Travel Sweet

Sunset at Akko

2012-02-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

Recently, I've been looking at paint colors for the kitchen-- and in the process discovered a whole new world. Not of colors, but of the names of the paint colors. I started in the yellows: Warm Bread, Sunday Afternoon,Pure Laughter...then I moved to the whites: Luna Moon, Restful Rain, Sugar Dust, Wind Blown. Finally, though I have no intention of painting the kitchen pink, I got into the "pinks". They were the most fun of all: Wishful Thinking, Sweet Nothing, Fading Rose, Musical Mist, Summer Memory. I could write a book with chapters like this, I decided. But what does any of this have to do with the photo for this blog entry or the real reason for this writing? It's a long convoluted way of explaining how I came about thinking of Akko in Israel.

Akko was one of those little serendipitous type places or moments: when you're least expecting something memorable--and suddenly there it is. As I was looking at the paint names back in Minneapolis, my mind wandered (as its nature) and I started thinking about Akko and if I were naming it a paint color...what color would it be? Part of it was the setting, obviously--it was going on sunset when I arrived there--with the sun's rays shining below a cloud, the waves crashing in to the wall (it was not a beach), a lighthouse in the distance, ships on the horizon. Alas! My blog picture does not do it justice--because you can't feel the cool sea air, or hear the waves. But that's not the whole picture. The other part of Akko was the spice shop I visited, which has been there for several generations.

At Akko, there is a wonderful market and one of its entry points (from the port) is through a tunnel. Cut in natural stone, it was once used by the ancient Templars who guarded European pilgrims arriving in the Holy Land to visit holy places. That's a "trip" in itself--but once inside, the herb, spice, and coffee house I was headed to, turned out to be like from a dream. It made me think of a quote from Kipling: "The place was packed as full of smells as a bale is of cotton." But it was not like being in a modern day Penzey's with its own array of lovely aromas; this place had a... patina of scent...if that's possible--of layers and layers of ancient herbs and spices...cardamom, curry, sumac, and cinnamon...It felt like a little magic and alot of mystery all swirled together. I could have spent hours (friends know I would have if given the opportunity). But I did the next best thing. I bought several spices. The proprietor weighed them out on a scale, packaged them up with labels, and explained how to store and use them: store in glass, sprinkle with a spoon. He gave me a quick lesson on how to make the hot curry (a glass of orange juice is key).

I haven't tried the curry yet--but every morning since I've been home, I have made myself toast sprinkled with sugar and some of the cardamom I bought there. It never fails to transport me back to that shop--a time travel place--full of past and present--and all the other women who once shopped there, or still do--cooking up meals, and memories. Meantime, I still haven't come up with a "color name" that aptly describes Akko.

First Thursday!

2012-02-03T07:50:00.000-08:00

First Thursdays with my BFF's last night: Drinking Love Potion #4. Need I say more? Rosemary's concoction and a winner!

Israel: Ilana Goor museum

2012-01-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

The ilana Goor museum was a delight--and one of the most unusual art museums I have ever visited.
Pure joy.

Postcard from Israel

2012-01-20T09:18:00.001-08:00

These photos are from the market in Jerusalem where I needed more time to shop, to take photographs, to eat, to sit and have coffee....to absorb it all.

Promis Juré!

2011-12-28T11:35:00.000-08:00

Chocolate shops are everywhere in Brussels. The standbys are still found in the Grand Sablon, but if you stroll the city, you'll find plenty more--including the likes of chocolatiers like Laurent Gerbaud's on Rue Ravenstein. Asian influences are showcased not only in the ingredients he uses in his chocolates, but also as part of his logo: the word "chocolate" in Chinese is stamped on the red seal packaging all his beautiful products. The shop is a combination tea shop (delicious hot chocolate served here) but also a place where you can schedule a chocolate tasting or take a workshop on how to mold and put together those precious wafers studded with pistachio, almonds, dried fruits and more. Laurent also dips Dandoy's famous biscuits in his handmade chocolate. As his sign states, there's no additives or preservatives in his chocolate. It's pure, unadulterated pleasure--made with love, served with pride, and as I can attest--devoured with gusto. (I swear to God!)

Merry Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T06:18:00.000-08:00

Joyeuses Fêtes: memories of chocolat chaud

2011-12-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

It's a grey day out--the color of Paris at Christmas time in a way--and I am missing the streets and the City of Light when it dazzles the most. Yes, even though often grey outside in December, Paris is somehow filled with a glow always. Here's what I am missing the most today:
A visit to La Charlotte de l'isle on the Ille St. Louis--a tiny spot for late afternoon hot chocolate or tea--and a slice of lemon tart drizzled with dark chocolate. I was thinking about this after re-reading my story in AAA Home & Away magazine this month (the cover story--hurray!) A French Twist on the Holidays: Parisian Noel If you cannot access it without a zip code, type in 55417 (:
For several years, my best friend Angie and I went to Paris in early December--it is a lovely time to visit and I am thinking it's time in 2012 to start up the tradition again. For today, I only wish there was a place like La Charlotte de L'isle to go to in Minneapolis or St. Paul. A small shop, where everyone is crushed together--and there is even a piano squeezed in against one wall. (If you're lucky you might hear a piano recital.) The best part--the hot chocolate was served in real cups and arrived on a tray with a carafe of water because the chocolate was so sweet and heavy.

Happy Pie Day!

2011-11-18T21:14:00.000-08:00

"OK, here's the Thanksgiving menu so far: apple pie, pumpkin pie, blueberry tart, and ice cream roll. What am I missing? CAKE! We need cake."
Debra Messing as Grace Adler on Will & Grace

I love Wayne Thiebaud's paintings. I really wanted to post a copy of one of his pies and cakes for this blog post--but I didn't want to infringe on anybody's copyright. So I'm doing almost the next best thing: posting a photo I took in Traverse City this summer at the Grand Traverse Pie Company. Yum to their pie. Cake too. Don't know if they had the ice cream roll. Happy Thanksgiving!
PS I'm seriously thinking about making pumpkin bars tomorrow with cream cheese frosting. No. I AM making them tomorrow. (Just to get myself in the thankful holiday spirit.)

Belgian Chocolates

2011-10-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

I am just back from Belgium--Brussels and Brugge--with a suitcase entirely filled with boxes and tins and bags of chocolates. (You think I am kidding; I'm not.) I can only say that there is a reason Belgian chocolates are the best. Actually, there are many reasons. I believe it was Elizabeth Barrett Browning who put it so poetically ...How do I love thee Belgian chocolate...let me count the ways....(or something to that effect..)

Plaisirs sucrés

2011-10-16T19:53:00.000-07:00

Why don't restaurants in the U.S. serve espresso with complimentary truffles? It's such a civilized way to end a meal. (This was in Honfleur, France. A rainy day--but who cared?)

In our first hotel, they were selling local honey at the desk. Mmmmmm. With a baguette, honey. S'il vous plaît.

