Lodinews.com: The Dish

OK, so I am now on a Hungarian food kick and have found a fabulous cookbook for it. I love a good cookbook and will often sit down and read through it like others would a novel.

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, April 11, 2012 1:13 pm. Updated: 6:19 am. Comments (0)

Local abundance

Like asparagus, there is an abundance of produce coming into season right now. Even better, the grape vines are starting to pop, as the magical cycle begins again. One delicious local veggie that we often forget about lies just below these gnarled beauties; mustard greens! Lush and green with cheerful yellow flowers, these greens are bitter, healthy and delicious. I like to sauté them in a bit of olive oil and garlic, removing any really woody stems, with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of honey. I even found a local friend who is willing to let me pick some from her family’s beautiful vineyard. Gazing at this picture of her country home buried in the vines, I feel blessed and delighted to see this view all along our charming country roads.

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 5:29 pm. Updated: 5:35 pm. Comments (0)

Good Germans love spaetzle

And why wouldn’t they? It’s delicious, easy to make and cheap, cheap, cheap!

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 1:04 pm. Updated: 1:11 pm. Comments (0)

Everyone is talking about Mission Chinese Food

Mission Chinese Food in the Mission District of San Francisco is a destination on its own and well worth the drive and wait to get in.

Posted in The dish on Monday, March 5, 2012 10:45 pm. Updated: 7:14 am. Comments (0)

Farm-fresh eggs

Want farm fresh eggs delivered to you? Turner Kelley Farms in Stockton provides this service and the eggs are amazing!

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 12:38 pm. Updated: 2:51 pm. Comments (0)

Fast Food: Sardine & Avocado Toasts

Posted in The dish on Sunday, January 15, 2012 8:19 pm. Updated: 8:26 pm. Comments (0)

Beautiful cauliflower

Cauliflower Steaks with Olive Relish and Tomato Sauce

Posted in The dish on Saturday, January 14, 2012 8:06 pm. Updated: 9:09 am. Comments (0)

Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, October 11, 2011 3:09 pm. Updated: 3:18 pm. Comments (0)

Jam – it’s what’s for dinner!

Making jam is one of my favorite things in the whole world. Canning fruit at its peak for enjoyment all season long just can't be beat! Jam is not just for toast, there are many ways that you can utilize it in cooking.

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 2:09 pm. Updated: 6:18 am. Comments (0)

My simple foods

What I am excited about eating these days:

Posted in The dish on Sunday, July 17, 2011 12:47 pm. Updated: 6:49 am. Comments (0)

Make your own butter; it’s soooo easy!

Making your own butter is one of the easiest and most delicious things you can do. In a pinch for time, but need to feed guests a quick breakfast? Go to your local bakery and buy some good rolls and serve them with home-made butter!

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 2:03 pm. Comments (0)

Spicy and Sweet, that’s me!

So, I Ioooouuuuuuoooooove me some chili peppers of all kinds. I love growing them and especially love cooking with them. Over the years I have purchased and utilized a wide variety of chili powders. Unfortunately, the subtle difference in flavors is often lost in the recipes that I am cooking. Until, I saw someone put spicy, fire death hot chili powder over ice cream on the boob tube recently. I tried it and WOW, flippin' amazing! You can actually taste the subtle differences in the flavors of different chili powders and also enjoy the amazing cold wonderfulness that is ice cream. In my experimenting I also found that hot chili powder is wonderful on chocolate ice cream. Again, you can't taste really taste that much chili flavor, just the heat. Just the same, with regard to chili and ice cream - it's all good!

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:09 pm. Updated: 8:20 pm. Comments (0)

Chocolate Truffles – Economical Cooking???

Yep, I am going to say it - truffles make and economical and easy dessert to prepare for guests and friends. I had no idea that they were so simple to prepare until I saw this recipe. Paired with local sweet strawberries, you wouldn't believe what an amazing and impressive dessert these make!

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:49 am. Updated: 8:52 am. Comments (0)

Nose to Tail

My newest obsession for simple, interesting and wonderful dishes - Nose to Tail Eating by Fergus Henderson is a book of culinary magic and true appreciation for the whole animal.

