tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7890011313840481942024-03-05T09:25:21.898-05:00Edible MomentsWhere life is defined by foodUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-50400795862712410532012-10-02T23:59:00.006-04:002012-10-03T00:13:46.805-04:00Quick and Easy Banana Walnut Muffins - The perfect healthy breakfast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello my lovelies, </div>
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Did you guys have an action packed awesome summer? Or a relaxing and slow paced one? Which ever it was I hope it was everything you wanted it to be :)</div>
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I had a fairly busy summer myself, I worked a full time 9-5 'grown up' job, I volunteered, and I took a summer course, and tried to squeeze in some time for friends to catch up on movies (pretty sure I saw every movie that was out in theatres this summer) and summer memories. :) Oh! And I also got a brand spankin' new macbook pro :D *fan girl squeal* </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Edible-Moments-Blog/185974994746980?v=wall">I also made a facebook fan page which I would love for you guys to head over and 'like' ! ;)</a></span></b></div>
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I also had some not so great moments. In July I got rear-ended in a car accident that gave me some really bad whiplash :( This resulted in far too many visits to the chiropractor's office - but on the bright side I am slowly but surely going back to my 100% self :)</div>
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All of this to say I have had a very very busy summer. Thats why when my parents informed me of their plans for a last minute road trip I was excited (albeit a bit weary of the long drive) to get out of Ottawa for a bit. We drove all the way down to Waterloo to the welcoming home of some old family friends. While there, the Mrs. of the house taught me how to make these delicious banana nut muffins. Whats super great about them is you can use up any bananas that may be going a bit too brown. </div>
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What makes it even better? Its super easy to toss together (a few minutes) and uses only one bowl and comes together fast with a whisk. Same amount of time that it would take to make pancake batter you can have this yummy treat :) I personally loved the taste especially when you consider the simplicity of it. And with back to School/Work season back upon us this make it the perfect healthy treat. Make in the morning (or afternoon) and have a quick, easy, nutritious breakfast on the go. </div>
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<b><u>Quick and Easy Breakfast Banana Muffins</u></b></div>
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<b><i>Ingredients</i></b>: </div>
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* 3 Bananas</div>
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* 2 eggs</div>
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* 2 cups of flour</div>
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* 1 cup of sugar</div>
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* 1/3 cup of oil</div>
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* 1/2 cup of milk</div>
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* 1 tsp of baking soda</div>
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* 1 tsp of baking powder</div>
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<b><i>Toppings/Fillings:</i></b></div>
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- throw in a handful of chocolate chips or walnuts or anything else you want and mix in to the batter. We opted to crush up some walnuts and toss them on as toppings. </div>
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<b><u>Instructions</u></b>:</div>
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1) Mash up the bananas in your bowl with a spoon or fork (or whatever else you like)</div>
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2) Throw in the rest of the ingredients and mix (yup! that easy!) Scoop into paper lined muffin/cupcake tins and bake at 350* until a toothpick comes out clean. (Usually 10 to 15 min depending on your oven temperatures) </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-81086325061030282092012-06-07T16:50:00.001-04:002012-06-07T16:55:47.990-04:00Classic Birthday Cake - Because it's not every day you turn 21!<br />
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Wow. Last update: November 16th. That’s like…what… a bajillion years ago? Ok maybe its more like 7 months but it feels like a bajillion years. And yes bajillion years is really a thing. Google it. </div>
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<br />
So Yes I have been gone for a while. As I mentioned in my last post I had been having a bit of an ‘early life crisis’ and freaking out about everything and anything. I would love to say that I have had life all figured out since then and that I again have another amazing diabolical plan for my future! :D but the truth is, I don’t. Funny part? I don’t even care! It seems like I have had a completely different change of attitude about things since I last posted which in a way makes me happy…it means I’ve grown as a person…I’ve matured. :) Well, at least that’s what Dr. Phil says. Anyways, I’ve come to figure out that life isn’t necessarily about having the perfect plans and reaching those perfect dreams and that not only is it ok to have little ‘hiccups’ and mistakes along the way…its actually an amazing thing.<br />
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A blessing in disguise. Because life would be so boring if everything went the way it should. Now I know some (like myself) prefer things to go as planned (I mean who doesn’t?) but sometimes when they don’t, it forces you to re-evaluate life and see what it is you truly want from it. And if you find you still want the same things as you did before? Well the questioning of your hopes and dreams (and the inevitable delays and mistakes along the way) will make it so that when you end up wherever it is your path takes you…you’ll appreciate your accomplishments that much more! :) <br />
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Hehe, wow. That was actually kind of deep. I was not expecting to go
into all of that but I guess I needed to say it.:D I would also like to
thank all of my readers who emailed me about my hiatus and their loving
and encouraging emails urging me to come back….it means more to me than
you know!! :D I love you guys. *mwah*<br />
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So, aside from all the soul searching, what have I been up to? Well, I have been super busy with school, work, finding a summer job, landing that summer job(yes!) and some family stuff to boot. Oh, and also, I celebrated another birthday :) </div>
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this is actually an ‘old’ cake. I made it for my birthday which was way back on March 6th. I had been super busy with life things around that time and enjoyed a lovely dinner with a few close friends and had a few different cakes with different groups of friends to celebrate! However I felt like I should make myself a cake too….not only because it would give me the chance to do something I love and had not had the time to do in a long time, but also because….hey…its not every day you turn 21 ;)</div>
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I was originally planning on going all fancy…pink swirl frosting? 2 layered fondant cake? Triple chocolate mousse? But then I decided to go with an old-fashioned staple for birthday cakes. Yellow cake with chocolate frosting. And some pretty sprinkles for good measure :) <br />
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I really loved the cake…the texture was heavy but moist…the perfect birthday cake. It paired quite nicely with this sour cream chocolate frosting….the tangy ness gave it a certain…je ne sais quoi…. Definitely a perfect ‘traditional’ birthday cake !</div>
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So, that’s about that on my end of things! How have you guys been? Celebrate any birthdays? Oh! And very important before I forget – 21 feels like a bit of a milestone birthday for me so I was wondering for all of you who have passed it…any advice for this sweet toothed girl? Any and all will be appreciated whether you are 25 or <strike>45 </strike>35 ;) </div>
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<h2>
<b>Best Yellow Layer Cake</b></h2>
<a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2009/07/best-birthday-cake/">(SOURCE</a>) <br />
Yield: Two 9-inch round, 2-inch tall cake layers, and, in theory, 22
to 24 cupcakes, two 8-inch squares or a 9×13 single-layer cake<br />
<br />
* 4 cups plus 2 tablespoons (480 grams) cake flour (not self-rising)<br />
* 2 teaspoons (10 grams) baking powder<br />
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda<br />
* 1 teaspoon (5 grams) table salt<br />
* 2 sticks (1 cup, 1/2 pound or 225 grams) unsalted butter, softened<br />
* 2 cups (400 grams) sugar<br />
* 2 teaspoons (10 ml) pure vanilla extract<br />
* 4 large eggs, at room temperature<br />
* 2 cups buttermilk (475 ml), well-shaken<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter two 9-inch round cake pans and line
with circles of parchment paper, then butter parchment. (Alternately,
you can use a cooking spray, either with just butter or butter and flour
to speed this process up.)<br />
<br />
Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium
bowl. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar in a large bowl
with an electric mixer at medium speed until pale and fluffy, then beat
in vanilla. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating well and scraping down the
bowl after each addition. At low speed, beat in buttermilk until just
combined (mixture will look curdled). Add flour mixture in three
batches, mixing until each addition is just Incorporated.<br />
<br />
Spread batter evenly in cake pan, then rap pan on counter several
times to eliminate air bubbles. (I like to drop mine a few times from
two inches up, making a great big noisy fuss.) Bake until golden and a
wooden pick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, 35 to 40
minutes. Cool in pan on a rack 10 minutes, then run a knife around edge
of pan. Invert onto rack and discard parchment, then cool completely,
about 1 hour.<br />
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<h2>
Sour Cream Chocolate Frosting</h2>
<a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/sour-cream-chocolate-frosting/">(source)</a><br />
<ul>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
4 tablespoons butter</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1/2 cup sour cream</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
2 3/4 cups confectioners' sugar</li>
</ul>
<span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Melt chocolate and the butter
together. Let cool and blend in the sour cream, vanilla, and salt.
Gradually add the confectioner's sugar until the frosting is of
spreading consistency, beat well.
</span><br />
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P.S. I made a video! It was a spur of the moment with my iphone thing :p<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-91447734386627057942011-11-16T23:57:00.000-05:002011-11-16T23:57:30.179-05:00Quick and Easy One Bowl Chocolate Cake and my Early-life crisis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIkdhXxb1J55IVn_Yznac9VK8KlGpkIjnp1upvHjwpzHddzpYIRttCjrlSu51rqwd4dzcG3QrivmfX0rzWSSUNLG5pMAzo7cMdAHTc-r8tfenowrpXfsY9TUX-anLYoknZzy_m8GptJTz/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIkdhXxb1J55IVn_Yznac9VK8KlGpkIjnp1upvHjwpzHddzpYIRttCjrlSu51rqwd4dzcG3QrivmfX0rzWSSUNLG5pMAzo7cMdAHTc-r8tfenowrpXfsY9TUX-anLYoknZzy_m8GptJTz/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Its been a while hasn’t it? I’ve missed you guys very much :) I apologize for the delay the past few months have been quite….hectic. I’ve been going through quite a few things in my personal life that have left me without much time or desire (gasp!) to bake and blog. But that’s all going to change now. Hopefully.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>To make a big story short, my biggest problem right now is that I do not know what to do. For those of you who know me well you will know that I am the kind of girl who thinks 5, 6, 8 and 10 steps ahead. I like to have a plan. Having a plan makes me happy. And as such, I have always made and modified and perfected my ‘life plan’. Many have laughed at me, others were puzzled at this teenage girl whose got her life planned and goals set for age 30 age 40 and beyond (when many adults still do not have it figured out).<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkZgD5Yt0LPCsgp9uE8ynhmKnfdq6f0SvViqW-8nyLX9dy_mbUgHBBaevdA5NI1QSuwhRF7sxlQ0D71vxiwoOoDPxDM-fgZDDrwiKa-rybVdmDXIBMRWu7JGzrtjOCoaoPgJgknTOT_Cl/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkZgD5Yt0LPCsgp9uE8ynhmKnfdq6f0SvViqW-8nyLX9dy_mbUgHBBaevdA5NI1QSuwhRF7sxlQ0D71vxiwoOoDPxDM-fgZDDrwiKa-rybVdmDXIBMRWu7JGzrtjOCoaoPgJgknTOT_Cl/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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So what is this plan? Well, I’ve had it planned out since 9th grade so I can tell you quite clearly. Step 1 : Obtain really good grades in high school in order to go to university and get scholarships (check!) Step 2: Get a 4 years degree (in law and Politics) and work your ass off to get high grades and a ‘competitive’ record. (check!) Step 3: Apply to Law School, Step 4: Go to Law School, Step 5: Get a prestigious job in one of the best Law Firms in Bay Street Toronto (Canada’s equivalent to the big shot law firms in Manhattan NYC) I could go on and on and on about how this plan I have planned oh so well, but there would be no point. I have come to the conclusion that I will NOT be pursing this path anymore!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMFzh9HBR_nNBj-dBNVoUHHcCuvsDl1V67GbuXJkArWqGkf8Ohg6zCLn8Et1tQhmengrkaTdXsPWVDbrNcGTZJ3BJnLasJMVuRqDnsjvMsMB2M7fmnw3uAopbRJgzOpYeb-8vkGkosCni/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMFzh9HBR_nNBj-dBNVoUHHcCuvsDl1V67GbuXJkArWqGkf8Ohg6zCLn8Et1tQhmengrkaTdXsPWVDbrNcGTZJ3BJnLasJMVuRqDnsjvMsMB2M7fmnw3uAopbRJgzOpYeb-8vkGkosCni/s640/4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsrFt4N4w5nAX7Jj9Un78RVXTUuvxgCy74tpzqa8G7mgWKDwbWOxmcvfMjBE50ONTfvBtTfmqaYquiznRsSieLBT1vVw99Wy4AcEASiT9hO-jLkbQkK0wp6VEQaut8pWbHCVH85fAXp26/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsrFt4N4w5nAX7Jj9Un78RVXTUuvxgCy74tpzqa8G7mgWKDwbWOxmcvfMjBE50ONTfvBtTfmqaYquiznRsSieLBT1vVw99Wy4AcEASiT9hO-jLkbQkK0wp6VEQaut8pWbHCVH85fAXp26/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Early this summer I ended up having not a mid-life crisis, but an ‘early-life crisis’. I’m not sure I could fully explain the thought process (and believe me there was a lot of it!) but I realized that I no longer had a desire to become a lawyer! The optimistic side of me says that perhaps it’s a good thing I realized this before going to law school, going $150,000 in debt, and THEN realize I did not like it. But I cant help feeling very sad and a bit scared about all this. It is a very scary thing to go from having a plan only to have it go down the drain. Especially considering the fact that I am in my last year in my undergraduate degree, I am so very very very close to law school and all of my dreams, but now I feel I no longer want it? So what do I want? I have no idea. And for someone who NEEDS to have a plan….this is a very scary time.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVE1UFHqF5_5JXhD9wUa-Bp7yTYkrUJBqobGdRy7bQ569edzItgiTOgYV7NKsGlVs8rv3H0yyIlmqGz2farrs8p_o1_8JVG-Y0QUxqyY1zjDtWX7Ek7mkXK0FLj8KJO7nB9l_0Fi-Lf-R/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVE1UFHqF5_5JXhD9wUa-Bp7yTYkrUJBqobGdRy7bQ569edzItgiTOgYV7NKsGlVs8rv3H0yyIlmqGz2farrs8p_o1_8JVG-Y0QUxqyY1zjDtWX7Ek7mkXK0FLj8KJO7nB9l_0Fi-Lf-R/s640/9.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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Well perhaps to say that I have ‘no idea’ is unfair…I have quite a few ideas… (that’s the problem) and the reason I am stumped. The biggest issue is that the ‘options’ are very varied – from policy analyst to diplomat to getting a MBA or maybe even medical school? Thankfully because of my efforts the past 4 years I have a good enough GPA to have options. Unfortunately options can sometimes be frustrating! :p<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqV8M_rD48HaEbVMbyNLFvShtJg_R__oMHfE_tRNzpuDDsdWV1KWlf-M2iaMQGL9Rn3D2ISNNX9ls4Rb00mlFPwwqItXZaAnCiJqmQyRNeL0JEnAqahHuuwKkYf9IkT2ynw2NFyhowM0f/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqV8M_rD48HaEbVMbyNLFvShtJg_R__oMHfE_tRNzpuDDsdWV1KWlf-M2iaMQGL9Rn3D2ISNNX9ls4Rb00mlFPwwqItXZaAnCiJqmQyRNeL0JEnAqahHuuwKkYf9IkT2ynw2NFyhowM0f/s640/1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
When you are feeling the blues as I am and are not sure at all of your future, you know what helps? Chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate. And cake too. But what’s even better than chocolate cake? EASY one bowl chocolate cake. Because the last thing you want to do when having an early life crisis is to worry about washing the dishes. I found this cake to be super decadent and I decided to sprinkle on some pomegranate for decoration, but oh my god….it improved the flavor so much more! It added an excellent contrast : nice cool sour crunch with fudgy chocolate cake.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpc4PQs62mVbrbrYN6wtCn8HxQqbaipSQSCEI5pPhBwU7QSQqsQKQu2qoOW8dwE7cWNsWmv-PDCjlkHY6_vjebeKLWzD226OrBxihmYXEhyphenhyphenFnhwk596_chVi-oga2cJmHRHj-xpWKFAfEz/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpc4PQs62mVbrbrYN6wtCn8HxQqbaipSQSCEI5pPhBwU7QSQqsQKQu2qoOW8dwE7cWNsWmv-PDCjlkHY6_vjebeKLWzD226OrBxihmYXEhyphenhyphenFnhwk596_chVi-oga2cJmHRHj-xpWKFAfEz/s640/7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One Bowl Chocolate Cake</span></u></b><br />
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* 150g unsalted butter <br />
* 220g brown sugar <br />
* 100g good quality dark chocolate<br />
* 50g Dutch-processed cocoa<br />
* 160ml milk <br />
* 3 large eggs, room temperature <br />
* 170g plain flour <br />
* 1.5 tsp baking powder <br />
* 1/2 tsp baking soda <br />
* 1/2 tsp salt (skip this if using salted butter)<br />
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<b>Method</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Preheat oven to 170°C. Grease and line a 20-21cm square tin. (I used a 9 inch round)<br />
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In a large pot or mixing bowl over simmering water, add the butter, sugar, chocolate, cocoa and milk. When butter and chocolate has melted, remove from heat and whisk to combine. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.<br />
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Add the eggs to the chocolate mixture and whisk to combine. Sift over the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt then gently stir to mix.<br />
Scrape batter into tin and bake for 45-55 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.<br />
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Cool in tin for 5 minutes then turn out and cool completely on a wire rack. Cake will keep for a few days in an airtight container (a quick zap in the microwave will get it all warm, melty and soft again).<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>Chocolate Fudge Frosting</u></span></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.citrusandcandy.com/2011/06/one-bowl-chocolate-cake.html">(source)</a></b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
* 100g good quality dark chocolate <br />
* 50g unsalted butter, softened and at room temperature <br />
* 150g icing sugar, sifted <br />
* Pinch of salt<br />
* 1-2 Tbl of milk (I ended up using 3)<br />
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<b>Method</b><br />
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</b><br />
In a bowl over simmering water, melt chocolate then remove from heat. Beat in softened butter (make sure it is room temp. Cold butter is bad news in this case). Sift over icing sugar and salt then beat until combined. Add enough milk until it is a spreadable consistency.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisW_CDACWsyyw73nirNR4WJGtLM-NrUmU80R0Qq_J46XjUb6SaEvUH1MnbjVU5RR7iu5eiZB0xBwSr0tSWCvM5pjj8r2OWj9EYYGnXRHAop3FEeqPuvMSdU4Uw6WaL_tVn7SuxXqT306zp/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisW_CDACWsyyw73nirNR4WJGtLM-NrUmU80R0Qq_J46XjUb6SaEvUH1MnbjVU5RR7iu5eiZB0xBwSr0tSWCvM5pjj8r2OWj9EYYGnXRHAop3FEeqPuvMSdU4Uw6WaL_tVn7SuxXqT306zp/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-91053638853722448502011-05-30T16:54:00.001-04:002011-05-30T16:56:20.064-04:00Strawberry Cake<div>***Side note: Blogger has been hating me lately. I tried to post this at the end of April and it just would not post. Then I tried again a week later and the pictures wouldn't upload. Thus..this post is from then :)</div><div><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFHbPb8Pi2qOIZBcYGAioPQHUQgTkNN6zYh7sjGD3egcjtY604WN-3A2IQjIgeNiKC_rP_sNu749aSi7jJW4PimTZDv-Rpgfd4qpMwn4u1sIlOS9lGrZlpVPwDi6EU3L0iCIuiddiF427/s1600/5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFHbPb8Pi2qOIZBcYGAioPQHUQgTkNN6zYh7sjGD3egcjtY604WN-3A2IQjIgeNiKC_rP_sNu749aSi7jJW4PimTZDv-Rpgfd4qpMwn4u1sIlOS9lGrZlpVPwDi6EU3L0iCIuiddiF427/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br />
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*sings* I'm baaaa-AACKKKKKK!!! :D<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Miss me?</div><div><br />
</div><div>We will pretend you said yes.</div><div><br />
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</div><div>I know, I know, I've been bad. Haven't updated in ages. But that will all change. I think. I hope.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I was super swamped with essays and assignments and exams...and then sprinkle in some work and personal life and there was no room for anything else!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEVA3yFAUIubYO8K8aPzEEWion86LOv_5gYdOhtKtUvXa7fmTb6sEH5KfmD_o1rpk4GcqMUUmyU-h4neDSf7dxhWxKcJQX4ClyL-Lvlp5mkrNdQXwlv42j4GwbxLuF3LjJoGVcMr3_rVF/s1600/8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEVA3yFAUIubYO8K8aPzEEWion86LOv_5gYdOhtKtUvXa7fmTb6sEH5KfmD_o1rpk4GcqMUUmyU-h4neDSf7dxhWxKcJQX4ClyL-Lvlp5mkrNdQXwlv42j4GwbxLuF3LjJoGVcMr3_rVF/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div><div><br />
</div><div>But thankfully, I am OFFICIALLY done school. Submitted my last exam last night and am OFFICIALLY done my third year! :o I honestly can't believe it. Time has gone by SO fast. </div><div>The past few weeks have been really tough, but Zahra has learned quite a few things!</div><div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aKzOBYloqU-9VQJQogMGml9bqtX3HL0lhRoYRDJB8DaxRfsusCpYaieerzsn_ETeX3dtW31ARP7D0bevw_R3J4O2aGy9VA9o7RdSh_2VH6qq56NXLW-SRGPR9CQWLBvKQAJsNCFH6El-/s1600/7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aKzOBYloqU-9VQJQogMGml9bqtX3HL0lhRoYRDJB8DaxRfsusCpYaieerzsn_ETeX3dtW31ARP7D0bevw_R3J4O2aGy9VA9o7RdSh_2VH6qq56NXLW-SRGPR9CQWLBvKQAJsNCFH6El-/s640/7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div></div><div><br />
</div><div><b>1) Its AMAZING the amount of work you can get done without facebook!</b></div><div><br />