Tarte tatin in Normandy

2011-09-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

Having just returned from the Normandy region of France, I am in the process of going through photos and re-living the various sweet moments spent there. This being the season of apples, it was fun to be in Normandy with the apple trees heavy with their fruit. It was also a perfect time to indulge on their famous tarte tatin. One of the most delicious I tasted was at Auberge Les Deux Tonneaux in the picturesque village of Pierrefitte-en-Auge. I walked through the cafe's lovely terrace (which was closed that day because of misty rain) and marveled at the apples and pears hanging from the trees over the tables. Inside this cozy country pub cafe (it's in a thatched-roof cottage), the bar serves up the regions' famous cider and Calvados. In the adjoining small dining room, a fire burned cozily in the old fireplace and the view out the window included another thatched cottage across the road with rolling green fields in the distance. The food was solid Normandy classics, and dessert was flaky apple tart--France's famous tarte tatin-- warm from the oven with a scoop of Normandy cream rich ice cream. After our espressos, the owner brought us complimentary mini snifters of local Calvados, a fitting finale.

dining room place settings

the view from the terrace

tiny snifter of Calvados after cafes

interior of pub area

Auberge Les Deux Tonneaux (Inn of the Two Barrels), Le Bourg, 14130 Pierrefitte-en-auge

Click on above to go to their website.

Granita for ice-cold comfort

2011-08-02T07:33:00.000-07:00

Italy in the summer time is hot, hot, hot. Almost as hot as July and August in Minneapolis has been this year. With our AC on the fritz, I am learning to cope. But barely. However, a couple years ago when my best girlfriend, Angie, and I visited Italy, we learned that Italians cope with the heat in a most delicious way.

In Rome, at Caffe Tazza d’Oro,** it’s printed on the glass door as you enter: “Granita Caffe con panna.” After the second visit, we had the routine down: go to the register, pay and get your receipt for the granita, take the receipt over to the guy behind the counter, present receipt, wait, receive your coffee granita, go outside, indulge (and cool off) while people-watching in front of the Pantheon (it’s right around the corner from the cafe). Repeat as necessary.

Granita, an exquisite powdery ice, is usually flavored with espresso or fresh fruit and often topped (or layered as at Caffe Tazza d’Oro) “con panna,” (with whipped cream).

But you don’t have to go to Italy to enjoy this icy sweet treat—it’s easy enough to make at home (and just a bit more economical—although perhaps not quite as exciting). Plus it makes a great and cooling and light (depending on how much whipped cream you’re into) finale to a spicy bbq, late night porch supper, or as a poolside refreshment (even if your pool happens to be the inflatable kind).

**Via degli Orfani, 84 (Pantheon) - 00186 Roma
Tel. +39.06.67.89.792 +39.06.67.92.768

Coffee Granita

1 cup water
½ cup granulated sugar
3 cups brewed espresso coffee (or 3 cups regular coffee that has been brewed double strength)

In a 1 ½ to 2 quart saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil over moderate heat, stirring only until the sugar dissolves. Continue boiling for four minutes without stirring. Remove pan from heat and let syrup cool to room temperature.

Stir in the coffee and pour mixture into a 12 x 9 inch pan.

Freeze the granita, stirring and scraping the icy crystals in to the center of the mixture with a fork approximately every 30 minutes or so until completely frozen, about three to four hours. The finished granita will have a fine and snowy texture.

Serve with a dollop of Kahlua-flavored whipped cream.

Kahlua Flavored Whipped Cream

½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons Kahlua

Whip cream until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in liqueur (try Bailey’s as well)

Strawberry Granita

1 cup water
½ cup sugar
2 lbs. fresh strawberries, pureed (you can use less, but I find this amount gives a rich strawberry essence)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

In a 1 ½ to 2 quart saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil over moderate heat, stirring only until the sugar dissolves. Continue boiling for four minutes without stirring. Remove pan from heat and let syrup cool to room temperature.

Clean and de-hull the strawberries. Put half of them in the blender and pour in half of the cooled syrup plus the lemon juice. Blend. Do the same with other half.

Pour mixture into 13 x 9 inch pan.

Freeze the granita, stirring and scraping the ice crystals into the center of the mixture with a fork approximately every 30 minutes until completely frozen, about three or four hours. The finished granita will have a fine and snowy texture that is a bit more slushy than the coffee granita.

To serve: In a chilled stemmed glass (try a martini glass), layer some of the granita, then whipped cream, granita, ending with whipped cream. Top with a fresh whole strawberry. You can use plain whipped cream, sweetened with 1 tsp. granulated sugar or try the following liqueur-flavored option.

Kirsch-Flavored Whipped Cream
The following yields enough for approximately four servings, depending on the size of stemmed glasses used.

½ cup whipping cream
2 teaspoons kirsch
1 teaspoon granulated sugar

Whip cream until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in liqueur and sugar, whip until stiff.

(this story with recipes was originally published two years ago in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel by yours truly)

Black and white cookies from Boston

2011-07-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

I just realized I mentioned I'd be writing about regional sweets today. It is a rainy dreary day--and the dewpoint is going up. I am holed up inside the house and wishing I could bake, but it is just not a baking kind of day, if you know what I mean. If I was in Boston, where my oldest son and his wife used to live, I would put up an umbrella and walk to Fiore's bakery (it's actually in Jamaica Plain) and get one of these black and white cookies. They are the size of a dinner plate--well, okay, a large saucer. I always bought one (or two) when I visited. I have tried to find a recipe for them ever since, and always failed. They are almost like a cake texture--and then of course, frosted half vanilla and half chocolate. Last time I was there they called them a Half Moon cookie. So far, I have read that they are more commonly known as a black-and-white cookie in New York. Whatever they are called (I plan to research later), I need one.

Official Desserts!

2011-07-12T06:18:00.000-07:00

FYI: Check out the July/August issue of National Geographic Traveler for my story on "Hometown Desserts". I'll be posting more on Friday about regional sweets.
PS: The bizcochitos are the "official dessert" in the photo here--not the guy holding them.

Loving Missy's Pies: Lexington, Kentucky

2011-06-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

When the original Ramsey's Diner opened in 1989 on

High Street in Lexington, Kentucky, its tiny kitchen

was soon overwhelmed with business--all that comfort food: meatloaf, hot browns, and homemade pie had found a following. As a result, the story goes, when the small space next door became available, owner Rob Ramsey purchased it to set it up as a pie shop for his lead prep cook, Missy. Before Missy ever set foot in the shop, however, she decided to follow her heart to Connecticut (to marry). But the name stuck, and even though there was never a "Missy" in the pie shop, nor was she ever heard from again-- the prize winning pies commenced being produced--and are still being turned out today in 2011. You can get a slice at Ramsey's Diner, or stop in Missy's and take a whole pie home with you--or tuck it in a basket and take it for a picnic in the beautiful bluegrass hills nearby. My favorite--the MayDay pie is a take on the chocolate pecan number known as Derby Pie (a trademarked name). I'm searching for a recipe as we 'cyber speak'--and hope to find one. Otherwise I've got to make another trip to Lexington soon. For more information about the Lexington area, check out my story today in the Minneapolis Star Tribune travel section: "A gallop through bluegrass." And for a perfect mint julep recipe--look for a blog post here soon. Or even better, just head over to Jonathan's at Gratz Park for quite possibly the most perfect mint julep I've ever tasted. Best of all, it's served in the traditional silver cup. It's icy, refreshingly delicious--and beautiful to boot. (Oh, and that'd be a riding boot in this horse country.)

Chocolate Indulgences: Spanish Style

2011-05-19T17:08:00.001-07:00

Since I noticed I have been getting some blog "hits" recently regarding Madrid's La Violeta candy shop (and I have been too busy to get any new blog posts written), I decided to unearth a favorite story of mine about chocolate shops in Spain. This one appeared-- and even won a writing award--a few years ago as the result of one of the best and most fun Spain trips ever! (Thanks Patreethea!) The places mentioned are still open and thriving as far as I know. I'll add some more photos when I have more time. For now-- here's to fond memories:

Spain is a country that adores its chocolate so much they not only eat it and drink it, they sculpt copies of their famous monuments out of it. They dedicate museums to it; they serve it at places called chocolaterias. They melt it and work it into a healing body massage: “chocoterapia” or chocotherapy. They even craft it into jewelry.