Posted in The dish on Thursday, May 19, 2011 12:14 pm. Updated: 6:30 am. Comments (0)

Lodi Strawberry and Arugula Salad with Humboldt Fog

Arugula, lemons and strawberries are in season, so it's time to make a salad! All you need is some good, fruity olive oil (like Lodi Olive Oil's Mediterranean Blend), Humboldt Fog (found at Cheese Central), and some salt and pepper. Simply drizzle olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper on arugula and toss. Top with fresh sliced strawberries (Lodi grown of course!) and little chunks of cheese. Great on its own or alongside barbequed chicken or salmon. A loaf of whole grain bread from Dancing Fox and you are set!

Posted in The dish on Monday, April 25, 2011 9:23 pm. Updated: 9:27 pm. Comments (0)

Don’t forget about the wonderful treasures found at the Galt Market…

I prefer to go early on Wednesday morning where local produce gold can be found. Wonderful things from strawberries and apples to membrillo and pea tendrils! AND, don’t be a shy weirdo about it, talk to the farmers and ask what an unknown item is, where it comes from and how to use it. Furthermore, the freshness and prices can’t be beaten. I love the Galt market and recommend that each and every one of you get down there, explore and enjoy the abundance of wonderful fresh food it has to offer!

Posted in The dish on Thursday, April 14, 2011 10:37 am. Updated: 10:50 am. Comments (0)

What is Slow Food?

“Slow Food is a global, grassroots organization with supporters in 150 countries around the world who are linking the pleasure of good food with a commitment to their community and the environment.

Posted in The dish on Sunday, April 10, 2011 5:07 pm. Updated: 6:13 am. Comments (0)

Way too salty!

An interesting article regarding the hidden salt in food, especially at popular chain restaurants. Another good reason to cook at home, you can control the amount of salt that goes into your food! Although I love to use a variety of salts in my cooking, I find that with my ever growing appreciation of food; I tend to use less these days. Anyone else in this boat? I am NOT saying not to use salt, I just don't season my food to death anymore with it. I am more keen on using less of the correct salt on foods.

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 4:26 pm. Updated: 4:31 pm. Comments (1)

Spring has sprung and the herbs are talking to me!

At this time of year, every year, my herbs come back again on their own, bright green and fresh, they coax me to begin planting my little garden. I count the days until the sun is regularly here and the nights start to warm up. I start bugging my cousin Katie about when it's time to plant. For whatever reason, she alone decides when I am to start. Maybe it's because she has an amazing garden every year and she is always just right about the time. Everyone in Lodi should plant sage, chives, oregano, mint, chocolate mint and rosemary. These herbs are hearty and grow well here. I don't have a large garden at all, just three halved wine barrels and a bunch of clay pots. I grow seasonal herbs, some lettuces, onions and peppers. I let the local farmers do the big stuff for me. I am dying for my Lucero Organic Farms CSA to kick in again. Just the same, I love my little garden. There is nothing like fresh clipped chives on my eggs every morning, grown by little ole me; a luxury I look forward to every year.

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 8:57 pm. Updated: 1:56 pm. Comments (0)

Six reasons to enjoy dinner at home with friends, rather than going out

Posted in The dish on Sunday, March 20, 2011 6:34 pm. Updated: 1:56 pm. Comments (0)

What is Mache?

I have been asked about Mache so many times it's hard to count. Mache is my favorite salad green due to its tender, beautiful and sweet leaves. It's a lettuce that is commonly eaten raw and cooked in European cuisine. Mache is also known as Lamb's Ear lettuce. It can be tough to find. However, Trader Joe's in Stockton keeps it stocked pretty regularly. Because of its delicate nature, I prefer to prepare it simply.

Posted in The dish on Monday, February 28, 2011 11:10 am. Updated: 1:58 pm. Comments (0)

In Season Now

No need to wait for spring, there is lots of good things in season right now!

Posted in The dish on Friday, February 25, 2011 9:07 pm. Updated: 2:02 pm. Comments (0)

Kumquats!

If you haven't noticed yet, which I am sure you have not, kumquats are in season! What is a kumquat and where can they be found? They are a small citrus fruit, about the size of a grape. They have a strong citrus smell and a slightly sour taste. You actually eat the skin which, in my opinion, is the best part. A fine example of kumquat trees lives outside of the Dancing Fox Winery & Bakery. I promise, it hasn't been me who has been plucking them off and enjoy them with reckless abandonment! Just smelling them reminds me of when I was a child, eating them in my grandma's back yard, first rolling them in our hands to bring out the sugar and aroma, and then popping them in our mouths, one after another.

