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Diana Laskaris

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As the winter season approaches, if you’re not near a shoreline you might be hankering for a some tasty eats and a view of the water’s edge. We’ve certainly spent some of our favorite holidays visiting  coastal areas of some delicious destinations. Even if it isn’t warm outside, waterside dining offers something special that we seek out any time of year.

Here are a few of our favorite retreats where you can find a great beach view and something delicious to eat. We look forward to hearing about your recommendations in the comment section!

Miami Beach Resorts
Miami Beach Resorts

 

The sunny shores of the Florida coast always provide a warm welcome. You can visit one of the many resorts for a  peek at the water.

South Beach Restaurants
South Beach Restaurants

 

And when you’re ready to sit for a meal in style, there are many restaurants ready to treat you to the tastes of Miami, especially along Ocean and Collins Avenues in South Beach.

San Francisco Seafood
San Francisco Seafood

 

San Francisco, California provides some fun activities as well as some gorgeous views. Try one of the restaurants along the wharf for some fresh and tasty seafood.

Sausalito
Sausalito

 

Or drive across the bridge a bit into the lovely little town of Sausalito. You’ll get a wonderful view along the way and a memorable sunset as you’re heading back.

Playa Del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen

 

Speaking of sunsets and sunrises, there are some of the most spectacular ones you’ll ever see in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. The beaches are the stuff of dreams, wide, soft, white sands that seem to go on forever.

Maya Food
Maya Food

 

And while you can always find delicious Mexican and international cuisine near at hand, stroll on over to the lively Fifth Street area and give the local Maya cuisine a try. It’s colorful, tasty, and lots of fun.

Cliffs of Moher Ireland
Cliffs of Moher Ireland

 

When Irish eyes are smiling, it’s probably at least in part because of the amazing coastal views. Ireland has dubbed its tremendous coastal route The Wild Atlantic Way, and you can now travel along the entire route. We made a stop on a fabulously sunny day at the incredible Cliffs of Moher.

Irish Tucker
Irish Tucker

 

Then helped ourselves to so traditional Irish delights, including Guinness, of course. There are many small coastal towns with spectacular cuisine, some known worldwide for their seafood like Dingle and Kinsale.

Lunch on a Gulet
Lunch on a Gulet

 

Try something different like having your meal on a boat. In Bodrum, Turkey there are long wooden boats known as gulets that you can rent for a day, a week, or whatever. If you have a group it can be quite affordable. And let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like having fresh caught fish served to you while you watch the water as you cruise along the Aegean or Mediterranean coast.

San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan, Puerto Rico

 

San Juan, Puerto Rico provides an astounding array of delights. From the gorgeous coastal areas, you can lounge and dine at your leisure.

Fresh Donuts in Puerto Rico
Fresh Donuts

 

Or if you’re an early riser, you might just catch the donut guy selling freshly made baked goods out of the back of his truck.

Puerto Rican Cuisine
Puerto Rican Cuisine

 

There are plenty of restaurants in Old San Juan to sample the local fare, dance the night away, and enjoy the views, inside and out.

 

 

Singapore Marina Bay Sands
Singapore Marina Bay Sands

 

For a real eye-popping view, Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands wins a top prize. And by top, we mean that their restaurant is on the top of a skyscraper and gives you the kind of view you only imagine most of the time.

Daniel Boulud Burger
Daniel Boulud Burger

 

And if you’re tired of all the hawkers, you can always stop for something familiar, like a gourmet burger from Daniel Boulud.

Dubai
Dubai

 

While you might find it a bit too hot to hang around the shoreline in Dubai, UAE, there are plenty of delicious options, including fresh fruit and juices you find everywhere.

NOBU
NOBU

 

Or indulge in one of Dubai’s many outstanding restaurants, such as NOBU>

Espit Chupitos Barcelona
Espit Chupitos Barcelona

 

To finish the night off in Barcelona by the beach, you might want to stop in at Espit Chupitos, a local bar that doesn’t even open until after 10 pm. You can set your night ablaze with a flaming Ferrari.

Tapas and Cerveza
Tapas and Cerveza

 

Or finish off your night with a more mild visit to one of the lovely little cafes where you can end with some tapas and cerveza. Whatever coastal route you choose, there are plenty of delightful eats by the shore. Let us know some of your favorites!

THE QUICK BITE: Whatever you’re in the mood for eating, it always tastes better when you’re at the shore. Here are some of our favorite shoreline locales and tasty treats.

 

One of the most beloved and creatively utilized foods in the world is bacon. From country to country and meal to meal, those who are aficionados find new and intriguing uses for that cured porcine product sometimes known affectionately as “meat candy.” Sometimes it’s crispy, sometimes soft. Sometimes it’s savory, sometimes it’s sweet. And it doesn’t even have to be pork – as we’ll show you below.

Take a little trip with us around the world of bacon and see bacon around the world!

Bacon is known for its versatility as a way to start the day.

Bacon and French Toast
Part of a Full Breakfast

Many folks like to start their day with a traditional breakfast meal.

Crispy Pancetta with Breakfast
Crispy Pancetta with Breakfast

Or you can serve it up with a tasty little twist by using Italian pancetta!

Canadian Bacon in Eggs Benedict
Canadian Style in Eggs Benedict

For something special and elegant, it’s nice to use a soft Canadian style for tasty Eggs Benedict. In its many varieties and limitless uses, this hearty meat has certainly found its way to breakfast tables around the world.

