry! The yellow was a tart lemon! Literally every flavor was amplified and made better. I was so surprised, and this candy was the one that went quickest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Candy Corn - Chardonnay: </b>I was dreading this one. I hate Chardonnay. I am meh about candy corn. In my opinion, neither did the other any favors. I understand why the pairing exists, as Chard is a buttery wine and candy corn is a somewhat buttery candy. But the waxy coating of the candy corn kept the wine from really hitting my palate, and made the bitterness of the wine even worse. Not a fan.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Raisinets - Merlot: </b>This one worked! Not as well as the Whoppers, but enough to appreciate. The chocolate had a similar affect, and the tart raisin complimented the wine well. A higher quality chocolate would be even better, but it was still enjoyable.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have you tried pairing wine with Halloween candy? </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic-5dJtrnnc/Xe2-Z_QJlvI/AAAAAAAAVWs/zBqhZQk5LUopfNqNfRWYxHmpZDVwhknfgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/B03C5C86-0FCC-4BFA-B9C4-02252773F5EE.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic-5dJtrnnc/Xe2-Z_QJlvI/AAAAAAAAVWs/zBqhZQk5LUopfNqNfRWYxHmpZDVwhknfgCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h480/B03C5C86-0FCC-4BFA-B9C4-02252773F5EE.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-56773661856256217662020-09-28T10:07:00.005-07:002020-09-28T10:07:31.473-07:00Coffee Cake Donuts with Espresso Drizzle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5n4K7F95Umc/VRtIo0c_XsI/AAAAAAAANKI/oIEpj3dA7HI/s1600/IMG_8709.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5n4K7F95Umc/VRtIo0c_XsI/AAAAAAAANKI/oIEpj3dA7HI/s1600/IMG_8709.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Though my can't-skip-it morning coffee is a recent development of my working life, I can't remember a time when I didn't love coffee. I can recall making my parents breakfast in bed, and mixing coffee crystals into tap water that was as hot I could get it and pouring a heavily sugared version for myself probably at age 6 or so.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EbkD0KmrRzE/VRtIltVNSNI/AAAAAAAANJo/8148bRUXdEw/s1600/IMG_8655.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EbkD0KmrRzE/VRtIltVNSNI/AAAAAAAANJo/8148bRUXdEw/s1600/IMG_8655.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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Little did 6-year-old Ashley know that there was a bigger, better world of coffee waiting. Lately I've been somewhat of a coffee snob, though I still enjoy a good instant from time to time! And what better pairing for a high quality brew than a coffee cake donut?<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih-8HZRUlHE/VRtIl-bDu8I/AAAAAAAANJ0/WIoepdLzCNk/s1600/IMG_8669.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih-8HZRUlHE/VRtIl-bDu8I/AAAAAAAANJ0/WIoepdLzCNk/w640-h426/IMG_8669.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made these gorgeous Coffee Cake Donuts. They really are the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of joe. I've always wondered--why doesn't coffee cake contain actual coffee? I felt the need to rectify this by drizzling them with espresso glaze.<br />
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I daresay it's perfetto itself ;)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--b33VlhdIew/VRtIl8AdslI/AAAAAAAANJs/g9rxwaJF8iw/s1600/IMG_8657.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--b33VlhdIew/VRtIl8AdslI/AAAAAAAANJs/g9rxwaJF8iw/w640-h426/IMG_8657.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Coffee Cake Donuts with Espresso Glaze</span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup flour</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup milk</li>
<li>4 tbsp melted butter</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1 tbsp baking powder</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla</li>
<li>1 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>pinch of nutmeg</li>
<li>pinch of salt</li>
</ul>
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<b>Crumble Topping</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup light brown sugar</li>
<li>2 tbsp flour</li>
<li>3 tbsp butter, melted</li>
</ul>
<b>Espresso Glaze</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1/4 cup brewed espresso</li>
<li>1 cup powdered sugar</li></ul>
-Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a donut baking pan and set aside*<br />
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-Sift together all dry cake ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together all wet ingredients. Be sure the butter is melted but not piping hot, and add to wet ingredients SLOWLY so as not to cook the egg.<br />
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-Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet, whisking to get rid of clumps. Pour batter evenly in donut wells.<br />
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-In a separate bowl, mix together the crumble topping ingredients. The topping should stick together lightly, making large crumbs. If mixture is too wet, alternatively add more sugar and flour until desired consistency is reached.<br />
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-Sprinkle topping generously over donut wells. The cakes will rise and separate, so more is better for a full coating.<br />
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-Bake for about 20 minutes, until cake is spongy and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool to room temperature.<br />
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-Mix together the glaze until it is about the consistency of glue. It should be thick, but fall off the spoon. Drizzle over cooled donuts and let the glaze set.<br />
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-Serve with your favorite Lavazza coffee!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnUr3Q6V9W0/VRtIoKr337I/AAAAAAAANKA/pnRfh8-pmYU/s1600/IMG_8687.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnUr3Q6V9W0/VRtIoKr337I/AAAAAAAANKA/pnRfh8-pmYU/s1600/IMG_8687.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
*Alternatively, you can use a muffin tin, this will make about 8 cakes.Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-50689217619668235282020-05-25T08:16:00.001-07:002020-05-25T08:16:07.871-07:00The Battle of the Breads - "Easy" Sourdough vs "Simple Crusty Bread"<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCD5jnONe2A/XsvgY8VdIOI/AAAAAAAAV2c/nWtZYf2JGy0TGdeSuNmjZtBd9fVyR1EAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG-2126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCD5jnONe2A/XsvgY8VdIOI/AAAAAAAAV2c/nWtZYf2JGy0TGdeSuNmjZtBd9fVyR1EAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG-2126.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Y'all, I am the basic bitch of Quarantine. If there is a stuck-inside-foodie-trend, I am ON IT. So far I've made that fancy coffee, endless cookies and breads, and even HOMEMADE BUTTER!<br />
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I'm feeling pretty accomplished.<br />
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But we all know the most popular trend going right now is SOURDOUGH BREAD. Why is sourdough so popular? Well, if you've been to the grocery store lately you may have noticed that yeast is one of those coveted, hard-to-find items. Sourdough requires no yeast, you literally grow your own in a jar!<br />
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I've never been much of a baker, so my go-to easy bread has always been <a href="http://www.forkingup.com/2020/04/easy-no-knead-bread-crusty-light.html">this recipe</a>, which I actually re-posted from my old blog since I thought people could benefit from a no-fail bread.<br />
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Two popular recipes I've seen floating around have been this <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018203-simple-crusty-bread">Simple Crusty Bread</a> from the New York Times, and the ONLY "Easy" Sourdough recipe I've EVER found called <a href="https://anoregoncottage.com/easy-sourdough-artisan-bread">Easy Sourdough Artisan Bread</a> from <a href="https://anoregoncottage.com/">An Oregon Cottage</a>. My first time attempting sourdough was that recipe and it was PERFECT. Both of these recipes are great, so I thought I'd compare the two, so y'all know what you're getting into!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Simple Crusty Bread</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MS4LyUPA9X0/XsvgX6UQrAI/AAAAAAAAV2Y/mu579gdhbQo2BpLOk6x6lEJOeXBQkjlGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG-2118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MS4LyUPA9X0/XsvgX6UQrAI/AAAAAAAAV2Y/mu579gdhbQo2BpLOk6x6lEJOeXBQkjlGwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG-2118.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b>Is it truly easy?: </b>Yes! It's a bit time consuming, but most of that time is simply waiting for the dough to rise. Everything comes together rather quickly and requires NO kneading. Simply mix the ingredients, let rise, shape, and bake! It even gives you the option to save some dough in the fridge for a future recipe.<br />
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<b>Ingredients and equipment:</b> Requires yeast, which is hard to come by right now, but other than a bowl, spoon, and oven, you truly don't need much else!<br />
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<b>Crust:</b> Wonderful! A bit floury, but that's probably moreso my fault than the recipe's. It crackled and cracked perfectly.<br />
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<b>Crumb:</b> A soft interior with a light crumb. I was really impressed with how it came out!<br />
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<b>Taste: </b>This is the one place it didn't thrill me. It tasted like NOTHING. I mean, bread is supposed to just be a vehicle for other things, but it really had no flavor at all.<br />
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<b>Tips:</b> While the recipe says to use a pizza stone, I used the Dutch oven method and it came out wonderfully--heat the Dutch oven (covered) in your oven for 20-40 minutes, then place the dough inside and bake, covered, for the first 20 minutes. Take the cover off for the remainder of the bake.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Easy Sourdough Artisan Bread</span><br />
(I use <a href="https://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/sourdough-starter-recipe">this recipe</a> for the starter)<br />
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<b>Is it truly easy?:</b> A bit more hands-on than the no-knead, but if you use a dough hook you really don't need to knead it at all. It takes more rising time, and during the rise you need to fold in the corners of the dough and turn it over. But it is pretty simple!<br />
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<b>Ingredients and Equipment:</b> No yeast! You will need a starter, but using the link above you should be able to grow one in a week or so. Takes some planning ahead but it's worth it! You'll also need a Dutch oven, or a covered baking dish, to bake this bread.<br />
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<b>Crust:</b> Softer than the no-knead but the moisture in the Dutch oven probably contributed. Still tasty!<br />
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<b>Crumb: </b>Denser than I would like, but not too bad. Still some good holes and fermentation.<br />
Taste: SO GOOD! The slight sour taste that is typical of a sourdough really stands out. This is a bread I could really just eat plain with butter. It's also a bit more sturdy, so would work great for sandwiches.<br />
