Chef Tami

I'm Back

2007-02-28T21:16:00.000-08:00

I have not been updating this blog as often as I would like, since creating the Tamela Wolff Photography Blog. http://tamelawolffphotography.blogspot.com/
I have also been busy starting my career in Photography. I still enjoy food and cooking, but I feel my passion is with making images and that is my media of expression. If you are interested in viewing my photographs they are on the photo sharing site Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/cheftami/ I hope to see you there. Until then Carpe Diem.

Potato Pancakes

2006-12-27T07:04:00.000-08:00

Ingredients

4 Potatoes (peeled & shredded)
1/2 Onion,
1/2 Apple
2 Eggs (lightly beaten)
1/4 cup flour
1 Lemon (juice of 1 Lemon)
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
two tablespoons butter
1/2 cup Vegetable Oil

Preparation

1) Grate the potatoes into a medium size bowl filled with water with a box grater using the side with the largest holes. 2)Dice the apple and onion into small pieces and place in a second bowl and reserve. 3) Remove the grated potatoes from the water and squeeze the water out. Use a thin mesh strainer to remove any excess water over the bowl of water. (Keep the bowl of water it has the potato starch) 4) Place the grated potatoes, diced onion, diced apple, salt, pepper and the juice from one lemon into a bowl and mix together with a fork. 5)Drain the potato water over a fine mesh strainer and pour it out over the strainer obtaining the potato starch. Add this goodness to the potato mixture. Then add 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and mix with fork. If the mixture is too wet add a little more flour. Refrigerate covered with plastic wrap until the pan is ready.

6) Prepare a large frying pan and heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil and two tablespoons butter until it sizzles. Drop a tablespoon at a time of the potato mixture into hot oil. Flatten with a pancake turner. When bottoms are brown turn them over. When done remove and drain on a paper towel lined plate. Serve with applesauce, sour cream or just plain. Serve immediately.

Note: Peanut oil can be used instead of vegetable oil. Once the potatoes are shredded they will start to brown so make sure to keep them covered in water. The potato pancakes can be made large if desired. Fresh or dried herbs are also nice if you have on hand.

Happy Holidays

2006-12-19T03:52:00.000-08:00

Wishing a Joyous Holiday to You and Yours!

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving!

2006-11-21T14:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

2006-10-03T15:27:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

For cupcakes
2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. salt
1 can 15oz. solid packed pumpkin (1 3/4 cups)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup canola oil
4 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup raisins (optional)
2/3 cup walnuts (optional)

For frosting
14 oz. white chocolate, finely chopped
12 oz. cream cheese, soft, room temperature, cut into small pieces
12 Tbs. (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperture, cut into small pieces
food coloring (optional) orange for (Halloween)
colored sugars (optional)

Procedure:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line three 12 cup muffin tins with cupcake papers.
To make cupcakes, in a bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt. Toss the walnuts and raisins with the flour mixture. (Helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins)
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, sugar, brown sugar and oil. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Add the flour mixture in three additions, stirring with a plastic spatula. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fill the muffin tins about three-fourths full. Bake until the cupcakes are golden and toothpick inserted in the center of cupcake comes out clean. The muffins take 20-25 minutes. Transfer the muffin tins to a wire rack and cool for ten minutes. Then remove the cupcakes from the tins and let cool.

To make the frosting, in a double boiler, melt the white chocolate, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy, 2 to 3 minutes. Cool until slightly warm to the touch. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter on a medium high speed until smooth and blended. Add the melted white chocolate and beat again until smooth. Use the frosting immediately, coloring it as desired with food coloring. Orange food coloring is wonderful for Halloween. Colored sugars can also be used to decorate the cupcakes.

Yield 36 cupcakes.

Sweet Potato Pone

2006-09-06T00:24:00.000-07:00

I checked out the cookbook Sweets Soul Food and Memories by Patty Pinner at the library recently. I highly recommend it if you like old fashioned Southern desserts. I wanted to pass on the recipe for Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pone a family recipe from Patty Pinner. It is interesting, because unlike sweet potato pie filling it is firmer and can be sliced.