But it makes a great addition to other meals too. It’s hard to beat a delicious “BLT” sandwich

Bacon Cheese Burger
Bacon Cheese Burger

unless, of course, it’s from the toppings on a ridiculously delicious cheeseburger.

Rashers
Rashers

Folks in some parts of the world enjoy soft-cooked “rashers”

Bacon on Pizza
Crispy Bits on Pizza

While others like a crispy accent on dishes like pizza

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Crisply Wrapped Around Jumbo Shrimp

or wrapped around other foods like dates or shrimp.

Peameal Bacon
The Celebrated Peameal Variety

Sometimes it is treated like a celebrity, such as the famous peameal sandwich at the Carousel Bakery in Toronto, Canada.

Iberico Jamon Bacon
The Iberico Jamon Version Is A Reason To Celebrate

Other times, it is just a cause for celebration, like when it is made from incredibly delicious Jamon Iberico de Bellotta from Spain.

Bacon Cheese Slider Chips
Tasty Burger Slider Chips

It makes a great flavoring for a savory snack, like when it’s included in a creative potato chip.

Crispy Bacon Salad
Crispy Bits On A Healthy Salad

And it can be part of a healthy meal, like when it’s sprinkled on a salad.

Bloody Mary at the Met Bar in Boston courtesy of Hal Evans
Bloody Mary at the Met Bar in Boston courtesy of Hal Evans

It  can be used as a hearty garnish for a cocktail

Bacon Vodka
Vodka At The Center of the Drink

or can even be the main ingredient in a cocktail!

It doesn’t even have to be made of pork, though some might argue that vegetarian styles made from seitan, tofu, or carrot aren’t really bacon.

Schmacon
Schmacon

Others would just say Bacon, Schmacon, as they name their product, which is made from beef.

And there are many sweet ways to finish off with this treat too. From ice cream and cupcakes

Bacon Maple Donut
Bacon Maple Donut

to donuts,

Candied Bacon Lollipop
Lollipops

and lollipops,

Belgian Bacon Chocolate
Belgian Bacon Chocolate

and even sweet Belgian chocolate, bacon is one of the most versatile foods in the global culinary world.

We’re sure you’ve got other delicious examples. Show us your favorite creations. We’d love to hear from you!

THE QUICK BITE: One of the most beloved and creatively utilized foods in the world is, bacon.

It’s the time of year we pull out our favorite fall cooking appliance – the slow cooker! While you may not immediately think about it, the slow cooker is a great source of global cuisine. Chicken Cacciatore, Beef Bourguignon, Chickpea Stew,  Thai Curry, Chicken Tagine, Italian Wedding Soup, and much more can all be made easily and conveniently with the help of this wonderful kitchen appliance.

Our Well-Used Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker
Our Well-Used Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker

One of our classic fall comfort meals is chili and cornbread. Making chili in a slow cooker is such a breeze that we’ve developed many different versions using a variety of spices and ingredients. Here’s one of our favorite recipes that is actually vegetarian. It’s so filling and delicious that even carnivores will be satisfied, but it’s easy to add cooked shredded or ground meat of your choice if you like. Southwestern spices to provide a Tex-Mex flavor fest that will warm you up and make you happily full. It’s easy to put it in the slow cooker and let it sit all day while you go about enjoying other activities.

Southwestern Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

The ingredients and spices we provide are the ones we like and use often. This is the kind of recipe that’s difficult to mess up, so if you have other veggies you’d like to add go right ahead. And, if you want a meaty version, just add cooked ground or shredded beef, pork, chicken, or turkey and it will integrate the flavors just fine.

Set it and forget it Slow Cooker Chili
Set it and forget it Slow Cooker Chili

Ingredients

1 large white onion, chopped
2 small cans tomato paste
2-4 large cloves fresh garlic, chopped
3 large carrots, diced
3-4 celery stalks, diced
1 can of dark or light kidney beans
1 can red beans 1 can Great Northern beans
1 can pinto beans 1 cup cut green beans
1 1/2 cup frozen or canned corn kernels (thawed or drained) roasted corn kernels are great too
2 Tablespoons ground cumin
2 Tablespoons chili powder
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 can tomato puree
2 Tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
*1 Tablespoon pickled sliced jalapeños

*Be careful to choose the heat level you want. These come in mild or spicy varieties. If you want it really hot, use about a teaspoon of the juice from the spicy ones – thatʼll make your eyes water. Use less or the mild version or just the peppers and not the juice for a milder chili. You can also leave this out. Be sure you know the heat level of your chili powder too – it could be just spicy enough for you. Adjust to your own taste buds.

Directions

1. Chop onion and garlic.

2. In 2 Tablespoons of oil brown garlic lightly then add onions and brown them. If you want to add ground meat, do it now and cook until crumbled and light brown.  If you want to add shredded meat, cook it beforehand and put the shredded cooked meat into the pan until it is warmed through.

3. Place all the other ingredients and the onions/garlic (and meat if using) into your slow cooker.

4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Southwestern Slow Cooker Veggie Chili
Southwestern Slow Cooker Veggie Chili

Condiments While some people eat their chili “straight-up” we love to put all kinds of toppings on ours. You can choose from this list or add any others that you prefer. It can be fun to create a “condiments bar” and let people choose from the flavors they want to customize their own chili. grated cheese sour cream diced raw onions or crispy fried onions strings chopped fresh cilantro shredded lettuce tomato salsa or pico de gallo garlicky croutons tortilla strips diced fresh tomatoes lemon or lime wedges for squeezing.