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<b>OVERALL:</b> I liked the crust on the "Easy Crusty Bread" better, but the FLAVOR of the sourdough just can't be beat.<br />
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<i>What bread recipes have you baked while in quarantine? What should I try next?</i><br />
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<br />Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-33918383727133077052020-04-21T11:16:00.002-07:002020-04-21T11:16:32.351-07:00EASY No-Knead Bread! - Crusty, Light, Delicious Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHIOwwzZ-sI/VLwrT3fi0UI/AAAAAAAAMrc/-ldsjjRkmgA/s1600/bread%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHIOwwzZ-sI/VLwrT3fi0UI/AAAAAAAAMrc/-ldsjjRkmgA/s1600/bread%2B2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Can you tell from this blog that I am NOT a baker? It might be hard to recognize, but my best recipes tend to be dinner recipes, or drinks. Because that's what I can do pretty well on a regular basis. Honestly, baking scares me.<br />
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Why? Because baking = chemistry. And guess what necessary high school class Ashley ended up not taking? Yep. Chem. Here's the short story: I went to a TINY school in New England. This meant we didn't have very many "fun" classes. When I decided I wanted to go to Art school, I decided I needed to take an extra year of art to build my portfolio. Unfortunately, the only art class was opposite chem. I was told I totally could take chem senior year... until senior year happened and chem was opposite gym. That's right, chem was not a graduation requirement, but gym class was.<br />
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Luckily, my college didn't require I take chem. Even more luckily, one of my best friends, John, was a baking fanatic and was able to teach me the basics. For a while John and I met weekly for Foodie Friends Night where he'd make the baking portion of the meal--everything from bread to cakes to cookies--and I'd make the rest. One day I got a call from John at 4am with a serious plan to open our own bakery/restaurant. If we both weren't drowning in student debt, I may have joined.<br />
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Our baking nights are one of the things I miss most about New England. John's bread skills are way more advanced than this super easy recipe, but it does the trick.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DfBTzaShoOE/VLwrWVD9F-I/AAAAAAAAMr4/0h1HNnXMsLA/s1600/bread5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DfBTzaShoOE/VLwrWVD9F-I/AAAAAAAAMr4/0h1HNnXMsLA/s640/bread5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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With a little planning ahead I can whip this up for dinner. The slices are narrow, so they make excellent dinner bread slathered with butter, or great cafe sandwiches.<br />
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If I can make this, so can you!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Easy, No-Knead Crusty Bread</span></div>
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(via <a href="http://sotastysoyummy.blogspot.com/2014/01/easy-crusty-bread.html" target="_blank">So Tasty So Yummy</a>)</div>
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<ul>
<li>1 1/2 cups warm water</li>
<li>2 1/4 tsp yeast (1 package)</li>
<li>1 tsp sugar</li>
<li>2 tsp salt</li>
<li>3 1/4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour</li>
<li>1 egg, whisked</li>
<li>Herbs or mix-ins (I like using roasted garlic!)</li>
<li>cornmeal for dusting stone</li>
</ul>
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-In a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment (or just a bowl + spoon + elbow grease) combine water, yeast, and salt and stir until combined. Wait about 10 minutes, until mixture has begun to froth. This is how you'll know the yeast is "proofed" and ready to go!</div>
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-Add the flour and gently stir until incorporated. Add in any herbs or mix-ins you'd like. Mix on low speed until dough is smooth and elastic.</div>
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-Place a clean dishtowel or plastic wrap over the bowl and set in a warm spot for 2 hours. I like to set the oven to 200 degrees, then turn it off and put the bowl in there.</div>
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-Pre-heat oven to 450 F. Place your bread cooking pan of choice (pizza stone is preferred, but I do fine with a silicone baking mat on a cookie sheet. </div>
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-Add 2 cups of water in an oven-safe dish and position in the bottom rack of the oven. The steam from the water will help ensure a crispy, crusty crust!</div>
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-Gently form dough into a ball (or any other shape you desire!) and brush with the egg if you'd like a shiny crust. Make two or three shallow slices on top of the bread.</div>
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-Sprinkle your baking sheet with corn meal and set the dough ball on top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMNCnFvGK78/VLwrUeRAliI/AAAAAAAAMrk/85C4sEsMLHs/s1600/bread1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMNCnFvGK78/VLwrUeRAliI/AAAAAAAAMrk/85C4sEsMLHs/s1600/bread1.jpg" width="640" /></a>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-37861806091415204822020-03-18T09:01:00.006-07:002020-03-18T09:03:03.872-07:00Cheap and Easy Pantry Meals - Recipes for Quarantine<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2GGv26aYQHs/XnJEEO8Z1wI/AAAAAAAAVtA/LNCCrmkXSmQKpy6W8x-aNP0KbUixlrHlQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/2501324362_9ab36cd3e9_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2GGv26aYQHs/XnJEEO8Z1wI/AAAAAAAAVtA/LNCCrmkXSmQKpy6W8x-aNP0KbUixlrHlQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/2501324362_9ab36cd3e9_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a data-v-490de358="" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/77868132@N00/2501324362" rel="noopener" style="background-color: #fefefe; box-sizing: inherit; color: #05b5da; cursor: pointer; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", sans-serif; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; text-align: start; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">"Our motorized grocery scooter"</a><span style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-style: italic;"> </span><span data-v-490de358="" style="background-color: #fefefe; box-sizing: inherit; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-style: italic;">by <a data-v-490de358="" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/77868132@N00" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #05b5da; cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">beancounter</a></span><span style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-style: italic;"> is licensed under </span><a class="photo_license" data-v-490de358="" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/?ref=ccsearch&atype=rich" rel="noopener" style="background-color: #fefefe; box-sizing: inherit; color: #05b5da; cursor: pointer; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", sans-serif; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; margin-right: 5px; text-align: start; text-decoration-line: none; text-transform: uppercase;" target="_blank">CC BY-NC 2.0 </a></span></td></tr>
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Wow, guys. 2020 is definitely throwing us for a loop, isn't it? I've been mandatory work from home at my job for a week, and been seriously social distancing since the weekend. Grocery stores are empty, bars and restaurants are closed.<br />
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In these times, I feel like home cooking is a necessary skill that not all of us have. While this blog has gone closer to reviews recently, or more advanced recipes, I thought I'd share a different sort with y'all today.<br />
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These are all meals I've made using mostly pantry staples, with inexpensive fresh ingredients as well. They're tasty, moderately healthy, easy, and cheap. Feel free to substitute fresh for frozen foods where needed.<br />
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You won't see the usual pictures here (using Creative Commons to break up the text), because this is kind of a last-minute post. I wanted to put these recipes out there for people who are looking to go beyond boxed mac and cheese or pasta with sauce in their pantry staples as we hunker down for however long.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pasta Carbonara</span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 package pasta</li>
<li>3 slices bacon or pancetta, chopped</li>
<li>3 large eggs, whisked</li>
<li>1/2 onion, diced</li>
<li>1 clove garlic, crushed</li>
<li>1/4 cup milk</li>
<li>1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated</li>
<li>1/2 tsp ground black pepper</li>
<li>1/2 tsp salt</li>
<li>1 tbsp parsley</li>
</ul>
-Boil pasta according to directions.<br />
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-Whisk together the egg, milk, cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and parsley.<br />
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-While pasta is cooking, cook the bacon over medium high heat in a large skillet until desired crispness is reached. Add the onion and garlic and cook until translucent.<br />
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-Drain the pasta and add to the skillet. Take skillet off the heat and slowly mix in the egg mixture, stirring constantly. The sauce should thicken due to the heat of the pasta, without scrambling the egg.<br />
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-Serve hot, with extra cheese.<br />
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<b>Tips</b><br />
<ul>
<li>You can make this as cheap or as expensive as you'd like--in a pinch, I've used shelf stable Parmesan cheese, parsley, and bacon.</li>
<li>If you do go the cheap route, you can still heat up the bacon in the skillet and it should release some fat.</li>
<li>I use milk in this recipe. Purists will tell you this is a big ol' NO, but in my opinion it helps the sauce spread and doesn't impact the taste at all.</li>
<li>Use any pasta you'd like--spaghetti is traditional, but I like any sort of curly pasta that holds the sauce.</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fried Rice</span><br />
<ul>
<li>2 cups rice, cooked</li>
<li>1/2 to 1 cup protein, cut into small cubes</li>
<li>1/2 onion, diced</li>
<li>1 carrot, peeled and diced</li>
<li>1/4 cup petite peas</li>
<li>1 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp oil</li>
<li>1 tbsp soy sauce</li>
<li>1 egg, whisked</li>
</ul>
-In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil and butter. If using meat as your protein, brown it in the skillet. Add the carrot and cook for three minutes, then add the onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent. If using mushrooms or tofu for your protein, add it now.<br />
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-Add the rice and mix well. Pour over the soy sauce (adding more for color and flavor, if needed).<br />
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-Add the peas and cook until warmed through. Pour the egg over the rice and mix until the egg has cooked. Serve hot.<br />
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<b>Tips</b><br />
<ul>
<li>This is a great "kitchen sink" dish, as you can use whatever leftovers you have on hand.</li>
<li>I also love to add kimchi to this, towards the end, cooking it just enough to get hot.</li>