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, February 23, 2011 4:05 pm. Updated: 2:03 pm. Comments (0)

Make your own cheese

Easy, easy, easy and all kudos go to you! Simply take plain yogurt; cow, sheep or goat and strain with cheesecloth in a refrigerator for one to two days. The result is a creamy and rich cheese spread, ready to be personalized. The different flavors and textures that could be added are endless! Below are a few of my favorites:

Posted in The dish on Sunday, January 30, 2011 12:50 pm. Updated: 2:06 pm. Comments (0)

Amazing Dip and Sauce - Onion Blossom Horseradish

Taste of Heaven has just restocked Robert Rothchild's Onion Horseradish Dip! I think it is fantastic as a sauce for shrimp, salmon and prime rib. I also like to use it as a dip for meatballs - yum!

Posted in The dish on Sunday, January 23, 2011 5:16 pm. Updated: 2:19 pm. Comments (0)

Avocado & Goat Cheese Spread

These days, between writing and running my shop, I have little time to cook big fancy dinners. However, I still make time to put something together that is tasty and nutritious! Last night I served this easy dip on grilled baguette (used my cast iron grill pan) along with some crunchy, toasty garbanzo beans.

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 10:25 am. Updated: 2:19 pm. Comments (0)

Ace of Cakes New Foodie Product Line

Also meet Duff from Ace of Cakes. Talked to his peeps about carrying his products, they are awesome! Hopefully we will be doing so soon. I will keep you posted!

Posted in The dish on Monday, January 17, 2011 11:15 am. Updated: 2:20 pm. Comments (0)

I love the San Francisco Fancy Food Show!

Love Ina, finally got to meet her in person at the Fancy Food Show in San Francisco. She has some great new goodies coming out, will definitely be ordering them for the shop!!!

Posted in The dish on Monday, January 17, 2011 11:00 am. Updated: 2:21 pm. Comments (0)

Nadia G Verdict?

Love her or hate her?

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, January 4, 2011 7:38 pm. Updated: 2:28 pm. Comments (0)

Back from Bend!

Wow, I really took a loooong break from this blog. My apologies, the retail world pretty much took over my life towards the end of last year. Glad to be back!

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, January 4, 2011 7:12 pm. Updated: 2:30 pm. Comments (0)

A great new House of Coffee's blend!

It’s here, what you have all been waiting for and didn’t even know it. House of Coffee’s, Taste of Heaven Blend – come and get it! Absolutely beautiful paired with our Mocha Truffles. I will set one aside for you, but better get here soon – only at Taste of Heaven!

Posted in The dish on Sunday, November 28, 2010 3:36 pm. Updated: 2:33 pm. Comments (0)

Another great use for Lodi Olive Oil!

Lodi Olive Oil & Sugar Scrub

Posted in The dish on Saturday, November 27, 2010 5:23 pm. Updated: 2:37 pm. Comments (0)

Naughty Biscotti

Wishing everyone a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving!

Posted in The dish on Monday, November 22, 2010 1:14 pm. Updated: 2:40 pm. Comments (0)

Some of my favorite quotes about food...

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well. -Virginia Woolf

Posted in The dish on Thursday, November 11, 2010 7:09 am. Updated: 2:42 pm. Comments (1)

I am back with Fall Endive Salad!

Fall Endive Salad with Honey Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

Posted in The dish on Friday, November 5, 2010 9:35 am. Updated: 2:44 pm. Comments (0)

Flying out of DC on 9/11…

I won't be thinking at all about the extra time it will take me to get through the airport today or the extra security measures, but what our country went through on this sad day years ago. It feels like it was just yesterday that I sat at House of Coffees, feeling comfort, sadness and kinship with other Lodian's, sitting glued to the television in awe of the unspeakable and terrifying events that occurred. Food is interesting, but not an important topic today. I don't think there is a one of us who will ever forget the tremendous loss we felt that day and the momentary fear that our precious freedom may be lost forever. God bless all of us on this important day and may we continue to heal but never forget.

Posted in The dish on Saturday, September 11, 2010 10:00 am. Updated: 2:46 pm. Comments (0)

Hope your veggies look like mine!