This makes a great meal after a long hard day at work, to eat while watching a sporting event, or just hanging out with friends. An added bonus is that it stores well and tastes even better the next day!

There are plenty of slow cookers and crockpots on the market choose the one that fits your needs the best.

THE QUICK BITE: Making chili in a slow cooker is a breeze. We’ve developed many different versions using a variety of spices and ingredients. Try out this Southwestern version that is even vegetarian!

Pin it to your favorite food board on Pinterest

Book Review

by Diana Laskaris

Dining at the White House

As most of you know, I’m a huge fan of the interplay between history and food. My love for Thomas Jefferson’s Creme Brûlée and tales of the Founding Foodie knows no bounds.

Well, thanks to the folks at Life Reloaded Specialty Publishing who provided me with a digital review copy of the book Dining at the White House: From The President’s Table To Yours, I got the chance to see behind the scenes of more modern culinary pursuits like cooking for first families and their guests as experienced by White House Chef John Moeller, who spent more than a decade on the job. He was there through three separate Presidential administrations, from 1992 until 2005.

Think about it. Three different chief executives, their families, friends, and guests. Making meals that meet their needs and desires. Staying innovative and inspired. Keeping everyone happy. Getting dishes out on time and on budget… I can barely manage to deal with the idiosyncrasies of my own family – much less three families of such distinction.

A Presidential Plate
A Presidential Plate

It’s a great book, one that has won awards for both best cookbook for the year and best celebrity memoir of the year by prestigious independent literary organizations.  It’s a super fun read that I enjoyed for a number of reasons, which I’ll share with you.

First, readers get Chef Moeller’s insider details that, though respectful and modest, still titillate those of us prone to enjoying food porn.

Chef Moeller
Chef Moeller

For instance, Chef Moeller describes the preparation of a meal for the 1999 Sara Lee Front-runner Awards luncheon, indicating that the social secretary was “especially delighted” that Julia Child was among the day’s guests. Chef Moeller didn’t have time to worry about that; he was busy making sure that the event meal was being prepared and served properly.

He must have done a bang-up job because Mrs. Child decided she would like to visit the kitchen, and compliment the culinary team. They even took a picture to prove it! This was a meal served during the time that the Clintons were the first family and the Chef  must have been gratified, even just a little, to see a note from Julia Child to Hillary Rodham Clinton, which is shown in the book, stating that she was “delighted to find the White House sparkling, and the service beautiful and attentive, and the food delicious.” Okay, so I’m not and never will be a White House chef, but that gave me chills.

Julia Child with the White House Kitchen Team
Julia Child with the White House Kitchen Team

That is just the first of many wonderful stories and experiences shared by Chef Moeller about his time at the White House. And, as if a peek into the inner workings of White House cookery wasn’t enough, Chef Moeller includes stories and recipes covering the George H.W. Bush, Clinton, and George W. Bush years. From breakfast orders for resident guests to formal dinners honoring former presidents, you’ll find tales and tastes to satisfy your curiosity. I have to admit, even just seeing Poached Maine Lobster on a plate with the presidential seal on it made me feel like I was getting a glimpse of culinary history myself.

Congressional Picnics, Movie Night at the White House, Dinner on the occasion of the Summit of the Americas, and more are seen through the eyes of someone who did the meal planning, preparing, and even serving of some of the world’s most important people. Recipes include everything from tamale salad to black truffle-scented Merlot sauce.

Cooking for Presidents
Cooking for Presidents

Whether your curiosity is piqued by meals conceived and carried out in the White House, personal stories from in the trenches, seeing the development of Hillary Rodham Clinton’s vision of “American Fusion” cuisine, or just want some amazing recipes to try so you can eat like the first family, Dining at the White House has much to offer. Check it out and let us know what you think.

If you’d like to try out one of the Chef’s recipes for yourself, how about giving this a try.

Pan-Seared Bison Loin with Madeira Sauce
Pan-Seared Bison Loin with Madeira Sauce

Pan-Seared Bison Loin with Madeira Sauce

Pan-Seared Bison Loin
Serves 6
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

3 (10-ounce) bison strip steaks
2 tablespoons canola oil
Salt and freshly milled black pepper

Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Season steaks with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Place steaks in the pan, and sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium rare. Transfer to a plate, and rest for 5 minutes.

Madeira Sauce
Serves 6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

2 teaspoons unsalted butter
2 shallots, thinly sliced
5 peppercorns
1 sprig of fresh thyme
½ cup Madeira wine
1 cup prepared demi-glace
Salt and freshly milled black pepper

Melt butter in a medium saucepot over medium heat. Add shallots, and sauté 4 to 5 minutes, until lightly browned. Add peppercorns and thyme, and sauté another 2 minutes. Add wine, and bring to boil for 10 minutes, or until reduced by 80%. Add demi-glace, return to boil, and decrease the heat to simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Strain into another saucepot, cover, and keep warm over low heat.

Disclosure: I was provided a digital review copy of this book. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions are my own.

All Photos and recipes courtesy Chef John Moeller and LifeReloaded Specialty Publishing. The book is available on Amazon.

THE QUICK BITE: Go behind the scenes of cooking for first families and their guests, discover insights and explore recipes with White House Chef John Moeller, who spent more than a decade on the job in Dining at the White House: From the President’s Table to Yours.

 

Wherever you are in the world, chances are there are certain foods that not only fill your stomach, but also fill you with a personal warmth, a feeling of being loved and happy. We call these comfort foods, and they can be found in every culture. While some of us may crave the comfort foods we know from our childhood or family gatherings, we thought it would be great to show you some comfort foods from around the world. As you’ll see there are often similarities among the types of dishes, ingredients and preparations that make a comfort food, well, comforting! Have a look….