</div><div>I kept getting sick this semester and in the last week of March I got the worst case of the Flu that I have EVER GOTTEN. It was bad. like. REALLY BAD. Anywho, my crappy immune system meant that I fell really behind in school and thus April = hell month. Especially the last week. Since I always spend wayyyy too much time on facebook, I decided to 'cancel' my account until I was done exams. The problem is, that I probably go on facebook about 30 times a day? (I know. I have no life :P )</div><div><br />
</div><div>The first few days were tough....I was a druggie on with drawl and facebook was my drug. The worst part was I hadn't realized how addicted I was to it until I stopped! But the amazing part is....I ended up wasting SO MUCH LESS TIME than before and got SOOOO MUCHHHH work done. Every time I decided to go on facebook I couldn't...so I would have to study some more :) </div><div><br />
</div><div><b>2) Sleep = Bitch</b></div><div><br />
</div><div>Why do we humans need to sleep? Why? </div><div><br />
</div><div>Ok. Fine. Sleep isn't a problem. I actually love sleep. I really do. What I HATE is not having the OPTION to stay up as much as you like. And another thing...why do our bodies hate us? EVERY DAY this month I had to wake up bright and early (8 am for me) and go to school. EVERY TIME I would hit the snooze button about 10 times and have to DRAGGG my tired butt out of bed. And you would think that after a while I would get used to it....form a new sleep schedule? WRONG. Sleep = bitch remember? ALL month I was walking around sleep deprived. I had even developed VERY unattractive puffed up eyes. My sister actually screamed when she saw me. no lie. </div><div><br />
</div><div>But the best part? ohhhh the best part. Today, when freedom finally wrung.... I was planning on sleeping in until 2pm to make up for all those times I wanted to sleep in but couldn't. But Sleep = Bitch, and thus that means that today, for the first day in over a month...I woke up without an alarm clock...at 6 AM!!!!!!!!!!!!! </div><div><br />
</div><div>Sleep. Why do you hate me?</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>3) Energy Drinks work...(sort of... see #4)</b></div><div><br />
</div><div>Desperate times call for desperate measures and from all the stress and lack of sleep I was forced to buy some energy drinks. At first I was really reluctant...who knows what goes into theses things? Up until now I had always passed over them, opting instead for a hot cup of tea for my caffeine rush. I ended up having to cave in and bought these mini ones form our school's mini-store and it tasted NASTY and it worked WONDERS. I would take 2 gulps and be jumping up and down!! :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D </div><div><br />
</div><div>YAY! I have found a way to stay awakkeeeeeeee</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>4) Red Bull does not work.</b></div><div><br />
</div><div>Red Bull energy drinks? You know the ones that "give you wings"? I had originally planned on buying a can at the Uni store (instead of those mini amazing but they didn't have any so I was forced to buy the mini ones...so then the next day I went to the store and bought myself a nice big can. I came home and drank half of it...just waiting for the energy burst! Then I fell asleep. For 4 hours. So Clearly not only does Red Bull NOT work....it makes me SLEEPY. </div><div><br />
</div><div>You may say thats only because I'm weird. </div><div><br />
</div><div>But...Yah. I would have to agree.</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>5) Spring in Canada is never truly spring</b></div><div><br />
</div><div>In most countries, when spring comes, it comes to stay. Not in Canada though. NOT. IN. CANADA. In this past month we have had a few days of beautiful spring weather....birds chirping and flowers blooming and all that.....and then 3 days later we will have hail. I wish I could say I was exaggerating. I WISH. In fact 2 weeks ago it snowed 2cms!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikyZiTJi5x1wi0rbz-nV6vv6MIS77IGvyrkHk4TWJl6dDnNesYupXwDQOn6syNmwFfTL5zT_Q8U9wufPUYef00xXfOFdkB6OMs5Rl0ORhfxMfZe8cr-u8wnl8pDuHSbltB1m_lk61QSexJ/s1600/9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikyZiTJi5x1wi0rbz-nV6vv6MIS77IGvyrkHk4TWJl6dDnNesYupXwDQOn6syNmwFfTL5zT_Q8U9wufPUYef00xXfOFdkB6OMs5Rl0ORhfxMfZe8cr-u8wnl8pDuHSbltB1m_lk61QSexJ/s640/9.jpg" width="426" /></a> </div></div><div>But, despite this unintentionally negative post, I am going to choose to be positive. And celebrate the end of exams and the (hopefully?) beginning of spring with this delcioious strawberry cake! :) </div><div><br />
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</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghL7ORrUtmK3fE0CmU9JArCLTIpI0ziyZ-TIhAkB98tZyhG8YrFEoW8f3hMr-8bEvRXKP-6Z9Ozn_JMfbmUg3TN4pFPeCtkHFDSC-H1pqzTgBMFuETZV47tjVaBJCiUeHmMiZHknFNLLNN/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghL7ORrUtmK3fE0CmU9JArCLTIpI0ziyZ-TIhAkB98tZyhG8YrFEoW8f3hMr-8bEvRXKP-6Z9Ozn_JMfbmUg3TN4pFPeCtkHFDSC-H1pqzTgBMFuETZV47tjVaBJCiUeHmMiZHknFNLLNN/s640/4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Strawberry Cake</b></u></span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/strawberry-cake/">Source</a> </div></blockquote><blockquote><div class="time" style="float: left; margin-right: 10px;"><b>Yield:</b> <span class="yield">Serves 10</span></div><div class="time" style="float: left; margin-right: 10px;"><b>Cook Time:</b> <span class="cooktime">50-55 minutes</span></div><h3><br />
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Ingredients:</h3><div class="ingredient">6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature<br />
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 large egg<br />
1/2 cup buttermilk<br />
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract<br />
1 pound strawberries, hulled and sliced<br />
2 tablespoons turbinado sugar, for sprinkling on top of cake</div><h3>Directions:</h3><div class="instructions">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 10-inch springform pan or pie plate. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together into a medium bowl. Set aside.<br />
2. Put butter and 1 cup sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add in egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.<br />
3. Gradually mix in flour mixture. Transfer batter to prepared pan. Arrange strawberry slices on top of batter. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over berries.<br />
4. Bake cake 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Bake until cake is golden brown and firm to the touch, about 50-55 minutes. Let cool in pan. To serve, cut into wedges. Store cake at room temperature, for up to two days.</div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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**I thought I should include a picture of what happens when my family invades. They wait with baited breath for me to finish taking pictures...then they ATTACK!!!! This picture was taken 5 minutes after I allowed them to grab some. Yes. That is all that there was left. 10 minutes later it was all gone. <br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-89120191239665941632011-03-17T20:54:00.001-04:002011-03-17T20:55:57.565-04:00Long Time No See and Pizza Hut Pizza DoughWow! I haven’t posted since January 10th! Miss me? ;)<br />
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Long time no see huh? I thought I should post to inform you guys that no, I have not fallen off the face of the earth or been eaten by human eating zombie dolphins. Or something like that.<br />
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I’ve had a bunch of different stuff going on at the same time in my personal life that has made it impossible for me to update regularly. Long story short lets just say that life has not been nice. And I will be accepting your prayers. ;) Heres hoping that things will get better soon! (On a side note! My horoscope said that I’ve been going through a lot the past few months, but that there are new great changes coming for the better! So fingers crossed ;))<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4judNZGwXAltazHg8drNNA4ujxugyUH21Xza84LeqEivBeqkBbOBDHYFizSNjUST16XpVqNqqdK3Mblf0kTCx7LY2jyczPIhs-PHnxq-bZBwg0c4CICt-EtJkN_q0C39118MCh7YXz4a/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4judNZGwXAltazHg8drNNA4ujxugyUH21Xza84LeqEivBeqkBbOBDHYFizSNjUST16XpVqNqqdK3Mblf0kTCx7LY2jyczPIhs-PHnxq-bZBwg0c4CICt-EtJkN_q0C39118MCh7YXz4a/s640/5.jpg" width="454" /></a></div><br />
Anywho, enough about me. How have you all been? I have soooo many things I need to do food blog related wise. I was in the midst of a ‘blog renovation’ before life started sucking, so I will definitely be trying to get back to that! I also need to go check out a bunch of food blogs for all those posts I’ve missed!<br />
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Now, on to the yumminess! Growing up, making pizza was a standard in my house. On weekends my mom would ‘wing it’ and make some dough, and we would slather on some ketchup and sprinkle on some cheese and veggies. Now that I’m more of a, what would you call it….food snob? This simply wont do! I have been searching for a good pizza dough for a while now, and a little while ago I stumbled on this beauty. Pizza Hut crust clone? Yes please! I’ve got to say I was pleasantly surprised! The crust was puuuurfect … I promise you best pizza dough you will ever taste. If its not, I want YOUR recipe!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWBWMjwr4dhiPGb3eza__ayhiBScZdfrfpsNlprrHVUBzT7rRgqOZsheb63LVdwR9XqYH9oBqqB03-ayLOA5QpYOdURwdSFLnHRZS4Dh_KVfUmsl6JsGnOdMxkn6GgzGpRPhBWqaPxIqL/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWBWMjwr4dhiPGb3eza__ayhiBScZdfrfpsNlprrHVUBzT7rRgqOZsheb63LVdwR9XqYH9oBqqB03-ayLOA5QpYOdURwdSFLnHRZS4Dh_KVfUmsl6JsGnOdMxkn6GgzGpRPhBWqaPxIqL/s640/6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
What I love about this is you can toss in the ingredients into the bread maker and have it do all the work. Do you work all day? Toss in your ingredients into the dough maker, and set your timer so that when you get home you have ready made fresh dough. Spread your pizza sauce on top and sprinkle on your toppings and you have prepped dinner in 5 minutes!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpBEmPIxaFBMAr_wSqLLZOHcmPHvvq5lgDOv8hhehcc7i8ADW3IZaJ9ONXqc7xdiqQfO55dY8HI8yulkwP2TwVO7vgzfp2vdm7_DKQ4A-j9j5_yQ2GH9x9vKh7VRUJwVjxVabgWFxNkr1/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpBEmPIxaFBMAr_wSqLLZOHcmPHvvq5lgDOv8hhehcc7i8ADW3IZaJ9ONXqc7xdiqQfO55dY8HI8yulkwP2TwVO7vgzfp2vdm7_DKQ4A-j9j5_yQ2GH9x9vKh7VRUJwVjxVabgWFxNkr1/s640/3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Now what do I mean when I say this crust is awesome? My definition of a perfect crust is to have a nice ‘sound’ when you tap it…nice and crunchy on the outside and soft hot bread on the inside. Mmmm…..pizza crust….<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6RrjqYvzmkNNv1XqGTY6tk9sfM4GXBikntNVI4j7yEfLBDIF1tnnYo3SDfxJVRaE_n9ztRklT9sdMrYlZ_Jx2oSTtcbmnBmp7sHMxqJEa7wbi6s1_Bj1qN_esvq9uCReC9ZY_NrXlKZ5/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6RrjqYvzmkNNv1XqGTY6tk9sfM4GXBikntNVI4j7yEfLBDIF1tnnYo3SDfxJVRaE_n9ztRklT9sdMrYlZ_Jx2oSTtcbmnBmp7sHMxqJEa7wbi6s1_Bj1qN_esvq9uCReC9ZY_NrXlKZ5/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXU_33MiGeeLuu4drmTOLiWpt0ltYZQuxk9Mt5JRyGI08KclH3FFFKduWWGsDVaHUqbuyn6vfHKsgz4-wUXfCux0jegrp8lGmTCz0Sql5ScMcWfruSeY6cxAtikwTCxzQokCSFdq9PgwQ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXU_33MiGeeLuu4drmTOLiWpt0ltYZQuxk9Mt5JRyGI08KclH3FFFKduWWGsDVaHUqbuyn6vfHKsgz4-wUXfCux0jegrp8lGmTCz0Sql5ScMcWfruSeY6cxAtikwTCxzQokCSFdq9PgwQ/s640/2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Copy Cat Pizza Hut Dough Crust</span></u></b><br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1 1/3 cups water<br />
2 teaspoons sugar<br />
1 1/4 teaspoons salt<br />
2 tablespoons olive oil<br />
2 tablespoons cornmeal <i>( I used semolina)</i><br />
3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder<br />
1/4 teaspoon onion powder<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons bread machine yeast<br />
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<b>Directions</b>:<br />
1. Add ingredients (except for cornmeal (or semolina)) to machine bread pan in order as per manufacturer's instructions. Set to "Dough" cycle.<br />
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2. Lightly grease your pan and sprinkle with cornmeal.<br />
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3. When the dough cycle is complete, roll out dough and place in pan. Let rest in pans for 10-15 minutes. Add toppings of your choice.<br />
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4. Bake at 350°F until done (approximately 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of toppings).<br />
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</blockquote><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDBi3wOJMPQYpINaMEb_A0XKIVqpLJVHyKK-y-iyj0Ia7rWo8XR_cUbT7unnpMGfZLqOVdJzw9cFCPmfFqSYb6jht63O20Y_LoUcyQmzPQznCgagNgLxnWoJWik8C4dtY4uP-tQ_Eo9nC/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDBi3wOJMPQYpINaMEb_A0XKIVqpLJVHyKK-y-iyj0Ia7rWo8XR_cUbT7unnpMGfZLqOVdJzw9cFCPmfFqSYb6jht63O20Y_LoUcyQmzPQznCgagNgLxnWoJWik8C4dtY4uP-tQ_Eo9nC/s640/1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-136578027103474602011-01-10T17:47:00.002-05:002011-01-21T12:53:33.429-05:00New Years Resolutions<div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyyR7ODLcEgewC5GaWq1zJTP7LHb4UNIexzACpxHL1Uj7LjNbbbk3pxrXoahYbo_xsuSe9f3LB3FTqvKjdJ3pKo2sJ0P6RWqhWiQJp84D6elKz9-iqU_H_xRSXqCgFJrz_86DyDQUkYX6R/s1600/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyyR7ODLcEgewC5GaWq1zJTP7LHb4UNIexzACpxHL1Uj7LjNbbbk3pxrXoahYbo_xsuSe9f3LB3FTqvKjdJ3pKo2sJ0P6RWqhWiQJp84D6elKz9-iqU_H_xRSXqCgFJrz_86DyDQUkYX6R/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;">****Check out my most recent giveaway <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/12/food-network-giveaway.html">HERE</a> and stay tuned for more giveaways coming soon!! **</span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Happy New Year!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Were you one of those awesome (loser) people like myself who went around saying happy 1-1-11 on January 1<sup>st</sup>, 2011? And then stopping to try to explain to everyone that yes, today is indeed the 1<sup>st</sup> day of the 1<sup>st</sup> month of 2011. I don’t know why people would roll their eyes at me. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I thought I was a hoot! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84gfNypXmzxPE4Zoptu48UjqI_3WG9Pzna9CIZPbcawtTBb3-kTgpIyDAdYXfsfz2vmPYVdKcIsL3_mqU2Sw7LpmY-JlxzRULN4qMhaKMgL5EO3TC-FO-OMsgDZF9W3n4quFzAUOGObOE/s1600/3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84gfNypXmzxPE4Zoptu48UjqI_3WG9Pzna9CIZPbcawtTBb3-kTgpIyDAdYXfsfz2vmPYVdKcIsL3_mqU2Sw7LpmY-JlxzRULN4qMhaKMgL5EO3TC-FO-OMsgDZF9W3n4quFzAUOGObOE/s640/3.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">On the topic of New Years, has anyone made any new years resolutions? Last year I did, and thankfully I can say that I at least have made a step in the right direction. My posting has gone up to about 20 more posts than the year before, and my hits more than quadrupled! :D But of course, there are many more things I have planned in store for the upcoming year. The only problem is, I do not intend on making them into a new years resolution. </div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal">Why? Because I know better. I’m not the type of person to make myself a solid new years resolution and ever truly pull through with it 100%. I see them more as ‘guidelines’ than actual ‘have to’ tasks. I could vow to hit the gym at least 3 times a week, or change my diet and cut out all sugar, reduce stress, and never ever procrastinate again. But then again, I’m not naïve. I’m the kind of person who makes a new years resolution at 11:55pm that “I will never eat chocolate again.” And then at 12:03 I’ll bite into a chocolate bar and go “ops! Oh well. Maybe next year” *evil smirk* </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_51P2VeY0HNxOc_vOAsNaUJEXrIry4EhQiZvgvmGzL78QudruqlffUKpfKHWQIEKlSK3L1X3jqueGsIBucDeuHQb9ICQVh-UNEBtDk_tzOHRQeIIE7eI0vZ1hcW4HSisN07dBkbhfg7Jw/s1600/4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_51P2VeY0HNxOc_vOAsNaUJEXrIry4EhQiZvgvmGzL78QudruqlffUKpfKHWQIEKlSK3L1X3jqueGsIBucDeuHQb9ICQVh-UNEBtDk_tzOHRQeIIE7eI0vZ1hcW4HSisN07dBkbhfg7Jw/s640/4.jpg" width="426" /></a> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So I’ve decided to make some ‘general goals’ for the year. Basically working on the same ones from <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/01/whipping-cream.html">last year</a> but taking it further. So, while I’m not going to promise to go vegan and healthy, I will start off this year with this delicious <i>and healthy</i> smoothie. Baby steps people. Baby steps. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">So what New Years Resolutions have <i>you</i> made? :)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHREq4SeCAHKz4ERbdkGKCoR8_C8cIl3XRi2tY13vliR6MIllFqX_6u0TajSSHBLlAFp2vPKquo9iB_h-rY9MwM1m3cuKJvRol1sXa2KyKHnynTut1Cc0ta7D6pT4Jb887QTHJKwpX3azH/s1600/5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHREq4SeCAHKz4ERbdkGKCoR8_C8cIl3XRi2tY13vliR6MIllFqX_6u0TajSSHBLlAFp2vPKquo9iB_h-rY9MwM1m3cuKJvRol1sXa2KyKHnynTut1Cc0ta7D6pT4Jb887QTHJKwpX3azH/s640/5.jpg" width="425" /></a> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><blockquote><h3>Berry Citrus Smoothie </h3></blockquote>(Adapted from <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/citrus_berry_smoothie.html">here</a>) <br />
<blockquote><h3 style="font-weight: normal;"><u>Ingredients</u></h3><ul><li>1 1/4 cups fresh berries</li>
<li>3/4 cup low-fat plain yogurt</li>
<li>1/2 cup orange juice</li>
<li> Milk (as needed)</li>
<li>1-2 tablespoons Flax Seed</li>
<li>1 tablespoon honey</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
</ul></blockquote><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlySGWKNG5EusurvZ7Z_RyixtWWXVwbQOxoeVY2s0n3w1edcmsoQYmQRd8aIYKR-7HntftRdddx7daLGtHW045ay9GnXIH6lnpqjQo0nbwlcAAJSPWkn9EH14SwXlQpSXUIlsi5HKtqb-3/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlySGWKNG5EusurvZ7Z_RyixtWWXVwbQOxoeVY2s0n3w1edcmsoQYmQRd8aIYKR-7HntftRdddx7daLGtHW045ay9GnXIH6lnpqjQo0nbwlcAAJSPWkn9EH14SwXlQpSXUIlsi5HKtqb-3/s400/6.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br />
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<blockquote>Place berries, yogurt, orange juice, Flax Seed, honey and vanilla in a blender and blend until smooth. If its too thick pour in a little bit of milk at a time to get the consistency that you like. </blockquote><br />
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</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UVQVDIT15Nd8oif6hSDk0A2ADdzNc10EgeMXNwBVHVGqld4fwXKsfHimEzMDbGimiYInIINtt8GikKa209mtzrP0cSvRR7du6e5lJU1fTQFKCst6iJGWUJLlfK71UsPC1alc9jr6_wab/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UVQVDIT15Nd8oif6hSDk0A2ADdzNc10EgeMXNwBVHVGqld4fwXKsfHimEzMDbGimiYInIINtt8GikKa209mtzrP0cSvRR7du6e5lJU1fTQFKCst6iJGWUJLlfK71UsPC1alc9jr6_wab/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><blockquote><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div></blockquote>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-12212134106538949892010-12-31T02:45:00.003-05:002011-02-03T19:56:43.904-05:00Food Network Giveaway!Did you not get what you wanted for Christmas?<br />
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Sure, you told everyone around you that you wanted 'nothing', but was their something worst than nothing?(I'm looking at you Snuggies) Sure, you left **highly suggestive little reminders** (read circling magazines in red sharpies and casually forgetting them on your coworkers desk, and sneaky post-its of wish lists all over your friends and classmates stuff) yet no one really got the hint?<br />
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Well never Fret! We have a giveaway! And you can use this money to buy yourself whatever you want from the Food Network store!!!<br />
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Whats amazing about the site is that it is literally any foodies <i>dream store.</i> Like a child in a candy store. They have everything imaginable from pots and pans to spices to cupcake liners! They even have specialty products from famous chefs such as <a href="http://www.foodnetworkstore.com/HostShow.aspx?hid=68">Paula Deen Cookware</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://iweb.foodnetworkstore.com/images/products/shprodde/304225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://iweb.foodnetworkstore.com/images/products/shprodde/304225.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> How about a 12 piece non-stick cookware set? </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://iweb.foodnetworkstore.com/images/products/shprodde/273656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://iweb.foodnetworkstore.com/images/products/shprodde/273656.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Or maybe this cute apron set? I. want. one. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://iweb.foodnetworkstore.com/images/products/shprodde/303189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://iweb.foodnetworkstore.com/images/products/shprodde/303189.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or maybe you're like me and love to bake goodies and the idea of putting them in cute little packages like this one make you swoon?</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;">The best part about the site is that there is a reviews button (so you know just how good the product is) along with extra details and a personalized video from Paula Deen herself! How neat is that?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So. You Hooked? Good. So here are the rules :)</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: center;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">$30 Giveaway to use ANYWHERE on the Food Network site</span></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To enter you <b>need</b> to be a <b>Follower</b>. Right over there on the right. Because if you cant <i>publicly </i>be my friend then I can't give you free stuff ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">* Post a comment telling me what you would buy from the Food Network Store if you won (cant be the above three) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Want more chances to win? Post a <i>separate </i>comment for each (3 extra chances!):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">* Tweet the following: <i><b>"Check out @ediblemoments Giveaway for the Food Network! (http://twitthis.com/2qxzgz )"</b></i> then come back here and tell me you did </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">* Follow me on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/ediblemoments">@ediblemoments</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">* <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Edible-Moments-Blog/185974994746980?v=wall">Like me</a> on Facebook </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">CONTEST ENDS FEBRUARY 1st! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And thats it! Thats all! Please remember to leave contact info for me in case you win! :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>P.S. Make sure to come back soon, as there are more giveaways coming up in the next short while ;)</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com69tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-13495217009081056732010-12-31T02:03:00.002-05:002011-01-11T00:11:06.338-05:00Guess Whose Back? and Gourmet Hot Coco<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvDhCcrgNZxy72EZEcGneBGzbrneqic3mUTXRPhTQxEegVkmMnZTOm_TlXa9_ZQxuy8W0a8ym7EDaVDAbeYkL7N1KVTDbU7HvO6FH-UYw_gqJ2fWU0HTGlktr_VSHfOsN4cI3Fk268m-E/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvDhCcrgNZxy72EZEcGneBGzbrneqic3mUTXRPhTQxEegVkmMnZTOm_TlXa9_ZQxuy8W0a8ym7EDaVDAbeYkL7N1KVTDbU7HvO6FH-UYw_gqJ2fWU0HTGlktr_VSHfOsN4cI3Fk268m-E/s640/5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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</div><blockquote>Check out my latest <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/12/food-network-giveaway.html">giveaway to the Food Network</a>! And check back soon for even more giveaways coming soon!!</blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<br />