Ingredients
2 1/2 cups milk
4 sweet potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated
3 eggs
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softned

Procedure
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 2-quart casserole dish. Pour the milk into the prepared casserole dish. Stir the grated sweet potatoes into the milk; this will prevent the potatoes from turning dark. In a mixing bowl, beat the egss well. Gradually add the sugar, cinnamon, and cloves, mixing well after each addition. Add the nutmeg, orange zest, and pecans. Mix until all of the ingredients are evenly distributed. Pour the mixture into the potato mixture and mix well. Dot the top with butter. Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the pudding is set. Remove the dish from the oven. Let the pudding stand for 30 minutes before serving.

Serves 6 to 8

Recipe courtesy Patty Pinner the author of Sweets Soul Food Desserts and Memories

Hot Lava Chocolate Cake

2006-08-23T21:58:00.000-07:00

Hot Lava Chocolate Cake
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

with Ice Cream and candle. My brother Jonathan and my Mom and I went to Morton's Steakhouse to celebrate my birthday in Seattle, WA.

7-Up Cake

2006-08-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups granulated sugar
5 eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoon lemon extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup 7-Up
Confectioners' sugar for dusting

Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Grease ad lightly flour a 10-inch tube pan. Set it aside. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the flour. Than add the lemon and vanilla extract. Beat well. Gently fold in the 7-Up 1/4 cup at a time. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Transfer the cake from the oven to a wire rack. Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Unmold the cake onto the wire rack to cool completely. Transfer to a serving platter and dust with confectioners' sugar.

Makes one 10 inch tube cake or bundt pan.

Turkey Sandwich

2006-08-08T22:37:00.000-07:00

Turkey Sandwich
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

Went to Gilbert's Main Street Deli in Bellevue, WA and ordered this tasty Turkey sandwich with Cheddar Cheese on Sourdough.

European Style Cake

2006-08-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

Cake
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

Inspirational cake ideas!

Moon Cake

2006-08-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

Moon Cake
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

This is a cake that I made in an Advanced Cakes class. The moons are made with moon shaped cookies and adhere to the cake with frosting. I thought I would post it for inspiration or ideas for other cakemakers out there.

Watermelon

2006-07-19T00:35:00.000-07:00

Watermelon I
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

Summertime is the time for Watermelon!

Beautiful Duck

2006-07-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Duck
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

This beautiful duck was spotted at the Bellevue Beach Park and I could not resist taking this photograph.

Cocoa in the Bathtub!

2006-07-15T00:47:00.000-07:00

Cocoa in the Bathtub
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

I have been having fun with photoshop lately. Here is one of my latest of my sweet Cocoa the pug!

Baby!

2006-07-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

Baby!
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

My Sweet Pekingese Baby! Cool photo that I enhanced with Photoshop. I have been really busy lately with my coursework for my master's degree in gastronomy.

Food Photography!

2006-07-06T23:41:00.000-07:00

1. Quail Up-Close!, 2. Wild Salmon, 3. 4th of July Corn on the Cob, 4. Filet Mignon with Potato Croquettes, 5. Tempura Shrimp, 6. Seared Sea Scallops, 7. Butter Lettuce Salad with Dijon Ranch, 8. Swiss Cheese Fondue, 9. Delicious Calamari, 10. Crab & Shrimp Tater Tots, 11. Cioppino, 12. Pina Colada, 13. Ham & Cheese Fried Crepes, 14. Scallop Salad, 15. Petrale Sole, 16. Crab Wontons, 17. Crispy Honey Shrimp, 18. Mongolian Beef Up-Close, 19. Crab Dip! Yum!, 20. Meatballs!, 21. Fried Mozzarella Marinara!, 22. Stuffed Mushrooms!, 23. Four Cheese Macaroni, 24. Filet Mignon with Demi Glace, 25. Seared Ahi Tuna

Happy 4th of July!

2006-07-04T01:15:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July Cupcake on the go!
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

Happy Birthday America!

Chef Tami's Easy Peach Cake

2006-07-03T22:15:00.000-07:00

Ingredients
3 eggs
1 1/3 cup Splenda
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, plus 1 tablespoon sprinkle for garnish
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
3 Ripe peaches (peeled, pitted and sliced)
1 Ripe peach (pitted and sliced) for top garnish

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 10 inch cake pan with Pam baking spray. In a large bowl, combine the eggs with the splenda and brown sugar with a whisk. Than with a large spoon add the flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda and sliced peaches. Pour into prepared 10 inch cake pan. For Garnish, place sliced peaches in the center of the batter making two decorative circles and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Bake at 375 degrees for 45-50 minutes and be sure and check at 45 minutes. Top with whipped cream if desired.