There is good reason to eat a variety of vegetables of different colors. Not only does preparing meals with a variety of colors please the eye and the stomach, you also get a variety of nutrients as well. Different color vegetables offer different vitamins and minerals. So when hitting the store or visiting your favorite local farmer next time, pick out a mix of colorful produce and give some new shades a try!

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, September 7, 2010 1:47 am. Updated: 3:00 pm. Comments (0)

Rachel's Salmon

Posted in The dish on Sunday, August 29, 2010 10:11 pm. Updated: 3:03 pm. Comments (0)

Food Art

The coolest food art, makes me feel creative!

Posted in The dish on Monday, August 16, 2010 8:30 pm. Updated: 3:04 pm. Comments (0)

Ken Albala Food Rant

Take some time to regularly visit a fantastic food blog by Dr. Ken Albala of University of the Pacific. He has also written many incredible books on the history of food. Visit the blog at http://kenalbala.blogspot.com/ to learn more about his books and culinary adventures!

Posted in The dish on Monday, August 16, 2010 4:15 pm. Updated: 3:04 pm. Comments (0)

What in the heck is offal?

Posted in The dish on Monday, August 16, 2010 1:01 am. Updated: 3:05 pm. Comments (0)

Can Popcorn Make for an Interesting and Elegant Appetizer?

Can popcorn really be interesting or elegant? Yes it can! Looking for that affordable, light and salty appetizer to have with drinks before a meal? Popcorn is the answer. I love it, because it's fun, easy and affordable. Please don't use a micro bag, freshly made popcorn is actually faster and tastes a lot better. You will also get a lot more bang for your buck using the real stuff. Try a few of my favorite toppings below, using a little salt as a base.

Posted in The dish on Thursday, August 12, 2010 9:27 pm. Updated: 9:14 am. Comments (2)

Ella Dining Room and Bar

Although it has been in business for a while now, I finally got a chance to dine at Ella in Sacramento. From the same people who gave us The Kitchen, Ella has an elegant and airy ambiance, warm service and a fun and fun and fabulous menu. The chilled oysters, bone marrow and spaetzle were to die for!

Posted in The dish on Friday, July 30, 2010 10:50 am. Updated: 3:06 pm. Comments (0)

On Extreme Cuisine, Bourdain Notes: “Chewing some antibiotics is a small price to pay.”

Are you a fan? He is surely an interesting guy with a knack for food adventure and arrogance. In theory, can't stand him. Watchable still? Sometimes, in doses. Just the same, he does know his stuff and stretches the modern day food obsession lifestyle to the limits.

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, July 20, 2010 10:03 am. Updated: 10:09 am. Comments (1)

Peasant Pies

Oh there is nothing like a delicious little pie from Peasant Pies in San Francisco - so easy to grab on the go and even nutritious! With three in the city, Peasant Pies make for an affordable and wonderful treat.

Posted in The dish on Monday, July 12, 2010 10:35 pm. Updated: 10:40 pm. Comments (0)

A Wonderful Salad Recipe

Created by Alice Waters, this wonderful recipe was featured on Julia Child’s show, Lessons with Master Chefs.

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, July 6, 2010 8:25 pm. Updated: 10:13 am. Comments (0)

For something a little healthier than my last recipe – Refreshing Cantaloupe Salad

Cantaloupe, cubed

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 10:37 pm. Updated: 10:15 am. Comments (0)

Chicharrones, Chocolate and Cayenne Pepper – Unbelievable!

Oh yes, it’s all the buzz these days in the food world – salty pork fat and chocolate.

Posted in The dish on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 9:27 pm. Updated: 10:16 am. Comments (0)

My time with the CIA…

Robyn Grace Jennings robyngracejennings@yahoo.com

The Culinary Institute of America of course! I spent my Saturday in St. Helena learning from the best, Chef Andrew Wild. It was excellent; I highly recommend their weekend classes, well worth the money and time. We made the recipes below and they came out absolutely wonderful.

Posted in The dish on Monday, April 19, 2010 12:00 am. Comments (0)

What’s a Sunchoke?

Robyn Grace Jennings robyngracejennings@yahoo.com

One of my favorite veggies, sunchokes are easy to cook and so delicious!

Posted in The dish on Wednesday, April 7, 2010 12:00 am. Comments (0)

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