Hello!<br />
<br />
Long time no see huh? I apologize for the lack of posts around here. The reasoning behind it is school, school, school. Let me rewind. Around September time I was in the “YAH! LETS DO THIS!” mood school wise. But of course, as life is, it decided to be cruel to me and slap me in the face with not one, not two, but THREE colds! Right after another. Yah. It sucked. It came to the point where I was so frustrated by not getting better that I was close to tears. *unhappy face* :(<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpt51IUR8ml0UdRCvG2hKaYZcwjKU7xTHi-ZQ6oTdGuwcPjNn-OwA0MlHV1vcXgo6hf-8h1dY8DQHnUFD7qT7C-sPTpbpiIoV7AAfBrzzr1do0xB5o9EMyM37N_fmzl8jNYJwS1ByHYWD/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpt51IUR8ml0UdRCvG2hKaYZcwjKU7xTHi-ZQ6oTdGuwcPjNn-OwA0MlHV1vcXgo6hf-8h1dY8DQHnUFD7qT7C-sPTpbpiIoV7AAfBrzzr1do0xB5o9EMyM37N_fmzl8jNYJwS1ByHYWD/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Anywho, by early October I started feeling better and ready to blog, but then you know what happened? SCHOOL HAPPENED. You know those few weeks of September that I was uber sick? Yah well believe it or not school had continued on without me and I was now an entire month behind in course work and midterm season was upon us. **freak out time** <br />
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I assumed that come November I would have plenty of time to update, but it turns out I got even MORE busier! Believe it or not I have written a total of 15 essays in the past few weeks. FIFTEEN! Believe me when I say, I have written more in the past month than Shakespeare did in a year!<br />
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The worst part about that ‘cold’ (read evil virus that would probably strangle kittens) keeps coming back. I think I never fully kicked it? Some mornings I wake up a sneezing icky mess and then 2 weeks nothing. And then there’s the big comeback every month when I get reallyyyy crappy again. So far I’ve been on 2 diffeerent antibiotics and probably chugged enough Orange Juice to make all the farmers in California rich.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtmcrc4b6cOZ6pik9kfLI0tXyJOcMIzQB2NRdUiys8npok-WqtAVhe_a3a1h69TkYheAWffxE59YPef_GD_Sx2fkvOBbRTU66rGeePKysZSlM6cOYXPnsx_cAUwH9RYAsfmEm_o603VBY/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="584" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtmcrc4b6cOZ6pik9kfLI0tXyJOcMIzQB2NRdUiys8npok-WqtAVhe_a3a1h69TkYheAWffxE59YPef_GD_Sx2fkvOBbRTU66rGeePKysZSlM6cOYXPnsx_cAUwH9RYAsfmEm_o603VBY/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Anywho. Hopefully the new set of antibiotics will work and all will be well. Hopefully I wont die. Dramatic? What are you talking about?! Anyways I thought I would give you guys an update and as a thank you to all of you for sticking by, and for reaching 100 followers, we have a giveaway! *yay*<br />
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Now. On to the recipe. To celebrate National Hot Cocoa day I made some, well, Hot cocoa! But of course me being me I couldn’t just do something simple and heap a spoon of Nesquick into a cup of microwaved milk. No, no, no. That simply wont do! Grab some imported French Chocolate (or the finest quality of chocolate you can find) and some whipped cream and enjoy!<br />
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Gourmet Hot Coco<br />
* 3-4 ounces of chopped high quality chocolate of your choosing (I used French)<br />
* 3 cups of milk (not baking cups but coffee cups :) )<br />
* whipped cream<br />
* some toppings if you like: Dusting of coco powder or cinnamon perhaps? I used shaved bits of chocolate.<br />
<br />
Instructions:<br />
1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Pour your milk into a small pot and heat up. Make sure it doesn’t boil!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOFoyqrUDzqQhnvxoBGMSJFqHAU1VytBqfxMj9PR-gGBMT8LGODe53ha8A-0oDgKOlGnDznZ9_anGFfwi_4WgbWfzchkPEGeHPCr5dMB5QGzvYe1NsqDWNBL0-slpdFDFQ6ipQF3fRuTz/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOFoyqrUDzqQhnvxoBGMSJFqHAU1VytBqfxMj9PR-gGBMT8LGODe53ha8A-0oDgKOlGnDznZ9_anGFfwi_4WgbWfzchkPEGeHPCr5dMB5QGzvYe1NsqDWNBL0-slpdFDFQ6ipQF3fRuTz/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Carefully chop up your chocolate with a sharp knife. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJonTi3lBBf_ZWRJwfTFWze9phf3YIQnn0ZFZZlEnCwf0IwI3ZcppoMQwa0j8_DLRuD8wci8W1wi5ifM0NXG57R_7nG6M4pFbcy4glOOyR5iCMGKJrsQNtgElJcVEeOsU4dk7g661q5iG/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJonTi3lBBf_ZWRJwfTFWze9phf3YIQnn0ZFZZlEnCwf0IwI3ZcppoMQwa0j8_DLRuD8wci8W1wi5ifM0NXG57R_7nG6M4pFbcy4glOOyR5iCMGKJrsQNtgElJcVEeOsU4dk7g661q5iG/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Toss in the chocolate, and mix with a whisk or spoon.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxcgKhjhylG3e_mY3e61dNnjWA-rK0EV-az1QEF4HZziGOk257Awgz9r5tVSOV97Y8yBcE3CbtTrOKCfhcihlegZ7akzeUF3Y4OyYzM2cJK3mrX4g8CMwbh8jMumYzCuxwpk22wpz6PKn/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxcgKhjhylG3e_mY3e61dNnjWA-rK0EV-az1QEF4HZziGOk257Awgz9r5tVSOV97Y8yBcE3CbtTrOKCfhcihlegZ7akzeUF3Y4OyYzM2cJK3mrX4g8CMwbh8jMumYzCuxwpk22wpz6PKn/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Once chocolate is completely melted, pour equally between 3 cups. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIq-8qGk9OqjJzchIp4Q3GCZp2QE63A94eod1D2dX3vfsDlh-mLZMdeyph28tXtS9h-fjBEsvp3kDNOj_qVuuOLjE2EwpCVjUGCgWLzgKksvVrGDJNVFDypzMDc6zp11uZnJzdbNv6otDf/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIq-8qGk9OqjJzchIp4Q3GCZp2QE63A94eod1D2dX3vfsDlh-mLZMdeyph28tXtS9h-fjBEsvp3kDNOj_qVuuOLjE2EwpCVjUGCgWLzgKksvVrGDJNVFDypzMDc6zp11uZnJzdbNv6otDf/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Finish off with some whipped cream and a dash of chocolate shavings. Voila!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-78dAiukQa8sGoWe0MoZyjYqWQu52Ae53BZUGkvfuLN9si3E7jHZiykuqlkka6IMF7CsFQTYNfjvmyWzR2JkoZekuXCFjmRbfMOtaVyDoGatJNBM-BmJWoQMYzcL4ul20vOOZdNKYVp0/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-78dAiukQa8sGoWe0MoZyjYqWQu52Ae53BZUGkvfuLN9si3E7jHZiykuqlkka6IMF7CsFQTYNfjvmyWzR2JkoZekuXCFjmRbfMOtaVyDoGatJNBM-BmJWoQMYzcL4ul20vOOZdNKYVp0/s640/10.jpg" width="640" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-74074686690456576912010-11-25T20:49:00.001-05:002010-11-25T20:53:43.367-05:00Super Easy yet Super Yummy Apple Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhkFRlE6F8aT0PyL_hp4B-5J5lcdNyHRZVaaNCivPNBkShjp-9c3r2tZHLXTWmf7qiX7BuSCT0VzI1gMNyu5PgKD9MmbTrcYZDW-qzPTaPQQD0-qR2K4nYEYdcWZ2Sfj_qhVp2Ob6RFEn/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhkFRlE6F8aT0PyL_hp4B-5J5lcdNyHRZVaaNCivPNBkShjp-9c3r2tZHLXTWmf7qiX7BuSCT0VzI1gMNyu5PgKD9MmbTrcYZDW-qzPTaPQQD0-qR2K4nYEYdcWZ2Sfj_qhVp2Ob6RFEn/s640/3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">Growing up in a first generation immigrant family has had a profound impact on how I act and how I see the world. This applies in the ‘big picture’ sense such as whether I agree with new immigration policies or not, how I feel about traditional Canadian holidays, and many other things. However, on the more personal level, coming from an immigrant family has had a dramatic affect on one major element of my life. Food.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfNzKXvsJpMVQL5DGk44QH3uAHYaZaqDt2rOlMql8k88M0RwUVCOZIWVzdjpB_QK8Po-WBwpSo0Smj4Y2WHxLdJCLluZMmchLW7pkz4IbJ7Z6a_ujNiZhaM21g9kHbJVeJZ6isPlmhbuz/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfNzKXvsJpMVQL5DGk44QH3uAHYaZaqDt2rOlMql8k88M0RwUVCOZIWVzdjpB_QK8Po-WBwpSo0Smj4Y2WHxLdJCLluZMmchLW7pkz4IbJ7Z6a_ujNiZhaM21g9kHbJVeJZ6isPlmhbuz/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHohlH6MvQiEumqiN6CVL-8ucfA3hp7_Tx-uPU82MN9s5M5RV0KmtG5ZwaZrn0mfqRWI-rHN5NaOx7L8WnK1g7Wio8HmKouIx1ADJIZvUgR6j-6ZmlkPJgjQDGqwEEj_5uv5cTczXKUdON/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHohlH6MvQiEumqiN6CVL-8ucfA3hp7_Tx-uPU82MN9s5M5RV0KmtG5ZwaZrn0mfqRWI-rHN5NaOx7L8WnK1g7Wio8HmKouIx1ADJIZvUgR6j-6ZmlkPJgjQDGqwEEj_5uv5cTczXKUdON/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Growing up I would eat both the hot dogs and french fries, and the <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/08/persian-cuisine-part-1-zeresh-polo-o.html">Zereshk Polo O Morgh</a>. My parents tried to stay true their Persian Roots and more often than not we had Persian food every day. As the years passed, my parents naturally became more influenced by the new country they were now living in. One day we would have Persian cusine, another we would have a stir fry, another we would try this new thing called ‘shepherds pie’ or ‘burritos’. My parents are all about staying true to their roots but also embracing new things that their new home country had to offer – and what better than food? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCs0FV-qINxib142uk3CTzNeq6BFbDZZbCriwQIOJhmkQbwlQZjR5Z5ngukQxzlyJSM4FAbSUww2kXpPwfbCmrT-RJDx5n49t-gQ9R3wHN8kOr-NeTtqfTnRWPA2G-hhrNHvZfklPgTP7e/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCs0FV-qINxib142uk3CTzNeq6BFbDZZbCriwQIOJhmkQbwlQZjR5Z5ngukQxzlyJSM4FAbSUww2kXpPwfbCmrT-RJDx5n49t-gQ9R3wHN8kOr-NeTtqfTnRWPA2G-hhrNHvZfklPgTP7e/s640/2.jpg" width="568" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
Of course my mother would always make these new ‘western’ recipes her own. My mom doesn’t like using recipes. She’s made enough food to know how things ‘should taste’ and likes to ‘assume’ what a recipe will be like. Shepherds pie? Looks like ground beef and veggies with mashed potato on top. So she would adapt her own recipes and incorporate some of her favorite Persian spices. Sometimes her refusal to follow recipes would turn disastrous, but other times it would turn out better than the ‘real’ thing!</div><div class="MsoNormal">Another example is of the famous classical apple pie. When I was much younger my mother and I went shopping at our local grocery store. It was near thanksgiving time and they were giving free samples of apple pie at the store. We both tried some and weren’t necessarily blown away. That’s when my Mom decided that she could do it better. She adapted this recipe herself and honestly, I think it tastes <i>so so soooooo</i> much better than anything you could buy at a store. I don’t like the overly spiced apple pies, if you do then this isn’t for you. But if you aren’t necessarily a huge fan of an overdose of nutmeg and cloves, then make this pie. You. Will. Love. It. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><u><b>The Fastest and Yummiest Apple Pie You Will Ever Make</b></u></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">Heres all you need:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">*</span>Apple Pie Crust (made fresh or frozen pre-bought ones)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">*</span>Apples (as many as you would like…I used about 6)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">*</span>Sugar (as much as you like) </div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">*</span>Cinnamon (as much as you like)</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSaMNAgdSmrXCorz9RyvOtVB4FxIlyWFaex6h_6Il1SH1noUMQCbTPsr4C8vMtw-oZiwW2sMcRszOvtkXSHIeDQTY3nkm8k5NTwKoliQwQWJj5adOrxddBwKGPfS6_0pnmZsBpJUsHdZh/s1600/5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSaMNAgdSmrXCorz9RyvOtVB4FxIlyWFaex6h_6Il1SH1noUMQCbTPsr4C8vMtw-oZiwW2sMcRszOvtkXSHIeDQTY3nkm8k5NTwKoliQwQWJj5adOrxddBwKGPfS6_0pnmZsBpJUsHdZh/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>Instructions</b></i>: </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Take your pie crust and place it into your pan </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Don’t pierce it and put it in the oven before hand. Just start filling your unbaked dough with the apples. </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Wash your apples and peel and dice them.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkfAwmZntAb5o1Y-JWQGJeeBiN75LF5HWGrsV53pirfzHSV-WqY8hE5XBeYRTYsmQPpLDjQOxckMw3GvNtJUqJy7N7N7ZeVi4-kISDD1GWGrt2_v7B302QHx0F8ZQuaj38qDslZJl_kPC/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkfAwmZntAb5o1Y-JWQGJeeBiN75LF5HWGrsV53pirfzHSV-WqY8hE5XBeYRTYsmQPpLDjQOxckMw3GvNtJUqJy7N7N7ZeVi4-kISDD1GWGrt2_v7B302QHx0F8ZQuaj38qDslZJl_kPC/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Place a fairly even layer of apples at the bottom and sprinkle it with sugar and cinnamon. (use as much as you like to taste…we love cinnamon so I usually add a lot…but if not just sprinkle a tsp or so. As for sugar, remember to use sugar according to your apple type. If you have a more sour apple you will need to use more sugar)</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sG8sTbX5CPsN5uXihREI6Vw6mzgZesvgd58pnfYmCjEBfFboou0bWUq_UK1xlbgOkHTk9pQx0OEWTK6iVSecb_TPFyDzeH9DUn5WQDfTZjZzy_fOCKl7EfMC4xWc_dAGFk-VNOaPOwQX/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sG8sTbX5CPsN5uXihREI6Vw6mzgZesvgd58pnfYmCjEBfFboou0bWUq_UK1xlbgOkHTk9pQx0OEWTK6iVSecb_TPFyDzeH9DUn5WQDfTZjZzy_fOCKl7EfMC4xWc_dAGFk-VNOaPOwQX/s1600/7.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">5.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Then add another layer of apples and keep sprinkling sugar and cinnamon. Keep continuing to put as many layers as you like</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">6.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Then pop on the rest of the apple pie crust</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDFUhji_aepXyYoBLaojHbA8ILPvuSwjT6jdpi6sXCxebjXHVa5qZVNqR102xFhNWs9VWWO_Ie6eWV8Sxm0L3DOFZTV4VcbTBFFEIMkPExpq-yzWL-SjYULOX9kBrLcabHgojG2eFpbfj/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDFUhji_aepXyYoBLaojHbA8ILPvuSwjT6jdpi6sXCxebjXHVa5qZVNqR102xFhNWs9VWWO_Ie6eWV8Sxm0L3DOFZTV4VcbTBFFEIMkPExpq-yzWL-SjYULOX9kBrLcabHgojG2eFpbfj/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">7.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Put in the oven at 350F until the apples are soft and baked and the crust is nice and golden. </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Enjoy!</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHohlH6MvQiEumqiN6CVL-8ucfA3hp7_Tx-uPU82MN9s5M5RV0KmtG5ZwaZrn0mfqRWI-rHN5NaOx7L8WnK1g7Wio8HmKouIx1ADJIZvUgR6j-6ZmlkPJgjQDGqwEEj_5uv5cTczXKUdON/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHohlH6MvQiEumqiN6CVL-8ucfA3hp7_Tx-uPU82MN9s5M5RV0KmtG5ZwaZrn0mfqRWI-rHN5NaOx7L8WnK1g7Wio8HmKouIx1ADJIZvUgR6j-6ZmlkPJgjQDGqwEEj_5uv5cTczXKUdON/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-11225641823848227692010-10-24T23:05:00.001-04:002010-10-24T23:06:49.662-04:00Giveaway Winner!Hello everyone!<br />
<br />
I apologize for the lack of posts around here lately. I will definitely be making up for that very soon ;)<br />
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In the mean time, I thought I should tell you guys about who won the giveaway!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWypVSBn8OGkU-RJXIqUlJuIHFsCYWOIqqS_Wy3HRqSHHyG2eog8T-A08sjF2dlnSnQpSILqAD4TQFhq1pUWcq9ADxe8NQIf9jSqoYqJU8i7XmL2PikPnB_1e_KjN32xrYdjoI-W0OPCL/s1600/giveawaynumber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWypVSBn8OGkU-RJXIqUlJuIHFsCYWOIqqS_Wy3HRqSHHyG2eog8T-A08sjF2dlnSnQpSILqAD4TQFhq1pUWcq9ADxe8NQIf9jSqoYqJU8i7XmL2PikPnB_1e_KjN32xrYdjoI-W0OPCL/s1600/giveawaynumber.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Which was....<br />
<dl id="comments-block"><dt id="c8860540329227457823"> <img alt="Blogger" class="comment-icon blogger-comment" src="https://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif" /> <span dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/17467047932709866263" rel="nofollow">EMSFS</a></span> said...</dt>
<dd>I am a follower- I would totally put the money towards a new set of cookware. I need some desperately.
</dd></dl>Congrats! Have fun shopping on CSN ! ;)<br />
<br />
See you guys soon!<br />
<br />
xoxo Zahra <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-77550127350038393102010-09-19T23:29:00.002-04:002010-09-20T19:24:42.186-04:00CSN Store Giveaway!!As I mentioned in my previous post, I'm hosting a giveaway with the help of CSN stores for all my lovely followers! The Lucky winner will receive a $40 gift card to CSN stores that they can spend in not only their lovely <a href="http://www.cookware.com/Dinnerware-C43220.html">dinnerware</a> store, but in over 200 other stores owned by CSN!<br />
<br />
Check out some of the lovely things you could buy from <a href="http://www.cookware.com/Dinnerware-C43220.html">Dinnerware</a>!<br />
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<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;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5InTJ5nnuWrVEVYUBEbEKPMRyPxN9NU7PYY5UtZPfPWd9fJqrAgOdMK3QiJYjM75SkJnukrGsVQbeAZva-tK9Na2I8l9BEOWHOUQCFWqHsh5En7C2PIlic1njxbr28U1GpEbbI9tKYjU2/s640/Untitled-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at all this lovely dinnerware! You could take AWESOME food photography pictures with these, or host fabulous dinners. And who knew? Versace makes dinnerware?! Doesn't get anymore chique than this! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5InTJ5nnuWrVEVYUBEbEKPMRyPxN9NU7PYY5UtZPfPWd9fJqrAgOdMK3QiJYjM75SkJnukrGsVQbeAZva-tK9Na2I8l9BEOWHOUQCFWqHsh5En7C2PIlic1njxbr28U1GpEbbI9tKYjU2/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
But if Dinnerware doesn't strike your fancy, check out <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/ourstores.asp">their other stores</a>. From Home Decor, Housewares, Home Improvement, Babies and Kids, to School and Office Supplies, shoes, and a Pet section, they are truly a "one stop shop" !!<br />
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<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;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DRi07ELG8ua82cMWlUz0jt12G4aUp73UMQXs9Bf6j73Iyo7EXF3uWmRn3tXZrCvMaCVfrpMK0tGt4QQAmLCLnYDOPzu5JJSKGSwYNuLV21HLwtNPhKSVbfCHNpzxPqyXUhYo57ezA6r4/s320/15-Bar+Pump-Driven+Espresso+Machine.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">get your coffee fix!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DRi07ELG8ua82cMWlUz0jt12G4aUp73UMQXs9Bf6j73Iyo7EXF3uWmRn3tXZrCvMaCVfrpMK0tGt4QQAmLCLnYDOPzu5JJSKGSwYNuLV21HLwtNPhKSVbfCHNpzxPqyXUhYo57ezA6r4/s1600/15-Bar+Pump-Driven+Espresso+Machine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<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;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMjRRQJCcxjTUaLfGnCNwE2iWPkBUW5ggXwYjLGOZ7HZY90x2IoNZc3XkiDJAMbCxdc7lcU5wsokxmV3kKSZvWY2xfWuvslnbXKpo-X8xqGSoiuzZEoa3e9DQOqyz6lcQ0raLV26EUuPn/s320/Hard+Anodized+Orange+14-Piece+Cookware+Set.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rachel Ray's BEST SELLING set! (Now almost $200 off!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBqGg2siSGNDYItLgOsXbpfMVT9ZQVWYN1fTq97zZZ3QpFGunKaxYQ_ZFee8rsiV5CXYV8eb5_M2bNFlPz1hXOkMOUPCgYZ5tWuqLd72N7XF6G2loTLuiHykiFwBqb8a-VV9x5dvHzD11P/s320/111.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I would SO add this to my room!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6Itow7M_JMwO-Qee4mDqYLfIY8-i-HPf_HNUuxCT7srB6G4s9-5_S7qQPjcK3ncRNABXi9qyroyg4o93ftvhSUjWXv2WFN9-fBtcYXamvowc6zEJKpe1N03P0VC3M5qLMUrdtlOnTBEh/s320/Sole+Ness+in+Coconut.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everyone knows that knee high boots are totallyyy in this season ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMjRRQJCcxjTUaLfGnCNwE2iWPkBUW5ggXwYjLGOZ7HZY90x2IoNZc3XkiDJAMbCxdc7lcU5wsokxmV3kKSZvWY2xfWuvslnbXKpo-X8xqGSoiuzZEoa3e9DQOqyz6lcQ0raLV26EUuPn/s1600/Hard+Anodized+Orange+14-Piece+Cookware+Set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBqGg2siSGNDYItLgOsXbpfMVT9ZQVWYN1fTq97zZZ3QpFGunKaxYQ_ZFee8rsiV5CXYV8eb5_M2bNFlPz1hXOkMOUPCgYZ5tWuqLd72N7XF6G2loTLuiHykiFwBqb8a-VV9x5dvHzD11P/s1600/111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6Itow7M_JMwO-Qee4mDqYLfIY8-i-HPf_HNUuxCT7srB6G4s9-5_S7qQPjcK3ncRNABXi9qyroyg4o93ftvhSUjWXv2WFN9-fBtcYXamvowc6zEJKpe1N03P0VC3M5qLMUrdtlOnTBEh/s1600/Sole+Ness+in+Coconut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
As for my personal "to buy" list?<br />
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I already got the mixer....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPncEVQMAr9T9LBidQ0mibvZA8MTe5Q5mdrS0Qoug6Vx-UI4HVg4bMrIVxoBGVzouzVeJBdqWD6dU0oiZqc3I3Iehy1-x33rWQd_Y1Kn7hSVrHY8MPA4TCFcvcVVlsjwrcQiKETtpNWhlm/s1600/Artisan+Series+Tilt-Head+Stand+Mixer+in+Green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPncEVQMAr9T9LBidQ0mibvZA8MTe5Q5mdrS0Qoug6Vx-UI4HVg4bMrIVxoBGVzouzVeJBdqWD6dU0oiZqc3I3Iehy1-x33rWQd_Y1Kn7hSVrHY8MPA4TCFcvcVVlsjwrcQiKETtpNWhlm/s320/Artisan+Series+Tilt-Head+Stand+Mixer+in+Green.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now for the add ons.... ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqW1H6ZZw5MUCyxbyBQD8_b4cE2nbn3ZaJsjjemBiXzXILN_HfLsXtTA8_mCE-wN-2hnijfshS6tcySolW-hGDOdLK9rShRU1smAUb5CyRnpj_HxzygEITQNfd2IeDRhTNbt-_soQXoWd/s1600/Mixer+Attachment+Pack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqW1H6ZZw5MUCyxbyBQD8_b4cE2nbn3ZaJsjjemBiXzXILN_HfLsXtTA8_mCE-wN-2hnijfshS6tcySolW-hGDOdLK9rShRU1smAUb5CyRnpj_HxzygEITQNfd2IeDRhTNbt-_soQXoWd/s320/Mixer+Attachment+Pack.jpg" /></a></div><br />
and....I really want a tart pan. I just do ok? Don't judge. ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5RZWgpc1R3Nakla77L6rJNRMNWcpZCm_NrXKRM1AlKR83pcH9382hc1RZ8yRmFv3pYASIGTWLTtQ2Q7hNo8Y4rZBVGTJ3wxJWJjU2SNnL-S1qAp2dKyk3eXyq8hGYskU14pXMZrxkfSw/s1600/Pro+Form+Quiche+Tart+Pan+-+6+Cup+Capacity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5RZWgpc1R3Nakla77L6rJNRMNWcpZCm_NrXKRM1AlKR83pcH9382hc1RZ8yRmFv3pYASIGTWLTtQ2Q7hNo8Y4rZBVGTJ3wxJWJjU2SNnL-S1qAp2dKyk3eXyq8hGYskU14pXMZrxkfSw/s320/Pro+Form+Quiche+Tart+Pan+-+6+Cup+Capacity.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Now that I've got you all drooling, Heres how you can win!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">CONTEST RULES:</span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>How To Enter:</b></i></span></u></div><div style="text-align: center;">1. You MUST be a follower of me via google-friend connect, because if you don't want to VISIBLY be my friend, then you don't want to win! ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;">(if you already are then yay! proceed to step 2!)</div><div style="text-align: center;">2. Write a comment telling me what YOU would buy from their store! (feel free to look around at any/all of them!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">and thats it! Easy as that. You don't need to jump through hoops or make fire out of sticks. :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">BUT WAIT! Theres more! If you want a few extra ballots to increase your chances you can also do the following: </div><div style="text-align: left;">1) Follow me on <a href="http://twitter.com/ediblemoments">Twitter</a> (then <i><b>add another</b></i> comment telling me you did (or that you already do))</div><div style="text-align: left;">2) Retweet my "enter the contest" tweet or just tweet about the contest (and come back here and tell me you did) You can say something like: " Check out @ediblemoments giveaway <span class="status-body"><span class="status-content"><span class="entry-content">( <a class="tweet-url web" href="http://twitthis.com/wdfzb9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://twitthis.com/wdfzb9</a> ) for a chance to win $40 gift-certificate!" <i><b>then post ANOTHER comment </b></i>telling me you did.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