Comfort Foods Around the World

Beet Soup also known as Borscht
Beet Soup also known as Borscht

 

Soup is so comforting on a chilly day. There are many types of soup all over the world that use locally grown and favorite ingredients. Beet soup or borscht as it may be called is popular in Eastern Europe, like this one that we had in Kiev in the Ukraine.

Fresh Made Bread - Indian Roti
Fresh Made Bread – Indian Roti

 

Fresh made bread is also  a favorite. Here is an Indian roti made from chickpea flour being heated right on the stove.

Burrata Cheese from Puglia Italy
Burrata Cheese from Puglia Italy

 

Cheese can be an ingredient in many comfort foods, or it can be treated like a dish in itself, like this Burrata cheese made in the town of Puglia Italy. Burrata is like a fresh mozzarella that a has cream and shreds of cheese inside. It’s one of our favorites!

 

Frites
Frites

 

Potatoes area a wonderful comfort food that much of the world enjoys. They can be baked, mashed, fried, put into a casserole, soup or stew. One of the best ways to enjoy them is when they are cut into strips known as frites or fries. The Belgians have a special double-frying process that makes them extra crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

 

Irish Guinness Stew
Irish Guinness Stew

 

Stew is a hearty meal that warms the heart. Whether made from vegetables, fish or meat, stews can contain any combination of comforting ingredients like this Irish Stew from Dublin that contains Guinness stout beer.

 

Biscuits
Biscuits

 

Biscuits can be sweet or savory. They’re delicious with butter, jam, cream or cheese. And, they make a great snack any time of the day.

 

Rice
Rice with Vegetables in Cuba

 

In many parts of the world, rice is the staple of a meal. It can be plain and white like in Japan, paired with corn and beans, part of a soup or stew, or served with ingredients mixed right in like this delicious rice with vegetables from Cuba.

Hot Roasted Chestnuts
Hot Roasted Chestnuts

 

Hot roasted foods straight off the cart are very comforting. From New York City to Shanghai, roasted corn, potatoes or chestnuts, like these being made right in front of us in Istanbul Turkey, are a delicious treat.

Fish and Chips
Fish and Chips

 

While Fish and Chips (aka fries or frites) can be enjoyed in many places around the world it’s still probably most associated with  our friends in the United Kingdom, some of whom make it beautiful to look at as well as deliciously comforting to eat.

Sonoran Dog - Tuscon
Sonoran Dog – Tuscon

 

Speaking of comfort food that has been elevated, the hot dog has made its way through the United States and elsewhere as a staple. Many places have their own special toppings like the Chicago Dog or this Sonoran Dog found only in Tucson Arizona, using a specific type of bun as well as locally favored ingredients.

Porridge - Congee
Porridge – Congee

 

Porridge, or congee as it is often called in Asia, is a very adaptable comfort food. It can be plain or savory and served for just about any meal. This delicious version from Beijing China has fruits and seeds, making it a yummy dessert.

Steak and Potato in Taiwan
Steak and Potato in Taiwan

 

For meat eaters, there may be nothing quite as comforting as the classic “Steak and Potato.” Maybe that’s why you can find this combination in many places, including 168 SteakHouse in Taiwan. And they have branded their baked potato to prove it!

Brunch
Brunch

 

For those of us who are just not morning people, the idea of brunch – a combination of breakfast and lunch – is perfection itself. Brunch dishes are ultimately comforting, substantial and combine great ingredients like eggs, meat, vegetable and bread with a delicate an lovely touch. Eggs Benedict is a classic brunch dish, that can be personalized with anything from Canadian bacon to crab cakes beneath the deliciously poached eggs and hollandaise or other sauce.

 

Fruit Desserts
Fruit Desserts

 

Fruit-filled desserts are a comforting way to sweeten up your day. In some places, they are a nationally recognized dish, such as apple strudel in Austria.

Chicago Deep Dish Pizza from Pizzeria Uno
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza from Pizzeria Uno

 

Pizza comes in many sizes, shapes and topped with many ingredients. But the folks in Chicago are known for their versions that are deep and thick cheesy, tomatoey, crusty pies, so big that one piece is often enough for a whole meal.

 

 

 

Loukomades - Fried Dough
Loukomades – Fried Dough

 

Fried dough that has a sweet element is found all over the world. With tasty variations there are bunuelos, fritters, donuts, churros, and many more.  These tasty little fried dough balls are Loukomades from Greece, doused in a honey syrup that makes the crunchy sweet dough even more comforting.

Sweets - Maple Snow in Canada
Sweets – Maple Snow in Canada

 

And, of course, a perfect way to sweeten the world would be for everyone to enjoy a little candy. Almost everyone has a sweet tooth, and those like the folks in Canada, have made a fun little activity out of making your own candy by putting thick local maple syrup on snow and rolling it onto a popsicle stick to make your own sweet treat.

 

THE QUICK BITE:  Take a tasty trip around the world with us to see the  similarities among the types of dishes, ingredients and preparations that make a comfort food that satisfies tummies as well as hearts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes just the smell of fresh baked bread is enough to make your mouth water. Walking by a bakery early in the morning where the warm loaves are lined up in the window and the open door allows the scent of crusty wonderment to flow freely through it can be more than an invitation – it can be a command.