<li>Depending on how much protein you use, you can use this as either a main dish or a side.</li>
<li>Add more soy sauce, as needed.</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Souped Up Ramen Soup</span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 package ramen noodle soup</li>
<li>1 boullion cube plus 1 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, OR the included flavor packet</li>
<li>1/4 cup protein of choice</li>
<li>2 tbsp butter</li>
<li>1 tsp sriracha sauce</li>
<li>1 stalk green onion, sliced thin</li>
<li>1/4 onion, diced</li>
<li>1 egg, soft boiled</li>
<li>1 lime wedge</li>
<li>Other toppings: corn, peas, parsley, cilantro, kimchi, nori</li>
</ul>
-Prepare the broth: add one and a half cups of water plus the boullion mix and bring to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook until desired done-ness (check package for preferred cooking times).<br />
<br />
-Add the rest of the ingredients, and serve!<br />
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<b>Tips</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Another good "kitchen sink" recipe, since you can use whatever veggies or protein you have as leftovers.</li>
<li>Cooking the noodles in the broth makes for a more flavorful noodle.</li>
<li>The included flavor packet is very high in sodium, but if you like the flavor feel free to use it!</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Souped Up Ramen Noodle Salad</span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 package ramen noodle soup</li>
<li>3 tbsp peanut butter</li>
<li>1 tbsp butter</li>
<li>1 tsp sriracha</li>
<li>1 tsp honey</li>
<li>1/2 carrot, sliced into toothpicks</li>
<li>1 stalk green onion, sliced thin</li>
<li>1/4 onion, diced</li>
<li>1 lime wedge</li>
</ul>
-Cook the noodles according to the package, but do not use the flavor packet. Drain.<br />
<br />
-In a microwave safe bowl, microwave peanut butter, butter, sriracha, juice from the lime, and honey. Microwave for 30 seconds, and mix well.<br />
<br />
-Toss the noodles, sauce, and all remaining ingredients. Chill overnight.<br />
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<b>Tips</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Can be served hot or cold.</li>
<li>The peanut sauce is a great dip for chicken or drizzled on tofu.</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lazy Golumkis</span><br />
<i>This is the version I grew up with--not necessarily authentic, but tasty and inexpensive!</i><br />
<ul>
<li>1 lb ground beef (these days I use a plant-based substitute as well as mushrooms)</li>
<li>1 can condensed tomato soup (10.75oz cans)</li>
<li>1 can diced tomato (12 oz can)</li>
<li>1/2 cup ketchup</li>
<li>1 onion, diced</li>
<li>2 cloves garlic, crushed</li>
<li>1/2 head cabbage, shredded</li>
<li>2 cups white rice, cooked</li>
<li>1 tsp pepper</li>
<li>1 tsp dried parsley</li>
</ul>
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the meat. Drain the fat, and add the onion and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.<br />
<br />
Add the soup, ketchup, and herbs and spices and stir to combine.<br />
<br />
Once the mixture begins to bubble, add the cabbage. Stir and cook until the lettuce has wilted. Add the rice and heat until dish is warmed all the way through.<br />
<br />
Serve hot, I like to top it with Parmesan cheese!<br />
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<b>Tips</b><br />
I omit the salt because the tomato soup and ketchup are salty enough as-is, but feel free to add some if it needs it!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>What do you cook when you are working with limited resources? Share in the comments!</b></i></span>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-91052439091162387842020-03-16T11:23:00.000-07:002020-03-16T11:23:05.692-07:00Happy St. Patrick's Day! Guinness Pot Au Creme - Saint Patrick's Day Dessert<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Sant Patrick's Day! Looking for a delicious dessert for your corned beef and cabbage boiled dinner? Look no further than these delicious Guinness Pot Au Cremes!</div>
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These are thick, creamy, dreamy little puddings. I topped them with a dollop of Bailey's whipped cream for an extra boozy punch. My puddings didn't set as much as I wanted them to, but they were still delicious.</div>
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I love the stupid craziness that is St. Patrick's Day, and this is the first year I know for sure my family IS indeed Irish! These freckles and curly hair came from somewhere, hurrah! When I lived in Boston I somehow had to work every single year, so I never REALLY got to participate in the festivities. Sad, I would have loved to experience it in Boston.</div>
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This year will probably be spent inside, due to recent events, but who knows, maybe we'll experience a Saint Paddy's Day miracle! Either way, I'll be enjoying these.</div>
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<b>What are your St. Paddy's Day plans?</b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Guinness Pot de Creme</span><br />
<br />
1/2 cup heavy cream<br />
3/4 cup Guinness<br />
2 cups (12oz) semisweet chocolate chips<br />
4 large eggs<br />
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt<br />
<br />
Bailey's Whipped Cream<br />
1/2 cup heavy cream<br />
2 tbs Bailey's<br />
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Directions<br />
Combine heavy cream, Guinness, and vanilla in a medium saucepan over low heat and let simmer just barely. Remove from heat.<br />
<br />
In a food processor, combine the chocolate chips, eggs, and salt and blend for 1 minute until the chocolate is completely chopped. Pour in the Guinness mixture, and blend again until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is thick.<br />
<br />
Divide mixture into ramekins (it made 4 large for me), cover with plastic wrap, and place in refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours and up to 2 days.<br />
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Before serving, prepare whipped cream: Whip in a hand mixer until cream is thick, fold in Bailey's and whip until desired texture is reached. Serve pots cold with dollop of cream on top.<br />
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Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-50621876161641534062020-03-15T11:20:00.000-07:002020-03-15T11:20:05.935-07:00The Dublin Special: Beer Bread Pudding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Once you've made that tasty, delicious load of <a href="http://www.forkingup.com/2020/03/guinness-beer-bread-cinnamon-browned.html">Guinness beer bread</a>... you'll probably want to make another batch, and turn it into this ^^<br />
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Last year, St. Patrick's Day came and went in Austin with nothing but a few local bars serving a corned beef special. Since it usually occurs in the middle of SXSW, Boston's favorite holiday (where the streets run green with dyed PBR) goes relatively unnoticed.<br />
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Who knows, maybe this year there will be more celebrations, in the wake of our big festival being cancelled...<br />
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This little holiday reminds me of Massachusetts, or my two trips to Ireland. It reminds me that I need to return to Europe someday...<br />
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This year, I have corned beef and potatoes waiting in the fridge, some Guinness at the ready, and this dessert on the table. Also, fun fact: Thanks to 23 and Me, I discovered my family IS actually a significant amount of Irish! So cool.<br />
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I love bread pudding. It's the nemesis of low carb diets for sure, but if you happen to make this for your St. Paddy's Day table and take a bite, I won't tell. It's so easy to make, and is so editable to whatever you want it to do. This pudding has all the flavors of Ireland's famous liquors: Guinness, Bailey's, and Jameson.<br />
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PS. Check out this awesome <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/dashboard/ashleyb94/13-dishes-to-enjoy-this-saint-patricks-day-that-a-d2pm">Buzzfeed list</a> I made a few years back of the best St. Paddy's Day recipes that are NOT green! :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the Bread Pudding</span><br />
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<ul>
<li>1 loaf Guinness Beer Bread</li>
<li>3 large eggs</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>1/4 cup heavy cream</li>
<li>1 heaping tbsp cocoa powder</li>
<li>2 tbsp Irish Cream</li>
<li>For topping</li>
<li>1/4 cup oats</li>
<li>1/3 cup brown sugar (I used coconut sugar)</li>
<li>1/2 stick of butter, melted</li>
</ul>
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-Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 9x9 baking dish, set aside.<br />
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-Cube the beer bread and set out to dry out a bit while you mix together the rest of the ingredients. Or, you can put them on a single layer and pop them in the oven while you prep.<br />
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-In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, cream, and Irish cream until well combined. Once beer bread is slightly hard to the touch, toss in the mixture until well-coated. Let sit 5 minutes.<br />
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-Prepare topping by mixing together until at a crumbly consistency. If the mixture is too wet, add more oats or a bit of flour. You want big crumbles of slightly moist crumbs.<br />
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-Pour bread mixture into baking dish, top with crumbles. Bake for 45 minutes, or until pudding is set. Finished pudding should be springy, not wet, when pressed with your finger or a spoon.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whiskey Salted Caramel</span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>1/2 stick of butter, cubed</li>
<li>1/2 cup heavy cream</li>
<li>1/2 tsp salt</li>
<li>1 tbsp Irish whiskey</li>
</ul>
-In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the sugar over high heat until caramel in color. Be careful not to burn!<br />
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-Carefully drop in cubes of butter, whisking until well combined. Once melted, SLOWLY pour in the cream.<br />
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-Reduce heat to medium, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture begins to foam.<br />
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-Remove from heat and stir in salt and whiskey. Let come to room temperature and pour into jar.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Guinness Chocolate Sauce</span><br />
(adapted from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/chocolate-sauce/">AllRecipes.com</a>)<br />
<ul>
<li>1 12oz bottle of Guinness</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup cocoa powder</li>
<li>1/4 cup water</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla</li>
</ul>
<br />
-In a medium saucepan, heat the Guinness over medium-high heat. Boil until reduced by half, about 40 minutes, watching it carefully to prevent bubbling over.<br />
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-Add sugar, cocoa powder, water, and vanilla. Let come to a simmer, and stir frequently until mixture is thick, about 15 minutes. Cool to room temperature, and pour into jar.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Irish Cream Whipped Cream</span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup heavy whipping cream</li>