MAKE SURE YOU POST SEPARATELY FOR EACH. SO EACH ENTRY GET'S ITS OWN COMMENT. THEREFORE A MAXIMUM OF 3 SEPARATE COMMENTS<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Also please note: </div><div style="text-align: left;">*** MAKE SURE you leave your name/email/blog etc or someway for me to contact you! (Or else I cant give you the prize if you win! and that would make me sad.=(</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-23113248411558493082010-09-17T23:38:00.002-04:002010-09-20T19:27:20.173-04:00Best Ever Biscotti, New Beginnings, and a Giveaway!<style>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UF6i2xBZvgNaGOudLDY7dbtr39m-b_a5ZxqNjIPyI2TaZo5T-73XMrcYLSKFnUMmvoIJcFB3kRoKsB2JotizLeKZhTrVkNOyONB_T6iIf4dh5eGuJNwEPam2inrVfiwjIFK0JEjxBahV/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UF6i2xBZvgNaGOudLDY7dbtr39m-b_a5ZxqNjIPyI2TaZo5T-73XMrcYLSKFnUMmvoIJcFB3kRoKsB2JotizLeKZhTrVkNOyONB_T6iIf4dh5eGuJNwEPam2inrVfiwjIFK0JEjxBahV/s640/2.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">**To all my beloved followers, those who comment and those silent ninjas whose support means oh so much to me too, I’ve decided to host a giveaway for you guys! Please check the bottom of the post for more details! Or <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/09/csn-store-giveaway.html"><b><i>CLICK HERE</i></b></a>**</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">When I was sitting in my first class of the year, my professor passed around a ‘sign in’ sheet. Since I’ve been going to Carleton U for a while now, this practice has become quite common place for me. Once the sheet got around to me, I filled out the section for my name, student number, major, and then finally, my year. I instinctively wrote down “2<sup>nd</sup>”, but then I realized…no, wait, I’m in third year now! And for some reason this little reality check hit me like a ton of bricks. I turned to <a href="http://www.kitchenkarate.blogspot.com/">Jordan</a> and informed him of this startling fact, that we are indeed in 3<sup>rd</sup> year, but he seemed to be a bit more preoccupied with foodgawker. (who can blame him really? ;)) I’m not sure why this affected me so much, because every year is a new year, and every September I go “woah! I’m another year ahead!” </div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">I think the reason it affected me this much is that I’ve been really reflecting on my life lately, and I feel like everything is going by in super-warp speed. I remember high school like it was yesterday! Going to the cafeteria for lunch, kids skipping class and thinking they are SO Bad ass…thinking about what you want to do and what schools you should apply to…it all seems like a super fast blur now. And as for university…seriously? I’m in third year?! How did THAT happen?! I feel like just this morning I walked through the doors of Carleton, a bright eyed eager freshman, ready for the ‘college experience’, marveling with Jordan about how amazingly ‘free’ we are in comparison to high school. Buying our first books. Getting lost in the tunnels. Being lost in class. Getting lost on the bus ride back home. At a loss for time during my first ever ‘true’ all nighter. Lost. Lost. Lost. Yet somehow, these supposed ‘losses’ have become such fond memories, that perhaps they may be the reason why third year scares me. Third year is one year less than fourth year, and forth year is the last year before you get out of university and enter the ‘real world’. And that ladies and gentleman, is scary. </div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOI-8AJEZcBWNwtip8AE3dpOiq7S5S8OihDMS2GogOh7qVaiwKh8Ri09HXYI3uqZtRljVMu9GmOf5ImZSkc0QLfrdaZl9h_VtvQf383-NVVHSeTFZ8WN-zoIrLU_l1vgr-_rHrvnbyF8l/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOI-8AJEZcBWNwtip8AE3dpOiq7S5S8OihDMS2GogOh7qVaiwKh8Ri09HXYI3uqZtRljVMu9GmOf5ImZSkc0QLfrdaZl9h_VtvQf383-NVVHSeTFZ8WN-zoIrLU_l1vgr-_rHrvnbyF8l/s640/3.jpg" width="428" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtXrd7Jq0ZoLP3_C21LiFTMN35uMTq9XebmDUwgrJ5nyJkea788iobKdw8hKEr6cx1Dpk9abhe_q0wwUJSDcWmgpa1iZwbni7JN0DaTUBaFZCzabhSLfSZOi2BgpInHIf3H4OeD2RjBpK/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtXrd7Jq0ZoLP3_C21LiFTMN35uMTq9XebmDUwgrJ5nyJkea788iobKdw8hKEr6cx1Dpk9abhe_q0wwUJSDcWmgpa1iZwbni7JN0DaTUBaFZCzabhSLfSZOi2BgpInHIf3H4OeD2RjBpK/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">I randomly had the urge to make Biscotti this week, and I remembered a recipe that I had tried a long, long, longgggg time ago, back when I had FIRST started this blog. This brought back even more memories. You see, I started my precious food blog my freshman year, and to say I was proud of my work would be an understatement. I thought I was so awesome. Seriously. I mean…I had a blog. About food. I mean. Come on. How AWESOME is that?! Though I remember being so proud of that, its funny that looking back…I’m almost ashamed…those biscotti pictures that I was SO proud of? Well I came *this* close to deleting the post, because it was just plain embarrassing. Dark, blurry, and just plain icky. And the post? I posted not one recipe, not two recipes, but THREE recipes. All complete with their own pics. And my grammar? Not so good. </div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdn1tDihv6y0gYyJ0qP80jbYRDURi75P07_m_NwOoLXv4ef0rNgLYTkUIz3ZBpyP-uV4q9NnlUAx4K1_nJmtqSfjgGsvBbFQzCkp5gvng1qhUhoW6T76NVQwpOMspJQpStrnhOSf8v047/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdn1tDihv6y0gYyJ0qP80jbYRDURi75P07_m_NwOoLXv4ef0rNgLYTkUIz3ZBpyP-uV4q9NnlUAx4K1_nJmtqSfjgGsvBbFQzCkp5gvng1qhUhoW6T76NVQwpOMspJQpStrnhOSf8v047/s640/4.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">As embarrassing as<b><i> <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2008/12/more-snacks.html">this post might be</a></i></b>, in a way it makes me happy, that since then I have improved dramatically(at least I hope I have ;) ). I guess with every ending is a new beginning and that’s what I’m going to be focusing on. </div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">And to celebrate new beginnings, I’ve decided to host my first ever giveaway to thank all you AWESOME followers! Click <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/09/csn-store-giveaway.html"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>HERE</b></i></span></a> to enter! </div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGtJZYihRYWgDKGSua0b5NKc3PNuO0CpAiE-2NWvo_pp0NtAB-zid3FKx9Dw1325BeASu44fdmq93kEkJ07QllSmml7_tpJpqwNM771cVWvMN4u8g6s4Eh7Cl4lzdIk5omR6IDEPs1wFq/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGtJZYihRYWgDKGSua0b5NKc3PNuO0CpAiE-2NWvo_pp0NtAB-zid3FKx9Dw1325BeASu44fdmq93kEkJ07QllSmml7_tpJpqwNM771cVWvMN4u8g6s4Eh7Cl4lzdIk5omR6IDEPs1wFq/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b> Best Ever Biscotti</b></u></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">(<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cranberry-Pistachio-Biscotti/Detail.aspx">source</a>)</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;">Ingredients</div><div class="ingredients" style="margin-top: 10px;"><ul><li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1/4 cup light olive oil</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 3/4 cup white sugar</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 2 teaspoons vanilla extract</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1/2 teaspoon almond extract</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 2 eggs</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1/2 cup dried cranberries</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 1/2 cups pistachio nuts</li>
</ul></div><div style="border-top: 1px dotted rgb(204, 204, 204); margin-top: 20px; width: 300px;"></div><div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px;"><h3>Directions</h3><ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> In a large bowl, mix together oil and sugar until well blended. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, then beat in the eggs. Combine flour, salt, and baking powder; gradually stir into egg mixture. Mix in cranberries and nuts by hand. </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Divide dough in half. Form two logs (12x2 inches) on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Dough may be sticky; wet hands with cool water to handle dough more easily. </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Bake for 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until logs are light brown. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven heat to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C). </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Cut logs on diagonal into 3/4 inch thick slices. Lay on sides on parchment covered cookie sheet. Bake approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until dry; cool.<br />
</span></li>
</ol></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbV-Zrda9YrKrqRL0rjKNNVhIJWbkm0l7Kh5oDLyoOvRn95-mMydy-IWwqMNC8KLbCIUefXv9cAS9Q4KlUd_1-cQ6-uWb2qkE6skV4XKgMflfF8tdmlLC8E7_5Nk74OOieosP0LshuZrOV/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbV-Zrda9YrKrqRL0rjKNNVhIJWbkm0l7Kh5oDLyoOvRn95-mMydy-IWwqMNC8KLbCIUefXv9cAS9Q4KlUd_1-cQ6-uWb2qkE6skV4XKgMflfF8tdmlLC8E7_5Nk74OOieosP0LshuZrOV/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><br />
</div><blockquote><div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"> My Notes on this recipe: I didnt have cranberries or pistachios on hand so I just substituted with sliced almonds ( I didnt change the recipe cause its really yummy with the cranberries and pistachios ;) ) As well, I dont like my biscotti TOO hard, so I only baked it oh so slightly the second time around. And as for the forming of the 'logs' I did that the first time around and it doesn't turn out too good. Instead, just make a rectangular shape, and then cut it! :) Overall this Biscotti recipe is amazing and deserves the "best ever Biscotti" title! Enjoy!</div></blockquote><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8itDekjq9dcPyLX3EOGEf_NdbWe6khnsJX8yEeFQ0umlj-ESRk30qT7fPPXb8KFK8f9bumN3PP_TmsfuZP8QhklHCNzSIBk1MHDG6NsZ0wujbAdGRjXFjLp9mzu0uM2qd2b5hUucufyT9/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8itDekjq9dcPyLX3EOGEf_NdbWe6khnsJX8yEeFQ0umlj-ESRk30qT7fPPXb8KFK8f9bumN3PP_TmsfuZP8QhklHCNzSIBk1MHDG6NsZ0wujbAdGRjXFjLp9mzu0uM2qd2b5hUucufyT9/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-61004237426832143302010-09-07T23:48:00.001-04:002010-09-07T23:53:32.993-04:00Bipolar weather and Fudgey Homemade Brownies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjad9Qw3EzuL8ju8GFdd0tn3qLzn7WhSRJT8Z7kOBJRtJkJE67IYzKZA_3nHkRR0K10CELOBGePmhd1K-O-igj4sEAaCgxv6K19V-qrpiNEoE_C_O8W_d9ZAR6Ytf59A2fCPVmkqrjCUJsa/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjad9Qw3EzuL8ju8GFdd0tn3qLzn7WhSRJT8Z7kOBJRtJkJE67IYzKZA_3nHkRR0K10CELOBGePmhd1K-O-igj4sEAaCgxv6K19V-qrpiNEoE_C_O8W_d9ZAR6Ytf59A2fCPVmkqrjCUJsa/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">I swear our weather is bipolar. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the past few weeks we have had extremely hot and humid days reaching 38C (100F), and then two days later we will have rainstorms, then a day later it’ll be 14C (57F), and then the next day, will be like today, with awful thunderstorms. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">How awful? I’ll tell you how awful. Zahra was fast asleep when at 3:30 am she woke up with a start, and sat straight up in bed going “huh? What?” Yah. That’s right. The thunder storm was sooo loud it woke me up at 3 in the morning. ME. Ms.sets-an-alarm-clock-2-hrs-before-she-gets-up-so-she-can-press-snooze-20-times. Ms.litterally-slept-through-a-fire-alarm. So you kinda get a picture of just how BAD it was. Now I don’t know what’s worst - waking up like that? Or then being wide awake in your dark room with a crazy thunderstorm all around you, threatening to engulf you as your bedroom walls shake with the vibrations. I tell you, I was *this close* to running into my Mommy and Daddy’s bed, just like I did years ago when I was a kid. *this close*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anyways, needless to say I woke up a few hours later - after somehow falling asleep after an hour of lying awake in bed - confused and disoriented and my dad asking me if I was not going to work today, since my bus leaves in 10 min and I’m still lying in bed. To make matters worst, when I finally stumbled into the office with a killer headache, (and a forgotten lunch at home) I opened my secret snack drawer and realized I was all out of teabags. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">This.is.panic time. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was already exhausted from the thunderstorm, and now Zahra the caffeine addict, the must must MUST have her tea girl….stuck…without tea?! Lets just say that this was one of those Mondays. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-s-mzT4QDg7X9h8OPRUhoHsOpbcP4e0-QzrYtfUHyTSjO-eKz9zQu-x8yeiy7riXzaPiY1SXG1WGrxTG2VReN78GYalnmdWZiEgrD5BBUaZMdDDmfioZT0C4MRf7VQXgGvRYWpGC4KhDA/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-s-mzT4QDg7X9h8OPRUhoHsOpbcP4e0-QzrYtfUHyTSjO-eKz9zQu-x8yeiy7riXzaPiY1SXG1WGrxTG2VReN78GYalnmdWZiEgrD5BBUaZMdDDmfioZT0C4MRf7VQXgGvRYWpGC4KhDA/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">So when I got home, I made myself a nice big cup of dark, strong, Black tea and gulped it down. But I still needed an extra…something….so I made these delicious brownies. The perfect comfort food after one of 'those days'. They are those chocolatey no non-sensey fudgey brownies, that probably have a million calories each but you honestly dont care, because you've had 'one of those days'.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4TxP13tG6fI6zga4i_wW6Pc5S4qOn3OSjDqr7JuRiuP3f_pkGf5RtNkWCwE7aU0QU0jCGolvZlpuC1T7YMP4njOflWNvSHYjkexYoHb-wxL6hr7EaKeKRfody_QzaEMqSnnmyZXkPueT/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4TxP13tG6fI6zga4i_wW6Pc5S4qOn3OSjDqr7JuRiuP3f_pkGf5RtNkWCwE7aU0QU0jCGolvZlpuC1T7YMP4njOflWNvSHYjkexYoHb-wxL6hr7EaKeKRfody_QzaEMqSnnmyZXkPueT/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"></div><blockquote><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"> <b>Fudgy Homemade Brownies</b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"> <a href="http://www.onelovelylife.com/?p=324&cpage=1#comment-327">Source</a></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><blockquote>Ingredients:<br />
1 1/3c semi-sweet chocolate chips (use best quality-Guittard or Ghiradelli)<br />
5 Tbsp butter<br />
1tsp vanilla<br />
2 eggs<br />
3/4c sugar<br />
1/4tsp salt<br />
3 Tbsp baking cocoa<br />
1/3c flour<br />
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Directions:<br />
1. In a double boiler, melt chocolate chips and butter together. Stir in vanilla and set aside to cool.<br />
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light yellow and in the ribbon stage (you know you’ve reached this when you can lift up your whisk and the egg mixture drip down in a steady ribbon rather than in gloopy clumps). Stir in salt and cocoa and mix well to combine.<br />
3. Stir chocolate mixture into egg mixture and combine well. Sift over flour and fold in until just mixed. Do not overmix, or you will have tough, dry brownies and I will cry for you.<br />
4.Pour into a sprayed 8 x 8″ baking pan and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.<br />
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**do not over bake and allow to cool completely before cutting* </blockquote></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36O94emrNFzjJN2tGPqMZgkW6-arm_QzcO2ba5Q3IDjR6OzFkD7P2ZzSqsc0wq7k21aJQjP6huBvMWmkML_JIcL0FL4MaMCA3eTgkZVsb1mA5T3DfPLDzg-JTgX96MCx6LlFBUx4y_zew/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36O94emrNFzjJN2tGPqMZgkW6-arm_QzcO2ba5Q3IDjR6OzFkD7P2ZzSqsc0wq7k21aJQjP6huBvMWmkML_JIcL0FL4MaMCA3eTgkZVsb1mA5T3DfPLDzg-JTgX96MCx6LlFBUx4y_zew/s640/1.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"></div><blockquote><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">Recipe Review: These were fudgey. I think that about somes it up. I mean just look at those pics and you just know you are in for a bite of intense, luxuriously sinful chocolatey bliss. These are on the fudgey full blown chocolate end of the brownie scale, which is exactly what I was looking for. However, if you are more in the mood for a 'cakey' brownie than a fudgey one then check out <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/01/oooey-gooey-brownies.html">my go to brownie recipe</a>. Overall, these were yum and I will make again! :)</div></blockquote><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf07VOFS898wrwiHCPSnKK6ONoKFYTnQarYaEWPeR8w1gl98UY2ugK5m1jYDbrVe2JXLSBHERXt7sfFuL55Uwqqblzdh0J0CdeFOblwBq6sv9CXY9cN-izIZ8bdF1GKUfhbxm7cGN0jnG0/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf07VOFS898wrwiHCPSnKK6ONoKFYTnQarYaEWPeR8w1gl98UY2ugK5m1jYDbrVe2JXLSBHERXt7sfFuL55Uwqqblzdh0J0CdeFOblwBq6sv9CXY9cN-izIZ8bdF1GKUfhbxm7cGN0jnG0/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-1128399008083380662010-09-01T21:35:00.000-04:002010-09-01T21:35:50.358-04:00Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzM2SecAA10uhtsL0ZQAbOfNdpcFVenujCoSQ-OpPAkL09bInLxROin_62vzkYAw6Xg948O2ETD8fM1LJvytgWQUS-_f3KKSLKg5xB6H4iVULfLyM_lCrlihr0M-Pb0QHWsdAZZDR2_oC/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzM2SecAA10uhtsL0ZQAbOfNdpcFVenujCoSQ-OpPAkL09bInLxROin_62vzkYAw6Xg948O2ETD8fM1LJvytgWQUS-_f3KKSLKg5xB6H4iVULfLyM_lCrlihr0M-Pb0QHWsdAZZDR2_oC/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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I apologize for the lack of posts. It almost seems like whenever I make a decision to start posting more, life swoops in and makes it so that I can not only not update more often, but that I can’t update at all! Life has been very un-cooperative as of late, and work has kept me uber busy. Allow me to outline to you my days: I wake up <strike>early at 7</strike> late at 8 am, and scramble to catch my bus at 8:15 (you don’t want to know the craziness I go through every morning trying to get ready in 15 min) and hop onto the bus to work. I get to work at 9, and jolt myself awake with a caffeine boost, and then its work, work, work until 5 (sometimes 6). By the time I get home its 6 (sometimes 7) and I’m exhausted. So I figure I’ll take a quick break, rejuvenate, then bake something delicious, take loads of pretty pics, and then update away! What really happens: plop face first into my comfy bed with all its comfy pillows. End up accidentally falling asleep. Wake up an hour later wondering whats going on? Contemplate what I should bake. Check my email. Watch some youtube. Catch up on a TV show or two, and before I know it its midnight! :o <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxCrQ7dmsFK8kAXBtvFFmnh2YWEdsdSFXc1NOgTLHedn2bb1DUdGqdYLGHXGv5nkiA-oEOKKU4ezXyBr6tvKn1eVjjrwzb3B_S6tfmxZ4z1fzJMO1gwSRtJQAPvLHJEspRbMMtfof9Nyx/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxCrQ7dmsFK8kAXBtvFFmnh2YWEdsdSFXc1NOgTLHedn2bb1DUdGqdYLGHXGv5nkiA-oEOKKU4ezXyBr6tvKn1eVjjrwzb3B_S6tfmxZ4z1fzJMO1gwSRtJQAPvLHJEspRbMMtfof9Nyx/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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So then, I think to myself, on the weekend I’ll bake a BUNCH of stuff and then update throughout the week with it! Yay! Right? Nay. Every single weekend has been cloudy and rainy! EVERY. SINGLE. WEEKEND. How am I supposed to take pretty pictures without any good lighting? I swear its like life is laughing in my face. Working on files all day at work? Sure! I’ll pour in lots of beautiful sunshine and PERFECT weather. Excited for the weekend and all the baking? How about I stop the sunshine on Friday, give you thunderstorms on the weekend, and bring back the shine on Monday<br />
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The weathers a bitch. Plain and simple. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNU3AGClkdHJx-5zTyOhq5qFNvNA0ln4i-7tNCncNKPz-42hnvEXoetCAb2YmdJEx96K-jWd8AOpEVdLmk4E2r8MFAv7o5E2O5HUHBERuR5e30gM3b9xfGw8ru-CgQGF2movwAZ695Ahr9/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNU3AGClkdHJx-5zTyOhq5qFNvNA0ln4i-7tNCncNKPz-42hnvEXoetCAb2YmdJEx96K-jWd8AOpEVdLmk4E2r8MFAv7o5E2O5HUHBERuR5e30gM3b9xfGw8ru-CgQGF2movwAZ695Ahr9/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd6_ywOOCBqj2jwA7EmknZtGRJHWBW6P5F5z5FV9CXo6KDwNFWTmScXdPX0-fSIdhq4vhoVNwvuh6nAFdUz1ER9mErhKChSia_9BmddxQcj8_bphI6adYkhyphenhyphendOXNeqe5T8ht1XQMEzdu3Y/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd6_ywOOCBqj2jwA7EmknZtGRJHWBW6P5F5z5FV9CXo6KDwNFWTmScXdPX0-fSIdhq4vhoVNwvuh6nAFdUz1ER9mErhKChSia_9BmddxQcj8_bphI6adYkhyphenhyphendOXNeqe5T8ht1XQMEzdu3Y/s640/7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
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Now that I have that off my chest, on to these delicious lemon poppy seed cakes. I made them way back in January because I was getting the winter blues and need something light and ‘summery’, so I guess that would fit in quite snugly now what with all our 40C hot weather! <br />
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake</span></b></u><br />
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(from <a href="http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/moist-lemon-poppy-seed-cake/Detail.aspx">AllRecipes</a>)<br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
<br />
• 2 1/4 cups cake flour <br />
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• 1 1/8 cups white sugar <br />
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• 1 teaspoon salt <br />
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• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon zest <br />
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• 4 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds <br />
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• 1 1/3 cups unsalted butter, softened <br />
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• 5 eggs <br />
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• 3/4 cup white sugar <br />
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• 3/4 cup lemon juice <br />
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Directions<br />
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1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour one 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. <br />
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2. Sift together the flour, 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons white sugar and salt. Then mix in the lemon peel, poppy seeds and butter. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour batter into the prepared pan. <br />
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3. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. <br />
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4. In a saucepan over low heat; cook 3/4 cup white sugar and the lemon juice until stirring until sugar is dissolved. Let cool to just warm or to room temperature. <br />