Perhaps all the preoccupation with chocolate is natural; Spaniards, after all, were the first to realize what a treasure the cocoa bean is—bringing it to their country from Mexico in the 1500s.

For those in search of the “food of the gods” today, however, there’s no better place to start than in the Spanish town of Villajoyosa. Vibrantly colored facades, narrow streets, and flower filled balconies make this one of the most charming spots on Spain’s eastern Costa Blanca. It’s also one of the sweetest smelling: Villajoyosa, meaning “joyful or happy town” is the location of the Valor chocolate factory and museum. Since 1881 Valor Chocolate has been produced here.

Outside the factory, you can smell the intoxicating scent of chocolate from the parking lot--and nearer the museum entrance, watch as workers unload huge burlap bags of cocoa beans. Inside, learn how Don Valeriano López Lloret, known as Valor, began a life “dedicated to the pleasure of working for pleasure”--commencing with a friendly English-speaking guide demonstrating how beans were originally crushed by what looks like a rolling pin and ending on a catwalk overlooking today’s hi-tech factory where conveyor belts loaded with bonbons circle a football-field-sized room.

Afterwards, an art museum-like (and temperature controlled) setting with chocolate sculptures includes a version of Spain’s Santiago Calatrava’s City of Arts and Sciences appropriately and painstakingly re-created in white chocolate. Through the next door, the factory’s bomboneria and gift shop serves hot chocolate and sells all of Valor’s products. (My fave buy: several bars of Valor’s 70 percent dark chocolate “con naranja”( with orange).

I wish I had bought this sweet little chocolate cup and saucer set that the hot chocolate was served in.

Following the Mediterranean Sea further north near Tarragona, a stay at the stunning Hotel Ra Beach Thalasso Spa yields yet another way the Spanish indulge their love of chocolate. Only this time, it‘s not about bonbons being covered with melted chocolate. Instead, at this seaside spa, YOU are the bonbon.

Called chocotherapy, it’s one of the resort spa’s many special offerings. And I admit, I was a shade apprehensive about the whole me as candy bar experience. Even more so, when my male masseuse showed up--and his only English consisted of one word, “Relax". But as it turned out, he only had to say, “Relax,” once. After that, I discovered there was no reason not to. A warm melted chocolate mixture is drizzled over your entire body, then professionally massaged in.

Later, after being wrapped up for a few minutes in a warm plastic-like sheet (think: candy bar wrapper), it’s rinse off time, followed by an application of subtly scented chocolate lotion. Then you’re sent off to the tissanarie for a cup of fragrant chocolate tea by the Zen garden waterfall.

From Tarragona, it’s not far to Barcelona. Aficionados of xocolata (as it’s known in Catalan) won’t be disappointed in this bustling city. Besides Cacao Sampaka-- an elegant shop where you can sip dark rich concoctions and purchase chocolate bars and bonbons in amazingly varied flavors, there’s a wealth of other wonderful chocolate places to check out. In fact, I spent my final day here doing nothing but following my own loosely organized chocoholic route.
Pastisseria Escribà is an artful marvel of a shop. Located along the Ramblas, it serves chocolate for drinking as well as chocolates for eating. These tidbits are cunningly showcased in small black boxes within glass cases–similar to expensive jewelry (with prices to match). It’s worth a stop if only to admire the displays.

Opposite the Liceu Opera House, the gilded Café de l’Opera dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. Justly famous for its xocolata amb xurro, the hot chocolate is dense, sweet and delicious—and the horseshoe-shaped churros (for dipping in the chocolate) arrive steamy, crisp and golden.

Granja-xocolateria La Pallaresa on the Carrer de Petritxol is known for its xocolata desfeta a suis (thick hot chocolate topped with whipped cream). The day I was there my pudding- thick cup of chocolate was accompanied by a stack of light pastries tasting a little like angel food cake for dunking in the chocolate mixture.

On the corner in the Barri Gothic and not far from the Ramblas, my route also included the beguiling Xocolateria Fargas. Opened in 1827, this chocolatier still has its original cupboards, counters and stained glass. Unfortunately, by the time I arrived there after two previous stops for hot chocolate and sweets, I could only wander in and gaze about in a chocolate sort of drug-induced stupor.

The day’s grand finale was Barcelona’s Museu de la Xocolata-- just around the corner from the Museu Picasso. Promoted by the Provincial Guild of Pastry-Makers of Barcelona (a pastry school is adjacent to the museum), this marvelous museum shares the story of chocolate through interactive exhibits (in English too). But it’s the chocolate sculptures here that are astounding—including a huge Sagrada Família, a bullfight scene, a bust of Don Quixote atop the book, even a replica of Gaudi’s Drac of Park Güell.

Exiting the museum brings you back to where you started—at the chocolate bar and the gift shop. Here’s where upscale museum offerings are for sale: Boxes of bonbons, t-shirts, jars of cocoa jam, bags of cocoa powder, artsy coffee-table-sized books devoted to the subject of chocolate, and tiny expensive but exquisite golden earrings in the likeness of what else? Cocoa beans.

I still regret I didn’t buy a pair.

Easter greetings!

2011-04-22T06:41:00.000-07:00

La Boulangerie Bakery's French macarons

No, they're not Easter eggs; they're macarons from La Boulangerie Bakery in Chicago's Logan Square area--one of many fabulous sweet shops I visited while in the Windy City. From the baguettes, croissants and traditional crepes or galettes (swirled fresh in front of you) to the little handwrapped homemade caramels sold by the register (their caramel filling goes in one of the macaroons), to the lovely tiny bags of lavender buds, the Parisian-styled shop is a feast for all the senses. Tip: "Eat the caramel at the same time as you have your coffee; it all melts together," advised the manager. He was right.

If I lived near here, this is where I'd come every morning to purchase a baguette or two (like the woman in the photo below).

Or actually, if I really lived in the area, I'd sign up for their Bread Flix: and have my bread delivered to my door twice a week (by a cute guy on a cute imported bike).

La Boulangerie, 2569 North Milwaukee Avenue, at Logan Boulevard (773-358-2569).

Chicago: A Windy City visit

2011-04-03T17:23:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to one of my favorite cities this week: Chicago! It's for a writer's meeting and I am excited to check out some more new spots. I was just there a few weeks ago for a story I wrote for the Minneapolis Star Tribune: Winter in the Windy City. (I don't know if it is still available online--although you can try clicking on: http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/travel/116915968.html if you're interested in reading it.)

As you can see from the top blog photo here, I was working quite diligently while there. When you work that hard, it is important to reward yourself. So I did. At Chicago's Garrett's Popcorn shop. There is nothing like the "Chicago mix" they pop up there--cheese and caramel corn mixed together. While I was there, I also ate at the acclaimed Sable Kitchen & Bar where I love just about anything chef Heather Terhune prepares. (She used to be at the Atwood Cafe in the Hotel Burnham --I'll never forget her chicken pot pie there, her bread pudding, or her French toast with warm chocolate sauce. Decadent.) Anyway, I stopped in the Sable bar one afternoon as well (for research purposes, of course)--and discovered their Cocktails 101 "menu" booklet is as fun to read as choose a drink from: chapters are titled: "Hot. Gentle. Round. Bold. Complex. Trust Me..." As it turned out, I ended up staying an extra day in the Windy City during that visit because the weather turned nasty. But this week coming up is supposed to be spring-like. I'll bring my umbrella.