<li>1/4 cup powdered sugar</li>
<li>1 tbsp Irish Cream</li>
</ul>
<br />
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-In a stand or hand mixer, whip cream and powdered sugar on high until stiff peaks form. Reduce speed to low, and mix in the Irish Cream until just blended.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7f6PvT0lTvw/VQDtG7-J0iI/AAAAAAAANHE/qw1uk9_lkOs/s1600/IMG_8491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7f6PvT0lTvw/VQDtG7-J0iI/AAAAAAAANHE/qw1uk9_lkOs/s1600/IMG_8491.jpg" width="640" /></a>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-37350288518303112752020-03-12T11:17:00.001-07:002020-03-12T11:17:04.913-07:00Guinness Beer Bread & Cinnamon Browned Butter - Happy Saint Patrick's Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Looking for a quick and tasty Saint Patrick's Day recipe? Well look no further than Guinness Beer Bread! Beer bread is a magical thing. It's basically flour, salt, baking powder, and beer. The combinations of how you can make it truly are endless. You can edit it to work with any beer or flavor, be sweet or savory, be a side dish or a breakfast or bread pudding (hint, hint).<br />
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Take this Guinness beer bread, for example. Just a few extras, and you have a unique and seriously delicious, quick bread. No yeast, no rising, just deliciousness.<br />
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If anyone is remembering my "low carb diet" right now... shut up.<br />
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The highlight of this bread is really the cinnamon browned butter BUT I forgot to photograph it. Ugh. Trust me though, it's the perfect thing to spread on a toasty piece of Guinness beer bread. I can't NOT tell you about it.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cinnamon Browned butter</span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 stick butter</li>
<li>1 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>1 tbsp sugar</li>
</ul>
-In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat until golden brown. Pay close attention that the butter does not burn!<br />
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-Let sit for 5 minutes, then add cinnamon and sugar. Mix well, and pour into a small jar.<br />
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-Let butter get to room temperature, shaking jar regularly so sediment does not sink to the bottom. To speed up the process, you can put the jar in the fridge or freezer, but the shaking will be more frequent.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Guinness Beer Bread</span><br />
<ul>
<li>3 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>1/2 cup oats, plus more for sprinkling on top</li>
<li>2/3 cup brown sugar (I used coconut sugar)</li>
<li>1/4 tsp salt</li>
<li>3 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1 bottle Guinness Stout (12 oz)</li>
<li>1/2 stick butter, melted</li>
</ul>
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a bread pan with butter.<br />
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Sift together all dry ingredients into a stand mixer.<br />
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Set the mixer on low speed and slowly pour in the Guinness, being careful it doesn't bubble over. Mix until just wet, do not over-mix.<br />
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Spoon batter into loaf pan. Pour melted butter on top, and sprinkle with oats.<br />
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Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.<br />
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<br />Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-5847290022755635492020-03-01T15:32:00.002-08:002020-03-02T07:35:25.973-08:00Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide 2020 - North Central Austin Restaurants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every year, I do the Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide. Typically, I snag "best ____ in town" categories, rather than the neighborhoods, which span a wide area (North, South, etc.). But what about the restaurants in my own backyard?<br />
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I polled the residents of my own neighborhood via the Nextdoor app and came up with the following hyper-local favorites. Though I don't live in the more touristy parts of town, if you happen to be at an air bnb nearby or have a car and want to get some grub that's a bit more off the beaten path, be sure to check out these Highland Neighborhood spots!<br />
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<b>Note:</b> I was a bit liberal with the area, some of these may be slightly outside, but still worth a mention!<br />
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<a href="https://www.kome-austin.com/miso/" target="_blank">Kome</a> - I adore sushi, and consider myself very somewhat of an expert. In that, I can tell fresh from not-so-fresh, and close-to-the-sea to definitely-not. And since arriving in Austin, Kome has been my hands-down favorite. Their happy hour specials are incredible, their sake is delicious, and my fish-hating-fisherman-husband (figure that one out) has multiple things on the menu he'll consume. Their house rolls are my favorite, but the best deal on the menu is the sushi lunch. This was the place that truly won me over with nigiri, and I will be forever grateful.<br />
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<a href="https://kurausa.com/" target="_blank">Kura</a> - So, I know I just said Kome was my fave BUT Kura is a very very very close second. I was all ready for the level of quality that you expect from a sort of gimmicky concept--conveyor belt sushi--but was blown away by the freshness of the sushi for how inexpensive and fun the entire experience was. Definitely a solid place to go for an inexpensive meal, and yes they do have more than just sushi here.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo cred: <a href="https://www.feedthishouse.com/" target="_blank">Feed This House</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.qualityseafoodmarket.com/" target="_blank">Quality Seafood</a> - I'm a New England girl, born and raised, and one thing I sorely miss from my home state is... well, quality level seafood. And thankfully, Quality Seafood lives up to the name. Though I haven't been able to visit for a lobster bake, the chowder makes my heart happy, and the fish dishes are a wonderful option if you want a non-sushi seafood in town.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo cred: <a href="http://foodieisthenewforty.com/" target="_blank">Foodie is the New Forty</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://heoeatery.squarespace.com/" target="_blank">HEO</a> - Not sure if it was simply a rebrand or a total pivot but I swear this place started as a BBQ joint. Either way, I hear amazing things about their Asian Street Food menu! Tucked away into an unassuming storefront, HEO is one of those somewhat hidden treasures of the neighborhood despite being right on Lamar.<br />
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<a href="http://www.arpeggiogrill.com/" target="_blank">Arpeggio</a> - The jury's out on the overall experience of the restaurant itself but one thing everyone can agree on is that the food is top notch. I feel like we keep losing the small, family-owned Mediterranean restaurants in town, so I do hope Arpeggio sticks around. I love a good gyro and Arpeggio does it right. It's also the best place in town to get a good Greek pizza! If you don't know the difference between NY/Chicago/Greek style, you need to educate yourself. And relish in the crispy, thick crust. Yum.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo cred: <a href="http://foodieisthenewforty.com/" target="_blank">Foodie is the New Forty</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://ramen-tatsuya.com/" target="_blank">Ramen Tatsu-ya</a> - There's a line out the door for a reason. While it's not nearly as long as it's South Lamar counterpart, it's still a wait--but one worth waiting for. This was my first introduction to Ramen and it still holds a special place in my heart. They have a few different broths to choose from, but the standout for me is the tonkasu, a thick dipping broth with noodles. Also one of the best brussels sprouts offerings in town!<br />
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<a href="http://www.michiramen.com/" target="_blank">Michi Ramen</a> - Don't tell Tatsu-ya, but this is my favorite ramen in town. Also, don't tell the people in line at Tatsu-ya because I like being sat immediately ;) Their broths are mostly pork, and the stout broth is the clear standout in my opinion. The sides are perfectly complimentary to the large, savory bowls. And don't miss their Wednesday sake deals! Each month a different flavor is highlighted and they are certainly unique--and tasty!<br />
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<a href="https://olapokeaustin.com/" target="_blank">Ola Poke</a> - This was one of the first dedicated Poke spots in Austin but it's held its place as one of the best ever since. Fresh fish, tasty accouterments, and decent spicy wings for those weirdos among us who, for whatever reason, don't like raw fish. Snag a bowl and do karaoke next door for the perfect out of the box date or fun Saturday afternoon.<br />
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<a href="https://www.brentwoodsocial.com/" target="_blank">Brentwood Social</a> - Their coffee is awesome but their pastries are where it's AT. Delicious, delicate, and both savory and sweet. I don't know what else to say other than it's the perfect place to meet up with a friend for crumpets and tea, or sip wine on the patio while your kids play in the backyard area.<br />
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<a href="http://tumble22.com/" target="_blank">T22</a> - Lucy's may have the heart of most Austinite's but T22 has my taste buds. It hits the spot for anyone who is craving the tongue-burning deliciousness of Nashville Hot Chicken. You can choose your level of heat, or go with a straight up "wimpy" with none, and the enormous pieces of juicy chicken will come out perfectly seasoned with your choice of dipping sauce on the side to cool the heat. And where most chicken joints seem to forget their sides, T22 does each one perfectly. This is hands down my favorite fried chicken in town!<br />
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<a href="https://blackstar.coop/" target="_blank">Black Star Coop </a>- I came here originally for three reasons: 1. close to my improv rehearsal spot, 2. they pay their workers a living wage, 3. beer. At that point, the food being amazing was a great surprise! I love the fish and chips, which come out perfectly battered and crispy with thick-cut fries, or the chicken snack and homemade ranch. Their beer selection is just as good, and the patio with board games makes for a very fun night.<br />
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<a href="https://vigilantebar.com/" target="_blank">Vigilante</a> - A gamer and a foodie walk into a bar. Both are happy at Vigilante. Their slider menu allows you to taste a whole bunch of tasty bites while you challenge other bar patrons to a round of Super Smash Brothers. $14 gets you your choice of nearly four items on the menu which is an awesome deal, letting you get a taste of everything they have to offer!<br />
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<a href="https://www.hanksaustin.com/" target="_blank">Hank's</a> - Frose brings me in, the food makes me stay. Hank's has had a few growing pains as they've rolled out but I know they'll soon be a neighborhood favorite! Great happy hour, delicious food, extensive drink menu, and perfectly crafted cocktails. Plus the decor is clean and bright with a lovely patio. A definite win!<br />