Homemade Soft Bread Loaf
Homemade Soft Bread Loaf

 

But we often think that it’s way too much effort to make our own bread. It involves too many steps, takes too long, is just not worth it. Well, depending on the bread you’re trying to make that may be true for you. But we’ve made this delicious simple recipe and it was all in all, easy. It was also worth it when we got to smell the fresh bread baking in the oven, touch the warm loaf as we sliced it and, enjoyed the fresh pure taste of a lightly buttered slice toasted just so.

Toast Slice
Toasty Slice

 

Tasting breads from around the world is one of our favorite food travel treats. So why not make your home just as delicious a destination. This basic recipe is very versatile. It can be used for sandwich bread or dinner rolls, or fancied up with cinnamon swirls or herbs.

Try this recipe and let us know if you think it was worth it. We sure do!

Soft White Loaf

If you are using loaf pans ( 8 1/2 x 4 1/2) this recipe will make two loaves 1 1/4 pounds each. Be sure to spray the pans with cooking spray or oil before you put the dough in them.

You will want to start by making a starter. In bread making it’s the starter that gives your loves their bounce!

Ingredients for Starter

2 1/4 cups + 2 1/2 Tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups room temperature water
2 Tablespoons + 1 teaspoon honey
3/4 teaspoon instant yeast

Directions for Starter

Combine the flour water, honey and instant yeast in a large bowl. Whisk (by hand or with whisk tool on hand or stand mixer) until smooth and well mixed, like a thick pancake batter, for about 2 minted. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set aside.

Ingredients for Dough

2 cups + 3 Tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 cup dry nonfat milk
3/4 teaspoon instant yeast
9 Tablespoons softened unsalted butter
2 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 Tablespoon melted butter

Dinner Rolls
Dinner Rolls

 

Directions

In a medium sized bowl, whisk the flour (if whisking by hand and not using the whisk on a hand or stand blender set aside 1/4 cup of the flour), dry milk and instant yeast. Sprinkle the floor mixture onto the starter and recover tightly with the plastic wrap. Allow it to set for 1 to 4 hours at room temperature. It will begin to bubble through the flour you sprinkled on top.

Mixing the dough.

If using a stand mixer, add the butter to the bowl and mix with the dough hook on low speed for 1 minute or until the flour comes together to forum a rough dough. Scrape down the bowl and incorporate it all. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow to rest for 20 minutes.  Then sprinkle on salt and knead the dough on medium speed for 7 to 10 minutes. It will be very sticky until the very end. If it is still too sticky, add a little flour. If it is too dry, sprinkle a little water. Knead until it forms a smooth ball.

If mixing by hand, add the salt and butter to the bowl and stir with your hand until flour is moist and knead in the bowl until the dough comes together. Put dough on a lightly flour counter and knead for 5 minutes, adding just enough extra flour to keep it from sticking. When it is a smooth ball, cover it with the upside down bowl and let it rest for 20 minutes. Then knead for another 5 minutes until very smooth and elastic. It will still be a little sticky, but if too sticky add a little of the reserved flour.

First rise.

When the dough has formed either way, place it into a 4-quart or larger bowl that is lightly oiled with cooking spray or oil. Lightly spray the dough as well .Cover with a fowl, lid or plastic wrap and mark the bowl where double the height would be.  Allow the dough to rise for 1 to 2 hours or until it reaches the mark.

Cinnamon Roll
Cinnamon Roll

 

Shaping and second rise.

When the dough has doubled in size, pour it out of the bowl and cut it in half. Shape each piece into a loaf by lightly rolling it into a wide rectangle that will fit into the pans. Pop any large bubbles and smooth over. Place the loaves into the oiled pans. It will be about 1/2 inch from the top. Cover the pans loosely with oiled plastic wrap and allow them to rise until the center is about 1 inch taller than the side of the pan, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Set the shelf at the lowest level in the oven and place a baking sheet on it. Then put a baking sheet on the bottom of the oven. Preheat to 350 degrees F for 45 minutes before baking.

Bake.

Put the two loaf pans on the hot baking sheet and put 1/2 cup of ice cubes into the pan on bottom of the oven. Do this quickly to avoid letting heat out of the oven. Bake for 50 minutes or until the loaves are golden brown. Half-way through, turn the pans around for even baking.  When a wooden toothpick poked into the middle comes out clean and the loaves are golden, they are done. Remove and put the loaf pans on a wire rack. Brush the tops with the melted butter. When they are cool enough to touch, remove from the pans and allow them to cool topside up on the wire rack until just warm, about an hour.

Think of all the ways you can serve the bread while it is baking and enjoy!

THE QUICK BITE: Try this versatile recipe for delicious soft homemade bread and enjoy the smell and taste of fresh baked bread in your own home. It’s easier than you think!

 

There’s something captivating about night festivals and events. Whether you’re enjoying music and a picnic in the park, seeing exotic offerings or sipping hot wine under bright glittering lights, night festivals offer a whole new perspective on food travel. Here we show you a few of our favorites.

Night Festival
Scorpions At the  Beijing Donghuamen Night Market

Donghuamen Night Market

One of the  most exotic night markets can be found in China. The Donghuamen Night Market is located in the northern end of Wangfujing in Beijing. There are many familiar Chinese delicacies on display such as spring rolls, dumplings, crab cakes and candy fruit. But what makes this market so memorable is its unusual food stalls offering such different tastes as deep fried crickets, centipedes, silk worms, scorpions, lizards and starfish on a stick. Whether you want to try some of these unusual tastes or are just there to enjoy the view, this is one night market you certainly won’t be able to call boring.
 