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5. Remove the cake from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack-place a cookie sheet underneath this rack. Prick the top of the cake several times with a toothpick. Brush the top of the cake with the warm or room temperature syrup, allowing lots of the syrup to run down and soak into the sides and bottom of the cake. Cool slightly in the pan before removing the cake to the wire rack to cool completely. When completely cooled, wrap the cake in foil or plastic freezer wrap and let the cake rest at least one day before serving to your guests.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ak7y38yA7hOjXvHjMb0vjfWUvv1IHs0xGBOrE2368w_kiMz_TPC20cRFPcwMC17BsGdT-8WA7yI5Wa0lDO0jKzwI4vIyu7KxybybZ9mJ8Snagy53_xjh7A-sWdKUacFw_wh76DVmeAQG/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ak7y38yA7hOjXvHjMb0vjfWUvv1IHs0xGBOrE2368w_kiMz_TPC20cRFPcwMC17BsGdT-8WA7yI5Wa0lDO0jKzwI4vIyu7KxybybZ9mJ8Snagy53_xjh7A-sWdKUacFw_wh76DVmeAQG/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QjpVofcEuLzVFcLdOj5v0OGKDibhAK391bX6I1xJyv3lNeaDr-f1fCV6VYASlN55HkYfKO3OBbDDRJTRn8xV1kC1sgBF4b9RgKeGG5EAo7w7msySmQGwqWlIil96MaEW8H6fN4o6vcV4/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QjpVofcEuLzVFcLdOj5v0OGKDibhAK391bX6I1xJyv3lNeaDr-f1fCV6VYASlN55HkYfKO3OBbDDRJTRn8xV1kC1sgBF4b9RgKeGG5EAo7w7msySmQGwqWlIil96MaEW8H6fN4o6vcV4/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-87780525836108240752010-08-15T15:39:00.001-04:002010-08-15T15:40:43.753-04:00Persian Cuisine: Part 1-Zereshk Polo O Morgh<u><b>Mini Series on Persian Cuisine: PART 1 - Zereshk Polo O Morgh (Barberry and Chicken) </b></u><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSFxf8HvzgDcXFN7MaOQKYocEytfEDw6I4mnkpL9B8L-oHZ3exoN8gZJ32iHbLQqJAIB6QwrRmsYU6DXfA85_UeVfFzHA-zp59L7Jiwg6aRaKT__47wK1x9IFR4tU_Rt-fZYvhsWb17qW/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSFxf8HvzgDcXFN7MaOQKYocEytfEDw6I4mnkpL9B8L-oHZ3exoN8gZJ32iHbLQqJAIB6QwrRmsYU6DXfA85_UeVfFzHA-zp59L7Jiwg6aRaKT__47wK1x9IFR4tU_Rt-fZYvhsWb17qW/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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I mentioned wayyyy back when that I was thinking of starting a mini series on Persian Cuisine, and finally got around to introducing it in my <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/03/happy-nowruz-and-introduction-to-my.html">Eid/New- Year post</a>. <br />
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I'm both excited and nervous about sharing Persian Cuisine with you guys and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVIIz55zi7ArxeUlDuS4XiB52HAI7scq2HsPfSf1BdfMjcru4gSWNJOijohCcURhReTDzA-Qm4wPjmCjqF0D3if6teckRTDYkXdrIZcbA3x2f4ISmR_bBJZH71NgxWftVJGepe1bcCKnj/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVIIz55zi7ArxeUlDuS4XiB52HAI7scq2HsPfSf1BdfMjcru4gSWNJOijohCcURhReTDzA-Qm4wPjmCjqF0D3if6teckRTDYkXdrIZcbA3x2f4ISmR_bBJZH71NgxWftVJGepe1bcCKnj/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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First a quick back story: I am an Iranian-Canadian, and proud of it! Though I consider myself to be quite Canadian (check out my <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/06/canada-day-cupcakes.html">Canada Day cupcakes!</a>) I still have very strong roots to my Iranian culture. Though I may be quite a bit bias in saying this, but Persian food is good. Like. Really. Good. Its the type of food that satisfies many palates. Unlike other cuisines that might be too spicy or too mild for some, Persian cuisine is a delicious middle. However, though I enjoy eating it, it dawned on me that I have absolutely NO CLUE on how to make any of it! So, I have asked my mom to show me, and I plan to document my learning through the blog so you guys can learn too! <br />
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I also happen to be very fortunate because I have a mother who knows how to cook. And I know many people may say, "SO?! My Mom knows how to cook too!" But no. seriously. You dont know how good you have it until you dig into what you <i>think</i> will be REALLYYY good food, only to find that your friend's mom just...doesn't make it as good as your mom! I guess this food obsession is genetic? ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfhz1TBmBPZ3J2jptxsnDfEbKp8UPg-kC1ICAiQS_D-ocEeBwkgJaUMXbjgwvfpF9OXvoTizxpo_qPFdARhB1FzHk6ecILJVr0M_mQ2ZLd9AeUnMgBeTlM0Jj2FMx2siA2PZa-H6ABne6/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfhz1TBmBPZ3J2jptxsnDfEbKp8UPg-kC1ICAiQS_D-ocEeBwkgJaUMXbjgwvfpF9OXvoTizxpo_qPFdARhB1FzHk6ecILJVr0M_mQ2ZLd9AeUnMgBeTlM0Jj2FMx2siA2PZa-H6ABne6/s640/1.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><br />
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Still not convinced that my mom is like the super genius of Persian food? Then take everyone else's word for it. OTHER Iranians are always commenting on how delicious my moms cooking is, and are often asking about 'her way' of making things. Her most requested recipe? This one right here. Consider this a secret family recipe. The thing that makes this go over the top is, are you ready for it? The tomato paste. Who would have thought huh?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71Jfb6kRSnnBJwe1WZaD987HiqvwkPWWr2Ax-9UXtRZ79stKIyaFzusAoVAoKQxbjnhI5-A_DeQAUVRNB46goMkm0aBgudtBJ7jXRNP_41LvdaXhnSuEG0L_8titrBY4XeK3qcTaaxOQh/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71Jfb6kRSnnBJwe1WZaD987HiqvwkPWWr2Ax-9UXtRZ79stKIyaFzusAoVAoKQxbjnhI5-A_DeQAUVRNB46goMkm0aBgudtBJ7jXRNP_41LvdaXhnSuEG0L_8titrBY4XeK3qcTaaxOQh/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Anyways, I thought I would kick start my mini-series on Persian Cuisine with something that is not only delicious (duh!) but relatively easy to make, fits many taste buds (I mean...its chicken) AND is a 'secret family recipe' ( which makes me giddy inside because we don't have too many of those around here).<br />
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The literal Translation of this recipe would be Zereshk (Barberry) Polo (Rice) O (and) Morgh (chicken)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b> Zereshk Polo O Morgh</b></u></span><br />
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<u><b> Ingredients: </b></u><br />
(serves about 3)<br />
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<u><b> Morgh:</b></u><br />
- about 1/2 a chicken cut up into individual size pieces<br />
- Saffron<br />
- 2-3 tbsp Tomato Paste<br />
- about 1 cup Water<br />
- 4 tbsp lemon juice<br />
- salt and pepper to taste<br />
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil<br />
- 1 medium onion<br />
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<u><b> Zereshk:</b></u><br />
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- small onion (optional)<br />
- 1/4 cup Barberry <br />
- Saffron<br />
- 1 tbsp sugar<br />
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<u><b> Instructions:</b></u><br />
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1. chop up a medium sized onion and pour it into a medium-large sized pot <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Bx6jwGVa30oZUkduYB9aF1_BnBKAOZAa7FjfbYnUqU2A5doREm4KCAHHhyphenhyphen4HwK2lT5JRzZSEFNTfGdpsxSOdF2ky8ylenan_0d-g6NNqbuxmIs2e-Zgok7md7cAEpGEV5N04-9ORivPd/s1600/IMG_1224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Bx6jwGVa30oZUkduYB9aF1_BnBKAOZAa7FjfbYnUqU2A5doREm4KCAHHhyphenhyphen4HwK2lT5JRzZSEFNTfGdpsxSOdF2ky8ylenan_0d-g6NNqbuxmIs2e-Zgok7md7cAEpGEV5N04-9ORivPd/s400/IMG_1224.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4UqnonE0SPjqVJJFNPpgX9mvqwaph1QkewlDkiMyGmIjmZQziJqMVe4tkruyotNHC3yMSJRmTOqQ8VgS_ys7dyJn3nzfr9mQKXB7c53VjkjHNGXyTdyjmw5BdLn8U7pVZ1XztjbfvjYJ/s1600/IMG_1235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4UqnonE0SPjqVJJFNPpgX9mvqwaph1QkewlDkiMyGmIjmZQziJqMVe4tkruyotNHC3yMSJRmTOqQ8VgS_ys7dyJn3nzfr9mQKXB7c53VjkjHNGXyTdyjmw5BdLn8U7pVZ1XztjbfvjYJ/s400/IMG_1235.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mbyRqpMllUj8mVYPgsx0FoSDA99GT1JXSLx53AyUjubVKOGMWm1c8b0XZYb8BiLI9CvQ0ZMBqCAbztZi3WsaX9nfDQyErfhcBX2drlKTzA12ybV6cTxnB70-Gc8yOdrgrlcy6LxESmD8/s1600/IMG_1243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mbyRqpMllUj8mVYPgsx0FoSDA99GT1JXSLx53AyUjubVKOGMWm1c8b0XZYb8BiLI9CvQ0ZMBqCAbztZi3WsaX9nfDQyErfhcBX2drlKTzA12ybV6cTxnB70-Gc8yOdrgrlcy6LxESmD8/s400/IMG_1243.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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2. Take a 'pinch' (really small amount) of saffron (make sure to use the tip of a spoon and not your fingers!) and pour it into a small bowl. Add about 2 tbsp of boiling water.<br />
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<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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHedn32xbcv3daDLF9edUfFic1IhwiadSEMklFNjdj5JTK9ihvsc-ikemIDVxNh8OHARUTD-cS5mHaLBDSYgG043sor7EuaRuwyrhQdH20GXl1wnFUkfDenl2OTx0ihYy2PjRQW6QGlPZK/s1600/IMG_1247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHedn32xbcv3daDLF9edUfFic1IhwiadSEMklFNjdj5JTK9ihvsc-ikemIDVxNh8OHARUTD-cS5mHaLBDSYgG043sor7EuaRuwyrhQdH20GXl1wnFUkfDenl2OTx0ihYy2PjRQW6QGlPZK/s400/IMG_1247.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used a 1/8 tsp measuring spoon to show you how little it is. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJ7ry0cd8EmWQqZVP6TMGz_PZgUGVCZAz8xLWvLPs3YOWZQYqlPAHdJ-iPnQvqA1R8AHlExVWJlC3dgdh_4_Cwj8noPPU2Crd9ot-09oiCMgWSINdPo4vcLbaq1jNW3YoOHLsBoSCvh16/s1600/IMG_1266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJ7ry0cd8EmWQqZVP6TMGz_PZgUGVCZAz8xLWvLPs3YOWZQYqlPAHdJ-iPnQvqA1R8AHlExVWJlC3dgdh_4_Cwj8noPPU2Crd9ot-09oiCMgWSINdPo4vcLbaq1jNW3YoOHLsBoSCvh16/s400/IMG_1266.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhc-qFafTWM4G_B6EuHkQhfSUzrPFLvXp6h32Ed1eSYkvNrIKPqPXKkm-zTV5L0-KPCdZqQ-kX12IhQbPdbyBYWA3WdDeuo5i8Fy8LUlicgWwU63DGSFfW-P2YGY078Bt0z7UYv6da7z23/s1600/IMG_1267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhc-qFafTWM4G_B6EuHkQhfSUzrPFLvXp6h32Ed1eSYkvNrIKPqPXKkm-zTV5L0-KPCdZqQ-kX12IhQbPdbyBYWA3WdDeuo5i8Fy8LUlicgWwU63DGSFfW-P2YGY078Bt0z7UYv6da7z23/s400/IMG_1267.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxwZLk1R60SvlfGFjQnpxpUxdhVSVLpj0yQrKWwTHn7CigkJgPajn0cD0cLJzadIijR1kyoUhAYToPRfMncJe6OfwVyxJMRVvWvxdMRchitplEcXqpRiIJ7U9tB2mQ672TzejfAvhO_ZR/s1600/IMG_1269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxwZLk1R60SvlfGFjQnpxpUxdhVSVLpj0yQrKWwTHn7CigkJgPajn0cD0cLJzadIijR1kyoUhAYToPRfMncJe6OfwVyxJMRVvWvxdMRchitplEcXqpRiIJ7U9tB2mQ672TzejfAvhO_ZR/s400/IMG_1269.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<blockquote>**TIP** Crush your saffron down to a powder using a mortar and pestle. This makes your saffron smell better and give off a stronger color</blockquote><br />
3. In a separate medium size bowl combine the following: 2-3 tbsp of tomato paste, 4 tbsp lemon juice, 1 cup of water, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix. Add in the saffron mixture. Pour over the chicken in the pot.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwr6bXm8BT5g-QtoUEYDXCz7SiLwwHzh6Nx-mv1eDnEda_vHtlPuFCY7BDaTjw1v5bnQ-RJpygySII8eE9m2Eq3XEZdFCVAH7vGI7PKPm8V7PWdNU0-HP8bjnXPQIzKLZFUcKEO94sPC5/s1600/IMG_1244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwr6bXm8BT5g-QtoUEYDXCz7SiLwwHzh6Nx-mv1eDnEda_vHtlPuFCY7BDaTjw1v5bnQ-RJpygySII8eE9m2Eq3XEZdFCVAH7vGI7PKPm8V7PWdNU0-HP8bjnXPQIzKLZFUcKEO94sPC5/s400/IMG_1244.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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4. Put the lid on and put it on low-medium heat to cook for about 40-45 min, depending on the strength of your stove top. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-091_MGbDqOLZQk3n5BgHbZL2bsAAkV720ozDP68EeFfSsWOOTpwxPQn2tVBvFnD9WRvoq9wwHtzYrEMqx6hkXhPfXyJqo12sh6Ekk_MlD4vI-jpKxqXWg8pcfZ1sSfurgJX5zxgebni/s1600/IMG_1250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-091_MGbDqOLZQk3n5BgHbZL2bsAAkV720ozDP68EeFfSsWOOTpwxPQn2tVBvFnD9WRvoq9wwHtzYrEMqx6hkXhPfXyJqo12sh6Ekk_MlD4vI-jpKxqXWg8pcfZ1sSfurgJX5zxgebni/s400/IMG_1250.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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And thats it! your done your chicken! Now, while you are waiting for the chicken make your rice the same way you always do. Then, make the Zereshk. This is optional too, but I would suggest making it and trying it. I used to not be a fan when I was a child, but its grown on me over the years. It has a really sour (like lemoney not bitter) taste to it, and gives the dish that tiny little extra pop. <br />
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<u><b> How to make the Zereshk:</b></u><br />
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1. Chop up your small onion if using and pour it into a pan and fry it up a bit.<br />
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<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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tq2ZrWJXlwakpDgrHt4JI4PZlyol4NTK9IEaqy0HjbvO4O7DErzrZSIrBmwzz_fT4J8eP0lB19D_vjEOrjEHp-PxOtKSNdqDkvn_ycdTACoTFckBjkmRHDtzHsDqoxOGPMbT1NSa3NH7/s1600/IMG_1263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tq2ZrWJXlwakpDgrHt4JI4PZlyol4NTK9IEaqy0HjbvO4O7DErzrZSIrBmwzz_fT4J8eP0lB19D_vjEOrjEHp-PxOtKSNdqDkvn_ycdTACoTFckBjkmRHDtzHsDqoxOGPMbT1NSa3NH7/s320/IMG_1263.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dice it up nice and small</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig11dslQUDxSrNi-zMUoYfNyuDhdh6jlbUtimuHeVGDZHeSxCN0YGf9g6Vn2alzJ2Ln1hkeZC9i_4605hDtJGCyb64s-pMQQSzxQ0wmSJmcwRghOpI3CjN5TNvggCvgpqXhkE2H-NJu1PF/s1600/IMG_1264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig11dslQUDxSrNi-zMUoYfNyuDhdh6jlbUtimuHeVGDZHeSxCN0YGf9g6Vn2alzJ2Ln1hkeZC9i_4605hDtJGCyb64s-pMQQSzxQ0wmSJmcwRghOpI3CjN5TNvggCvgpqXhkE2H-NJu1PF/s320/IMG_1264.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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2. Prepare some more saffron 'liquid' in a small bowl as you had before.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxwZLk1R60SvlfGFjQnpxpUxdhVSVLpj0yQrKWwTHn7CigkJgPajn0cD0cLJzadIijR1kyoUhAYToPRfMncJe6OfwVyxJMRVvWvxdMRchitplEcXqpRiIJ7U9tB2mQ672TzejfAvhO_ZR/s1600/IMG_1269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxwZLk1R60SvlfGFjQnpxpUxdhVSVLpj0yQrKWwTHn7CigkJgPajn0cD0cLJzadIijR1kyoUhAYToPRfMncJe6OfwVyxJMRVvWvxdMRchitplEcXqpRiIJ7U9tB2mQ672TzejfAvhO_ZR/s640/IMG_1269.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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3. wash your barberries really well. Give them several rinses and pick out any stems or dirt.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRNKjN0cQCQ0sW625JzGmvK0rmI633vP-TyKwJMaqziU57wj6RGArWVskB5AqLb1YykCIbNhU3ahJ6lXLVr-TATO1bf9Iw56azrxdnlUPJQxd0towk5t0iN_IzFTAgxnFXNWjbtpHPYSD6/s1600/IMG_1252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRNKjN0cQCQ0sW625JzGmvK0rmI633vP-TyKwJMaqziU57wj6RGArWVskB5AqLb1YykCIbNhU3ahJ6lXLVr-TATO1bf9Iw56azrxdnlUPJQxd0towk5t0iN_IzFTAgxnFXNWjbtpHPYSD6/s640/IMG_1252.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaning it out- pick out stems and any dirt/rocks that may be there</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJALY3w6xpvWUR_Nd2LPYIYfXmihUS_9_BGiHuu6kenG9BJyBf39paBBygSSZ09UmlZNSf3sshj0FNlGTNdvWgA5nbrRvyLo_byia6YT4XSGUJqDekFIUyhjo2pWVk77sbfnL06ZG6yhyphenhyphens/s1600/IMG_1253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJALY3w6xpvWUR_Nd2LPYIYfXmihUS_9_BGiHuu6kenG9BJyBf39paBBygSSZ09UmlZNSf3sshj0FNlGTNdvWgA5nbrRvyLo_byia6YT4XSGUJqDekFIUyhjo2pWVk77sbfnL06ZG6yhyphenhyphens/s640/IMG_1253.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wash</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CSRw5i1q-iSoufau1yvsZVlaWtd6T3lgWuKEKdXcRXcwpKIMQSgiwNUcjRFp_o_2rN1gQx4-CCSIGhETASaNN67_hxKz59R5u5zN4UMuFBJEa84ME_hx_84YenHFP0aSiSPKdqlmbiWu/s1600/IMG_1261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CSRw5i1q-iSoufau1yvsZVlaWtd6T3lgWuKEKdXcRXcwpKIMQSgiwNUcjRFp_o_2rN1gQx4-CCSIGhETASaNN67_hxKz59R5u5zN4UMuFBJEa84ME_hx_84YenHFP0aSiSPKdqlmbiWu/s640/IMG_1261.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">oohh look at my mommy's pretty ring! ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsE1OKpnRwsYQqv67h5WztLrzeHdiDSw4fAV4KKU3Z4XHcs5w-3t5AryA8yxBah7d87wDQN50Qn1l3VfVFzlmsjk5R3SB4fVIIm6bjfyWqJUN_JquMEJ_30xYLH-WJO166q2FopJZ3lZh/s1600/IMG_1257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsE1OKpnRwsYQqv67h5WztLrzeHdiDSw4fAV4KKU3Z4XHcs5w-3t5AryA8yxBah7d87wDQN50Qn1l3VfVFzlmsjk5R3SB4fVIIm6bjfyWqJUN_JquMEJ_30xYLH-WJO166q2FopJZ3lZh/s640/IMG_1257.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drain</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvET5fv241JmcsGrSeAyXVh4SH7YXPFOnG1EY4_w9yM83Om4q2Nx8yDauUJN6fChItxFDZj9r637rj3V4YgKUWyAwNfBPsd3WswljWcXe6Hgmf-6n3pvXh0gggkKLjeJdPUCEDcB9RpHd/s1600/IMG_1265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvET5fv241JmcsGrSeAyXVh4SH7YXPFOnG1EY4_w9yM83Om4q2Nx8yDauUJN6fChItxFDZj9r637rj3V4YgKUWyAwNfBPsd3WswljWcXe6Hgmf-6n3pvXh0gggkKLjeJdPUCEDcB9RpHd/s640/IMG_1265.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use Berries while they are still moist!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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4. Then, while barberries are still moist, add them to the pan and toss in the saffron.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNqr-h9A7tHJ03S0lauYu-PojjpMst4CDcOR4uufqtolNFUiYkJcylGEWXmhyNQJd7j9ZHICr2THNUkdx1WdqaeX8Xj9Uc2ytQ3eoGvYUvLWuPedlH0z0aBUc7ME_tHor68ayqgdEausE/s1600/IMG_1273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNqr-h9A7tHJ03S0lauYu-PojjpMst4CDcOR4uufqtolNFUiYkJcylGEWXmhyNQJd7j9ZHICr2THNUkdx1WdqaeX8Xj9Uc2ytQ3eoGvYUvLWuPedlH0z0aBUc7ME_tHor68ayqgdEausE/s640/IMG_1273.JPG" width="427" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfng23A1m3aZiWVhY8dTXjqJdtG0H0oeaURgAzFkwykBspO9mTwsOY6KtmXmlM5oThmxvoGDjGY6L15iqUGNnMazaFKRDyn9-0X_qiMuVsiq0d1qcIa9xzs-0vmV47a87pNKGMcYQTt2t-/s1600/IMG_1276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfng23A1m3aZiWVhY8dTXjqJdtG0H0oeaURgAzFkwykBspO9mTwsOY6KtmXmlM5oThmxvoGDjGY6L15iqUGNnMazaFKRDyn9-0X_qiMuVsiq0d1qcIa9xzs-0vmV47a87pNKGMcYQTt2t-/s640/IMG_1276.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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5. Add 1 tbsp of sugar to cut back on the sourness.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYqEEbTnQBDM3M8b9UANYDnGwvIMsGWjAOoL2XUFXG7rzwtLEjronLgzo-eSmWBSlYX6rM_vrWhGPRup7DZVHjLu7_ycck8F1f-X5LTmEzM4jcgWDiTwD6KOsM2571pPPTVfeiIgPkctX/s1600/IMG_1274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLYqEEbTnQBDM3M8b9UANYDnGwvIMsGWjAOoL2XUFXG7rzwtLEjronLgzo-eSmWBSlYX6rM_vrWhGPRup7DZVHjLu7_ycck8F1f-X5LTmEzM4jcgWDiTwD6KOsM2571pPPTVfeiIgPkctX/s640/IMG_1274.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<blockquote>** NOTE: Barberries 'bake' really fast, so only a few mixes should be enough. BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVER HEAT IT OR IT WILL BURN!</blockquote><br />
6. Take it off the pan and mix in some of the prepared rice into it. (about 1/2 cup)<br />
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<u><b> How to arrange: </b></u><br />
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Pour some rice on to your plate. Top its of with about a spoon or two of the Zereshk you made, and top it with the chicken (and some of its juices)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4GgVKEzyK0SxQiKM0rYtf5WlsdCQJmSijaGJKnGVUGc_B2sN4jaMnVMcg2y_mxhOVFDFsD9b3EGIBrqder_7SIr_Xg8Q9y9ypDVJCr-lJF_emy7AlIJWEF_HOz9OfTvpWAe95D5yNp6V/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4GgVKEzyK0SxQiKM0rYtf5WlsdCQJmSijaGJKnGVUGc_B2sN4jaMnVMcg2y_mxhOVFDFsD9b3EGIBrqder_7SIr_Xg8Q9y9ypDVJCr-lJF_emy7AlIJWEF_HOz9OfTvpWAe95D5yNp6V/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span id="goog_129390029"></span><span id="goog_129390030"></span><br />
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Enjoy!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-63677304271897267802010-08-05T23:42:00.000-04:002010-08-05T23:42:21.594-04:00Turkish Festival<i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">**Please help me out by voting on the side bar…jump to the last paragraph for more details. Please and thank you! :) ***</span></i><br />
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Hello all!<br />
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I apologize for the lack of posts! After my last post, I got a bit sick with what I thought was a common cold. I figure all I should do is just rest lots and chug lots of OJ. After a week of this and not getting better, I went to the doctor who said don’t worrryyyy you’ll get better! And refused to give me antibiotics. Long story short, turns out I *needed* antibiotics! So anywho, all this to say that I was sick for about 3 weeks and have only started to get back on my feet. I promise I will update much, much, more this month! :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8_JTro8DYJN8Vj7NejLtFu_prGGNoVoamumI-vs2G84DsQKwZKtjKoolDgFMnBgo6VDnh8O8YqtaEMyjhqjBVl3CXwiEnozK7I2g7_5myzNtBjO_Z8NXHv05UjPPhNajtG-JU78WNW7n/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8_JTro8DYJN8Vj7NejLtFu_prGGNoVoamumI-vs2G84DsQKwZKtjKoolDgFMnBgo6VDnh8O8YqtaEMyjhqjBVl3CXwiEnozK7I2g7_5myzNtBjO_Z8NXHv05UjPPhNajtG-JU78WNW7n/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Now, on to the Turkish Festival. I went there about a week ago, and we had a blast! Since I haven’t been baking I thought I would share my experience with you instead. We went on the weekend and there was much to enjoy. From face painting and inflated play structures to live pottery, clay/oil painting (literally painting with oil!), dance, music, and most importantly, LOTS OF YUMMY FOOD. Trust me. I know.<br />
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I went a little photo crazy so heres all the crafty stuff: <br />
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</div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border: medium none;">And here is all the food!<br />
<br />
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</div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border: medium none;">I had a delicious shish kebab….nice and spicy with marinated tomatoes and onions. Also enjoyed freshly baked, right on the spot spinach and cheese pitas, and some Turkish coffee. We also had some baklava, but it was a MAJOR rip off…$1.50 EACH! :o </div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div>Some people just take advantage don’t they?!<br />
<div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div>And of course lots of dancing!<br />
<br />