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BIG thank you to some of my food blogger friends for providing pictures!<br />
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<b>Do you live in the Highland area? What is your favorite local restaurant?</b><br />
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<b>Don't forget to check out the rest of the <a href="https://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/" target="_blank">Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide</a> for 2020!</b>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-34861789464833497512020-03-01T15:28:00.001-08:002020-03-02T07:34:30.305-08:00Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide 2020 - Bar Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Austin is a foodie city, there's no denying it. So, when you end up at a restaurant on a Friday or Saturday night, sometimes all you can hope for is a seat at the bar. But did you know that Austin has more than a few watering holes that also offer amazing food? These are just a few that I've found in my journey through Austin's food and drink scene... Check it out!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Austin's Best Bar Bites</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.eastsidetavernaustin.com/"><b>East Side Tavern</b></a> - This bar is so much fun, with a rooftop patio and amazing drink options (obviously, that's what Taverns do best) but you'd be missing out if you left without having one of these brisket and cheddar tater tots. Let me say that again. BRISKET AND CHEDDAR TATER TOTS. So freaking amazing. Runners up are the pickled deviled eggs and the corndog bites but really, anything here is awesome.<br />
<i>1510 E Cesar Chavez | Austin, TX 78702</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.thehideoutpub.com/" target="_blank">The Hideout Pub</a></b>–Their slogan is "we're cheap so you don't have to be," AND their kitchen is open until midnight, so you know I'm all about this place. Not to mention they're a mere 5 minutes from my apartment in way north Austin. They mean it about being cheap--they boast more than a handful of drinks under $5! I've had the burgers and the fish and chips here and both were great. Their wing nights are an awesome excuse to chow down on multiple chicken wings for under $1 apiece (60 cents per wing). They're known for their burgers, but all pub food is present and accounted for here. Plus the laid back vibe and huge patio are awesome for hanging out with friends on a weekend or happy hour. <i>The Hideout Pub is located at 12164 N Mopac Expressway in Austin and is open Mon-Fri 3pm-2am, Sat-Sun 5pm-2am.</i><br />
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<a href="https://skishoresaustin.com/" target="_blank"><b>Ski Shores Cafe</b></a><br />
Austin is a year-round patio type of city. That's one of the many reasons why Ski Shores is the place to be when the weather is pleasant--their location right on Lake Travis makes for some incredible sunsets. Not only that, but their food is pretty damn good. Try one of the many burgers, or (my preference) get some fresh fried seafood to enjoy while you drink a cocktail and watch the sunset.<br />
<i>2905 Pearce Rd, Austin TX</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.jackalopebar.com/" target="_blank"><b>Jackalope</b></a><br />
It's on Dirty 6, which doesn't necessarily work in its favor, since it's also known as a party spot with insanely huge punch bowls. But what you may not know is that they are constantly on Austin's Best lists for their burgers! Soak up some of that 6th Street booze with the Mac and Cheese Burger--complete with a deep fried queso mac patty, or get fancy with their Bacon and Brie burger. And if you snap a pic on the Jackalope statue after, I won't judge.<br />
<i>304 East 6th Street, Austin TX</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.thedogwoodaustin.com/" target="_blank">The Dogwood</a></b><br />
The day I saw their steak fingers were no longer on the menu was a sad day (please bring them back!) as they were the best I'd found in the city. I can get my fix of flavorful fried meat with the chicken fingers, but if I'm going that route I'd opt for the chicken and waffles sliders. Thankfully, I have a new love in their Armadillo Eggs which are bacon-wrapped jalapenos stuffed with shrimp, crab, and goat cheese, with a peach dipping sauce. The happy hour menu is decent for the price (get the bacon wrapped BBQ shrimp or the sweet potato tots), so get here early and enjoy a meal and a drink on their patio before the West 6th Street crowd rolls in. It's unique southern cuisine, and the bar itself is a good time. <i>The Dogwood is located at 715 West 6th Street and is open Mon-Fri 4pm-2:00am, Sat-Sun 12pm-2am.</i><br />
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<a href="https://gibsonstreetbar.com/food-from-lukes-inside-out" target="_blank"><b>Gibson's/Luke's Inside Out</b></a><br />
I remember exclaiming to everyone that would listen one night that the food truck at Gibson's, Luke's Inside Out, was some of the best food I'd ever had in my life. Granted, I'd had more than my share of libations at Gibson's prior, but when I asked friends about best bar food there were a handful of enthusiastic suggestions for this place. It looks like Guy agrees with me, because it was featured on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives!<br />
<i>1109 South Lamar, Austin TX</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.bangersaustin.com/"><b>Banger's Sausage and Beer Garden</b></a><br />
It's a good thing they're expanding this year--the 100 or so tables are regularly packed! The glorious, enormous beer selection aside, they're one of my favorite spots to take out-of-towners because you just need to experience their unique cuisine at least once. All the sausages are made on-site, as are the pickled ingredients. The dishes are anywhere from basic but delicious (hot dog, brat) to out of this world unique (fried chicken, beet and goat cheese). Do not let yourself visit Austin without stopping here!<br />
<i>79 & 81 Rainey St. Austin, TX 78701</i><br />
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<a href="http://whipin.com/" target="_blank"><b>Whip In</b></a><br />
What kind of cuisine do you think a craft beer bar would serve? Did you guess Indian? I bet you didn't. Did you guess some of the best Indian food in town? At a BAR? This in and of itself is a feat, but Whip In also peppers in some typical bar food into the mix. Try one of their curries, their extensive vegetarian options, or just enjoy some loaded fries. Whichever you choose, you'll be more than satisfied. You can even buy a six pack of beer to take home from their marketplace area!<br />
<i>1950 S IH 35 Frontage Rd, Austin, TX</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.blackstar.coop/" target="_blank">Black Star Coop</a></b>–It's hard to say what's the best part of Black Star Coop. The wide selection of local beer? The fact that all staff is paid a living wage? Or the incredible food? It's a tough call, but I'd say while all those things rock, the food is my favorite. I could eat their thick-cut french fries every day, and their one-time fig-stuffed quail was my first ever foray into quail (I still am not quite sure how one goes about consuming a quail). Plus, it's the best fish and chips I've had in the city so far. And you know me, as a New Englander, I have high standards when it comes to fish. Added to the feel-good well-paid staff thing and the beers, this place definitely wins a spot on my Best Bar Bites list.<br />
<i>7020 Easy Wind Drive, Austin TX </i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.ahotcupofjoey.com/">A Cup of Joey</a></td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://easytigeraustin.com/" target="_blank">Easy Tiger</a></b><br />
Every so often, I see another Easy Tiger beer garden open up. And I do a jump for joy, because this is a place that should be shared with the world. Somewhat recently, one opened right near my apartment, so I am a frequent guest of theirs now. The freshly baked bread is the heart of their menu, weaving its way through incredible cheese boards, sandwiches, and sides on their menu. The beer may be the star, but their bakery is incredible. Definitely try their massive bavarian pretzel, you won't be sorry!<br />
<i>(Multiple Locations, see website)</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.therooseveltroomatx.com/" target="_blank"><b>Roosevelt Room</b></a><br />
Fancy drinks and fancy snacks make Roosevelt Room one of my favorite places to grab a classy cocktail and snack after work downtown. Their cheese boards are some of the best in town, and the perfect classy eccoutrement. Bonus: the Elenor next door is home to some fun pop up bars throughout the year. My favorite being Miracle on 5th Street, a fun and funky Christmas bar during the holidays!<br />
307 W 5th St. - Unit B Austin, TX<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image courtesy of Waller Creek Pub House<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.wallercreekpubhouse.com/" target="_blank"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Waller Creek Pub House</a> </b>Established in 2015, Waller Creek Pub House is known for its craft draft beer, original pub fare and laid-back vibe. Specials Monday’s Wing Deal, featuring 6 house made buffalo wings and a pint of Community Beer Company’s Helles Lager for only $10, or the rotating “Taco of the Day” selection for $10 or less are affordable options for those on a budget.<br />
<i> 603 Sabine St, Austin, TX</i><br />
<b><br /></b><b><a href="http://www.drinkwellaustin.com/" target="_blank">Drink.Well</a><span id="goog_1590011603"></span><span id="goog_1590011604"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></b>–The drinks are amazing, the food is as gorgeous as it is tasty, and 5 out of 5 foodies I asked highly recommend it, so this here is a win. The menu is upscale American pub fare, which pairs well with their 25 whiskeys and the aforementioned amazing cocktails. There aren't many places in town you can get a Scotch egg, or a HOMEMADE TWINKIE... yeah, this place pretty much rocks. <i>Drink.Well is located at 207 East 53rd Street in Austin and is open Tues-Sat 4pm-12am, and Sun 11am-11pm.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><b>Don't forget to check out the rest of the <a href="https://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/" target="_blank">Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide</a> for 2020!</b>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-40224023858841590332020-03-01T12:04:00.001-08:002020-03-01T12:04:37.176-08:00Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide 2020 - Best Downtown Business Lunches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ever since working in downtown Austin, I've become quite accustomed to visiting coworkers and clients asking me "where should we go to lunch??" Eventually, I decided to turn my response into a blog post, because lunching in downtown Austin can be a gamble.<br />
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The rule of thumb here is to try not to be too close to the touristy places--restaurants near the convention center or music halls aren't going to be great. After all, foot traffic alone means they don't have to be stellar to make a living.<br />
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Visiting Austin and staying downtown? Need a place to wine and dine a client during your lunch break? Here are my suggestions for the best food you'll find within walking distance or a quick Uber/taxi!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">BBQ</span></b><br />