Yield 14-16 servings

Fondue

2006-07-03T20:12:00.000-07:00

Went to the Melting Pot in downtown Seattle and had a lovely fondue meal. We started with the Swiss Cheese Fondue with bread, granny smith apples and veggies. Next we had the Pacific Rim special with shrimp, chicken, teriyaki beef, pork and potstickers dipped in hot oil. The food is mouthwatering and the atmosphere is unique. I recommend it for anyone who loves fondue. They have quite a few locations and are in several states.

Cow Chip Cookie!

2006-07-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

Cow Chip Cookie
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

Cow Chips Cookies are the ultimate indulgence! The cost $2 dollars each, but it is worth it they are to die for! They have a few locations in the greater Seattle area. A store downtown Seattle in Pioneer Square, at Kent Station and Redmond Town Center.

Delicious Calamari!

2006-07-01T00:34:00.000-07:00

Delicious Calamari
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

Went to Harbor Lights tonight and had this delicious calamari, it was excellent. If you visit Tacoma, Wa be sure and visit Harbor Lights.

Flickr Interestingness!

2006-06-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

1. Cocoa Yawns!, 2. Sushi, 3. Driving the Pink Cupcake!, 4. Reflection on the Building, Clouds, Clouds, Clouds!, 5. I Love You Box! They sell them at Fireworks!, 6. Cocoa the Pug!, 7. Julie Walsh Wedding Cake from the World Pastry Forum!, 8. Dessert,

9. Food Network Cupcake Competition!, 10. Dragon Ball!, 11. Zodiac Lion Bread!, 12. Wedding Cake Extravaganza!, 13. Wedding Cakes, Wedding Cakes!

Flickr Interestingness!

2006-06-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

Flickr Interestingness!
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

My current flickr Interestingness of my photographs on flickr!

Trader Vic's

2006-06-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

According to Saveur Magazine, Trader Vic's is a whole new world-fragrant, romantic, an adventure. The legendary Trader Vic's is a Polynesian restaurant and bar that specializes in serving island cuisine and exotic cocktails. The food is a compination of Pacific Island, IndoChinese, Japanese and Creole flavors. The service is first rate and the food and drink is exotic and mouthwatering. We started of with Pina Colada's Non-Alcoholic, the Succulent Scallop Salad, the Crab Ragoon Wontons and the Ham and Cheese Fried Crepes. For the main course the Crispy Duck which we wrapped up into dumplings and the Petrale Sole.

PF Changs China Bistro

2006-06-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

The dinner out started with Crab Wontons with a spicy plum sauce. Next the Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Salad with Mixed Greens. Than the Crispy Honey Shrimp and Mongolian Beef arrived at the same time, perfection! The Crispy Honey Shrimp is lightly battered and quick fried in a flavorful sweet honey sauce. The Mongolian Beef is quickly cooked steak with scallions and garlic. Not just a dash of garlic, but lots of garlic. The ingredients used to make all of their sauces is top secret. If someone has dietary concerns they will give them more specific information regarding their sauces. Let me tell you their sauces are addictive, leading me to believe they put sugar in them.

Crab Dip! Yum!

2006-06-23T00:31:00.000-07:00

Crab Dip! Yum!
Originally uploaded by taminsea1.

I took my Dad out for Father's Day to Ivar's Acres of Clams in Mukilteo, WA. This Crab Dip was to die for and it was made with dungeness crab, cheese, herbs, spices, and mayonnaise. I highly recommend ordering it and of course the clam chowder that Ivar's is famous for that and the fish and chips.

Flickr Explore Interestingness

2006-06-20T02:25:00.000-07:00

Blackberry Cobbler

2006-06-14T23:41:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

Topping:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling:
4 pints blackberries
1/3 cup dark brown sugar
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Ginger cream:
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons finely diced candied ginger

Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Cobbler: Beat the butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer using the paddle attachment, or with a hand mixer for two minutes. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt together. Mix milk, egg, and vanilla extract together in another bowl. Add a third of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, beating on low speed, then a third of the wet mixture. Continue alternating until all are combined.