Dreaming of Galicia, Spain

2011-03-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

On this snowy slushy day (will winter never end??) I am experimenting with adding an Animoto video I made with my photos from Galicia--and recalling my time there. Click on: Why I love Galicia and see if it works...My visit to Santiago de Compostela was dream-filled, with drenching rain, ghost stories, mystical flaming drinks, and.... so much more. Memories of those "pimientos de Padron"--small roasted green peppers that are sharp and hot, washed down with a glass of the cold Albarino wine...Afternoons, drinking little cups of thick hot chocolate--served with warm sugared churros. One morning, I remember hot strong espresso and a slice of the city's signature Tarta de Santiago (almond cake). Displayed in every patisserie window in the city, the cake is one of those simple perfections-- its cross of St. James stenciled in powdered sugar on top. Besides buying the cake at the patisseries, go to the city's convents. Compostela's Benedictine and Dominican nuns are renowned bakers--they also sell the Tarta de Santiago plus delicious cookies--true sweet blessings.

Pictured below is the Monasterio de Benedictinas San Pelayo de Ante Altares in Santiago de Compostela where I bought the Tarta de Santiago and also a box of yummy cookies. The nuns sell their baked goods from behind the iron bars you see here. They do not allow photos of themselves. You ring a bell on the wall nearby and one of the nuns comes to the "window" and opens it. Then they bring out what you order, you pay, and they spin the boxes of goods slowly out to you on the revolving wooden lazy-susan that slips under the iron grates. Very ingenious--and definitely worth seeking out both for the experience AND the delicious sweets.

Sweet on the Queen of Tarts in Dublin, Ireland

2011-03-15T13:47:00.000-07:00

Queen of Tarts, Dublin, Ireland

If you should happen to find yourself in Dublin anytime soon, make a point to visit the Queen of Tarts shop (pictured above)-- a shop that is as charmingly cozy and delicious as it looks. Near Dublin Castle, on Cow's Lane (and no, for those inquiring minds, there are no cows to worry about), the minuscule tea room opened in 1998 (according to its website). It's fragrant and lovely with beautiful offerings: lemon meringue tarts (yes, I bought one), apple crumbles made with Bramley's Irish apples, buttermilk brown breads, even pretty pink flower-topped cupcakes. I am wishing I was there right now!

As you can see the shop is tiny--but mighty--even the New York Times has praised it!

On this same trip, I also stopped in Dublin's Keogh's Cafe where the line is out the door almost always. But you must not miss this place for its scones: Cherry and almond, rhubarb and ginger (score!), pear and vanilla...and many more. Later on while traveling the region, I also stayed at the Castle Leslie estate (a most unusual but beautiful spot) and took a cooking class at its cookery school. From there, I brought home a fabulous butternut squash soup recipe. See my story in AAA Home & Away: "Things are cooking in Ireland", if you are interested.

So many fun memories from that trip.....Richelle and Sue, Mary Lu....debriefing nights in the hotel rooms...

More Champagne please!

2011-03-06T12:02:00.001-08:00

While in Champagne country, one of the more unusual spots where I tasted the bubbles happened to be in a treehouse. The Perchingbar is located 18 feet up--and yes, if you look closely at the photo in this post, you'll notice there is a tree trunk to the right of Parisian Olivier Couteau--whose dream of a Champagne bar in the trees came true last year. The space is all solar-powered-- so hours are limited--and it's reached by way of a boardwalk and swinging rope bridge (so monitoring your Champagne intake is also highly advisable). But it's fun! And beautiful! This is my kind of sustainable commerce.
For more on my trip to Champagne, check out my story in the St. Paul Pioneer Press newspaper : http://www.twincities.com/travel/ci_17340654?nclick_check=1

Champagne Pops

2011-01-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! With promises to keep, I am ready to commence some bubbly commentary on my past autumn trip to the home of champagne. First up, a story I had in the Minneapolis Star Tribune: Pop the Cork gives some champagne 101 info along with two new favorite recipes I made a few times during the holidays that were big hits, plus a place to order cool champagne taste testing kits (sorry, you have to provide the actual champagne).

Champagne Sighs

2010-11-03T11:47:00.001-07:00

I just returned from France and a trip to Champagne country and the Burgundy region.
Stay tuned for highlights. Meanwhile, feast on this great quote of M.F.K. Fisher's in "How to Cook a Wolf":
I consider myself more fortunate than most women in that I know several good drinking companions of my own sex. They are for the most part well past seventy, a significant fact in the study of Alcohol in Modern Society, I imagine...the best of them, eighty-two last Christmas, has taught me much of both self-control and sensual pleasure from her enjoyment of a glass of dry champagne."

Sweet Thought

2010-11-01T09:38:00.001-07:00

Halloween Treat: Candy corn and peanuts

2010-10-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

Autumn brings many exciting sweets to the table. It is, of course, the season of candy corn. And as any good Minnesota mom knows, it is also the time to make up a mixture of candy corn and peanuts. When a handful of this sweet and salty mixture goes into the mouth and is chewed together, it tastes like the Salted Nut Roll candy bar. (The recipe is basically: mix one jar of dry roasted salted peanuts with one bag of candy corn. If you like more peanuts or more candy corn, adjust accordingly.) I thought everyone knew about this sweet October delicacy. But when I discovered that there are some folks (mostly of the East Coast persuasion) who said they had not heard of the treat, much less the Salted Nut Roll, it gave me pause. Could it really be? So to those who already know, you can skip this part. And to those who do need explanation: the Salted Nut Roll is a sweet nougat center covered in caramel, then in peanuts, and made by Pearson's, a small candy company in St. Paul. They also make the famous Nut Goodie candy bar (I guess they're into nuts). And yes, this is the candy bar that Garrison Keillor has promoted and made famous. Years ago, I had the fun opportunity to tour Pearson's candy factory when I was on an assignment. (The factory is not open to the public.) This is one of the tiny candy companies we need to support--and I am happy to promote their sweet goods.

Cold Comfort: Re-living cool memories

2010-08-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

As the days are sweltering here in Minnesota now with high temps and humidity, I've been cooling off by re-living cool days and nights from a recent road trip on the west coast. My sister and I met in Sacramento, proceeded thro the California redwoods and up the Oregon coast to Olympia, Washington. One of our first stops was the above roadside stand selling produce, flowers and yes, fresh blackberry popsicles which we loved.
In Trinidad, we stopped for lunch at the Seascape which overlooked the ocean and fishermen bringing in their fresh catches. I had quite possibly the best fish and chips ever. (We also had to wear our hoodie sweatshirts because it was so wonderfully cold.)

On our third night, we stayed in Pacific City, Oregon across from the ocean AND the Pelican Pub and Restaurant, very convenient. Great cold beer brewed on the premises. Great spicy mahi mahi quesadillas. And the people were all so super friendly, I told my sis I felt like we were in an ad promoting the Oregon coast.
The next day we stopped at Tillamook Cheese Factory which was a total zoo. Who knew a cheese factory could be such a tourist and family destination--almost like an amusement park. "Is it always this busy?" we asked the check-out clerk at the gift store. The answer: "Usually, busier. We have 3,000 to 5,000 visitors a day from Memorial Day to Labor Day." We think there must have been at least 10,000 people the day we were there. In fact, we had to have a double scoop of ice cream to de-stress after our shopping experience there. Out of many ice cream flavor choices, I narrowed it down to the marionberry pie and chocolate peanut butter. I couldn't decide and the people behind me were getting impatient, so I ordered both.