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<li><a href="http://coopersbbqaustin.com/">Cooper's Old Time Pit</a> - the best BBQ in downtown proper. Meat by the pound, incredible sides (rare for a BBQ place!) and you can get it dipped in their BBQ sauce.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.terryblacksbbq.com/">Terry Black's</a> - Not quite downtown, but worth a scooter ride or quick rideshare. Pick your meat by the pound in this counter-service restaurant. Grab a cold beer from the cooler and try their beef rib, what they're known for.</li>
<li><a href="https://lambertsaustin.com/">Lambert's</a> - Fancy BBQ. Full disclosure: I've never been, but it seems to be the go-to place to take visiting clients. I hear they also have a good happy hour!</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Mexican & Tex-Mex</b></span><br />
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<li><a href="http://chispasaustin.com/">Chispas</a> - My favorite new place in town to get tacos. The queso, which is a barometer for a Tex-Mex's quality, is decent, but the taco menu is so unique and all are tasty. I love the butternut squash taco and the pork belly.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.tacodeli.com/">Taco Deli </a>- An Austin favorite, though it's only open until about lunch time. Skip the line by ordering ahead and sit on their patio to people watch.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.chuys.com/locations/austin/barton-springs">Chuy's</a> - It's a chain now, but the original spot is on Barton Springs Road. The quirky decor, extensive menu, and friendly service make it the perfect first stop when you're looking to try Tex-Mex cuisine for the first time.</li>
<li><a href="https://gabrielasdowntown.com/">Gabriela's Downtown</a> - A hidden gem that really shouldn't be hidden considering it's right at the beginning of East 7th Street with full view from the highway. Incredible, homemade Mexican food by a brother and sister duo. Everything from the snacks to the dinners to the drinks is incredible</li>
<li><a href="https://www.velvettaco.com/" target="_blank">Velvet Taco</a> - The second Austin location of this Dallas joint has some of the most unique taco offerings I've ever seen. Their queso is a must-try!</li>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Burgers, Sandwiches, and More</span></b><br />
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<li><a href="https://www.easytigerusa.com/">Easy Tiger</a> - a Beer garden AND bakery with incredible snack boards, sandwiches, sausages, and more. Their $3 Old Fashioned is a happy hour staple.</li>
<li><a href="https://faregroundaustin.com/">Fareground</a> - Want a little taste of everything? This food court serves up food from some of my FAVORITE restaurants that you may not get to experience without a drive outside the city. Try Kome, Dai-Due, and Contigo.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.casinoelcamino.net/">Casino El Camino -</a> It's in the back of a bar (with the best bloody marys, btw) but if you love burgers it's the best in town. Open late, it's the perfect place to get your drunchies on as you make your way down Dirty 6.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.bangersaustin.com/">Banger's</a> - Bangers is Austin in a nutshell: unique food concept (everything on the menu is a sausage), vegan/vegetarian options, the most craft beers you'll find on tap in one place, and a wide open space for both live music and mini dog park. It's probably one of my favorite places in the city!</li>
<li><a href="https://www.schallerstube.com/">Stube</a> - Another unique sausage place that is generous in their portions and incredibly tasty. They just expanded their food truck behind Star Bar, so you can grab a fancy drink to pair with your brats.</li>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Asian</span></b><br />
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<li><a href="http://grajmahalaustin.com/">Graj Ma'hal </a>- Some of the best Indian food I've ever had, in a cool, quirky space. One of the few restaurants on Rainey Street that is worth your money.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.claypit.com/">Clay Pit</a> - Another great option for Indian food if you happen to be closer to campus. Their lunch options are awesome and word is that the building is haunted!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.papadomaustin.com/">Papadom</a> - One of the best lunch deals in town! $13 for all-you-can-eat. I've never had a bad meal here, and it's my go-to when I want a filling, tasty lunch.</li>
<li><a href="https://swiftsattic.com/">Swift's Attic</a> - Asian fusion with Southern comfort cooking. Really unique and tasty dishes and a great happy hour. I especially love the ice ball cocktails!</li>
<li><a href="https://www.tanukiaustin.com/">House of the Rising Tanuki-San </a>- I've only been here for lunch, but everything has been so flavorful! The dishes are unique, the atmosphere is fun, and everything is super tasty.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.koriente.com/menu.html">Koriente </a>- Not quite sushi, but other great option for some fresh and tasty Japanese cuisine! The focus here is on healthy food, and during lunch salad and soup is never-ending. </li>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Southern Food</span></b><br />
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<li><a href="https://moonshinegrill.com/">Moonshine Grill </a>- Fancy Southern Comfort Food. Super tasty but a bit pricey. It's great for date night, as it's cozy and dark. I love their shrimp and grits!</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cannonandbelle.com/">Cannon & Belle </a>- if you want fancy Southern food, this is a great option. It’s my new favorite in town and worth the price. Their bone in ribeye and pork chop rival steak houses in the area, for a much better price.</li>
<li><a href="https://fixesouthernhouse.com/">Fixe</a> - This place is worth a stop for their biscuits alone. Holy wow these are little buttery bits of perfection. Pro tip: Get a side of biscuits with their excellent fried chicken and make a sandwich. you won't be sorry.</li>
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<b>Don't forget to check out the rest of the <a href="http://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/" target="_blank">Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide</a> for 2020!</b><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Where do you like to eat in Austin? Have you ever visited? Let me know!</span></i>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-8811278560924812752020-02-27T00:00:00.000-08:002020-02-27T15:02:50.270-08:00Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide 2020 - Austin's Best Bloody Marys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Bloody Marys have quickly become my favorite drink. What's better than a spicy counterpart to a delicious Austin brunch? I always snag this guide because I love this cocktail so much!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.casinoelcamino.net/" target="_blank">Casino el Camino </a></b>- One of the heftiest bloodies in regards to accouterments: the beast includes taquito, chicken slider, pig in a blanket, meatball, various pickled items, and more... You pick your spice level on a scale of 1-10, with 5 being the start of the habanero spice. Note: I have a fair heat tolerance and a 5 is almost too much for me, so beware.<br />
<i>517 E 6th St, Austin, TX </i><br />
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<a href="http://www.lucysfriedchicken.com/" target="_blank"><b>Lucy's Fried Chicken </b></a>- While I have mixed feelings about the chicken, I was extremely impressed with Lucy's bloody mary. Anywhere that makes their own mix is significantly cooler than a bottled-juice joint, that's a no-brainer. Spicy house made bloody mix with Clamato, horseradish, and hot sauce with homemade pickled veggies make this a slightly spicy bloody worth pairing with your chicken and waffles.<br />
<i>2218 COLLEGE AVE/5408 BURNET ROAD/2900 RANCH RD 620 N</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Kenny Braun Photography</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://salttraderscc.com/" target="_blank">Salt Trader’s Coastal Cooking</a></b> – If you find yourself in Round Rock for brunch, stop into Salt Trader's for a bite of coastal Texas cuisine and pair it with their Scratch Bloody Mary. This powerhouse bloody boasts Tito’s Vodka, horseradish, barrel-aged Worcestershire, garlic, clam juice and celery salt - and served with a beer chaser.<br />
<i>2850 IH-35 N, Round Rock, TX</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Ashley Davis Photography</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://snoozeeatery.com/locations/nlamar/" target="_blank">Snooze, an A.M. Eatery</a></b> - Snooze is worth the long wait for brunch, but try to go on a weekday if you're not into passing the time with yard games while you wait. In addition to their excellent pancakes and brunch servings, their bloody marys are bomb--especially the Boss Hog with bacon-infused Cyrus Noble Bourbon & house bloody mix.<br />
<i>3800 N Lamar Blvd #120/1700 S Lamar Blvd #301 Austin, TX</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://starbartexas.com/" target="_blank">Star Bar </a></b>- If legend is to be believed, this epic bloody contains the following: an hot dog, lil’ smokies, bacon, shrimp, onion rings, hamburger slider, chicken nuggets, deviled egg, crab, pickled okra, tomatoes, pepperoni, pepper jack cheese, and a cinnamon roll. It's been a whole year since my last bloody mary roundup, and I still haven't ventured to Star Bar to try it. Let me know if you do!<br />
<i>600 W 6th St, Austin, TX</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://swiftsattic.com/" target="_blank"><br /></a></b><b><a href="http://swiftsattic.com/" target="_blank">Swift's Attic</a></b> - Swift's weekend brunch displays the best do-it-yourself bloody mary bar in town. Swift's goes a step beyond with high quality ingredients and house-cured meats. No shelf-stable bacon here! While they offer a few different bloody mixes, the homemade mix is clearly the best.<br />
<i>315 Congress Ave, Austin, TX </i><br />
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Runners Up: Cheap Sunday <b><a href="http://kickbuttcoffee.com/" target="_blank">Kickbutt Coffee </a></b>special, a simple bloody--just a shot and some mix, maybe some olives if the bartender is feeling generous--but it's only $3 on Sundays! Another great deal is the $2 bloodies at <b><a href="https://www.lacondesa.com/" target="_blank">La Condesa</a></b>, but those require a sit down meal and a bit of a wait during brunch hours.<br />
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<b>Don't forget to check out the rest of the <a href="http://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/" target="_blank">Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide</a> for 2020!</b>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-1308570081323159112020-02-26T11:02:00.000-08:002020-02-27T15:07:37.865-08:00Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide 2020 - Mexican Martinis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.trudys.com/index.php">Trudy's</a> (multiple locations throughout Austin) When I polled my friends about the best Mexican Martini in town, this was the resounding answer. Not only are they on happy hour special, but it's the classic Mexican Martini with a generous shaker of extra goodness on the side. Limit of two, and don't try the "Trudy's Mexican Martini Crawl" (where ambitious drinkers try to go the limit at each location) because you definitely will die.<br />