Butter a 5 X 9 inch Pyrex dish, and sprinkle with sugar to coat. Toss the blackberries with the sugar, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice and cornstarch to coat and transfer to the Pyrex dish. Spoon the topping over the berries. Bake for 45 to 45 minutes or until the top is golden.

Ginger cream: Whip the cream and the powdered sugar. Fold in the candied ginger. Serve the cobbler warm topped with ginger cream.

Potato Salad

2006-06-14T23:22:00.000-07:00

Ingredients
4 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4 inch pieces (substitute red potatoes if you like)
2 cups mayonnaise
1 cup chopped sweet onion
1 and 1/2 cups finely diced celery
1 teaspoon sugar (omit if you have diabetes)
1/4 cup red-wine vinegar
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1 tablespoon salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
9 hard boiled eggs, remove from shells and coarsely chop
3 teaspoons paprika (for garnish)
1 tablespoons diced chives (for garnish)

Instructions
Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender, 10-15 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, and allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes in the cooking liquid. Drain the potatoes while they are still warm.

Combine the mayonnaise, onions, celery, sugar, vinegar, mustard and salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add the potatoes to the dressing while they are still warm. Gently fold in the chopped eggs, and garnish with paprika and chives.

Yield: Serves 4.

My new camera Casio Exilim!

2006-06-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

I have been getting several E-mails about how I get such great photographs of food. My new camera Casio Exilim EX-S600 has a Food setting and it is a Macro setting that allows for wonderful food photography. I thought I would let everyone in on this tool for better food photos. The camera also has a setting for pets, candlelight, people, scenery, flowers, water etc. I love my Casio Digital Camera!
bk_keywords: Casio, Exilim, EX-S600, 6MP, Digital Camera, 3x Optical Zoom.

Maggiano's Little Italy!

2006-06-13T00:41:00.000-07:00

Maggiano's Little Italy opened up in Bellevue, Wa late last year. We decided to go out for meatballs and this hit the spot. While we were there anyway, why not order the Fried Mozzarella. Dad of course wanted the Stuffed Mushrooms.

A white tablecloth and expensive restaurant might be left for special occasions rather than a hankering for meatballs.

Zephyr Bar & Grill

2006-06-13T00:23:00.000-07:00

Zephyr Bar & Grill

A new restaurant opened in Kent, Wa at Kent Station a new outdoor lifestyle mall. It is called the Zephyr Bar & Grill, I was intrigued and decided to take my Dad and give it a try. The Zephyr also my Dog's name has been open only three weeks and the service showed that. Very slow. It took an hour and 45 minutes to eat there and we did not have dessert. I ordered the filet mignon and liked it quite well, it was nicely done with a demi glace and a bearnaise sauce. It was cooked as I ordered it, but my red potatoes merely sliced in half were raw. Apparently they need to work on the little things. For example, my Dad wanted Macaroni and Cheese as a side dish and they brought it as his appetizer. It's all about the timing. He really enjoyed the Macaroni & Cheese, but I prefer the baked type over the pour on cheese afterthought. The dish my Dad ordered was the southern spicy fried chicken and mashed potatoes was not what he had expected. It was over cooked and way past crispy. The mashed potatoes were overcooked and lacked flavor. The fried chicken had such an overkill of spices that it was difficult to even taste the chicken. The caesar salad was excellent, the greens were really fresh, and this is often overlooked at some restaurants. I liked the olive bread and three butters, I think it is creative to give a choice of butters. If you have enough time one night I would recommend going, but stay away from the Southern Fried Chicken. By the way there is another location in Livermore, California.

Sunday Brunch!

2006-06-11T16:36:00.003-07:00

Lovely day for Sunday Brunch. Dad and I went to the Hunt Club in Seattle and enjoyed a nice Sunday Brunch. My Dad loves brunch and has passed this love onto me and my brother Jonathan. This was unique, because you order from a menu. When I was little I remember loving going to Sunday Brunch, because I could run around the tables and pick and choose what I wanted. I am a picky eater and sometimes there is something I really like and I will just eat that. Growing up in Southern California we went to a Sunday Brunch where they had a woman play the violin and the best blueberry blintzes ever.