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text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikpQdlreAhHgB20WaVWarZDxZWoWmAJ4EKEymrWvvRHwXfU7CcCdmYNoHVR2NVYDiKOQhn5hWU8Wbr2vXtd2Gt56fraEQSdgJZ-L3mj0Qm7BivVHQO1O9o6kTeKDDqU5cKXQlcwoNS6W7a/s1600/IMG_4479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikpQdlreAhHgB20WaVWarZDxZWoWmAJ4EKEymrWvvRHwXfU7CcCdmYNoHVR2NVYDiKOQhn5hWU8Wbr2vXtd2Gt56fraEQSdgJZ-L3mj0Qm7BivVHQO1O9o6kTeKDDqU5cKXQlcwoNS6W7a/s640/IMG_4479.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5C4A39YwyxFQjBa0OvqgGm6Af2Kf2qNJFVRUY6ULdrZm8UzfeZqCp94-E-U4GH4pKtnsmFu6KxUonCtrw7GHvJh0JaKMK3OfoTWy9Lmo2zFOFYE2YZvSYaddD98z3Ftym0afAHlCiqKQa/s1600/IMG_4485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5C4A39YwyxFQjBa0OvqgGm6Af2Kf2qNJFVRUY6ULdrZm8UzfeZqCp94-E-U4GH4pKtnsmFu6KxUonCtrw7GHvJh0JaKMK3OfoTWy9Lmo2zFOFYE2YZvSYaddD98z3Ftym0afAHlCiqKQa/s640/IMG_4485.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KTDeUdMs-kiIyJbUPfVCKbgD77AHNTeV5DkCBbNn5OErMm7FuF6rWnv6Yc34nTuyZ7KvqyY88V1jVlwGW0sb36ye3uV7R_yLz33-PlAB0IRiNNjWwE1sq-91t-Aq7IvrA1obRMJjB-mm/s1600/IMG_4490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KTDeUdMs-kiIyJbUPfVCKbgD77AHNTeV5DkCBbNn5OErMm7FuF6rWnv6Yc34nTuyZ7KvqyY88V1jVlwGW0sb36ye3uV7R_yLz33-PlAB0IRiNNjWwE1sq-91t-Aq7IvrA1obRMJjB-mm/s640/IMG_4490.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgj59NpZfqCuW5uq2myZ8BnSsFQRxCmedMTWqk196_3iCwE0nRKuJ3r5cmm9DofuFGPuqNaZRZgZhqrQQkNLqsG_vNWnaX_AkYhvuO5JPE1xDlvhI8x_pH_L2O5vuDXR1x94HFH_UlNLE/s1600/IMG_4491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgj59NpZfqCuW5uq2myZ8BnSsFQRxCmedMTWqk196_3iCwE0nRKuJ3r5cmm9DofuFGPuqNaZRZgZhqrQQkNLqsG_vNWnaX_AkYhvuO5JPE1xDlvhI8x_pH_L2O5vuDXR1x94HFH_UlNLE/s640/IMG_4491.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKG_T8YcXyXepxaEu_GaSjCv_AdatLcDxv5SAoGrrhEJ1na7hILBH83FNql2zSvPLxRl3nOuF5JZJc4qsJwhoH3UGAgA-a2DVsYwVGCC5QXZ1NnziUIdfoCaEaRuAnwWD-M6j3SoYPiqd/s1600/IMG_4502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKG_T8YcXyXepxaEu_GaSjCv_AdatLcDxv5SAoGrrhEJ1na7hILBH83FNql2zSvPLxRl3nOuF5JZJc4qsJwhoH3UGAgA-a2DVsYwVGCC5QXZ1NnziUIdfoCaEaRuAnwWD-M6j3SoYPiqd/s640/IMG_4502.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0v2Fvpaoc4B2AybFpjl7NOWjIlyz2pbkkznQTrCQRm_RUaa2y2CKIHZ5EWpG2nf8X2m8QIlPeMQI60Y1pW3mCWFohgIdR6Do0I1un1PzJv6gruXgrqS-GRTmLnYbnsMcYTj3YCJeyw5at/s1600/IMG_4500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0v2Fvpaoc4B2AybFpjl7NOWjIlyz2pbkkznQTrCQRm_RUaa2y2CKIHZ5EWpG2nf8X2m8QIlPeMQI60Y1pW3mCWFohgIdR6Do0I1un1PzJv6gruXgrqS-GRTmLnYbnsMcYTj3YCJeyw5at/s640/IMG_4500.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing_vMRD1q78egL2i48Sb-rIUpotpstJWsfHEoJ0q0s6RAeuIRvE0R-TnY3EMxcDKvhXIdwBQzmP5fPMTU57RWZtO1KNAkAqELuu2fMffp75lXLVvSoxOyM_5J88I2v5N3MNkeg8yyqN0W/s1600/IMG_4532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing_vMRD1q78egL2i48Sb-rIUpotpstJWsfHEoJ0q0s6RAeuIRvE0R-TnY3EMxcDKvhXIdwBQzmP5fPMTU57RWZtO1KNAkAqELuu2fMffp75lXLVvSoxOyM_5J88I2v5N3MNkeg8yyqN0W/s640/IMG_4532.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCM0i6Sq7SCB4eLYoGAOTSiu2ocSz7FQGh613mwdw4xNRkM6QxiAMtBIXdF69tvjNBcNa7-1Xue4UQoFT7QsaHIzQUviATtlY5E_kdusp8fkvxjpZWKU8RKYAZgdS2RUPXsc-7gU72SC10/s1600/IMG_4533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCM0i6Sq7SCB4eLYoGAOTSiu2ocSz7FQGh613mwdw4xNRkM6QxiAMtBIXdF69tvjNBcNa7-1Xue4UQoFT7QsaHIzQUviATtlY5E_kdusp8fkvxjpZWKU8RKYAZgdS2RUPXsc-7gU72SC10/s640/IMG_4533.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="border: medium none;">Hopefully I will update with a foodie post sometime in the next few days (any ideas on what to make? :) ) </div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
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<div style="border: medium none;">**Also, could you guys please help me figure something out? When I go to food blogs I LOVE gawking at all the delicious pictures, and the bigger the better. However, a ‘friend’ rather rudely pointed out to me that I post ‘too many pictures’. I took it offensively at first, but now I’m pondering whether its annoying to my followers? If so, please let me know by voting on the side! Thank you for your help! :) </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-28986071071626351462010-07-12T23:53:00.003-04:002010-07-14T14:40:51.791-04:00My Secret Recipes: Addictive Banana Squares<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjkuxlADxkab_P3lBvvMEwaTUwFVlAwx8ap9RXY5F0HIMew7gBDTTykTrkOXFDJzpQDlgbh8NkCXo0LotYGyd0uhTY9DOxYmkiaEAD1qa98X6KESMRV4mNM6rJDw2qsOuuFCsc7-lFuuX/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjkuxlADxkab_P3lBvvMEwaTUwFVlAwx8ap9RXY5F0HIMew7gBDTTykTrkOXFDJzpQDlgbh8NkCXo0LotYGyd0uhTY9DOxYmkiaEAD1qa98X6KESMRV4mNM6rJDw2qsOuuFCsc7-lFuuX/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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It's been awfully hot here, the kind of weather where turning on an oven is probably illegal. And a suicide mission. Probably both. Ottawa has never had this hot a weather and we broke quite a few records! (Something I wish I could be proud of)<br />
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All this to say that I haven't been able to bake for about a week, but thankfully I have a few recipes I have yet to post on...so...I uh...will. ya. :D<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig67kkq7ToF9i0HBCp4G2-r0W0GcrCn4znjgw9IgzXGxRei-Ff2Zj23VZfRF8hwlhMru5SjuJpe9ufELPTW6aov5pEql3MjZwrUSVrOuO-Vh-7zqzKJjYDIBAmcjLAB_X0x3DbIwXJnObF/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig67kkq7ToF9i0HBCp4G2-r0W0GcrCn4znjgw9IgzXGxRei-Ff2Zj23VZfRF8hwlhMru5SjuJpe9ufELPTW6aov5pEql3MjZwrUSVrOuO-Vh-7zqzKJjYDIBAmcjLAB_X0x3DbIwXJnObF/s320/2.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br />
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Ok so as I have shared with you guys before, I have a series of recipes that, if I say so myself, taste really really REALLY good. And for some reason that is somewhat foreign to me I feel a bit <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/05/secret-recipes-and-hummus.html">'over protective</a>' of these recipes, almost like a 4 year old who doesn't mind (in fact loves) to share all her toys with the neighborhood kids, but for some reason clutches greedily to that one special doll. And lord have mercy on your soul if you try to yank that doll away from her.<br />
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But I've been trying to be a good girl and learn to share a bit more. So from my list of uber secret recipes (that coincidentally happen to be my most requested recipes) I am slowly but surely trying to share a few of these with you. So if Banana isn't quite your thing (the insanity!:O ) then why not try my <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2009/03/cinnamun-bunsoh-how-thee-haunt-me.html">cinnamon bun</a> recipe? Or perhaps some <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/05/secret-recipes-and-hummus.html">Hummus</a>? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6cQSX6rnwBZfCcIvZWzbJ-b1QjLZl5o_g389zSsn-fAW5ZMdCcVf6XFL04x4x4L6zJwOzWCifMVYR4xwiwFoZRjMEQVH2XTKYWpDs8sl_sacOR95XqqAghGQSXo328GP7z7ppXT7Aup7/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6cQSX6rnwBZfCcIvZWzbJ-b1QjLZl5o_g389zSsn-fAW5ZMdCcVf6XFL04x4x4L6zJwOzWCifMVYR4xwiwFoZRjMEQVH2XTKYWpDs8sl_sacOR95XqqAghGQSXo328GP7z7ppXT7Aup7/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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I made these babies to take to a family friend's house where we were invited for dinner. The final product was quite adorable (think little chocolate squares in cupcake liners topped with a swirl of chocolate frosting and a slice of banana!) but I wasn't able to catch a picture of them, so you will just have to take my word for it. :)<br />
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<blockquote><blockquote>TIP: These banana squares taste EVEN BETTER the next day. So let them sit for a while...if you can stand it</blockquote></blockquote><br />
Blogging is a way for me to connect with other foodies around the world and 'write down' my experiences and life through food, but it also serves the purpose of helping me keep track of my favorite recipes. Long story short I thought I had lost this recipe forever, and hopefully by writting it here I never will lose it again!<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Most Addictive Best Ever Banana Cake </span><br />
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3 bananas<br />
¾ cup sugar<br />
1 egg<br />
1/3 cup vegetable oil<br />
¾ cup chocolate chips (optional)<br />
1 ½ cups flour<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
½ tsp salt<br />
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1. Mash up the Bananas really well. Beat in the sugar, egg and vegetable oil.<br />
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2. Mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. <br />
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3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ones and make sure you mix REALLY WELL. You can also stir in some chocolate chips if you like.<br />
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4. Bake at 350C until lightly brown on the edges and toothpick comes out clean.<br />
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<strong>"PERFECTLY CHOCOLATE" CHOCOLATE FROSTING</strong><br />
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine<br />
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2/3 cup HERSHEY'S Cocoa<br />
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3 cups powdered sugar<br />
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1/3 cup milk<br />
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
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Melt butter. Stir in cocoa. Alternately add powdered sugar and milk, beating to spreading consistency. Add small amount additional milk, if needed. Stir in vanilla. About 2 cups frosting. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1YYmBXhYRuZkwYy4ebY4sGEMXAkY00s8HCVOkKaWf54rA4jngWZieMXrre-5j7hP9pzYzL37mJqDpWHOTIirOBYfn6bMnNm9E0IrtY-1H_TD8tXA6ZLgh3x45ErFD55KmpFoiAQCu6Sq/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1YYmBXhYRuZkwYy4ebY4sGEMXAkY00s8HCVOkKaWf54rA4jngWZieMXrre-5j7hP9pzYzL37mJqDpWHOTIirOBYfn6bMnNm9E0IrtY-1H_TD8tXA6ZLgh3x45ErFD55KmpFoiAQCu6Sq/s640/1.jpg" width="427" /></a></div><br />
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<blockquote><i><b>Recipe Review</b></i>: This is (clearly) one of my all time favorite recipes. It converted my banana hating sister into a banana cake eating crazy person! (To the point where you have to hide it from her!) What I love about this is its SOO easy to whip up, can be made in one bowl if you like, is fool proof and most importantly its SO yummy. When you have your first bite, you wont think oh my god insane! You will be like" hmm...this is good banana cake. nothing crazy...not sure what she was going on about..its <i>just banana cake.</i>" But thats where you are wrong laddie. Ten minutes later you will find yourself reaching for another bite....and another...and another...They really are THAT addictive!</blockquote>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-55263993925973991472010-07-07T00:14:00.003-04:002010-07-07T00:26:44.895-04:00Greek Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-E257sjlx5AfmYkuSJ7LD8oagc_u0x7cfRNcjY8EfcAnSILD471NH4Dlib0gxruaqq6QP9ghN1javP2i4auhe3AXABkdyeXd11g5jGlN-MNv2SkcepfevuF_paYlRBace7j2_LEfVA7v4/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-E257sjlx5AfmYkuSJ7LD8oagc_u0x7cfRNcjY8EfcAnSILD471NH4Dlib0gxruaqq6QP9ghN1javP2i4auhe3AXABkdyeXd11g5jGlN-MNv2SkcepfevuF_paYlRBace7j2_LEfVA7v4/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span id="goog_252659818"></span><span id="goog_252659819"></span> <br />
I’ve recently started watching Hell’s Kitchen. I know, I know, I’m a bit slow on jumping on the bandwagon, but I’m not one to watch tv. Scratch that. I watch a lot of tv. Some (my parents) would say <i>too</i> much tv, but I’m not one to channel surf, and though we got a new tv that I was so hyped about, I rarely watch anything on it. My tv is my macbook's internet. This can be good, because you don’t waste hours of your life watching commercials and channel surfing, but the consequence is that you won’t be exposed to such awesome shows as Hell’s Kitchen.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcPnHQmiaVKt1avINdvJGeGCEeAWokcx-WHF9sz0bdW3kHSvbUzCzK1slxBxR9shepYGC1rUGv_kO-sPzSpnTod_r7W_Cga0YjFJTIlxBND277qts2LdWshvMEnlPwa1oFHEu9wWkl9Uw/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcPnHQmiaVKt1avINdvJGeGCEeAWokcx-WHF9sz0bdW3kHSvbUzCzK1slxBxR9shepYGC1rUGv_kO-sPzSpnTod_r7W_Cga0YjFJTIlxBND277qts2LdWshvMEnlPwa1oFHEu9wWkl9Uw/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Watching hell’s kitchen makes me all excited and giddy. It makes me want to head into my kitchen and cook up a storm. Take out a nice sharp and shiny Chef’s knife that’s worth a few pretty $$ and go to town chopping parsley, mincing onions, slicing chicken and sautéing god knows what else.<br />
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This is amazing. I want to cook? I’ve always been a more of a baking sort of girl. If I bake it’s a hobby, a passion; if I cook it’s a chore. Hopefully this will change in the near future? I know my parents would sure like that! They are <i>always </i>telling me how I should cut back on baking and do more healthy cooking.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8rsqyAMkAu1GpW4QLArB1D6cUpKOi8hu_ke281EwKmhn1nz52kjX5kpDwk0AhgD2kILTnFcRM0g7nH25_PscGwd2Dtw_w74a1URhD0wSAFDyoy9tGPAMaO9jnHXWXUh6s3k8pbgK5Cqh/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8rsqyAMkAu1GpW4QLArB1D6cUpKOi8hu_ke281EwKmhn1nz52kjX5kpDwk0AhgD2kILTnFcRM0g7nH25_PscGwd2Dtw_w74a1URhD0wSAFDyoy9tGPAMaO9jnHXWXUh6s3k8pbgK5Cqh/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Speaking of healthy cooking, I made this a week ago. My parents were glaring at me for baking just a taddd too much(I may or may not have baked every day for a week…hey! Whats a girl to do during summer vacation?!), so I decided to make something more ‘healthy’ to balance it off. This Greek salad was amazing and I will definitely be making it again this summer! Its so light and delicious and easy to put together, it will probably become your staple salad recipe for the summer too!<br />
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Greek Salad<br />
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- Tomatoes<br />
- Cucumbers<br />
- 1 Red Onion<br />
- Chunks of Feta Cheese<br />
- Sauce<br />
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1. This is all about taste, so add the veggies and cheese to your liking and toss with the sauce.<br />
2. To make Sauce: combine 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 TBSP of Mustard, and 1/2 tsp of garlic powder and basil. Add a dash of pepper.<br />
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*** feel free to alter the sauce recipe to your taste and experiment with different spicesUnknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-66214789057048297992010-06-30T20:10:00.002-04:002010-06-30T22:18:45.653-04:00Canada Day Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxTmoVSkLSWd9HZPQIY3F-1I-98giN4wrgpy01kBeX-H5L5QqsTRpzZfs_AFDcj995ZuvF5Je6nrK26zTVr4OYtvnkeHkel9X3a9jfmUtz7pmMzbCQJA_YlF4T6NHusBEmITOGWNdxW2V/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxTmoVSkLSWd9HZPQIY3F-1I-98giN4wrgpy01kBeX-H5L5QqsTRpzZfs_AFDcj995ZuvF5Je6nrK26zTVr4OYtvnkeHkel9X3a9jfmUtz7pmMzbCQJA_YlF4T6NHusBEmITOGWNdxW2V/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We have been having some really odd weather lately. It’s almost July, but you wouldn’t know it…it was 15C (59F) this morning! Its kind of weird because for a few days we will have overly hot and humid weather(35C, 95F), that makes you want to do nothing but just lie around and …well….do nothing. And then for a few days we will have freezing cold weather were you need a jacket!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Global warming ya’ll. No joke.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uEpiQ5P0SM4QOjGDTg7qxhano4qrzfWEXL21Cweywj8eyxe1-_QYJCOdx7XOKMTzwq8HY2wUMo6q4mrG6_2AERDgIis94adwr6AEWHxb87447XhZSKa9Cy1sgex30in_uRiTte9aof9z/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFFC2iwMjd5WscsMe5t_-j5lenxGOj11HWandodWDsbJHY_yozdgXHr7Ryj-dfZr1JZygieKsDI4X8ZtZO1psRrYI8W_pVtG3yAG6zwGGYmJRvCxcN_heQ9U2hwGt957Hk9Lcwq-BzE8i8/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFFC2iwMjd5WscsMe5t_-j5lenxGOj11HWandodWDsbJHY_yozdgXHr7Ryj-dfZr1JZygieKsDI4X8ZtZO1psRrYI8W_pVtG3yAG6zwGGYmJRvCxcN_heQ9U2hwGt957Hk9Lcwq-BzE8i8/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So speaking of July, July 1<sup>st</sup> is Canada Day for us here canucks. For those of you who are not Canadian, and don’t know what Canada day is, its sort of the equivalent of Independence day in the US. We celebrate the anniversary of the July 1, 1867 enactment of the Constitution Act, 1867, which united two British colonies and a province of the British Empire into a single country called Canada. (see mom? I listen in school :P)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7V5r-wD7lGlpBJlWGcFWgOUj8gf6JIuxz8FnBgJFbf19chx9SRciIPL8FTFQlhZM0zgtQmEJfp1o28HgQ9xRHkElXUijZoFITweUbBF0eo3NReUTvtI-EwMYEf_7HFKDyGzV7Eb7D1iQA/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7V5r-wD7lGlpBJlWGcFWgOUj8gf6JIuxz8FnBgJFbf19chx9SRciIPL8FTFQlhZM0zgtQmEJfp1o28HgQ9xRHkElXUijZoFITweUbBF0eo3NReUTvtI-EwMYEf_7HFKDyGzV7Eb7D1iQA/s640/5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">That makes Canada a bit of a ‘baby’ country since its only turning 143!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGxOpYjSBdEwGJu4BJdoYywCrgEJpRCfX7Y3907S-tPNClFXKaIUL55AcCYFvfERxnIX1lMsoi6A01oxZW-C_rSqhM3jjD-mvvgx6uyO8fGmJqjMZP24WwIyRq1sgGbS9dqzV3-gN1ED-/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGxOpYjSBdEwGJu4BJdoYywCrgEJpRCfX7Y3907S-tPNClFXKaIUL55AcCYFvfERxnIX1lMsoi6A01oxZW-C_rSqhM3jjD-mvvgx6uyO8fGmJqjMZP24WwIyRq1sgGbS9dqzV3-gN1ED-/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Anywho, on to these lovely cupcakes. I used the same recipe that I did for the <i style="color: #351c75;"><a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/06/fifa-inspired-cupcakes.html">FIFA world cup cupcakes</a></i>, and followed the exact same directions. The only difference is I sliced up some strawberries and put them in the middle. Make sure to cover the top of the strawberry with the batter, and not over do it with the strawberries, since this <i>is</i> a cupcake surprise. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK383IXFwK5c5BtsBrYKtfSLjtytjbNCOWo4BPVn5eIo3_Gxp45tT6gQCxqqC60Uo38EMR1PuORaKtknbDwe_4XbKkZ_U__Z2m5ThAtJXR8uaDZDrA3-AQwzab2UCKT00B-dnKrH1v8MH/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK383IXFwK5c5BtsBrYKtfSLjtytjbNCOWo4BPVn5eIo3_Gxp45tT6gQCxqqC60Uo38EMR1PuORaKtknbDwe_4XbKkZ_U__Z2m5ThAtJXR8uaDZDrA3-AQwzab2UCKT00B-dnKrH1v8MH/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUIH12zT1WfOOgciK2xMuq4Op96gGySLkef4sgh1YvrSe-hg3SaR3Dl3bskDx_XUYfLTtTadTnNDqFG9mFQZJsJurJ0OJaDz-QBgoXPwKqCoDqnauWCNxUkoPi07kS0Fn5wFlE3b2QKgkB/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUIH12zT1WfOOgciK2xMuq4Op96gGySLkef4sgh1YvrSe-hg3SaR3Dl3bskDx_XUYfLTtTadTnNDqFG9mFQZJsJurJ0OJaDz-QBgoXPwKqCoDqnauWCNxUkoPi07kS0Fn5wFlE3b2QKgkB/s400/12.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1m61NzwR81x-6BEMOHOZoNxDmxrusTgLxfU8IA9FApGk8qa8rgY1ysNlcge-7b9K7uPEKMjxHpRBBGIBShVVb1m6lplWxH2njXlOp59Ei7ne9H1mG_g40mLTuVDQuXGoxJ3S8nU96eS1u/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1m61NzwR81x-6BEMOHOZoNxDmxrusTgLxfU8IA9FApGk8qa8rgY1ysNlcge-7b9K7uPEKMjxHpRBBGIBShVVb1m6lplWxH2njXlOp59Ei7ne9H1mG_g40mLTuVDQuXGoxJ3S8nU96eS1u/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEissHYxEbcpz1FRob4fE8o-QuLLWbKowWYDxQfog8rtOHRrdeQdxotmJLPKC-vl-apHVv-BarHvuKu01vNieN-3yB8wTRF8LZsuVZaUHIpoNmDV_Z7mDvsuHledZaP5PZsSLGTg3TH_Sx0V/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEissHYxEbcpz1FRob4fE8o-QuLLWbKowWYDxQfog8rtOHRrdeQdxotmJLPKC-vl-apHVv-BarHvuKu01vNieN-3yB8wTRF8LZsuVZaUHIpoNmDV_Z7mDvsuHledZaP5PZsSLGTg3TH_Sx0V/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">TIP: For a more American Version, trying popping in a few blueberries with the cupcakes and when you bite in, there will be blue, red, and white colors! (blue and red for the berries, white for the cake)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4VW3ijg8Ef4qdeLelBJCIVn7NH_HMzITdfQEkl9Quui08VZ5sk8rioxmUjpwjA7WbMzsDa0crk3fx-SGJea9qZvXOynj5N4SX04L_tPfUct6zLLcGAXIDYa6mBrWKr__Bqq0zGOZx4VX/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4VW3ijg8Ef4qdeLelBJCIVn7NH_HMzITdfQEkl9Quui08VZ5sk8rioxmUjpwjA7WbMzsDa0crk3fx-SGJea9qZvXOynj5N4SX04L_tPfUct6zLLcGAXIDYa6mBrWKr__Bqq0zGOZx4VX/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAw4EqgMo2Mi1ZgdWAk87srcCTY-w_Gop8yxdrzrp6NcuMJGmXM7BvBPrl3iaWblim6uYSsvbnWXXgrRcehIKuk2VLi5sTwtycjDyBAW1Cbu5aMJpqdh8n8Gnb33rsseltyEOgS85c3Qu6/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAw4EqgMo2Mi1ZgdWAk87srcCTY-w_Gop8yxdrzrp6NcuMJGmXM7BvBPrl3iaWblim6uYSsvbnWXXgrRcehIKuk2VLi5sTwtycjDyBAW1Cbu5aMJpqdh8n8Gnb33rsseltyEOgS85c3Qu6/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">For decoration I alternated between pouring red sugar over some in the shape of the flag, and using red maple leaf sprinkles, and topping some with just one single sprinkle.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I had a bit too much fun decorating these!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uEpiQ5P0SM4QOjGDTg7qxhano4qrzfWEXL21Cweywj8eyxe1-_QYJCOdx7XOKMTzwq8HY2wUMo6q4mrG6_2AERDgIis94adwr6AEWHxb87447XhZSKa9Cy1sgex30in_uRiTte9aof9z/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uEpiQ5P0SM4QOjGDTg7qxhano4qrzfWEXL21Cweywj8eyxe1-_QYJCOdx7XOKMTzwq8HY2wUMo6q4mrG6_2AERDgIis94adwr6AEWHxb87447XhZSKa9Cy1sgex30in_uRiTte9aof9z/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Happy Birthday Canada! :D </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOtwjsLVqKWS1pGBrdaCtATBbr6kDgyMGEe4oS_Tveiq6E5BojVAxnUCCKDeBYbX9xplR96rnwZy2lKavWlNl2cNVdROoildLPONpLNyq6cFbBc8tCsfcjDgprMVnGjDgk8hS9RF2NGRW/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOtwjsLVqKWS1pGBrdaCtATBbr6kDgyMGEe4oS_Tveiq6E5BojVAxnUCCKDeBYbX9xplR96rnwZy2lKavWlNl2cNVdROoildLPONpLNyq6cFbBc8tCsfcjDgprMVnGjDgk8hS9RF2NGRW/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-86041067125394103112010-06-28T00:33:00.003-04:002010-06-28T12:08:53.524-04:00FIFA inspired Cupcakes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnjxmKam7UK0hXgA9JGYua8QAxs4gcB828VbogHEKGNllACT3WxcsyBBEyVzhicqyjwgRe1t1MnefH4l3XZwAmV0-hX3pNuL_HtpYWmhmpOHoe7ygQgInEOcOSfq7FxjURnjbYwW7uHpu/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnjxmKam7UK0hXgA9JGYua8QAxs4gcB828VbogHEKGNllACT3WxcsyBBEyVzhicqyjwgRe1t1MnefH4l3XZwAmV0-hX3pNuL_HtpYWmhmpOHoe7ygQgInEOcOSfq7FxjURnjbYwW7uHpu/s640/3.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivRgoWtw3m5ndZb9p0i7COKO9qYovq806b3436LfRTi3c3iLBFcnwx8k8YJ43-Jnt8P0V3TIeJG1pycToiPzLIsN9py1TJnGY617BK2BQlD7CG8nN8IXf84K8yy_nc5y72RnDlooB9Fd6/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivRgoWtw3m5ndZb9p0i7COKO9qYovq806b3436LfRTi3c3iLBFcnwx8k8YJ43-Jnt8P0V3TIeJG1pycToiPzLIsN9py1TJnGY617BK2BQlD7CG8nN8IXf84K8yy_nc5y72RnDlooB9Fd6/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">My family is obsessed with soccer. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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I think its part of my Iranian Heritage. In Iran, soccer is like a religion to some people. Soccer players are heroes, and a soccer game is a family event that everyone attends from grandpa to grandchild, all gathered around the tv. I personally am not what you call obsessed, and I barley know the correct ‘soccer terms’ ( or football as they call it). In my family, my dad and my brother are crazyyyy about it, followed by my sister, and me and my mom last, who enjoy the brief update on who is playing who, but that’s about that. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2_v-f15R79Az1zN8a3kZHLA3cRUFPI-hcN1cslGI6YFEruHSgq5DuIhKvYoVM_x2Zl30FS1LLLndtut2k6UL3uLkTlM39VzQJS1qiK-B9CXxKQd2RYVm8Z7p_fJ39yK0w9nIE6EAndIa8/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2_v-f15R79Az1zN8a3kZHLA3cRUFPI-hcN1cslGI6YFEruHSgq5DuIhKvYoVM_x2Zl30FS1LLLndtut2k6UL3uLkTlM39VzQJS1qiK-B9CXxKQd2RYVm8Z7p_fJ39yK0w9nIE6EAndIa8/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">I personally dont have the patience for watching an entire game. I mean, sit there and watch a 2 hour game where there is only one goal? If any? No thanks. I prefer the sweet 5 min recap with all the goals. :D</div><div class="MsoNormal">However, as this is FIFA season, and my brother and dad have been oh so spoiled with having access to a 50” TV, they are more than celebrating and enjoying the event. But how can I fully enjoy it? Well I’ll just bring my foodie passion in ;)</div><div class="MsoNormal">So…I made these cute little soccer ball topped cupcakes! They turned out very cute! (Though I’m sure soccer fans would cringe at such a description)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivRgoWtw3m5ndZb9p0i7COKO9qYovq806b3436LfRTi3c3iLBFcnwx8k8YJ43-Jnt8P0V3TIeJG1pycToiPzLIsN9py1TJnGY617BK2BQlD7CG8nN8IXf84K8yy_nc5y72RnDlooB9Fd6/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivRgoWtw3m5ndZb9p0i7COKO9qYovq806b3436LfRTi3c3iLBFcnwx8k8YJ43-Jnt8P0V3TIeJG1pycToiPzLIsN9py1TJnGY617BK2BQlD7CG8nN8IXf84K8yy_nc5y72RnDlooB9Fd6/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">I used Magnolia’s cupcake and frosting recipe and as always, they were yummy! I’m posting just the recipe tonight, and will hopefully post the tutorial on how to make the soccer balls tomorrow! </div><div class="MsoNormal">So tell me foodies, who are YOU rooting for to win? Brazil? Argentina? Uganda? Let me know!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Magnolia's Vanilla Cupcakes</b></span></div><div class="x-small" id="recipe_servings" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 12px;"><i><b>Makes about 2 dozen cupcakes (depending on the size of your cupcake papers and muffin tin</b></i> </div><ul><li><br />