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<a href="https://www.chuys.com/">Chuy's </a>(multiple locations in Austin and beyond) Chuy's has a special place in my heart because it was my first taste of Tex-Mex in all its glory. Tex-Mex is its own unique, amazing thing and Chuy's is a solid, if not THE most authentic version. Their Mexican Martini is classic and straightforward: heavy on the tequila with a refreshing kick of citrus and a balanced bit of olive.<br />
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<a href="https://polvosaustin.com/">Polvo's</a> (Two locations: 2004 S 1st St and 360 Nueces, Ste. #10 Austin, TX ) I'm embarrassed it took this long to try out this Austin institution. Authentic Mexican food and a decent Mexican Martini. What else could you need? A salsa bar? You got it. Reasonably priced and perfectly made.<br />
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<a href="https://lacondesa.com/">La Condesa</a> (400 W 2nd St A, Austin, TX) Need a solid after work Happy Hour that hits all the bases? Classic Austin restaurant. Mexican food that's deliciously shareable. Great HH deals. And magicians at the bar. Pro-tip: This drink isn't on the menu, but they make a damn good Mexican Martini anyway.<br />
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<a href="https://www.cedardooraustin.com/">Cedar Door </a>(201 Brazos St, Austin, TX) Cedar Door prides itself in being the location where the Mexican Martini was created. No, it's not from Mexico--it's from a gorgeous little bar on Brazos Street, where a bartender in the 80s was inspired after a recent trip to Mexico. You can choose between three options: classic, spicy, and Austin (made from 100% Austin local liquors). I prefer the classic, and a few shots and selfies outside next to these massive olives.<br />
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<a href="https://www.casachapala.com/">Casa Chapala</a> (9041 Research Blvd Ste 100, Austin, TX) Fun fact: I accidentally spilled my drink all over the bar. D'oh. Apparently, the shakers don't snap shut here, so be CAREFUL! But Chapala's is amazing, and has one of the most extensive Tequila collections in town. Make it your way with top shelf or below and you'll definitely be satisfied.<br />
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<b>Don't forget to check out the rest of the <a href="https://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/" target="_blank">Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide</a> for 2020!</b>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-45154804762560509252020-02-26T06:32:00.000-08:002020-02-27T15:02:02.288-08:00Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide 2020 - Fried Chicken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://tumble22.com/">Tumble 22</a> - Austin's Most authentic tasting Nashville-style hot chicken hit the scene a few years ago and I couldn't be more excited about it! Their brick and mortar on Burnet offers multiple levels of heat and a ton of flavor in every piece. I typically split a four piece with my husband, which is more than enough tasty food for us both, in the medium level--which is still mighty spicy! Their brick and mortar is opening soon on Burnet, be sure to check it out.<br />
<i>7211 Burnet Rd, Austin TX</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.culinarydropout.com/">Culinary Dropout</a> - Located in the new Rock Rose area of the Domain, Culinary Dropout offers a wide array of delicious fresh items, but you don't want to miss the chicken. This is another plate I end up splitting most of the time, it's a lot of chicken! Perfectly seasoned breading, juicy chicken--it's the best thing on the menu. Paired with a honey biscuit and delicious sides, this dish is a must for anyone taking a quick break from a Domain shopping day.<br />
<i>11721 Rock Rose Ave #100, Austin, TX 78758</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.hooverscooking.com/" target="_blank">Hoover's </a></b>-- If you enjoy a heavy hand on the breading, the homestyle feel and traditional sides make this a satisfying meal. The Happy Hour specials are some of the best in the city, with a chicken basket for $6 among many other snacks and drinks from 3-7pm Monday-Friday.<br />
<i>2002 Manor Rd, </i><i>Austin, TX </i><br />
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<a href="http://gusfriedchicken.com/austin-texas-location/" target="_blank"><b>Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken </b></a>-- While Gus's is actually a chain that began in Memphis, they have spicy fried chicken down to an art. There are no heat levels, just classically spicy, so be comfortable with a strong "medium" amount of spice if you check them out.<br />
<i>117 San Jacinto </i><i>Austin, TX </i><br />
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<a href="http://www.lucysfriedchicken.com/" target="_blank"><b>Lucy's</b></a> -- Lucy's they deserve a spot on this list because it's a totally "Austin" spot and the view from the Lucy's on the Lake patio is breathtaking. The desserts and sides are delicious. Try the deep fried deviled eggs before you dig into the main course.<br />
<i>Multiple Locations:<br />2218 COLLEGE AVE/5408 BURNET ROAD/2900 RANCH RD 620 N</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo courtesy of The Peached Tortilla</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.thepeachedtortilla.com/" target="_blank">The Peached Tortilla</a> – For an Asian twist on the southern favorite, stop by Peached for their Fried chicken night every Wednesday. The special includes Asian fried chicken, dashi bacon braised kale, grilled corn and biscuits. Not to mention, this night also boasts whiskey specials!<br />
<i>5520 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.blackstar.coop/" target="_blank">Black Star Coop</a></b> -- This locally sourced, sustainably produced fried chicken never disappoints!Order by the dinner or snack size and enjoy the subtly spicy breading and accompanying homemade ranch dip.<br />
<i>7020 EASY WIND DR, STE 100, AUSTIN, TX</i><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eldOmbYHMMc/VtUle5k0GCI/AAAAAAAAOqg/YgkrrOy2e4s/s1600/1530420_10100129624693001_2022817749_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eldOmbYHMMc/VtUle5k0GCI/AAAAAAAAOqg/YgkrrOy2e4s/s640/1530420_10100129624693001_2022817749_n.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b>Don't forget to check out the rest of the <a href="https://austinfoodbloggers.org/best-places-to-eat-in-austin/" target="_blank">Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide</a> for 2020!</b>Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-27551686281641887742020-02-17T11:15:00.001-08:002020-02-17T11:15:17.509-08:00A Cheap Foodie's Guide to SXSW - SXSW 2020 Free Stuff!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's February, and we all know what that means... brace yourselves, SXSW is coming!<br />
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For those who are new to the area or have no idea what I'm talking about, SXSW, or South by Southwest, is our biggest festival of the year in Austin, Texas. The festival and conference lasts about two weeks in mid-March. During this time, Austin is overrun with tourists, brands, and most of all PARTIES.<br />
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I've lived in Austin for six years, and have attended SXSW in some capacity nearly every year. From working for a brand, to having a full badge, to getting a press pass, and NEVER having much of a budget, I've gotten the full experience. And mostly, it's been a free SXSW experience.<br />
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Read on for my suggestions on how to have the best SXSW experience on a budget! Or even FREE!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pick Your Experience</span><br />
There are four tracks to SXSW: Education, Interactive, Film, and Music. The majority of the first two are filled with teachers or business people who were sent by their employers, and the other two are filled with people looking to see the best new films or their favorite up-and-coming recording artist.<br />
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You can purchase and individual badge, or a platinum that gives you access to everything. What not everyone realizes is that ANY badge will give you secondary access to any of the branded events. So, for example if I have a Music Badge I get first priority for Music events, but I can still get into any Interactive or Film event before it's opened to the general public. Considering the steep cost of the badges, pick the track you're most interested in and don't get Platinum if you're paying your own way.<br />
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<b>My REAL tip?</b> <i><u>DON'T buy ANY badge.</u></i> There is plenty to do without needing to drop over $1000 on a badge alone (after all, flights to Austin nearly triple during March). Read on for my tips on what you can do for FREE!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Know What's Free</span><br />
There is more than enough to do during the festival that doesn't require a badge, but each track seems to have its own benefits for what is free. Here's what I've found to be true of the free SXSW experience:<br />
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<b>Innovation</b>: Brands take over the city and provide free swag, food, and open bars to those partying during the festival. There's also often tons of local music playing. You can literally keep your food and drink budget to pennies a day if you know how to sniff out the brand parties!<br />
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<b>Music and Film:</b> The freebies during these tracks will mostly be free shows and screenings. Most of Austin takes advantage of the influx of people to showcase local music in smaller venues across town. Occasionally you can find free swag or food/drinks, but for the most part the show IS the prize, and the venues want to charge for what they can.<br />
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<b>Education:</b> Nothing, really. Sorry. This track seems to be purely business, and since it's the first track in the festival, things haven't really started up yet. There might be included parties, but not much outside the actual festival.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes you run into your favorite YouTube celebrities!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Resources</span><br />
But how do you FIND the free stuff? People often underestimate how truly overwhelming SXSW can be. Make sure you've downloaded the following apps to make your way around and hit up all the free spaces.<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>The SXSW App</b>: Even if you don't have a badge, you can use the app to sign up for official events that are badgeless. The app lets you build your schedule and reminds you when events are coming up.</li>
<li><b>Do512</b>: If you're not from around here, you may not know about Do512. Basically, it's our go-to resource for all events! Simply download the app, create an account, search "Free SXSW" and RSVP for any events that look interesting.</li>
<li><b>RSVPster</b> <a href="https://rsvpster.com/">https://rsvpster.com/</a> For a small fee, you can get RSVP'd to all free events and unofficial SXSW parties via this service.</li>
<li><b>Twitter:</b> Follow the following hashtags: <b>#sxlines #sxdrinks #sxnoms #sxfree #sxswag</b>. This is the BEST way, throughout the fest, to see where the free food, drinks, and swag are, but also where the lines are shortest! Posters will also often tag if a badge is required.</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Other Tips and Tricks</span><br />
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<b>Stay Near the Action</b> - As much as you can afford, anyway. Austin's public transport is nowhere near sustainable for us on a normal day, so you'll be relying on peak-pricing Ubers and Lyfts if you don't choose a spot within walking distance. And if you need to stay outside of downtown, factor in time for traffic. Again, it's bad on a normal day, during our biggest event it'll be even worse.<br />