Paris for cooks: E. Dehillerin

2010-07-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

One of the best parts about getting home after a trip to France is unpacking. I'm not talking about the dirty clothes part; I'm referring to the "buys" you have made! This time my treasures included some great purchases from one of my favorite stores whenever I'm in Paris: E. Dehillerin. This time I scored four mini souffle dishes, a gorgeous rolling pin, and a small carbon paring knife which kind of looks like a mini chef knife. I was planning on buying the small souffle dishes and rolling pin, but while I was at the check out (they have an interesting way of checking out--details on that later)there was a small knife laying on the counter (part of someone's stash of things to buy). Anyway, I picked it up to look at it because it suddenly occurred to me that I might need such a slick little knife like that. As I was inspecting it, a rather good looking and friendly French guy (it was his stash; I swear I didn't know)came over and I tried to explain I wasn't planning on taking it, I just was looking for one like it. When we understood each other, he went to find me the exact same knife, then showed me how it was printed with the word "carbone" on it, and told me with sign language, some English, never never to wash the knife in the dishwasher, and to dry it very thoroughly because it gets spots and can rust quickly. "But it eez the best knife, this kind!" he informed me. After I bought one (along with my other goodies), they wrapped everything up, and I never opened the package until I got home. That's when I discovered the sales person put the tip of the knife into a wine cork to keep it from poking through the wrapping I guess. Is that so French? They add style to everything!!PS My other "buys" included bags of seasalt (I was in Brittany), jars of caramel sauce, boxes of caramels, a cute pair of red shoes, some fresh rose and violet garlic (honest, officer, I forgot I had put it in there), a new grey jacket, and... mais oui... a beautiful scarf.

Sweet Shop: Billy's Bakery in Chelsea

2010-05-31T18:51:00.000-07:00

How can you not love a place called "Billy's Bakery"? After seeing the Martha Stewart show in the heart of Chelsea, my friends and I happened on Billy's while walking to Pastis where we planned to have lunch. But how could you walk by? There was a guy in the window frosting cupcakes! The entire shop was not much bigger than a cream puff. And it was filled with delights--layer cakes on pedestals and under glass, lemon bars, peanut butter chocolate bars. Cookies. I bought a white cupcake with turquoise buttercream frosting that had little sprinkles on top and had it placed in a cute colorful square box with a handle (like a cupcake purse!)that cost extra (but was worth it). Many cupcakes are disappointments--they look so sweet and delectable but turn out dry and flavorless.
This little number was not one of those. It was delicious. Very delicious. Definitely worth a stop. PS Down the street (Ninth Avenue) was another little shop called Three Tarts. Another winner and worth another stop.

Sweet Thoughts: Reading a good book

2010-05-18T04:43:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more lovely than having a good book to read! I have a stack by my bedside. Right now, I am in the middle of Palace Walk by Naguib Mahfouz. Winner of a 1988 Nobel Prize for literature, it was originally published in Arabic in l956. It's the first in the author's Cairo Trilogy--about life in post WWI Egypt. (Palace of Desire and Sugar Street are the other two.) I also have the book A Year in the World: Journeys of a Passionate Traveller by Frances Mayes nearby. I have already finished it, but still like picking it up and finding various lines that I love. Nice to read right before falling asleep.

"Travel pushes my boundaries. Seemingly self-indulgent, travel paradoxically obliterates me-me-me, because very quickly--prestissimo--the own-little-self is unlocked from the present and released to move through layers of time. It is not 2006 all over the world. So who are you in a place where 1950 or 1920 is about to arrive?"

Of course, I have a few bedside cookbooks as well. Viana La Place's unplugged kitchen is a personal favorite pre-summer cookbook read. Chapters have titles like: 'a late morning breakfast on a small Italian Island.' The menu lists: " blood orange juice, tender egg island style, ripe figs, caffe latte".

Instead of armchair travelling, I call it bedside cooking.

Art Credit: Quint Buchholz "Lesende Frau"
Aus Dem "Buchbilderbuch", Sanssouci Verlag

Sweet Shop: Golden Crown Panaderia

2010-04-13T19:06:00.000-07:00

Pratt Morales and son Chris, Albuquerque, NM

I just had a story in the Minneapolis Star Tribune about New Mexico. If you'd like to read it, click on the below. (Sorry, I haven't figured out how to include a link here yet.)

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/travel/89769762.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUUsZ

In that piece, I included a couple paragraphs about the Golden Crown Panaderia in Albuquerque. Pratt Morales and son Chris run this Southwest bakery famous for its green chile bread (featured on the Food Network) and its anise-flavored biscochitos. I loved the bread but it was those flaky cookies that really got to my sweet tooth.

When you walk in here, the typical bakery scents of bread baking, cinnamon and sugar greet you --along with a friendly person behind the counter offering a free cookie--a biscochito. This is New Mexico's "official State Cookie". As I wrote in my article, you've got to love a state that elevates a cookie to such status. Personally, I'd love to have been at the meeting where it was discussed. "I move that we adopt the biscochito as our state cookie". "I second it." "All in flavor, I mean favor, say aye". And don't ya wonder--how it all started to begin with? Like, was some state worker sitting on break having a cup of coffee and a biscochito when it hit him or her (probably her)--dang, this cookie is GOOD. After another bite... this cookie is REALLY good. Then another worker comes in to the break room and she says to whoever just came in, "hey Joe, this cookie is flipping delicious. It's so good, it could be.... official!" and Joe (but probably it's a Mary) says, "give me some of that cookie and I'll tell you if it's any good," and then she tastes it and says, "Damn, I think you are right!Give me another one to make sure." Then after six or so more cookies, the two think... You know, we should make this REALLY official. Wouldn't it be cool to have an official... state cookie?" I suppose if I were really curious, I could easily find out how the whole thing came to be. But I kind of like my imagined scenario. At any rate, I loved the cookie so much I made them for the annual Christmas cookie exchange last year. (Recipe follows at end of post.)

But enough already about the cookie. The truth is, while visiting this bakery, I found Pratt and Chris(the father-son team who run this operation) to be as sweet as the cookies they bake. They invited me into their kitchen and let me watch them at work, shared memories and dreams, philosophy and baking tips, and of course, tastes. And it's easy to see that everything coming out of the ovens here gets a dose of TLC. These guys love what they're doing. I like the way Pratt explained it: "Passion is when you're supposed to be somewhere at 4, and you get there at 2."

Whether you get here at 2, 4, or 7 a.m., you're in for a real treat --and a free biscochito--when you stop in here. Don't miss it.

Chris on the patio of the Golden Crown Panaderia with pan of biscochitos. (You can also get a great cappuccino at the bakery--see below)

Biscochitos (recipe from the Santa Fe School of Cooking)

Makes 4-5 dozen

2 cups lard or vegetable shortening (I used Crisco)
1 ½ cups sugar

2 eggs

2 tsp. toasted anise seeds

6 cups flour

3 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

½ cup brandy

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cream the lard or shortening (I used Crisco). Add sugar, eggs and anise seeds and cream again. Mix dry ingredients separately and combine with the shortening mixture. Add the brandy and mix thoroughly.