 

German Christmas Markets

Germany becomes a magical place of twinkling lights, hot mulled wine, and tasty treats around Christmas time. There are more than 100 Christmas markets, with even the tiniest town celebrating in style. Here are a few of our favorites.

Night Festivals
Frankfort Christmas Market

Frankfurt

One of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, the Frankfurt market has been making people happy for over 600 years. It is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe. With more than 200 stalls of arts and crafts, food and drink and a 30-meter high Christmas tree it’s easy to see why. Concerts are given from the balcony of St. Nicholas Church, and the Gluhwein, gingerbread, baked apples, kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), sausages and many delicious treats are everywhere.

 

Night Festivals
The cable car ride at sunset in Rudesheim is just beautiful.

Rüdesheim

This Christmas market winds through the town, dotted with stores and stalls selling food, handcrafts, candy and more. Set in the chocolate-box old quarter, there’s a certain romance to the sparkling evening. You can even enjoy a cable car ride and enjoy the sunset before you start on the evening’s enjoyments. And, while sampling the many international treats, don’t miss out on the famous Rüdesheim Coffee, made with locally distilled Asbach Uralt Brandy, and whipped cream, ideal for warming you up on a cold evening.

 

Night Festival
Mainz outdoor eating in giant wine casks.

Mainz

The Mainz Christmas market can be smelled before it’s even seen. The scent of roasting almonds, gingerbread, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine waft through the air of this busy Christmas festival. Despite the fact that the festival is also open during the daytime, all the action really happens at night. The stalls are lit, the Christmas tree glows and the giant wooden Christmas pyramid filled with carved figures. Concerts and music are a big part of this festival, and you can hear fair-goers singing while eating and drinking all that Mainz has to offer.

 

Wiesbaden twinkling lilies
Wiesbaden twinkling lilies

Wiesbaden

The most spectacular feature of the Sternschnuppenmarkt inWiesbaden has to be the incredible Twinkling Stars from which it gets its name. The symbol of the city is the lily, and brightly lit giant lilies adorn the streets making it a spectacle that captures the imagination. The many food stalls of the festival offer hot mulled wine, crepes and grilled sausages, pork and other specialties. It’s truly a feast for eyes and tastes buds.

 

Night Festivals
Chicago’s Dinner in White

Dîner En Blanc/Dinner in White

The original Dîner En Blanc was begun 25 years ago in Paris by a handful of friends. The idea is to dress in white and go to a secret destination revealed at the last minute and have a chic picnic in public. Now there are nearly 15,000 people each year, eating at such amazing venues as the Eiffel Tower, Place Vendôme, the Chateau de Versailles and the Esplanade de Notre-Dame. After enjoying an extraordinary evening, each person cleans up their space and the event disappears as though it never happened. The concept has so captured the imaginations of diners everywhere that there are now events in 40 cities worldwide, and it has spawned American counterparts such as Dîner en Noir and Dîner en Sweatpants!

 

Night Festivals
Burning Man

Burning Man

One of the most unusual events you will find at night is Burning Man, a gathering in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, where thousands of participants gated to create a temporary Black Rock City, dedicated to community art, self-expression and self-reliance. One week later, they disappear, leaving no trace behind. The festival has various annual themes, but a consistent activity is fire performance.   “Fire is the Very Heart and Essence Of Life” says the literature and so there are fire ceremonies, processions of ceremonial flame, and most importably, the burning of a large wooden effigy known as  “The Man,” originally representing a spontaneous act of radical self-expression. The event has grown into a huge sort of pop culture activity, complete with theme camps, music, art installations, and, of course, festival tickets (though it is now a nonprofit organization) and rules.   There are so many different night markets, festivals, fairs and events that we’ve only scratched the surface here. We hope you are encouraged to explore the night events in your town as well as those far away that provide an opportunity to put you into the culture of another space. It is certain to provide you with food for your tummy as well as food for thought!

THE QUICK BITE:  From unusual foods to twinkling nights to radical-self expression, night festivals offer something for just about everyone.

We had an opportunity (one that’s rare these days for Americans) to visit Cuba. Because not everyone may have the opportunity to go to Cuba, we want to share as much as we can about our experience there. We have offered one recipe for a traditional dish, Moros y Cristianos. And now we’d like to explain a little about the capital city of Havana.

Havana Capital Building
Havana Capital Building

You may have images of Havana as a city loaded with history and style. And you would be correct. Havana has a population of around 2 million people. Its history is partly played out by the various districts into which Havana is divided. La Habana Vieja, Old Havana, was founded in 1607. It was the seat of Spanish power in colonial times. The area was filled with large churches, courtyards, market squares, fountains, and beautiful architecture.

La Cathedral de Habana
La Cathedral de Habana

Havana became one of the main centers for shipbuilding in the Caribbean and an important commercial center. Old Havana has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are efforts to invest in and rejuvenate the area. Most of the original buildings have been converted into museums, restaurants, and hotels, but the look and feel of the 17th and 18th-century Conquistadors continues even today.

Habana Viejo
Habana Viejo

Another major district is Centro Habana, which is a bit newer, born out of the sugar boom of the 19th century. Around the turn of the Century (1898 brought Cuba’s independence from Spain) Havana became the place to see and be seen, especially by wealthy Americans, including mobsters Bugsy Segal and Meyer Lansky, who helped fuel the area’s prosperity.