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<b>Don't Just Visit on the Weekend</b> - Weekdays are your best bet for the shortest lines and best experience. On the weekend, the crowd doubles with working locals who want to get in on the fun. If you're local, try to take at least a day off to get the full experience before the lines get insane.<br />
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<b>Pace Yourself</b> - It's a large festival that spans the entire city, and Austin can get HOT in the Spring. Even outside of downtown, the rest of Austin wants to enjoy the influx of tourists, or the influx of locals wanting to get out of downtown. Especially if you're hopping from free event to free event, you may be covering ten city blocks between each spot. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a backpack for freebies, and try to plot out your schedule so that you don't have to rush long distances in a short timeframe. <u>Oh, and water is your friend.</u> Luckily, if you've forgotten one, it's a popular swag item you can snag pretty easily.<br />
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<b>Have a Back Up Plan</b> - Even with a badge, popular events fill up quickly. I once got in line for an Assscat show two hours ahead of time and still didn't get in. SXSW isn't really about just seeing your favorite bands, films, etc. It's about discovering new things. Do your research and have a backup plan in case your favorite event fills up before you get there.<br />
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<b>Create a dummy email</b> - Most free things require you selling your soul--err, I mean your email address--as an entry fee. If you don't want to be flooded with marketing emails after the festival, create a specific email just for the event RSVPs. You'll thank me later.<br />
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<b>Take Time to Explore</b> - Austin is so much more than just downtown. If you can, take time to get outside of the tall buildings and see the rest of the city! Check out the breweries on Metric, take a Fredericksburg wine tour, jump in Barton Springs or Deep Eddy, explore the Cathedral of Junk, or rent a car and try the world-famous Salt Lick in Dripping Springs!<br />
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Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-85751826103775511572020-02-08T12:53:00.001-08:002020-02-08T12:53:23.745-08:00Keep It Weird Austin Winters - French Onion Soup Recipe with Vegetarian Option<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy February, everyone! I suddenly had a craving for a warm bowl of soup and thought I'd share my favorite recipe (now updated with vegetarian substitutions!) for one of my favorite soups.<br />
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As a New Englander, I thought that up North we had the most haphazard weather; freezing one minute, hot the next, rain, sun, thunderstorms in the same day, winter too long and summer too short. But Austin is definitely giving it a run for its money.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The sun makes me happy,<br />
and so does my favorite dress.</td></tr>
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In the past week in Austin I've been able to wear a winter coat and a sun dress. IT EVEN FRIGGIN SNOWED! It's been 30s and it's been near 70. I went from living in an endless winter to enjoying a sort-of winter with bits of summer in between.<br />
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Hey, I'm not complaining. That's why I moved here! I need the sun, I like it popping in to say hello like this. The days of the week I can bask in the sun like a cat are worth the days I have to turn up the heat and curl up WITH my cats (and dog) instead.<br />
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And if I have this soup, all the better.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Just look. at. that. CHEESE!</td></tr>
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This recipe is a combination of what my mother-in-law showed me over one Christmas, and Alton Brown's dummy-proof recipe. Plus my own little flair, as always, and some substitutions to make it meat-free. The result was pretty fantastic, and I highly recommend you make this the next time a chill comes through. Bursting with flavor, paired with toasty bread and gooey cheese. Delicious.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">French Onion Soup</span><br />
(Loosely based on <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/french-onion-soup-recipe.html" target="_blank">Alton Brown's recipe</a>)<br />
<ul>
<li>5 yellow onions (or a combination of yellow and red), sliced to 1/4" thick</li>
<li>3 tbsp butter</li>
<li>1 tsp salt</li>
<li>1 tsp sugar</li>
<li>1/2 tsp pepper</li>
<li>2 cups mild red wine</li>
<li>5 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)</li>
<li>2 chicken stock cubes</li>
<li>1 tbsp sherry vinegar</li>
<li>1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or use a vegetarian version or soy sauce)</li>
<li>1 sprig thyme</li>
<li>2 bay leaves</li>
<li>1 tsp dried or fresh chopped parsley</li>
<li>4 slices baguette, toasted and brushed with butter</li>
<li>4 slices provolone cheese</li>
</ul>
-In a large dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add a layer of onions and sprinkle with salt. Continue until all onions are in the Dutch oven.<br />
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-Cover the dutch oven and let onions sweat for at least 15 minutes. After the onions look shiny and wet, gently stir. Add the pepper and sugar. Let cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep caramel in color.<br />
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-Once onions have reduced to about two cups, pour in the wine. Turn heat to high. Let the wine reduce until thick, about 7 minutes or so.<br />
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-Add the broth, stock cubes, sherry vinegar, Worcestershire or soy sauce, thyme, bay leaves, and parsley. Simmer for 20 minutes.<br />
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-Remove thyme and bay leaves. Heat oven to broil.<br />
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-Pour into four croques or heat-save bowls set on a cookie sheet. Place bread and a slice of provalone over each. Broil until cheese is bubbly. Serve hot.<br />
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Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-728209723156145184.post-48970845003809079312020-02-04T10:26:00.003-08:002020-02-04T10:26:53.809-08:00What to Do in Austin - the First Time Texas Experience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi there and welcome to my new little series "What to do in Austin" the Forking Up edition! In the next few posts I'll be detailing out my favorite suggestions for what to do in Austin, based on what kind of trip you're hoping to have. I hope you'll enjoy reading these new Austin travel guides as much as I enjoyed writing them.<br />
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I'm starting with my guide for <b>First Time Visitors to Texas</b>! While Austin is a bit different than other Texan cities (we like to "Keep Austin Weird!") you can certainly find your fair share of good old fashioned Southern fun in our great city. Read on for my suggestions on what to do on your first visit to Austin!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The First-Time Texas Experience Travel Guide</span><br />
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<b>Tamale House East</b> - An Austin institution. The original has sadly shuttered its doors, but the family keeps the East location hopping. There isn't anywhere better to grab brunch, or stop by for a hearty lunch with the titular tamale. The ambiance is wonderful, the patio is gorgeous, and the food is delicious. A perfect start to your Austin adventure!<br />
<i>Location: 1707 E 6th St, Austin, TX</i><br />
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<b>Allen's Boots and Cavender's</b> - enter Allen's Boots on South Congress and breathe in the deep leather scent of the wares lining the shelves. Have a complimentary drink while you browse boots that cost half my rent. If you're able to shell out the cash, it's the ultimate Texas souvenir. If your wallet is more like mine though, head over to any one of the Cavender's locations in town for a stylish pair of boots that won't break the bank.<br />
<i>Location: Multiple, check websites for <a href="https://www.allensboots.com/" target="_blank">Allen'</a>s and <a href="https://www.cavenders.com/" target="_blank">Cavender's</a></i><br />
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<b>The Capitol </b>- The Texas State Capitol building seems to shine like a beacon at the end of South Congress, which in part is due to the fact that surrounding buildings cannot be taller within a certain radius. It's free to explore, and while there isn't much to actually do there, you can admire the gorgeous architecture inside.<br />
<i>Location: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX</i><br />
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<b>Salt Lick</b> - Truth be told, there is better BBQ within city limits. If you have a whole morning to spare, maybe try your hand at waiting in the endless Franklin's line for a taste of the city's favorite. But there truly is no better Texas EXPERIENCE than a drive out to the original Salt Lick in Driftwood. The wait will be long, but it's made better by live music and popcorn and lemonade while you wait. Once you enter you're greeted with an open pit, stuffed with every smoked meat your little heart desires. Get a little bit of everything with the Thurman's Choice platter.<br />
<i>Location: 18300 Farm to Market Rd 1826, Driftwood, TX, or check <a href="https://saltlickbbq.com/" target="_blank">their website</a> for more locations</i><br />
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<b>The Oasis</b> - I remember the first time I visited, The Oasis seemed like a ghost town. It's set up like an outdoor mall, but most storefronts were empty. The joke was that you didn't go there for food, you went for the view. These days the storefronts are open again, with multiple options for food, drink, and shopping. While the food is fine, it's still my suggestion to watch the sunset on Lake Travis with a few drinks and maybe some chips and salsa. For the Instagram crowd, you'll find plenty of photo ops with a gorgeous view of the lake.<br />
Location: 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX check <a href="http://www.oasis-austin.com/" target="_blank">website</a> for menu<br />
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<b>Maverick's and Broken Spoke</b> - Let's talk true Texan nightlife! Are you looking for some serious country music? Want to break in those new boots? Then you'll have a blast at either of these dance halls, known for their live music and two stepping. Grab a pint of Lonestar and your favorite dance partner and hit Maverick's for a younger crowd and rowdier time, or Broken Spoke for a slice of Austin tradition and a more laid back (but still fun!) good time.<br />
<i>Location: Maverick's (multiple, <a href="http://mavericksdancehall.com/" target="_blank">see website</a>) and Broken Spoke 3201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX</i><br />
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<i>Did you enjoy my Austin Travel Guide? Locals, what am I missing? Let me know in the comments!</i></h4>
Ashley Blomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08716339905719797513noreply@blogger.com0