Roll the dough out on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes. Sprinkle the cookie shapes with sugar-cinnamon mixture. (1 cup sugar to 1 tsp. or more cinnamon) . Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

Sweet dreaming

2010-04-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

Spanish hot chocolate....

Sweet Treat: Mother's Famous Father's Favorite Graham Cracker Pie

2010-03-10T11:13:00.000-08:00

Last week I had a craving for my mom's graham cracker pie. The filling is basically very similar to a French creme anglaise. The story in our family about this pie was that when my mom used to cook for the hired farmhands on their North Dakota farm, one of the hired men loved this particular pie so much he told my mom he'd pay her some exorbitant sum to make a whole pie just for him. My dad (this was his favorite pie) would have gladly taken the money, but my mother made the pie and didn't charge the man anything. She said after she made it and gave it to the hired hand, he carried the pie on horseback to wherever he was rooming. She said she had no idea how the pie must have looked upon arrival. It's a fragile type custard filling and truthfully, it'd be good simply spooned out of the pie pan. I am sure the guy didn't care. (This is a comforting pie for a rainy dreary day. My dad and I liked eating it warm from the oven, but if you want it less runny, you should let it cool awhile until it sets. I liked making it and thinking about my mom.)

Graham Cracker Crust:
about 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tbsp. sugar

Mix together and press in pie pan (I used a 9 inch pie pan). Bake 10-15 minutes at 350 degrees.

Filling:
Mix 2/3 cup sugar and 1/2 cup cornstarch in a bowl. Stir in 1/2 cup milk.

Put 2 1/2 cups milk in a kettle and bring to a boil. Whisk in the sugar and cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly, as it sticks easily.

Separate 3 eggs. Whisk egg yokes together and add a little hot mixture to them, then pour all back into the kettle. Then add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tsp. vanilla. Cook, until thick, stirring constantly (I use a whisk). Pour on graham cracker crust.

Meringue: Whip 3 egg whites with 1/4 tsp. cream of tartar until foamy, then add 1/4 cup sugar and whip whites until stiff peaks form. Spread on pie up to edges and bake 15-20 minutes at 350 degrees or until meringue is brown.

Sweet Thought of the Day

2010-02-05T13:13:00.000-08:00

Sweet Stay: Hotel Santo Domingo in Madrid, Spain

2010-01-21T14:33:00.000-08:00

Not to be confused with the Hotel Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, this pretty hotel is not "surrounded by 14 acres of lush tropical gardens". It is, however, smack dab in the historic center of Madrid--within walking distance of the Puerta del Sol and all the other famous Madrid attractions you'll want to see when you're in Madrid. You should also not be put off by the fact it is part of the Best Western chain--chain hotels and restaurants often being something I try to avoid when I'm traveling. This little gem is a darling (forgive me) but it really is, boutique hotel in the best sense of the word. Every room is different, so perhaps I was just lucky, but I loved my pale pink girlie room. I walked in and my first thought was that this would be a perfect place for sisters (or best girlfriends)to stay if they were spending time in Madrid. The bathroom was lovely: Check out the tile.

And yes, that tub is a mini personal jacuzzi-like tub. Here is a shot of the framed print over the bed. I liked how they framed the poster between panes of glass so that the pale pink of the wall shows through. I thought that was a cool decorating idea.

Here is a shot of the view from my window. One of the things I love about staying in Spain (or anywhere in Europe) is how you can crank open the windows wide (no screens! no bugs!). Why is that? I looked out over tile roofs and onto another pink sided building. I never saw anyone over there, but I wondered what it would be like to live in a place like that.

The hotel is also a "little museum" with beautifully framed paintings throughout. I wish I would have had more time to look at them. Here are two that were in the restaurant where I ate breakfast.

The lobby was filled with overstuffed striped sofas and more paintings, the staff friendly and helpful (several spoke English). It was an entirely sweet stay here. Best of all, I slept like a princess.

INFO:
Best Western Premier Hotel Santo Domingo
Plaza de Santo Domingo, 13-28013 Madrid Spain
www.bestwesternhotelsantodomingo.com

Sweet Stay: Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe, Dresden, Germany

2009-12-16T15:49:00.000-08:00

Since I mentioned I would be writing/blogging about "sweet stays" I've enjoyed while traveling, I thought it was time I wrote about some. I decided to start in Dresden since I was most recently there and had a very very sweet stay indeed. I was at the Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe, in the same square as the Frauenkirch and overlooking the Neumarkt. But part of the sweet experience for me, I admit, was the service I received. Including that luxurious amenity called: "Room Service". For the record, I have occasionally had room service -- coffee in the morning delivered with some pastries. But I have never had a full blown meal brought to my room.
Doesn't this look cozy? It was. The whole scenario was right out of a movie. Complete with that silver dome lid over my pasta with pesto and parmesan and a vase containing one long stemmed single pink rose! The bellhop wheeled in the trolley and even poured my beer! (Please note: there may be two robes and slippers on those beds but it was just me in the room. Just in case anyone is wondering.)

Here's the story: I left Frankfurt on the train at 7 for Dresden, dragging a HUGE HEAVY suitcase (it was so heavy it had to have its own ticket--like being shipped-- on a local flight I had come in on from Madrid.) NEVER AGAIN will I travel with such a huge suitcase. Rosemary, Angie: I am not kidding, never again.
Okay, part of the reason it was so heavy: I bought some bottles of this fantastic herbal liqueur in Santiago de Compostela, Spain (see photo below). How 'bout 3 bottles? They told me it gave you sweet dreams (and it really did)

At any rate, despite the suitcase, I discovered I love German trains. At the Frankfurt airport, it was easy to find the train station (across the street).
The train was fabulous--German trains are right on time, clean and wonderful. But hauling that suitcase on and off was a total nightmare. Luckily, some nice gentlemen helped me along the way.
I arrived at Dresden about 11:30 at night-- and the train station was deserted. Even so, I have to say, it was not at all scary--in fact I actually enjoyed wandering through that quiet ancient station after all the hectic-ness of the day. I felt as if I were living in another life. If only that other life included a butler (to carry my suitcases.)
Outside the door, there were three taxis, with three taxi drivers standing around waiting for late arrivals. They spoke little English, but one came and got my suitcases to take to the first taxi. When he lifted the big suitcase, I apologized, "oh, it's very heavy" I said. He agreed. "Do you have rocks in there?" (He knew more English than I realized.)
Approximately, 5 minutes later I was at the Steigenberger hotel and checked in. When I asked if there were any places around where I could get a sandwich, the clerk (who spoke very good English) shook her head. I wasn't too disappointed. I was tired, and it was late--and I wanted to see my room. I love hotel rooms. And I really love beautiful European hotel rooms. The kind with windows that crank open and tile bathrooms and comfy robes. The Steigenberger did not disappoint! And then! I no sooner got to my room and a phone call: the clerk had found a place that offered to make me something to eat. Would I like a pesto pasta dish or a potato soup? I ordered the pasta. Would I like anything to drink? Because I was in Germany and it was my first time in Germany, I ordered a beer. For the record: the pasta was perfect, the beer was perfect. It was one of the best meals I have ever had at a hotel. I'm totally serious.
For dessert, awaiting me on a table (it had been brought to my room earlier) was this:

How sweet is that?
In the morning, I opened my window to this view:

It was a blue sky, I could hear the church bells. Then I had breakfast at the hotel. That's when I knew this was truly a sweet hotel.