<br />
<div class="x-small" id="recipe_ingredients" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-top: 0pt;"><b class="cbl" style="color: black;">CUPCAKES:</b> </div></li>
<li> 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour <i><b><a href="http://www.cdkitchen.com/features/tip/528/Self-Rising-Flour-Substitute" style="color: #741b47;">( I substituted here)</a></b></i></li>
<li> 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour </li>
<li> 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened </li>
<li> 2 cups sugar </li>
<li> 4 large eggs, at room temperature </li>
<li> 1 cup milk </li>
<li> 1 teaspoon vanilla extract </li>
<li> <b class="cbl" style="color: black;">ICING:</b> <br />
</li>
<li> Vanilla Buttercream (recipe follows) or Chocolate Buttercream </li>
</ul><ol class="x-small" style="font-weight: bold;"><li style="font-weight: normal;"> Preheat oven to 350 degrees. </li>
<li style="font-weight: normal;"> Line two 12-cup muffin tins with cupcake papers. </li>
<li style="font-weight: normal;"> In a small bowl, combine the flours. Set aside. </li>
<li style="font-weight: normal;"> In a large bowl, on the medium speed of an electric mixer, cream the butter until smooth. Add the sugar gradually and beat until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk and vanilla. With each addition, beat until the ingredients are incorporated but do not overbeat. Using a rubber spatula, scrape down the batter in the bowl to make sure the ingredients are well blended. Carefully spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about three-quarters full. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the center of the cupcake comes out clean. </li>
<li> <span style="font-weight: normal;">Cool the cupcakes in the tins for 15 minutes. Remove from the tins and cool completely on a wire rack before icing. At the bakery we ice the cupcakes with either Vanilla Buttercream or Chocolate Buttercream.</span> </li>
</ol><blockquote><div class="x-small" id="recipe_notes" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-top: 0pt;"><b class="cbl" style="color: black;">Note:</b> If you would like to make a layer cake instead of cupcakes, divide the batter between two 9-inch round cake pans and bake the layers for 30-40 minutes. </div></blockquote><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:</b></span><br />
<div class="x-small" id="recipe_servings" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 12px;"><b>Makes enough for one 2-layer 9-inch cake or 2 dozen cupcakes*</b></div><ul><li> 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened </li>
<li> 6 to 8 cups confectioners’ sugar </li>
<li> 1/2 cup milk </li>
<li> 2 teaspoons vanilla extract </li>
</ul><div class="x-small" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-top: 0pt;">Place the butter in a large mixing bowl. Add 4 cups of the sugar and then the milk and vanilla. On the medium speed of an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add the remaining sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition (about 2 minutes), until the icing is thick enough to be of good spreading consistency. You may not need to add all of the sugar. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and mix thoroughly. (Use and store the icing at room temperature because icing will set if chilled.) Icing can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. </div><div class="x-small" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="x-small" style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />
</div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-55573457070360640862010-06-02T18:29:00.000-04:002010-06-02T18:29:14.380-04:00Fruit Packed Cake Pastry<div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOcnMiCK2ASLgWNyeoUbC2TFK_y-zD1e0VWVagfjO_i30vQlt7INQxZA4ZTBGidr-z0aGrA_AmR_zU92ULIqbH4-10nGu2Qjh08xJ6n6acdR0DTuxKS22Tp6DUiYm8dVM1qvpwqsI_A7KN/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOcnMiCK2ASLgWNyeoUbC2TFK_y-zD1e0VWVagfjO_i30vQlt7INQxZA4ZTBGidr-z0aGrA_AmR_zU92ULIqbH4-10nGu2Qjh08xJ6n6acdR0DTuxKS22Tp6DUiYm8dVM1qvpwqsI_A7KN/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOcnMiCK2ASLgWNyeoUbC2TFK_y-zD1e0VWVagfjO_i30vQlt7INQxZA4ZTBGidr-z0aGrA_AmR_zU92ULIqbH4-10nGu2Qjh08xJ6n6acdR0DTuxKS22Tp6DUiYm8dVM1qvpwqsI_A7KN/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4k9zPXN0MybnCfcbgVjW5b00siRfBbM_-9gNe52-a2SjEVA0PpJxEXSFiIMuxXJbJvhOCLR5bXNMHewMCc07E1p2ALR4o2_mkstBonSQYWfejtnlD2VRHuY3rVYUeoYeOuYvcehi1Uy7/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4k9zPXN0MybnCfcbgVjW5b00siRfBbM_-9gNe52-a2SjEVA0PpJxEXSFiIMuxXJbJvhOCLR5bXNMHewMCc07E1p2ALR4o2_mkstBonSQYWfejtnlD2VRHuY3rVYUeoYeOuYvcehi1Uy7/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">I have some big stuff planned for this blog that has me very excited! I wont give too much away but lets just say you can expect a few more videos coming your way. ;)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpbDUEEDcsas5ULSh96WGSMxH7a9rg9A5V-GshzU2UQQE5mdkZAYjfZIIkrToTvHUG-5Um6sqzFQK4eFuaQx-q2oAoDpxDcfKEWDIk9GMjkcfq7d_8zBWIu0JDQkRTi5TcIylmNKJVYyb/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpbDUEEDcsas5ULSh96WGSMxH7a9rg9A5V-GshzU2UQQE5mdkZAYjfZIIkrToTvHUG-5Um6sqzFQK4eFuaQx-q2oAoDpxDcfKEWDIk9GMjkcfq7d_8zBWIu0JDQkRTi5TcIylmNKJVYyb/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Now, on to this recipe. I made this a few weeks ago because I knew my family, more specifically my parents, would love it. You see my parents are a little overly obsessed with eating ‘healthy foods’, something that, as a dessert baker, I get into arguments on with them. They claim that its <i>my</i> fault that they have gained weight, gotten diabetes, and in general just consume waayyy too much sugar. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFR7PJFB6BotePaFYHUUGINs9-DooaAU4Ez_vV2BuUtwAbDw1UrpcbW3nKmKJxijgyLej-4je_QksUfc4iRuKdc51XAZRQ1DhtgH5S74rjejfFjb3QFZljKn9cPgsY-1P1oSm5fPNsVEEl/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFR7PJFB6BotePaFYHUUGINs9-DooaAU4Ez_vV2BuUtwAbDw1UrpcbW3nKmKJxijgyLej-4je_QksUfc4iRuKdc51XAZRQ1DhtgH5S74rjejfFjb3QFZljKn9cPgsY-1P1oSm5fPNsVEEl/s640/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Well I say “don’t eat it.” Simple as that. Of course they always point out that me baking 2-5 times a week doesn’t really help, I always offer them the fact that wherever they go there will be treats, and if they want to stick to a healthy lifestyle, <i>they</i> will have to make an effort to do so, not me.<span> </span>You would think that would be the end of the story. End of discussion.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI8KqyKAK702KxqOjwfF4miUIeyLoKCBlrYxB04Nk5vnlGJfVPXaupkPgQH8hyborcv1bWyvJUdYWSNZzJ9ZRLbW4FLJzIadkkVohiaYC7edTnaRd_T8XeTo7snTSGQ02fjhQedU7jNnHU/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI8KqyKAK702KxqOjwfF4miUIeyLoKCBlrYxB04Nk5vnlGJfVPXaupkPgQH8hyborcv1bWyvJUdYWSNZzJ9ZRLbW4FLJzIadkkVohiaYC7edTnaRd_T8XeTo7snTSGQ02fjhQedU7jNnHU/s640/12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">But nooo…not in my house. So I continue to bake, and they continue to eat, and we therefore decided to come to a healthy middle point. I would continue to bake but try to bake a little less, and cook a little more, and when I do bake, its ‘healthier’ foods. So when I saw this recipe I just KNEW my parents would love it. It’s a simple cake jam packed with fruit on top! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZEXBVJ4S6eCvC2fJYCrCOAD8mO-dAsYPRkDGahdnpj9vwD1AJOfYppggu-NL9oeB5oNG0fyf3XdeqwciT4OQeXlBzDzRmgPtqlGFwlXuGlaTP7_4f6IrqbJgVU3Vpgu7bfcuSY1FVQZx/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZEXBVJ4S6eCvC2fJYCrCOAD8mO-dAsYPRkDGahdnpj9vwD1AJOfYppggu-NL9oeB5oNG0fyf3XdeqwciT4OQeXlBzDzRmgPtqlGFwlXuGlaTP7_4f6IrqbJgVU3Vpgu7bfcuSY1FVQZx/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Boy was I right, this has become a favorite in our house, and I’ve made it several times. I ended up adding a lot more fruit than called for in the recipe, because that’s how the parents like it (though they STILL said they wanted more fruit for next time!), and I also substituted yogurt for sour cream, and it still tasted wonderful. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzqn75SjgMMujgkzmXqBfBHaRBI-J6Zo8pxG5P_r5x_ARAAStLaYQweoWhE5QdwbZjpvjZqfXUCoDUjXzOVVTG92XX9wzYQhRradke4_dKjnn1Ey4HxUOWuIw36XOiDJcEOJC-Dv-aQzB/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzqn75SjgMMujgkzmXqBfBHaRBI-J6Zo8pxG5P_r5x_ARAAStLaYQweoWhE5QdwbZjpvjZqfXUCoDUjXzOVVTG92XX9wzYQhRradke4_dKjnn1Ey4HxUOWuIw36XOiDJcEOJC-Dv-aQzB/s320/9.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Overall, this is a keeper in our house, but next time I might try another cake recipe, and just top it with fruit. Now don’t get me wrong, this tastes wonderful just as is, but I personally felt like the cake batter needed an extra little something something, though my family thought it was fine as is!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94bzqG2Ue-8eMR3sOxNk_c8so2x3tSjtGSxhniRzOMDHDsEBh3QEWT7Pn3aSvywJMrrT4JqoVjB6eigoFfl_5-j1KitKh4pAKsY8v3lDni06fxhF14ZbfalYr8_xlNgc63fU504c0GdBa/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94bzqG2Ue-8eMR3sOxNk_c8so2x3tSjtGSxhniRzOMDHDsEBh3QEWT7Pn3aSvywJMrrT4JqoVjB6eigoFfl_5-j1KitKh4pAKsY8v3lDni06fxhF14ZbfalYr8_xlNgc63fU504c0GdBa/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Fruit Pastry Cake</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://happyhomebaking.blogspot.com/2010/04/fruit-pastry-cake.html">(source)</a></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Times;">Ingredients:</span></b><span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
100g butter, soften at room temperature <br />
200g caster sugar (I cut down to180g)<br />
50g sour cream (I replaced with same amount of low fat yogurt)<br />
3 eggs, lightly beaten, room temperature<br />
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract <br />
1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest<br />
210g plain flour <br />
1 teaspoon baking powder<br />
500g fruits* tossed with 2 tablespoon sugar*<br />
(You can use strawberries, blueberries, peaches, bananas, oranges, pears, apples, pineapple, or any other fruits that are not too juicy. I omitted the sugar and used as much fruits, either fresh or canned, as needed to fill the top of the cake)<br />
<br />
<b>Method:</b></span></div><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Wash, cut (chunks or slices, as desired) and drain fruits, toss with sugar (if desired) and set aside. (if using canned fruits, wash the fruits to remove the syrup, omit the sugar). </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Grease (with butter) and flour the side of a 9" round pan or a 8" square pan and line the base with parchment paper.<span> </span>*** I used a 10 inch one with the removable sides </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">With an electric mixer, cream butter, sugar and sour cream (or yogurt) till light and fluffy.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Dribble in the eggs gradually and beat till incorporated in the batter. (The mixture may appear slightly curdled.)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Add vanilla extract and zest. Mix to combine.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Sieve over flour and baking powder and mix till smooth. (To avoid getting flour all over my work surface, I mixed the flour into the batter using a spatula, just a few strokes will do, then I used the electric mixer to mix the batter till smooth.)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Arrange fruits on top, don’t press the fruits down into the batter. Decorate the fruits as desired.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Bake in pre-heat oven at 180degC for 60-70 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean when inserted into the cake. Cover the top with foil in the last 15 mins of baking to prevent the top from getting over browned.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-top: 0.1pt;"><span style="font-family: Times;">Leave the cake to cool in the pan for about 5~10 mins. Unmold and transfer to wire rack to let cool completely. Dust the cake with some icing sugar if desired.</span></li>
</ol><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnTvqL2bCZw9Iuk7Ne4KqLym4YQfnJRokcJvuAiQV1GRQHme8myPuHIsYXfP6jO1XBhsrlQ7bdCQoNUzl7OAaWhR_GImzs91NK8ePa3oDIBpf7ZPSCMZ_X-b3VdjKJdqwLVOQShowXKm-/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnTvqL2bCZw9Iuk7Ne4KqLym4YQfnJRokcJvuAiQV1GRQHme8myPuHIsYXfP6jO1XBhsrlQ7bdCQoNUzl7OAaWhR_GImzs91NK8ePa3oDIBpf7ZPSCMZ_X-b3VdjKJdqwLVOQShowXKm-/s640/1.jpg" width="636" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>I started off with a pretty design, but then I saw I had a bunch of fruit left over so I just sprinkled them in around it ;)</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysP_wtLEPfoX5U_4AtEojnAAzX6IimW1dsKgA5r587Ji0Cil09zxIvmRZ7CR1OeREqcYYDtN1QIv79YyH0vrgwNmNF4Jb8jFod8_uJAq_W59jAJ00Ep9px0n8aqeyy0EcpGUvdee9GZiY/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysP_wtLEPfoX5U_4AtEojnAAzX6IimW1dsKgA5r587Ji0Cil09zxIvmRZ7CR1OeREqcYYDtN1QIv79YyH0vrgwNmNF4Jb8jFod8_uJAq_W59jAJ00Ep9px0n8aqeyy0EcpGUvdee9GZiY/s640/10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysP_wtLEPfoX5U_4AtEojnAAzX6IimW1dsKgA5r587Ji0Cil09zxIvmRZ7CR1OeREqcYYDtN1QIv79YyH0vrgwNmNF4Jb8jFod8_uJAq_W59jAJ00Ep9px0n8aqeyy0EcpGUvdee9GZiY/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQLKo4EWlMcgwT9IELEjhWTTr7HsDwkbWA3v8B9c8CfeaPiQ5AlNAGwcPa-CYc6DMyMp02aQpgnspgoxRwnboQhgVQZSIu6rV5GkTTf3cRMiI31uVHpyZu9VeOk73lFCfVOcWKEnnpb65/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQLKo4EWlMcgwT9IELEjhWTTr7HsDwkbWA3v8B9c8CfeaPiQ5AlNAGwcPa-CYc6DMyMp02aQpgnspgoxRwnboQhgVQZSIu6rV5GkTTf3cRMiI31uVHpyZu9VeOk73lFCfVOcWKEnnpb65/s640/11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQLKo4EWlMcgwT9IELEjhWTTr7HsDwkbWA3v8B9c8CfeaPiQ5AlNAGwcPa-CYc6DMyMp02aQpgnspgoxRwnboQhgVQZSIu6rV5GkTTf3cRMiI31uVHpyZu9VeOk73lFCfVOcWKEnnpb65/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulUSxvBRbkZ72treGcEGVu9tIxYeK5E4bCsQkdT6cDG2dcKv25CqhR4AkVWWCucq8K84DQz1RuV0W41FtNE2Fp40OcDT3kTeM4cyYgSpLDQd0En7SBMQ6scT_XGE2rkUis_g0Hfufdy17/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulUSxvBRbkZ72treGcEGVu9tIxYeK5E4bCsQkdT6cDG2dcKv25CqhR4AkVWWCucq8K84DQz1RuV0W41FtNE2Fp40OcDT3kTeM4cyYgSpLDQd0En7SBMQ6scT_XGE2rkUis_g0Hfufdy17/s640/13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-84606835005037788052010-05-30T14:24:00.000-04:002010-05-30T14:24:44.102-04:00Extremely Moist Banana Cake with Sour Cream Chocolate Frosting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmfJrq_9VTm2DUaUC658WibHI18IIdSdtqaYL1H9R97D36PpYhhUmAJMR4YJkXNy54iSG3_KdGqG8nejeoSQP40rPq1jPggXVcahgtacM-feyMzZ50N113iAFRZpOZ3QQuOADX-LRFybe/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmfJrq_9VTm2DUaUC658WibHI18IIdSdtqaYL1H9R97D36PpYhhUmAJMR4YJkXNy54iSG3_KdGqG8nejeoSQP40rPq1jPggXVcahgtacM-feyMzZ50N113iAFRZpOZ3QQuOADX-LRFybe/s640/17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><!--StartFragment--> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Don’t you just love when things turn out as they are supposed to? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUAV-heESUqb2VrI54Cz_2ioO-PGNjYiMpi_34gjL6VzRsT31o8z_c7PbuJmCoOS5cWOwraTeg0fYY_5VxzRbzz70NILj9LjLPw0N4vii2kncVmbQePV0euFA0KK2v_A0TmvS5aa9HhgA/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUAV-heESUqb2VrI54Cz_2ioO-PGNjYiMpi_34gjL6VzRsT31o8z_c7PbuJmCoOS5cWOwraTeg0fYY_5VxzRbzz70NILj9LjLPw0N4vii2kncVmbQePV0euFA0KK2v_A0TmvS5aa9HhgA/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">If you are like me, more often than not, they don’t turn out as they are supposed to, and you deal with it. However, today I got a sweet little surprise! You see these pictures? To my delight and surprise I didn’t have to do much editing at all! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu5Lxm3_8wSEQs3StrEsGZrEOMM3LyngGyGptB3r_nMfxJ1mbWZ-2u5kJF7dh5nSaC8Etkf5WFQ7FgV_FNmPpHBKYwNKzMpBgj7hufx4Kl6nlj3rLnj1rKemt-LxspvWJYYNFihI1BTiuM/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu5Lxm3_8wSEQs3StrEsGZrEOMM3LyngGyGptB3r_nMfxJ1mbWZ-2u5kJF7dh5nSaC8Etkf5WFQ7FgV_FNmPpHBKYwNKzMpBgj7hufx4Kl6nlj3rLnj1rKemt-LxspvWJYYNFihI1BTiuM/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Usually I don’t do any major editing, I feel if I do that I’m not being genuine and that if I need to seriously Photoshop a picture, then its my crappy photography skills fault, and thus I just ditch the photos all together. That may be a bit harsh (I probably have a good 50 sets of pictures that I have taken but will probably never post because I feel the photography skills sucked), but at the same time I think it’s a good thing. I feel like I’ve grown as a photographer because I keep pushing myself to create photos that are as natural as possible and need limited editing, and thus have learned how to improve. Anyways, I’ll stop bragging about this. It just really made my day :)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3JMFBzPLO6ZT0DeW_gGtcWSfhGIRE7FJdiieRllLFXqs2l5X0Ug0ZL3mN4EL7CCdFy97W0gDcLhfBjLg4UZU0D6o02y96MixcSvnhR7PVrdRkojBimGhwnfCJl2XFHxaas_0-kD7KT0x/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3JMFBzPLO6ZT0DeW_gGtcWSfhGIRE7FJdiieRllLFXqs2l5X0Ug0ZL3mN4EL7CCdFy97W0gDcLhfBjLg4UZU0D6o02y96MixcSvnhR7PVrdRkojBimGhwnfCJl2XFHxaas_0-kD7KT0x/s640/9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Now on to this cake, I made it way back in March for my birthday (on March 6<sup>th</sup>) and it was very delicious. In my opinion, the best gift a foodie can give themselves on their birthday is a day in the kitchen! This banana cake was very moist; something that I usually find is missing in banana cakes. This has a special little part to it where you have to pop it into the freezer right after you bake it. I personally have never heard of this ‘technique’ and was quite intrigued. I don’t know if it’s the freezing that causes the moistness but either way it was pretty good. I also made a chocolate sour cream frosting to top it off which, as you can imagine, topped off this banana cake quite nicely! This recipe is a keeper folks! :) <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .1pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: .1pt; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-bottom: .01gd; mso-para-margin-left: 0in; mso-para-margin-right: 0in; mso-para-margin-top: .01gd;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .1pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: .1pt; mso-outline-level: 1; mso-para-margin-bottom: .01gd; mso-para-margin-left: 0in; mso-para-margin-right: 0in; mso-para-margin-top: .01gd;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Best Ever Banana Cake</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/recipe/Best-Ever-Banana-Cake-With-Cream-Cheese-Frosting-67256">(source)</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">Ingredients<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 1 1/2 cups bananas, mashed, ripe<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 2 teaspoons lemon juice<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 3 cups flour<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 1/4 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 3/4 cup butter, softened<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 2 1/8 cups sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 3 large eggs<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 2 teaspoons vanilla<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>* 1 1/2 cups buttermilk <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">1. Preheat oven to 275°. Grease and flour a 9 x 13 pan.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">2. In a small bowl, mix mashed banana with the lemon juice; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">3. In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">4. In a large bowl, cream 3/4 cup butter and 2 1/8 cups sugar until light and fluffy.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">5. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in 2 tsp vanilla. Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk. Stir in banana mixture.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake in preheated oven for one hour or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">7. Remove from oven and place directly into the freezer for 45 minutes. This will make the cake very moist.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPBIVu92ZUOXletNQRtgr3riYtejPzAfKq4beiUwBNY2_yibXDE9km919HGSpkqQUUx7FHC6RRBsth-CfvW8X-ikjEcNd7WQ01NEeL8zOUkvlZOSfvcgVIK8db9Gn3HujMoO6I1lFZezgL/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPBIVu92ZUOXletNQRtgr3riYtejPzAfKq4beiUwBNY2_yibXDE9km919HGSpkqQUUx7FHC6RRBsth-CfvW8X-ikjEcNd7WQ01NEeL8zOUkvlZOSfvcgVIK8db9Gn3HujMoO6I1lFZezgL/s640/1.png" width="322" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9HFIWMCHpT7ZZdJAvaYwM80G0iJ3dKM8lwBNd25hRKGTykjhWEajF4FQ3J8EvGTbUEGogXXOtay1djI80doSuB9Ih1bkoN-xf5r9AV3WC9MuOI1ylEF-9gOw8SQ3fTeKVm28twrJKKLpE/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9HFIWMCHpT7ZZdJAvaYwM80G0iJ3dKM8lwBNd25hRKGTykjhWEajF4FQ3J8EvGTbUEGogXXOtay1djI80doSuB9Ih1bkoN-xf5r9AV3WC9MuOI1ylEF-9gOw8SQ3fTeKVm28twrJKKLpE/s640/2.jpg" width="322" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>I couldn't make up my mind with how to decorate it...a few royal icing flowers in the middle? no...one cute tiny one...no....I settled for banana slices and shaved dark chocolate! mmm :)</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_3xQdkhwNV7ghPydljbSMfkXno0MExBWzsq9Ok30MyPgWENx3PeiSVMlbyR0cjwyqrRYhMGO_6DV6VNDZZH1JlXX6K_NbCnaIicRAtwOdS7JrMcGqNbFd1TYM4NBI9aY64WjTdRrwrOt/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_3xQdkhwNV7ghPydljbSMfkXno0MExBWzsq9Ok30MyPgWENx3PeiSVMlbyR0cjwyqrRYhMGO_6DV6VNDZZH1JlXX6K_NbCnaIicRAtwOdS7JrMcGqNbFd1TYM4NBI9aY64WjTdRrwrOt/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqZAmc1u4jFwgXGpF8NftjZzqC0gHQf59cs3l_QuPpvLCQn18bPAx7wcQFy9I7IiIn7P4EQr3mR29ytEvpPhcXOqPrd8byxr_mYGngCMbLZIfYnQAmug9KEiOG2NYhZ_EVwg2H4AMuATb/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqZAmc1u4jFwgXGpF8NftjZzqC0gHQf59cs3l_QuPpvLCQn18bPAx7wcQFy9I7IiIn7P4EQr3mR29ytEvpPhcXOqPrd8byxr_mYGngCMbLZIfYnQAmug9KEiOG2NYhZ_EVwg2H4AMuATb/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVna4a5cgowZITeHxCaTngCpzst_3hGqsCrQEuE2JycimSU2uTc4ycDnhJJcJR4-JyKJs9WYMOPYeKU0YXDHmUzf_kzfcFjNzDp0qpGcz_lV5kynMLCyM91f3slbYLYTl-epZNXoT68eK/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVna4a5cgowZITeHxCaTngCpzst_3hGqsCrQEuE2JycimSU2uTc4ycDnhJJcJR4-JyKJs9WYMOPYeKU0YXDHmUzf_kzfcFjNzDp0qpGcz_lV5kynMLCyM91f3slbYLYTl-epZNXoT68eK/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlIsmqyhdqn-AIPKZGSpw0k9fpiU46e6slLUOykM6YlZQkDn4pdETcNdqkJIdXr8jDs3-efWkNTBfngXsxQ73xpy29jHewp-sje5-2gkdbp304spOSxjD32vSwxcARkbxw1hkNihbAH0v/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlIsmqyhdqn-AIPKZGSpw0k9fpiU46e6slLUOykM6YlZQkDn4pdETcNdqkJIdXr8jDs3-efWkNTBfngXsxQ73xpy29jHewp-sje5-2gkdbp304spOSxjD32vSwxcARkbxw1hkNihbAH0v/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-48435525625279233572010-05-18T21:55:00.000-04:002010-05-19T10:36:44.680-04:00Secret Recipes and Hummus<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYirvGztpuIraN4jmw3QlHpEKl4NiKmiVIP2q08GD7pyX3pe6fVEC2zxHMPWysCFjHV2_UUZ_osTpEczWCZUo7iWupFyFcGDnXxvZTCTmOtRlCB48wkbwK1K6RH4oBIsswAkXWLsGZLnST/s1600/6.