Habana Centro Busy Day
Habana Centro Busy Day

Hotels, restaurants, casinos, mansions, and all the elegance of the days’ glitterati earned the title of “Paris of the Caribbean” for then-bustling Havana. The area has severely deteriorated, and the lack of habitable housing is evident. Despite this fact, Centro Habana, like many city centers is the most densely populated part of Havana.

Havana Centro
Havana Centro

Interestingly, Barrio Chino, or Chinatown is located in Centro Habana. Back during the sugar boom, Cantonese workers were brought to work in the cane fields. During that time, Havana had the largest Chinese community in Latin America. Now, there is a small area, only a block or two, with colorful Chinese facades, but very little else ethnically relevant, and no Chinese inhabitants.

Chinatown Havana
Chinatown Havana

We went to a “Chinese” eatery that had some dishes with a “Chinese essence.”  They were accompanied on the menu by other vaguely ethnic cuisines, such as the ubiquitous pizza and spaghetti we encountered throughout Havana.

Shop Suey in Havana
“Shop Suey” in Havana

You can find more traditional Cuban dishes, and even a Cuban sandwich, if you go to a more touristic restaurant like Café TV in downtown Havana.

Cuban at Cafe TV
Cuban at Cafe TV

Cuban Lobster Dish
Cuban Lobster Dish

Here you can be treated to a live broadcast of a musical performance or comedy night.

Cafe TV in Downtown Havana
Cafe TV in Downtown Havana

You would be wise to order a delicious sparkling frozen lemonade to drink with your meal. Cubans like their sweets, and you’ll see ice cream ordered often even during lunchtime.

Sparkling Frozen Lemonade
Sparkling Frozen Lemonade

Cars are a big point of interest for visitors to Havana. Since the U.S. embargo in 1962, some 60,000 “classic” American automobiles are estimated to be on the roads in Cuba, many of them in Havana.

Havana Car
Havana Car

Because of the need to keep the vehicles, sometimes referred to as “yank tanks” or máquinas, rolling, their owners have become exceptionally creative auto mechanics, finding ways to keep the cars going without the proper parts or modern technology. And, because many people don’t have vehicles at all, the ones that are running are often used as taxis and packed with people needing to get from one place to another.

And Another
And Another

Still, it’s quite a site to see when you watch Chevy, Ford, Dodge and other American cars from the 50’s parade past you in a seemingly infinite stream.

Yank Tanks on Parade in Havana
Yank Tanks on Parade in Havana

Life is different in Havana. Resources are scarce. New products and technology are hard to come by. Plumbing is weak. And hot, humid weather can be oppressive. But the people are resilient. And gracious. And colorful. And patient. Our time spent in Havana gave us an opportunity to reflect on one of the main reasons we love to travel – to experience the food and culture of others around the world, and to learn from them. And that, we did.

THE QUICK BITE: We had an opportunity (one that is rare these days for Americans) to visit Cuba. Because not everyone may have the opportunity to go to Cuba, we want to share as much as we can about our experience there. Here we share a little about the capital city of Havana.

You know how it is when you travel. You want to taste everything new and exciting. You want to try that five-star restaurant that is listed in the top 50 restaurants in the world. You want to try everything that you pass from a truck, stand, stall or market. That is, after all, why you are a Food Travelist!

However, too much of a good thing can be not such a good thing. Since we spend much of our time doing exactly what is listed above in our travel, we thought we’d share our list of top 5 tips to help you enjoy your travel eating without having it take a toll on your health.

Buffer The Buffets Healthy Travel Eating
Buffer The Buffets

1. Taste, Don’t Eat

If you’ve got several food stops planned each day during your travel, do your best to moderate the portions of food you are consuming at each stop. Split some dishes with a traveling companion, order a variety of appetizers and small plates rather than an entrée, or take a few bites of each treat on your plate rather than eat all of everything every single time. Moderation is the key.

Get Active Travel
Get Active

2. Stay Physically Active

Be sure you get enough exercise during your travel. This doesn’t mean working out at the hotel gym, though you can if you like. Be the explorer you want to be. Walk around and see as much as you can. If you’re going somewhere that hiking or water sports or biking or other enjoyable physical pursuits are offered, go ahead and enjoy them. Even spending time wandering the local markets is time on your feet that is helpful. Find ways to integrate physical activity into your travel days.

Check Out The Local Markets
Find The Freshest Local Produce

3.  Check Out The Local Markets

Some countries have more natural bounty than others. But most places you visit will have markets where the locals go to get their fresh goods, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and such. See what the locals do and what new and interesting treats there are to try. Your first taste of fresh dragon fruit could be a revelation – and a healthy snack to enjoy rather than something packaged with preservatives. We travel so we can enjoy the taste of travel. Make sure you take advantage of the healthy tastes around you.

Bring Your Own Snacks
Bring Your Own Snacks

4. Take Healthy Snacks With You

For those times when you may not be close to a market, or civilization for that matter, be sure to take your own healthy snacks with you. Make your own trail mix, take nutrition bars, dried fruits, nuts, kale chips – whatever you like to munch on – with you as you enjoy your journey. This will keep you from getting some grab-and-go prepackaged snacks that might be loaded with salt, sugar, and preservatives. Be sure to check around the places you travel to see what healthy snacks are available. There might just be something you want to try that’s good for you.