Keg Steakhouse

2006-06-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

My Dad and I always enjoy going to the Keg Steakhouse. The food is consistently good. I just have the Baked Shrimp Appetizer, because it is my favorite item they have on the menu. Baked with garlic, cheddar and mozzarella cheese with shrimp it is to die for. My Dad loves their peppercorn steak and french onion soup. I recommend it if there is one near you.

New Restaurant

2006-06-08T20:13:00.000-07:00

Went to a new restaurant tonight called Crave. I think the photographs speak for themselves.

Which John Cusack are You? Click Here and Find Out!

2006-06-06T17:52:00.000-07:00

Which John Cusack Are You?

Bechamel Sauce

2006-06-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

This sauce is perfect for use in the Vegetarian Lasagna. It is great as a basic white sauce over pasta. Add grated cheese and turn this base sauce into a lovely cheese sauce.

Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all- purpose flour
4 cups milk
1 whole peeled onion
4 whole cloves
1 bay leaf
salt and white pepper to taste
nutmeg, to taste

Procedure:
In medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat; stir in flour. Cook 4 to 5 minutes; do not allow it to color. Remove from heat. In medium saucepan heat milk, onion, cloves and bay leaf over medium heat. When milk comes to a boil remove onion, cloves and bay leaf. Slowly add hot milk to butter-flour mixture, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until smooth and thickened. Stirring with a wire whisk or wooden spoon. Strain sauce through fine mesh strainer. Season to taste with salt, white pepper and nutmeg.
Yield: 4 cups

Vegetarian Lasagna

2006-06-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

Recipe courtesy Carnival Cruise Ship.

Ingredients:
12 lasagna noodles
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 cups chopped mushrooms
2 cups spinach leaves
3/4 cup chopped onion
grated nutmeg
3/4 cup ricotta cheese
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup bechamel sauce
6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
6 basil leaves

Procedure:
Cook lasagna according to the package directions; drain. Cool. Heat butter in large skillet; add garlic, cook until softened. Add mushrooms, spinach and onion. Cook until tender. Season with nutmeg, salt and pepper.
Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease individual molds; line with lasagna. Add layers of spinach, ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Cover lightly with bechamel sauce; repeat. Cover tightly. Place molds in baking pan; pour 1 inch water into pan. Cover entire pan with foil. Bake 30 minutes. Remove molds from oven. Heat broiler. Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese to each serving; broil until melted. Spoon tomato sauce onto serving plates; unmold lasagna. Garnish with basil.
6 servings

Clarified Butter

2006-06-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

1 pound butter

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and skim the impurities on top. Using a ladle, remove the butterfat. Discard the water. Note: When you heat the butter, the water and most impurities will sink to the bottom, because they are heavier.

The Break Up

2006-06-02T17:44:00.000-07:00

I went to see the movie The Break Up today. I think it will do well, it was quite crowded at the 2 PM showing. In the beginning of the movie it is so sweet to see all the photographs of them when they are happy. From there well it holds on to the title. I do not want to ruin it for you. I think it is worth seeing. I enjoyed it and it was funny, although sarcastic. If you like Vince Vaughn or Jennifer Aniston than you will like it.

Back Home!

2006-05-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

Home from my vacation to Florida, Cayman Islands, Cozyumel, Belize and Costa Maya, Mexico. I had a great time on the cruise. I am home now and not feeling very well.

Costa Maya, Mexico

2006-05-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we were in Costa Maya, Mexico and it was beautiful, sunny and a lot of fun. We went to the shops and than were called back to the cruise ship due to the coming storm. Very windy the boat rocked back and forth for like a day. We are on our way back to Tampa and our cruise will end tommorow at 9:30 AM. Than we are back at my brother Bill's house for a little over a day, before heading back to Seattle. I can't wait to post photos from the cruise. Stay tuned. Has anyone else been on a cruise? Comments are always loved.

Yellow Submarine!