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467238023297081282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYirvGztpuIraN4jmw3QlHpEKl4NiKmiVIP2q08GD7pyX3pe6fVEC2zxHMPWysCFjHV2_UUZ_osTpEczWCZUo7iWupFyFcGDnXxvZTCTmOtRlCB48wkbwK1K6RH4oBIsswAkXWLsGZLnST/s400/6.png" style="height: 267px; width: 400px;" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1NyEVHyaDudjvhgB12UUk-aO03IGsFXeaR6ShP1ga7Qy_daw6K3PcbHXfJxLnQ81R7jfJM1R6mEK25UjEyExozjInqA00hX47eAbZVpYzXRTt5QLEglX5pSvRVAbzNC0zVgLBYQbj_a-v/s1600/5.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467237327991067522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1NyEVHyaDudjvhgB12UUk-aO03IGsFXeaR6ShP1ga7Qy_daw6K3PcbHXfJxLnQ81R7jfJM1R6mEK25UjEyExozjInqA00hX47eAbZVpYzXRTt5QLEglX5pSvRVAbzNC0zVgLBYQbj_a-v/s640/5.png" style="height: 267px; width: 400px;" border="0" height="427" width="640" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />We all have our secret recipes. Recipes that we are proud of, that we offer to bring to get togethers, and that everyone adores and coos over. After the party is over the bowl has been scraped clean and everyone is asking - nay begging- for your recipe. Naturally you are flattered that everyone has loved it so much to not only finish it all but to <i>beg</i> for the recipe, and you begin sharing the recipe with everyone.<br /><br /><br />Except when it is a secret recipe. When it is a secret recipe you hesitate. You know you should share the recipe, I mean, its only the <i>right thing to do</i>. But damn it, sometimes I feel like keeping it all for myself!I've been reflecting back on this lately, and realized I have no idea why I don't like to share. Maybe the 'share with your friends' idea that we were taught as kids didn't quite sink in all the way for me. It's odd for most recipes I would love to share, but for a few, a select few, I don't like to share.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UfxskWhNnAvDDJlGlLvc7UceGoRCv6FhOR63JA3AcqUT8AzP9FjUyfxBAsJf1rcAIcJIgg6qShlpg52-wy6TttClv48-0HpKDd_TASMWNtK3QQn0w3gTGn6-Z1PowLBtKMXS_2OUJR-q/s1600/3.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467231818526840754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UfxskWhNnAvDDJlGlLvc7UceGoRCv6FhOR63JA3AcqUT8AzP9FjUyfxBAsJf1rcAIcJIgg6qShlpg52-wy6TttClv48-0HpKDd_TASMWNtK3QQn0w3gTGn6-Z1PowLBtKMXS_2OUJR-q/s400/3.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 267px; width: 400px;" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Thousands of dollars funding my education in political science has helped me self-diagnose myself as a 'realist' who believes in 'zero-sum gain', as in they feel like only one person can win while everyone else loses. (See mom?! I AM learning =D ) However, that too is ridiculous since it makes no sense when it comes to sharing recipes for chocolate cupcakes!<br /><br />So, I have concluded that I am probably insane, and like most insane people I need to rehabilitate back into normal society. To do so I have decided to start sharing my 'secret recipes' with you all, slowly but surely, so that I can get over this disease of mine.<br /><br />Especially since it seems that when I share my secret recipes everyone else seems to love them as much as I do! (For example my<a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2009/03/cinnamun-bunsoh-how-thee-haunt-me.html"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> cinnamon bun recipe</span></a> is one of my 'secret recipes' and is probably in the top 3 most viewed posts in my blog of all time!)<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cpexIoxd-VeNdB6ZUjgYJoCGn-vzMN1XI3kYaJkkDkjkOF0HnWRWB4gjgmIdrSubXzMMKxsR1HE4gxcB8M5VIdQictKPMw2xJZPdqSoK85mmDgwAD4mAMHx4RhfCFte5qwZJ9fHfqehI/s1600/4.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467235495022639298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cpexIoxd-VeNdB6ZUjgYJoCGn-vzMN1XI3kYaJkkDkjkOF0HnWRWB4gjgmIdrSubXzMMKxsR1HE4gxcB8M5VIdQictKPMw2xJZPdqSoK85mmDgwAD4mAMHx4RhfCFte5qwZJ9fHfqehI/s400/4.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 267px; width: 400px;" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />Today I am sharing with you my 'secret' but now not so secret hummus recipe. This is amazing. THIS is how hummus is <i>supposed</i> to taste like. Not that icky <i>liquidy</i> consistency stuff you get packaged at the deli aisle of your grocery store, and the thick stuff canned down the specialty foods aisle. Hummus should have a perfect in between consistency, and a hummus snob like myself can taste the lemon, garlic, and tahini in it! I don't know what the best part about this recipe is, that it is SO easy to make, or that it produces a perfect taste/consistency each time?<br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(194, 123, 160);">Tips</b>: Make sure to follow the recipe to a T and it should be awesome. If you are like me and are daring to experiment, make it as suggested and add extra lemon or olive oil if its a bit stiff for your taste or chickpeas to thicken it up (though its easier to thin than to thicken! so be careful! :) )<br /><br />**I also prefer mine with a bit more garlic so feel free to add em as you like!<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMs5u8Q2L5BeVgMpIMJ1t3fu8hRHX0vVTzc85EDzMnYAFlNhgdrx9Hpkb5iNx1i_AuSp1kAXVWna9bqLbIFjxQobUrYN3mfX9ZeDS3YyLvf4nJdnnpcbEZ7UID1OkBMatNLJ6Rn_Dsqmx/s1600/2.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467231019165925490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMs5u8Q2L5BeVgMpIMJ1t3fu8hRHX0vVTzc85EDzMnYAFlNhgdrx9Hpkb5iNx1i_AuSp1kAXVWna9bqLbIFjxQobUrYN3mfX9ZeDS3YyLvf4nJdnnpcbEZ7UID1OkBMatNLJ6Rn_Dsqmx/s400/2.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 267px; width: 400px;" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Best Hummus You Will Ever Eat</span><br /><br />1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)<br />3 tbsp fresh lemon juice<br />3 tbsp olive oil<br />2 or 2 cloves of garlic (minced)<br />1/2 tsp ground cumin <span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);">(</span><i style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);"> I have never had this on hand and have thus never used it...but it tastes great without so its ok if you don't use it either)</i><br />1/2 tsp salt<br />1/4 tsp hot sauce<br />1 1/2 cups of canned chick peas, drained and rinsed<br /><br /><i><b>Directions</b></i>:<br /><br />1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and puree. Place in bowl, sprinkle with paprika, and serve with pita wedges and chopped veggies.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">So tell me foodies, what is YOUR secret recipe? Do you love to share? Or are you more like me? ;)</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-14283265668133075412010-05-09T12:06:00.003-04:002010-05-09T23:24:00.573-04:00DIY Rose Cupcake Bouquet and I joined Youtube!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewgXh5webkVN2kiKqeRGDaOYaQOkoIRvsO26Isog9SxFvf-JoLFF1Zvwke2qunc0BbuUAOZSUVssvdpChjdWJtVkgHj_WXRgukOJLBPX8ZIPoGUnW6yjwc6tDkgMmXMvoZPqvVdIFDmLh/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewgXh5webkVN2kiKqeRGDaOYaQOkoIRvsO26Isog9SxFvf-JoLFF1Zvwke2qunc0BbuUAOZSUVssvdpChjdWJtVkgHj_WXRgukOJLBPX8ZIPoGUnW6yjwc6tDkgMmXMvoZPqvVdIFDmLh/s640/1.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86hUH0jEHJzhRqez65_ae3cEIfkPDistwm1V_3UY73Lvh9PNqNwJdUC91r-rot_UMTZGmo-cSfOKvZIiQzCRqRo1pvGZKmKytPhZ9-TDtkB6xDklqNOjgXyGNdg-c2rcxyr3Xv_pIYget/s640/9.png" width="640" /></div><br />
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</div>Forget buying your mom flowers for mothers day...(especially if she is a foodie) make her a cupcake bouquet instead! (with step by step pictures and video) <br />
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***check out <a href="http://edible-moments.blogspot.com/2010/05/mothers-day-cupcakes-and-free-diy.html">my last post</a> for a free print out and instructions for those cute DIY cupcake toppers!<br />
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It’s funny how sometimes we resist change. We go out of our way to resist this change, even though, if we think about it logically, there really is no reason why we should. Case and point. Blogger updated their posting method thingy…you know the place you go to write your blog posts? I just decided that I would prefer to stay with the old one. But today, for whatever reason, I decided to give it a try and boy am I glad I did. See the big pretty pictures? Before it would have taken a long time to format into a bigger size, but now it’s just a matter of clicking a few buttons!<br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSUXnr2Ifb3FQLFmcZgViwboR2B1aVoUONOAS1mDEcTdjIGk93XcsMOL-g9GmTl76v1fcR8m8v-ODGc194zpI8EXOXPTBqgu62e_hv9mhTapcUSCGCQ2B-vzOuCPViv7iMSsU9bwtzfo9/s1600/5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSUXnr2Ifb3FQLFmcZgViwboR2B1aVoUONOAS1mDEcTdjIGk93XcsMOL-g9GmTl76v1fcR8m8v-ODGc194zpI8EXOXPTBqgu62e_hv9mhTapcUSCGCQ2B-vzOuCPViv7iMSsU9bwtzfo9/s640/5.png" width="640" /></a><br />
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<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhped5THFpojk_oTSJBk6c8lDesBrhH3RQgDiJjNyNwcesjFCL5fHcXjxxtgMiDD2jyziqVeYCH9UdHWjsL-dgnyEUvcxrbMNSDzrE2KxrA9-gnh7g7850MFgap4VWhAJh26J-xBIYjblSR/s1600/6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhped5THFpojk_oTSJBk6c8lDesBrhH3RQgDiJjNyNwcesjFCL5fHcXjxxtgMiDD2jyziqVeYCH9UdHWjsL-dgnyEUvcxrbMNSDzrE2KxrA9-gnh7g7850MFgap4VWhAJh26J-xBIYjblSR/s640/6.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Another form of change we seem to resist, would be better classified as avoiding trying something new, or simply putting it off until ‘later’ – a time that never seems to arrive. Recently I’ve been trying to change this, and this post is 3x the change I need;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nZnZ5fwTCH4AbyjRl0RkkiHiic_r9IidAQVjmjIzX-OxiqJDNDxU6fwDiAYY-WtEkFxl21a4nl7ILGQkYQ_9oXLzXJ81kbcvM_Wo4dM3fCoUP_lZzYqIYwWWs43jDM_hOg0POWHk9sl6/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nZnZ5fwTCH4AbyjRl0RkkiHiic_r9IidAQVjmjIzX-OxiqJDNDxU6fwDiAYY-WtEkFxl21a4nl7ILGQkYQ_9oXLzXJ81kbcvM_Wo4dM3fCoUP_lZzYqIYwWWs43jDM_hOg0POWHk9sl6/s640/2.png" width="458" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br />
</o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">I had seen cupcake bouquets a while back and made a mental note of making them. However, like most seemingly difficult things, I put it off until a ‘later’ time. I finally made myself make these this week and they weren’t as hard as I thought and had very lovely results! So I hope you try these too!</div><div class="MsoNormal">*Please note that this isn’t the only way to do this, but it’s the way I did it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtSD5yuvtuY3Dvq1ExvKEFGNvfhqym7s2UdSkS2DnlqtXcOKHTzaqK2p4Bim4sXwqpPv8kGmBlcGYovYzj5pkOirbZukYMeMr5JRPC9bnrCHV-WWL3yqTjAgMsSqAyqU6ShSfQqMuuZw7/s1600/10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtSD5yuvtuY3Dvq1ExvKEFGNvfhqym7s2UdSkS2DnlqtXcOKHTzaqK2p4Bim4sXwqpPv8kGmBlcGYovYzj5pkOirbZukYMeMr5JRPC9bnrCHV-WWL3yqTjAgMsSqAyqU6ShSfQqMuuZw7/s640/10.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">I frosted all my cupcakes with a rose, and lined them up so that I could pick the top 7....and uh...do some quality control. Just making sure the cupcakes...uh...taste good enough. yup =D</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiYuS2AWnArshLu-bYisjJRx01vdsLg5SsMcCaTT0qP-tSVIOjTCOfuovb3zGjc7ym_vaduzqyNbCJN7aKzeNn_lUWiug03lzhgdr9_nzKZfkACMju1vnd3audtqASSpBy_6v0SYybBJB/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiYuS2AWnArshLu-bYisjJRx01vdsLg5SsMcCaTT0qP-tSVIOjTCOfuovb3zGjc7ym_vaduzqyNbCJN7aKzeNn_lUWiug03lzhgdr9_nzKZfkACMju1vnd3audtqASSpBy_6v0SYybBJB/s320/3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">It would be best to have a foam sphere and stick it in, but I didn't have any on hand. I had this brick though!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh207ILvw8YlffWuqtzBpMXTPlAqOup-oQ-T6t8Gmbd6pimtoB2NGDnCJN8k5IhddJ_AWwAejZgxlnQK9MNYtQ1XtBOfnYKez5cabvSyDf3AgON_-ou2nhvKvQ3HMn3OEDadoPODc9uBfgy/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh207ILvw8YlffWuqtzBpMXTPlAqOup-oQ-T6t8Gmbd6pimtoB2NGDnCJN8k5IhddJ_AWwAejZgxlnQK9MNYtQ1XtBOfnYKez5cabvSyDf3AgON_-ou2nhvKvQ3HMn3OEDadoPODc9uBfgy/s320/6.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Now mold it to shape.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62Zdur9RaugIqZGFhpFaXI5jQeAyu80AkkQpOHg-fGZ7jqB0w3lE-gyZ3ySgYARoPPpOmK3XIdKuHbF4KVrVkaiE0vhqyI2gFoYu5DcGL5fFG69H7eOScibTFpQCzQW0ViasjwTGd2ruh/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62Zdur9RaugIqZGFhpFaXI5jQeAyu80AkkQpOHg-fGZ7jqB0w3lE-gyZ3ySgYARoPPpOmK3XIdKuHbF4KVrVkaiE0vhqyI2gFoYu5DcGL5fFG69H7eOScibTFpQCzQW0ViasjwTGd2ruh/s320/5.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">and add tissue paper. (It would have been best to stick it on before putting the Styrofoam thingy in, but when i molded it - it wouldn't come out!)</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs7qL6PanbxABvb9RTHdpJirev3W82EOvHMhdSywVdot55-7bCAJfSqWrHZ312ZjcJ2rWNWc_NFGhTBZLsQ_hiWcQGWcmSTRgu7TxemYiPALSjuH8ZIOcnxD-Set0o5-Hsg1NJGxlOIxqL/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs7qL6PanbxABvb9RTHdpJirev3W82EOvHMhdSywVdot55-7bCAJfSqWrHZ312ZjcJ2rWNWc_NFGhTBZLsQ_hiWcQGWcmSTRgu7TxemYiPALSjuH8ZIOcnxD-Set0o5-Hsg1NJGxlOIxqL/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Then take 2 tooth picks. What you want to do is poke them into the Styrofoam to position where you want the flower to go.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdgV9mF-ukAWvLKAw6au5FJEMTdmgN06Xwzki6K_3eNthZNjAheGy3drJsL6bZ2gtkoQwghDvylvuz0m-gjc-YUCtPaxen_5otRszGsfDNvWMO0WvacXR5dA4d1EFLoUWxbiYhacqwtvC/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdgV9mF-ukAWvLKAw6au5FJEMTdmgN06Xwzki6K_3eNthZNjAheGy3drJsL6bZ2gtkoQwghDvylvuz0m-gjc-YUCtPaxen_5otRszGsfDNvWMO0WvacXR5dA4d1EFLoUWxbiYhacqwtvC/s400/7.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Then take the toothpicks out and pop them into the cupcake</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowK40nUPgES0T12QnK7xk02Z44rQp0yz3km7AQFjNo4glKsrdRu6xl2PvRL3iLkNEhTQIR1BCTYHtSVOmBSa4IWXzgcdffprbzlEar1Tm7X6tFrm6PLqXhD1-AgFafwlKW0_oLTLQX9rk/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowK40nUPgES0T12QnK7xk02Z44rQp0yz3km7AQFjNo4glKsrdRu6xl2PvRL3iLkNEhTQIR1BCTYHtSVOmBSa4IWXzgcdffprbzlEar1Tm7X6tFrm6PLqXhD1-AgFafwlKW0_oLTLQX9rk/s400/1.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">and place back into the wholes in the Styrofoam</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgVyXhJCjJ3mqb-GtqmBN0XrrOsqNAGrmcFwKeJ6X4FNP1ZIcOwcKzTSVzRAvf2Z6uUsrizmGxHgXjccsstri6spBJcfWbbEdSsvzTbpcRXguZ3acGDStQNnVAt_gBHB9axIL3lRzLzyr/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgVyXhJCjJ3mqb-GtqmBN0XrrOsqNAGrmcFwKeJ6X4FNP1ZIcOwcKzTSVzRAvf2Z6uUsrizmGxHgXjccsstri6spBJcfWbbEdSsvzTbpcRXguZ3acGDStQNnVAt_gBHB9axIL3lRzLzyr/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Continue for the rest! I did 6 on the outside and one in the middle</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-qtAHI9398FUs9Jpc0QxvqwZCC-OaENBVBiZWFe317H2XEsVaKoj6AgabWcswoVQsBRQ8H9gXXuUujdqL8_ap88irUgCT6a9qjxDnbtlxT3QmoQA4RIFn0Cc0tOs2yUR6BAPtkhWJLU1/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-qtAHI9398FUs9Jpc0QxvqwZCC-OaENBVBiZWFe317H2XEsVaKoj6AgabWcswoVQsBRQ8H9gXXuUujdqL8_ap88irUgCT6a9qjxDnbtlxT3QmoQA4RIFn0Cc0tOs2yUR6BAPtkhWJLU1/s640/11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">And here is a pic of a real rose I took...for good reference! ;)</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Also! I have started a new youtube channel over at http://www.youtube.com/user/ediblemoments So please subscribe! I want to video more of my desserts and hopefully have some tutorials up as well! This is just a video of the final product. Oh my...my voice sounds so girly! LOL<br />
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</div>So my question to you foodies....what have YOU been putting off? (And should really get to! ;) )<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Yx1plZrQaKeqMJJ921gLprlQHIetJxbVxrpP6tWIuaBy2zlpyBYIpLZl_vc0xE6ksiw8Z9LoXUybXdoPTkHyvszl-8mqvbXTFFuW8zUjA_8mY0TzIw6pqj9WnbxZxdH9ddMcesTa7iZ1/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Yx1plZrQaKeqMJJ921gLprlQHIetJxbVxrpP6tWIuaBy2zlpyBYIpLZl_vc0xE6ksiw8Z9LoXUybXdoPTkHyvszl-8mqvbXTFFuW8zUjA_8mY0TzIw6pqj9WnbxZxdH9ddMcesTa7iZ1/s640/3.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Happy Mothers Day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-789001131384048194.post-40914444591948067382010-05-07T12:49:00.018-04:002010-05-07T15:59:22.491-04:00Mothers Day Cupcakes and Free DIY Cupcake Toppers!<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYHinXkLT-eg2-3fLttFqDgTjAJel-OXdCkJ-bTKHNpFmjn3HgUSoxlknMK8lUGGXqXJHW50QfBYAyOjuke6Q7Vi3bC0fr949hq3Gqv7UGGoalMhWnear1e3z2rnveVG-b0-WrN7qRmB0/s1600/9.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468588967447453346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYHinXkLT-eg2-3fLttFqDgTjAJel-OXdCkJ-bTKHNpFmjn3HgUSoxlknMK8lUGGXqXJHW50QfBYAyOjuke6Q7Vi3bC0fr949hq3Gqv7UGGoalMhWnear1e3z2rnveVG-b0-WrN7qRmB0/s400/9.png" style="height: 343px; width: 515px;" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">I’ve been feeling a bit down on my luck these past few days. Everything that I’ve had planned hasn’t been going, well, as planned. I’m starting to realize that life can’t always go as you want it to. I mean, that’s quite obvious, but I feel most of us – me especially- never take those words to heart. Life happens. You can’t change things. You just have to make the best of it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeF_vw5PFypKBY7nTJiBQGdYY7-cKc_k8GP1-0gk1vAVdI8ZKrNXtAqwAiGKMxr28ouBZJGX7jjQASOneKHLnNO8FsTMNU4GqFL-P6GxrLl7v6I45vLdqhf0ewHR1iI1OI97N6UIWlpCA/s1600/6.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468583528221736866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeF_vw5PFypKBY7nTJiBQGdYY7-cKc_k8GP1-0gk1vAVdI8ZKrNXtAqwAiGKMxr28ouBZJGX7jjQASOneKHLnNO8FsTMNU4GqFL-P6GxrLl7v6I45vLdqhf0ewHR1iI1OI97N6UIWlpCA/s400/6.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 308px; width: 462px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Thankfully I have wonderful parents who support me and try to push me to be my best, yet remind me that life can’t always go as planned; and since its Mothers Day on Sunday, I thought I would go into detail as to why my mom is so special to me! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsaKiSKj83qr0BETFmjZam8Tu8ym9UrLpcfVrH_FunpomxsfNYHz2-c6rGVXLVoUOscO7bLkO5PTDnWUTcw9IJwFgq4Py11CeSX-y4PPwoxE9NldUyCuQj1CMNwl1A3G1ILtiGRXHTZhWu/s1600/3.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468578394208897826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsaKiSKj83qr0BETFmjZam8Tu8ym9UrLpcfVrH_FunpomxsfNYHz2-c6rGVXLVoUOscO7bLkO5PTDnWUTcw9IJwFgq4Py11CeSX-y4PPwoxE9NldUyCuQj1CMNwl1A3G1ILtiGRXHTZhWu/s400/3.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 361px; width: 473px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">She is always supportive of me and my goals, and pushes me to be my very best and not accept ‘ok’ as a standard. She has sacrificed everything for the well-being of her children, and gave up her opportunity to a wonderful career in order to stay home and raise her children. For this I will always be grateful, and hope to one day be at least half the great mother to my own kids. Happy Mothers Day Mom!!!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKjn6T9wJ4KouvVxrVr5sqA5Ahc9i-bCTmN8m0NpJAyEeLDo0mQiw5T_OVwhcQtwiyYjO7rx_5b79x8OLNr_1iTtxJXC-j3Z1hfPPgGpotPxuY8toNLB_bkg-pkhzw2-KvmVvnvxOJXh28/s1600/4.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468581746735277522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKjn6T9wJ4KouvVxrVr5sqA5Ahc9i-bCTmN8m0NpJAyEeLDo0mQiw5T_OVwhcQtwiyYjO7rx_5b79x8OLNr_1iTtxJXC-j3Z1hfPPgGpotPxuY8toNLB_bkg-pkhzw2-KvmVvnvxOJXh28/s400/4.png" style="height: 427px; width: 515px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU7kKFrf3AY6h7-x0ZcFcPn6IYWm61QL3R7wFbdX4vdKw0b9P1j5oW-7JKMrQXoI_ynC7yLP-bo5pC4MLSbYrwgoROtBB297O2adNe43eTFyrGXMzjLpPJuujhge4YW23BjCtF98rtsHZ/s1600/2.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468572380793834274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU7kKFrf3AY6h7-x0ZcFcPn6IYWm61QL3R7wFbdX4vdKw0b9P1j5oW-7JKMrQXoI_ynC7yLP-bo5pC4MLSbYrwgoROtBB297O2adNe43eTFyrGXMzjLpPJuujhge4YW23BjCtF98rtsHZ/s400/2.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 318px; width: 477px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">To celebrate mothers day I made moist carrot cupcakes with soft cream cheese frosting, topped with cute little mothers day themed cupcake toppers! I’ve got lots of great ideas for this blog, and one of them is to create graphics to go with my recipes! (ex. Food themed calendars, labels for ingredients, and cut out cupcake toppers, to name a few) So, I’ve decided to make these available to everyone for free!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYMXDLAz4-CRuEwlj9tjAm9gLATWOk2lEiUT1qGzureWaf4UTydEYL6nM7eXuZMBzNhLtp9mcY1Wbgz4POXTRZfSMwSWFXKzAhllAlVDargr0ESM5GDSHH6_Pj8xSv6i5FuvjAg7tPgzt/s1600/1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468571636376655442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYMXDLAz4-CRuEwlj9tjAm9gLATWOk2lEiUT1qGzureWaf4UTydEYL6nM7eXuZMBzNhLtp9mcY1Wbgz4POXTRZfSMwSWFXKzAhllAlVDargr0ESM5GDSHH6_Pj8xSv6i5FuvjAg7tPgzt/s400/1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 267px; width: 400px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1TSJIezvgCZDelOYlmG9WjBNIQzJXKiEdciro0oLldoUTY2gU3_hDkOz_Ra1qk2_Tj0LXd4KgTByAnt10v-ODnQ9PZmgjlYjuJRyTVmcQ0Tfm2KAGCO0ycQ4w1oWW_bWUhyphenhyphen5MqJG20oU/s1600/5.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468582742133781058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1TSJIezvgCZDelOYlmG9WjBNIQzJXKiEdciro0oLldoUTY2gU3_hDkOz_Ra1qk2_Tj0LXd4KgTByAnt10v-ODnQ9PZmgjlYjuJRyTVmcQ0Tfm2KAGCO0ycQ4w1oWW_bWUhyphenhyphen5MqJG20oU/s400/5.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 267px; width: 400px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Just click <a href="http://www.2shared.com/document/TJ1lBE2M/happy_mothers_day.html"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">here</span></a> to get a pdf with 12 of them. Then cut and paste with little toothpicks on the back. I recommend using thicker good quality paper. If you do these, I would love to see pictures! :) Also, I was considering making a cupcake topper store on etsy…would anyone perhaps be interested? Please let me know in the comments.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0QF2ziMMNtxxnXN1a4OFEmarFxRlyjbezubMOUS71DW99FUa1hEMJWdGEO-zmReiD_goL4bHvH9SjYWDd46an9kO4jAt1-_aNMivq7TdNV8Sov2NpzrZ64Hx2QC9KcxH7wHzbfqzQzKY/s1600/8.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468587838317392866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0QF2ziMMNtxxnXN1a4OFEmarFxRlyjbezubMOUS71DW99FUa1hEMJWdGEO-zmReiD_goL4bHvH9SjYWDd46an9kO4jAt1-_aNMivq7TdNV8Sov2NpzrZ64Hx2QC9KcxH7wHzbfqzQzKY/s400/8.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 400px; width: 267px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLq33m-Z_05WlqToUgHy4NyWEFVLIdZDj2UIriK9ESNAOfAdgEPFKZom4rj7pTN7piUY8A-4OZ6MLlMnZvwLe9Zp-iIzy_P7MoMcr5t2oDN2W82emfCo697WyLRqFO10MM0WCC_2bVWrBG/s1600/7.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468586272280218114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLq33m-Z_05WlqToUgHy4NyWEFVLIdZDj2UIriK9ESNAOfAdgEPFKZom4rj7pTN7piUY8A-4OZ6MLlMnZvwLe9Zp-iIzy_P7MoMcr5t2oDN2W82emfCo697WyLRqFO10MM0WCC_2bVWrBG/s400/7.png" style="cursor: pointer; height: 267px; width: 400px;" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">So tell me foodies, what makes your mom so special? </span><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5