First I had a slice of this Eierschecke. It is a cross between a custard and a cake and it is delicious. I ate the tip of the pie before I photographed it. I just couldn't wait. Unfortunately, now all my photos of this cake have the tip missing. (Please note, fresh red roses on the table. Also, that oj in the stemmed glass. Yes. How do you say Mimosa in German? (The Germans know how to start the day right.)
This is the exterior of the hotel. I discovered there was a bakery around the corner.

It even had a take/out window. Hotel location is everything.
In the morning, I went on a tour of the area near the hotel. Another hotel near by is where President Obama stayed when he was here this past spring. The Dresdeners were extremely proud of the fact that Obama visited their city. (And I was proud to say again that I was from "America.") Here's the hotel Obama stayed at while he visited Dresden.

In fact, they were so proud of his visit, I even got to see the room he stayed in while at the hotel.

I thought my room was just as nice though! Although he had a nicer sitting area.

Note the dining area behind the sitting area.

In the morning, this was Obama's view. Almost as nice as the view from my hotel room. Sorry, prez.

For more information: www.steigenberger.com; check the reviews on tripadvisor too--they say it all.

Sweet Shop: La Violeta, Madrid, Spain

2009-11-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

A small elegant Spanish shop that has been selling sweet candy violets since 1915. How could I resist? Truthfully, I had read about this store before I left for Madrid, and knew I had to visit. I was hoping it would be as enchanting as it sounded. It was. It is.

Considered one of the most Madrilian souvenirs you can buy, these small flower shaped candies are flavored with violet essence. No one seems to know why they have become such a symbolic sweet of the city. Speculation is that Mariano Gil who opened the shop decided to try something different than the cakes his family baked. With so many violets in the mountains north of Madrid, he experimented with their fragrant essence. Today there are many other shops selling the candy, but Gil’s is the original—and still in the family.

Located off the beautiful Puerta de Sol, the old-fashioned shop is easy to find. But be prepared: there is only room for about three customers at a time in this minuscule shop. And lots of locals stop in here to buy gifts too. The shelves are filled with glass jars bedecked with purple ribbons with the flower shaped candies inside.

The candy is sold by weight and you can select exquisite specially made porcelain pieces to put the sweets in (each have a violet on them). There are also slender lovely cut glass vases that can be filled with the bonbons.

But if you are on a budget and have suitcase poundage to consider (like moi), you can buy small containers of the bonbons for under $2E. (see photo below) which they will even gift wrap for you. How sweet is that?
PS The best part of all--these darling little suckees are delicious. And the good news: You won't find them at the mall when you get back home. You can't buy them on the internet either. The bad news: I guess it's the same as the good news. You have to go to Madrid if you want more.

La Violeta
Plaza de Canalejas 6
Madrid, Spain

Pretty in Pink in Macon, GA

2009-04-29T11:48:00.001-07:00

It's serious when you can't even keep up with yourself. I was in Macon, Georgia more than a month ago already! I haven't had a chance to write more about Egypt and I just returned from Memphis. In between, I was in Boston visiting my son and his wife, and in Milwaukee for Easter at my aunt's. Help me, please, to find more than 24 hours in a day. Meantime, regarding my time in Macon: what a beautiful surprise of a city! Between raindrops, I indulged on "pink pancakes", toured historic southern mansions, inhaled the perfume of 305,000 blooming cherry trees, and visited the beautifully restored Douglass Theatre (where Macon's hometown favorite Otis Redding used to win the weekly talent contests until they told him he had to quit entering to give someone else a chance). Oh, and did I mention the chocolate cake (see photo below) at City Market? Quite possibly, the biggest layer cake I have ever seen --a slice was like a whole cake pan worth -- and it tasted as delicious as it looked. I know, because I came, I sampled, I waddled home. (Good thing, I have a coupon for free registration to weight watcher's thro May.)

Egypt: Memories and more

2009-03-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

I just returned from Egypt--The Land of Civilization--and I am still recovering from being "civilized". When I landed in Cairo, I truly had no idea what to expect. I was certainly not anticipating quaint and charming scenarios, but I have to admit I was totally unprepared for the city's chaos, noise, lack of traffic rules, and general crazy quilt of people and action. Yet as I traveled throughout the country, and got more acclimated to the whole idea of really being in Egypt--Egypt! (me! a little ole Midwestern girl!), I found the people friendly and warm--happy to see visitors(obviously many were interested in baksheesh)but mostly genuinely wanting to make tourists feel welcome in their country. And of course, the antiquities are unsurpassable, from the pyramids to the temples. I did discover that candy shops are few and far between (and liquor even more distant)but I had some really sweet experiences --and hey, that's what this blog is all about. Stories to follow.

How to drink a candy bar

2009-01-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

This morning while email chatting--I mean working--my friend Sue from the Detroit News sent me a note with this subject line: "Just found a recipe for my favorite candy bar!" Hmmm. Who could resist that? The recipe comes from her friend and co-worker at the News, Melody Baetens who is also a part time bartender.

Milky Way
Drink this concoction as a chilled shot.
• ½ ounce of Baileys Irish Cream
• ¾ ounce of Kahlua
• ½ ounce of Tuaca (a citrus and vanilla liqueur)
• dash of cream
Shake all ingredients together with ice and strain into a shot glass.

I can hardly wait to try it! Cheers to Sue and Melody! (Were you guys taste testing recipes at work today?)

Don't forget to check out Sue's blog: www.detnews.com/travelblog

Sweet memories of 2008

2009-01-03T18:38:00.000-08:00

Best cake memory: Gateau de sirop cake at Cafe des Amis in Breaux Bridge, LA

Best chocolate gelato memory: Vestri in Florence, Italy

Best overall chocolate tart in the world memory: Dolci & Dolcezze, Florence, Italy

(Also the sweet shop I would most like to own)

Best blackberry and pink grapefruit gelato memory: Giolitti in Rome, Italy
(How can you not love a place and a country where men in suits close deals with a handshake at a gelato shop??)

To be continued.

Chocolate Pot de Creme in Hyde Park

2008-11-17T11:42:00.000-08:00

If I lived near the CIA (as in Culinary Institute of America) in Hyde Park, I'd go there every day for coffee and pastry, lunch or dinner. On a recent visit (I was in Poughkeepsie for my son's wedding), I only had time to wander through those hallowed cooking halls and visit the Apple Pie Bakery Cafe (it was too short notice to make reservations for a meal at the restaurants there). The cabinets in the hallway displayed antique sets of heart cookie cutters, carved wooden biscuit (cookie) molds, a collection of Twelfth Night charms found in the the traditional Twelfth Night cake, metal molds for sugar flowers, and more. And more. I fell into almost a sugar swoon. It's a wonderful place.

I was in heaven and I hadn't even walked into the bakery. The Bakery! Every item in the display case was sweeter and cuter than the next. I took a few photos before I was gently informed: NO PHOTOS. But the pot de creme baked in the egg shell and topped with cocoa nibs I had to have. I also bought the steamed gingerbread (served in a tiny bamboo steamer!), the apple butter cheesecake topped with candied Hudson Valley apples, and a pastry with Mexican chocolate and a homemade marshmallow on top. I passed on the 61 per cent dark chocolate tasting because I had to. All the desserts were in these sweet darling doll size portions though--and no, I did not eat them all at once. It was at least 24 hours before they were all gone.
They also sold jars of jam and caramel with fleur de sel (I bought two jars), various sea salts, and lollipops in exotic flavors! When we left (I was slumped in the front seat and a little sleepy but still excited) I also noticed that all the streets on the campus of the CIA are named for herbs. Parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme. I want to go back to a college where I can learn things like how to bake pot de creme in an egg shell, and how to make lollipops and my own caramel with fleur de sel. Useful delicious studies.