2006-05-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my cousin Suzie, my Mom and I went on a Submarine trip 120 feet below sea level. We looked at Sea Turtles, Gigantic fish, Colorful fish, Coral, Lobsters, Reefs, Divers and a variety of Sea life. Quite beautiful actually. We left the cruise ship for Cozymel, Mexico, took a cab ride, followed by a boat ride until we reached the submarine. When we returned from the Submarine trip we went shopping and were overtaken by the extreme humidity and heat and decided to board the cruise ship. We then went to the Salon and had a Hot Stone Massage. I had never had one, but I highly recommend it if you get the chance. Today we are in Belize, but it is overcast and the weather is not sunny. I am hearing complaints from other passengers, but I think it will still be fun to see Belize. Good Day!

Miracle Cruise Ship!

2006-05-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I am aboard the Carnival Miracle Cruise Ship! A little sea sick so far, but we will be in the Grand Cayman Islands by morning. I am attending my cousin's wedding in the chapel aboard the ship on Tuesday. Did a little gambling, watched a show and walked around the cruise ship last night. I have not been able to upload any photos yet, but I have taken some photographs. I met two people from flick onboard the cruise. We were contacts on flickr and now we met in person. That was really great. Having a good time. Post photos soon.

Bon Voyage Dinner before my Cruise!

2006-05-18T01:32:00.000-07:00

I am going on a cruise. It sails off from Tampa, Florida to the Cayman Islands, Cozymel and Belize and back. I will post photographs soon. Here are the photographs from my Bon Voyage dinner before my cruise.

Cupcake Lovers: Click Here for A Cupcake Life!

2006-05-17T00:55:00.000-07:00

Blue & Purple Swirl Vanilla Cupcakes!

Food, Food, Food!

2006-05-17T00:46:00.000-07:00

My Brother Jonathan's 33rd Birthday Celebration at Ivars in Seattle, Washington.

Quote by Frida Kahlo

2006-05-16T02:38:00.000-07:00

The Mexican Artist Frida Kahlo

I think that little by little I'll be able to solve my problems and survive.
Frida Kahlo, Letter to Nickolas Murary, 12-18-1939

I paint self-portraits because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best.
Frida Kahlo (1907-1954)

How Stressed Are You Click Here to Find Out!

2006-05-16T01:33:00.000-07:00

Your Stress Level is: 76%

You are prone to stress, and you're probably even pretty stressed right now.
Life's problems seem to pile up on you, and this often makes you feel depressed and burned out.
Learn to take time to relax and enjoy life, even if things are stressful. It's the only wa you'll get through the bad times.

How Stressed Are You?

Privacy? Never happen

2006-05-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

We are willingly giving up freedom for safety, is that safe? Cameras are everywhere growing at an alarming rate, phone conversations are monitored, and personal information is gathered & linked to various data bases. "We're moving in the direction of having the government turn us into a society that's under constant surveillance"

read more | digg story

Went out for Brother's Birthday!

2006-05-15T20:46:00.000-07:00

Just loading up the photographs from Ivar's Salmon House in Seattle where we dined for my Brother Jonathan's 33rd Birthday. I will post them shortly. I hope everyone is having a nice evening. Update on the Insomnia post my doctor prescribed Ambien today. So, hopefully it will work and I will get some sleep. Has anyone taken Ambien, I have heard weird things? At this point I need my sleep.

Insomnia

2006-05-12T05:47:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else have insomnia? It is the worst not being able to sleep. I guess I just have too many thoughts going through my head to sleep at night.

What are you cooking this weekend?

2006-05-12T02:25:00.000-07:00

I am going to cook meatloaf for my brother Jonathan who is visiting and my Dad. I will make creamed corn and mashed potatoes to go with it. For Dessert my brother's favorite Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting! We are celebrating his birthday early, because I will be on a cruise to Belize during his actual birthday. Wait until I post photographs of the food from the cruise I am sure it will be decadent. I hope there is an ice sculpture, but who knows this is my first cruise.

Cooking With Google

2006-05-10T23:15:00.000-07:00

Choose a main ingredient and a cuisine, let Google do the rest. Unfortunately, no "I'm Feeling Lucky" button.

read more | digg story

Top Chef Reunion Episode!