Know When To Say When
Know When To Say When

5.  Watch Your Alcohol And Drink Lots Of Water

Some of us love the excitement of pairing wine or beer with our food. We love discovering new cocktails in exotic places too. Sometimes we forget that our bodies need to refresh and refuel in order able to do the things we want them to do. If you do like to imbibe, drinking enough water becomes even more important for you. Be sure to take clean, safe water with you wherever you go, whether you need to purchase it in a bottle or can use the local water to fill up your carrier. Invest in a travel water filter if you prefer not to buy plastic bottles or will be somewhere where the alternatives for obtaining clean water are slim. Be sure to intersperse your alcohol consumption with water. When you’re out and about, drink before you are thirsty, and remember that you probably lose more water than you think just wandering around.

Keep yourself fed, watered, rested, and exercised to make the most out of your trip. These are just a few of the tips we’ve used to keep our travels healthy and happy. Please let us know what tips you have as well.

THE QUICK BITE:  Travel is fun and exciting, but it can also sometimes be a challenge to keep healthy. Balance is key, and we provide our 5 top tips for healthy travel eating to make your trip enjoyable.

When the weather is nice, one of the most wonderful ways to enjoy a meal is in the open air. “Al fresco” dining is popular in many countries and the choices for location, style, food and drink are as varied as the diners themselves.

As Food Travelist is a big fan of dining around the world and seeing (and tasting) all it has to offer, we thought we’d share a few of our favorite al fresco dining experiences with you. We hope this sparks your own imagination and gives you some ideas for your own delicious outdoor meals.

Netherlands

Al fresco dining in the Netherlands is enjoyable, especially when at a restaurant near a square where musicians and others abound. Mussels and fries pair perfectly with local beer.

Al Fresco Mussels in Delft
Al Fresco Mussels in Delft

Stunning Vienna

Speaking of music, Vienna is a wonderful city for enjoying the history of many composers who called it home. The Cafe Mozart is just one place perfect for enjoying music in the air.

Cafe Mozart Vienna
Cafe Mozart in Vienna

Caves of Cappadocia

Taking a break to enjoy spectacular views over an al fresco drink is a great idea. And there are no more spectacular views than those in Cappadocia, Turkey. A local brew helps to take it all in!

Cappadocia
View of Cappadocia Scenery with a Brew

Enjoying the Windy City

There are fun ways to enjoy the company of others when dining al fresco. The flash mob “Chicago in White” dinner is one such way. Everyone wears white, packs up their own meal, and waits for their outdoor dining destination to be revealed. Afterward, everyone cleans up, and no one ever knows you were there. There are Diner en Blanc and Diner en Noir events all over the world. Check it out. It’s a lot of fun!

Al Fresco en Masse
Chicago Dinner In White Begins with the Napkin Twirl

People Watching in Brazil

Brazil is known for its beautiful beaches. And there’s no better beautiful beach to enjoy a luscious brunch on than the Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro. Brazilian favorites like fresh fruit, seafood and hearts of palm are consumed just about everywhere there.

Copacabana Brazilian Brunch
Copacabana Brazilian Brunch

Everything’s Better in Paris

The Croque Monsieur seems tailor-made for dining outdoors. A glass of rose, a little side salad, and – Voilà!

Croque Monsier
Croque Monsieur – A Favorite in France

Turkey Delights

Dining onboard a boat is also a wonderful way to take in the fresh air. This fabulous fresh fish meal on a wooden gulet floating in the Aegean is hard to beat.

Onboard Dining
Onboard Dining On The Aegean

Take Us To The Top

Rooftop dining is another popular option. This fantastic deck on top of the Little Goat Diner in Chicago offers great food and great views.

Rooftop Dining
Rooftop Dining Offers Great Views

Parks Are A Pleasure

Picnics are the ultimate in al fresco dining. This one in Vienna was actually provided by our hotel, the Sofitel. And it was delicious!

Picnic in Vienna
Picnic in Vienna – Picture Perfect

Tapping into Tapas

Spain offers some wonderful combinations, from Sangria and Cava to local wine and beer. It’s easy to find a great pairing with local tapas, cheese, and, of course, Jamon Iberico. There are so many great plazas surrounded by restaurants and cafes that are perfect for dining, people-watching, and taking in the scene. Madrid and Barcelona are two of our favorite cities for dining al fresco in Spain.

Tapas and Beer in Spain
Tapas and Beer in Spain

Cafes With A View

Cafes and bistros are a big part of the dining scene all over Paris. The tables often have chairs facing toward the street so that patrons can sit beside each other and watch the world as it goes by while enjoying a pastry and coffee, sandwich, or meal. It’s a fun part of the culture that takes advantage of the bustling city’s atmosphere.

Les Deux Magots Paris Cafe
Les Deux Magots Paris Cafe

Dine With Nature

Some of the most unique restaurants are those that are both indoors and outside at the same time. Figuera in Sao Paulo Brazil offers patio outdoor dining, complete with its namesake giant fig tree, around which glass windows have been built to protect it from the elements. It’s a memorable way to dine while being immersed in nature’s majesty and beauty.

Figueira in Sao Paulo
Figueira in Sao Paulo

Markets Aren’t Just For Shopping

Some of the most unique local foods anywhere can be found at the markets and street vendors’ stands all over the world. From hot roasted chestnuts to starfish on a stick, there are tons of different tastes to try from sellers on the street. From the tame to the adventurous, travelers can get a taste of the locals while walking around and seeing the sites. This night market in Beijing offers various bites, from mainstream to exotic.

Night Market Beijing
Night Market Beijing

We hope we’ve inspired you to think about going outdoors for your meals when the weather permits. Dining al fresco gives you the opportunity to enjoy the many wonderful tastes of travel while at the same time soaking up some of the culture of your destination. Wherever you go, enjoy it all!