Check out http://www.ciachef.edu/ for more information on visiting.

Sweet on Italy

2008-07-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

With airfare skyhigh, and worried we might lose our frequent flier miles, my best friend Angie and I decided to cash in our miles and take a trip to Italy. No matter the dollar is in the tank. We figured meals can be made on gelato. And guess what? They can!

We ate gelato every day--sometimes twice a day. Stay tuned for our favorite gelato shops, all duly recorded (as you can see) by yours truly. Oh yeah, we did have a few pasta meals and made several prosecco stops too. After all, woman cannot live by gelato alone. (But she can survive quite some time on it.)

Michigan: Mackinac Island fudge

2008-06-28T04:57:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago the Sunday Pioneer Press travel section ran a story I did on Mackinac Island (http://www.twincities.com/travel/ci_9566606). Although I didn't have the word count to include some info on specific fudge shops on the island, I thought I'd at least mention here my take on fudge in general and Mackinac Island in particular.

First off, before I even talk about the island's sweet shops, it's important to know that I consider my mom's fudge the all time best. I've never tasted fudge like hers in any fudge shops. For that matter, I've never tasted any homemade fudge like hers, period. She made the kind of fudge that was hand-beaten. I can still see her with her well worn wooden spoon and hear the noise it made in the bowl. Before she beat it, she would drop a droplet of the warm chocolate that had been bubbling on the stove for awhile, into a glass of cold water. That was how she could tell the exact time when it was ready to take off the heat and begin the beating.

The result of her chocolate fudge was not a creamy soft light and high confection--it was a dense dark chocolate rich with butter and cream--barely an inch high.

At any rate, I say all this so that you can understand why the fudge I have tasted at many tourist type shops does little for me and why I may taste it, but rarely buy any. It has to be exceptionally good before I'll part with my cash--and I can count on one hand the places I've bought it. One of them just happens to be Jo-Ann's Fudge shop on Mackinac Island. I had read that Murdock's Fudge was the original shop that started selling the sweet, and my driver who took me on a tour of the island recommended May's variation as his all-time favorite. But after tasting Jo-Ann's plain chocolate fudge, I knew I had to buy some for my flight home. It was buttery, rich and creamy, but not cloying sweet. It was definitely still not my mom's but it was still definitely worthy.

For the record, Mackinac Island has an annual Fudge Festival. Check out http://www.mackinacisland.org/fudge.html for more information.

Ireland: Galway bakeries

2008-06-20T21:28:00.000-07:00

When people think of Ireland, they don't generally think about fabulous food or delicious sweets. They think of Guinness and fish and chips obviously, and green green pastures and grazing sheep. They think of music and pubs and soft misty mornings and warm friendly people.

But I have to say that while visiting Ireland last November, I experienced all of the above--yes, even the fabulous food and delicious sweets. (I also experienced rain. But that's another story.) This being a blog about sweet treats, I'm here to tell you that I found Galway an especially sweet town. The first shop I happened upon was the Gourmet Tart Co. where I spotted the pedestal platter full of those incredible looking strawberry meringues in the window (pictured above) as soon as I started up the street for my one day of shopping. However, I decided to wait to purchase one until on my way BACK to the car. Mistake. Big mistake. Actually on any trip, this is a Cardinal Mistake (CM). Never, never, NEVER ASSUME you will be able to find your way back to any particular spot you see ever again-- whether to take a photo, or purchase something you spotted in the window. Of course, if I had been with my girlfriends, this would never have occurred in the first place. They would have reminded me. But I was with my family. At any rate, you guessed it. When I returned to the shop (I did find it again), and went in to buy my meringue, the shop girl sadly informed me that they were sold out. And while the ones in the window were still displayed, she told me they were not fresh. (I was ready to take one of them. I mean, meringues stay fresh for days I wanted to tell her.) Need I say I was crushed? I was. Luckily, I was not leaving Galway until the next afternoon. The next day I bought and ate the meringue as soon as I got to the shop. And it WAS well worth waiting for!! I have not had such an exceptional meringue since. It was on par and in fact superior to a few meringues I have eaten in Paris. I would love to know how they managed to get the strawberry jam swirled so perfectly in them

Galway had several other bakeries as well. I visited Griffin's several times as they sold jars of orange marmalade made with Irish whiskey and I wanted several to bring home for gifts. Also, the fam discovered if you bought a cup of tea there, they threw in these delectable mini scones that simply melted on the tongue. One of my sons talked me in to buying a wedge of some chocolate covered confection with dried fruit too (dried fruit always raises a red flag with me). But it turned out to be quite yummy. In fact, so yummy, I wished I'd bought more. Two other bakeries I also checked out were The Oven Door (a cute little shop) and Goyas--where the wedding cakes in the windows were darling and decadent and different than any I've seen here in the USA.

Above: Me-- finally with my meringue!!!

Chicago: Garrett's Popcorn Shops

2008-06-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

In January, I was in Chicago. That was, let's see, going on almost 6 months ago. And right now, not only am I in need of a serious summertime visit to the Windy City (the best time of all to visit), I'm desperately in need of a Garrett's popcorn fix. More specifically, their famous Chicago “Mix” --a combination of caramel corn and cheese corn. One of Oprah’s favorite things. Think sugar and salt. Sweet and savory. Highly addictive. Once you open the waxed paper bag, you can't stop. Your fingers get kind of orange-y, sticky and greasy (but in a good way). Winter time Chicago, there's nothing like returning to a warm hotel room after a visit to say the Signature Room at the 95th—high atop the John Hancock Center-- where you’ve just sipped a Mojito and watched a spectacular sunset with your best friend, and then junk fooding out back at the room with a full bag of freshly made Garrett's mix -- laughing together over a rented movie. (I'm talking about a Brit comedy here, not the pay-per-view stuff by the way.)

Tip: Garrett Popcorn has been around since 1949 and now has several locations, but long lines still prevail. (I know people who have waited in line 45 minutes or more. What?? Are they crazy? I won't name names.) But through the years, I've discovered the Randolph Street location usually has shorter wait times (a good thing when you are running late to the airport and have made your taxi stop at the shop--did I mention not to forget to buy a bag for the flight home?) If you can’t get to Chicago, you can order online, but for the real deal, a trip to the Windy City is always a good thing.
http://www.garrettpopcorn.com/

Norway: Baker Brun

2008-05-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

Per Rick Steves' ( http://ricksteves.com/) Scandinavia 2007 recommendation-- I stopped in Baker Brun for morning espresso and a skillingsbolle (Norway's version of the cinnamon roll). Baker Brun is located right on the pier where the stalls are set up for Bergen's famous fish market. There really is nothing like eating this oven-warm treat near the water, with the seagulls noisy overhead and birds nearby waiting for some sugar-y crumbs. The next morning I tried the sommerbolle--which is similar to the skillingsbolle, except it has a sunshine-y yellow circle of vanilla custard in the center. One bite into the literally just made custard (it was still warm), combined with the soft bread, plus the drizzle of frosting--and I decided this sweet beauty was my new favorite Norwegian specialty. (Much as I love salmon, I still prefer a pastry for breakfast.) More info: http://www.visitnorway.com/