2006-05-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

Loud Irish Ken was back and so was his idea that sticking his finger in the sauce was right. Stephen said what would you rather eat sand or shit? Of course, sand not shit. A cut above the rest arrogant Stephen apologizes to Candace for yelling at her about the cookie cutter incident. I think he has seen himself on television and acts a bit differently now. Harold said Stephen has an alter ego which is probably right. Dave is called emotional, really he just has a big heart. His passion is obvious and I like when he talks to himself it is so funny. Dave hates Tiffani and guess what his line I am not your bitch, bitch was made into a t-shirt available on the bravo top chef shop. I want one! Miguel called Tiffani a snake, Brian wanted to have sex with all the girls in the house, especially Candace. Stephen was called Top Sommelier! Tiffani cried and was quite upset when accussed of messing with oven temperatures and burners. What a bitch! That happened to me in culinary school, I hate people like that. Harold's shyness was discussed and several of the viewers wanted to know if he was single? He declined to answer. He finally said he was not single. I wonder if him and Stephen are together? Dave's famous line makeout about Stephen and Harold could it be true? I think there was quite a bit of drinking in the house. The truth about Tiffani's lies came out and the fact that she threw Miguel under the bus was proven on tape. Who do you think will win Top Chef? Dave, Tiffani or Harold?
Technorati Tags: Top Chef reality Bravo TV tivo topchef

Top Chef renewed, finale expanded and reunion added!

2006-05-10T05:09:00.000-07:00

Bravo calls Top Chef a hit. Tune in tonight for the reunion show of Top Chef on Bravo. The finale is extended to two hours and airs on May 17 and May 24 check your local listings or just Tivo it if you have it. I also found out that casting starts for the second season May 11 in Las Vegas. Who do you think the winner will be of Top Chef?

Top Chef Episode 9

2006-05-10T04:47:00.000-07:00

They brought back the junk food for the quick fire challenge. Harold choose popcorn, Dave picked the nachos, Tiffani went with the corndogs and Leann went with the hotdogs. An hour to creatively make junk food into a culinary treat. Dave ran all over the kitchen and in his words, focused and crazy, it is entertaining to watch. I think he picked the easiest item to transform and make his own. Harold's ceviche popcorn looked elegant and did not even look like it contained popcorn. Tiffani's corndog looked like it would taste good, but I am partial to corndogs in general. I love food on a stick. I know you are thinking a chef likes food on a stick. Yes, we are just like everyone else. We eat at McDonald's when we want and than visit a five star restaurant without batting a culinary eyelash. Leann made a seafood hotdog it looked appealing, but I would not want to eat it. The least favorite was Dave, he was in too big of a hurry and Gayle Simmons from Food and Wine Magazine deemed it, a mess. Harold won the quick fire challenge and said he wanted to bring it and go to Las Vegas.
The Top Chef competitors gasp when they see the black truffles and very expensive wine. The black truffles cost, according To Chef Tom Collichio, a 1000 dollars a pound. At the market, the competitors gravitated towards the lamb. Big mistake! Dave decides not to do lamb and set himself apart. Tiffani starts cooking and she is bothered by a little noise from Leann and Dave grabbing a pot. I thought she had worked in a kitchen before? It's noisy its hot, if you cant stand it get out of the kitchen! Tiffani irritates me she is so cold and arrogant. For example, Tiffani said, Daves food is not very refined and no one finds him innovative. Well-slapped right in the face Tiffani guess who won the truffle and wine challenge Dave! Dave and Harold were safe and Tiffani and Leann sat at the judges table. Leanns cherry sauce I think was perfect to pair with the Lamb, wine and truffles. She used to many ingredients in her dishes and ended up detracting from the wine and truffles. Leann was my favorite to win the competition followed by Harold and than Dave. Unfortunately, Leann was told to pack her knives and go. Leann had pure intentions and Tiffani, obviously does not. What do you think?

Technorati Tags: Top Chef Bravo Television Reality TV topchef Food Cooking

The benefits of working at Microsoft

2006-05-10T00:40:00.000-07:00

I was messing around yesterday and I came across the benefit page for working at Microsoft. I got to the bottom of the list and I found the "best" benefit of them all. Check it out. "Free Beverages:
Choose from a variety of free soft drinks while working at Microsoft."

read more | digg story

How to select meat.

2006-05-10T00:39:00.000-07:00

The secrets the chefs look for when selecting a good piece of meat, useful for this BBQ season! EAT STEAK not carrots.

read more | digg story

Can't cook? Employ the Intelligent Spoon

2006-05-10T00:30:00.000-07:00

No amount of hours spent in front of Iron Chef and Good Eats will a good chef make, friends, but perhaps one might consider the employment of one MIT Media Lab experiment by Connie Cheng and Leonardo Bonanni: the Intelligent Spoon.

read more | digg story

The World's Most Expensive

2006-05-09T03:50:00.000-07:00

The McDonald sandwich - named after its creator Scott McDonald, the chef at London department store Selfridges - is said to be the world's most expensive.

read more | digg story

Photo Cupcakes: Have your face and eat it too!

2006-05-09T03:47:00.000-07:00

An internet photo company gives a how to on an interesting evolution in the bakery. Just upload a picture and they will turn it into delicious iciing for you. Then feel free to put your face or anything else on your favorite baked goods.

read more | digg story

This Extreme Cuisine Reigns Supreme!

2006-05-09T03:39:00.000-07:00

How many chefs use a laser, tanks of liquid nitrogen, and a vacuum chamber filled with carbon dioxide as important cooking tools? Or use helium, superconductors and a hand-held ion-particle gun to levitate food, making whole meals float before awestruck diners? Only one chef in the world does all of this, and more!

read more | digg story

Tonight we went out for Chinese Food!

2006-05-07T23:03:00.000-07:00

Visit your local China town for the best Chinese food in your area. I love Chinese Food! Do you like Chinese Food? Comments Encouraged.

SIN MENU GASTRONOMICA

2006-05-05T22:22:00.000-07:00

SIN
Princeton Terrace Club
Friday, 3 May 1991
MENU
First Course: CHOCOLATE
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Private Chocolate Noodle Kugels
Coco Steamed Crab Clusters with Coco Butter
Chocolate Canapes
Mole Chicken Wings
Proscuitto Melon & Zabalione in Chocolate Cups
Second Course: RAW FOOD
Carapaccio or Gravlax & Mascarpone Cheese
Spaghetti Squash with Radiccio, Watercress, & Balsamic Vinnaigrette
Spicey Smelts with Garlic Squid Sauce
Blood Oranges
Bread & Butter
VIN: "Free James" Hogue Cellars Fume Blanc
THIRD COURSE: BINGE FOODS
Fillet Mignon stuffed with Asparagus & Bleu Cheese lavishly finished with Sauce Bernaiase
Ultimate Lasagne
Private Taco Salads
Brocciflower, the "New" Vegetable, with Sage Derby Sauce
Deep Fried Camambert with Passion Fruit Sauce & Sea Toast Grantineed Potato Skins
Fruit Salad
Pringles, all flavors
les VINS: Tyrell's of Australia Long Flat Red & Long Flat White
FOURTH COURSE: SWEET SIN
Bambi at the Gates of Hell Cake (it erupts, it oozes...it's Alive!)
Berry Sinful Cake
Snickers Pies
Ultra Slimfast Frappes

Special Thanks to Eric Roegner for the Volcano Mechanism!
Gastronomica Magazine, Spring 2006, Page 18

Guacomole for Cinco de Mayo!

2006-05-04T23:37:00.000-07:00

Recipe for Guacomole
Ingredients:
2 Avocados, halved, peeled, diced and pitted
2 teaspoons Freshly squeezed lime juice
2 teaspoons Jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely minced
1 Tablespoon Fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 teaspoons Fresh oregano, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon or to taste Sea salt or fine kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup diced, seeded, ripe tomatoes
Procedure:
Coarsely mash avocado by placing the cut avocado in a medium side bowl and lightly mash with fork. Add the lime juice and toss. Fold in the remaining ingredients. Serve with tortilla chips, cucumbers or cut sweet bell peppers.
Yield: 1 heaping cup

Click Here for Cupcake Tami

2006-05-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

Visit my new blog Cupcake Tami by clicking the link above!

Ever wonder why dessert is served after dinner?

2006-05-03T23:15:00.000-07:00

Comments encouraged?

World Pastry Forum Dessert!

2006-05-03T17:17:00.000-07:00

It is almost time for the next World Pastry Forum. This is a photograph that I took from the Oriental Desserts Class at the World Pastry Forum 2005. This signature dessert is called the Dragon Ball. The outside of the ball is made with pulled sugar and the inside is custard and cake. It was fascinating to see this made. I love the colors and the composititon of this photo and it is a flickr most interesting photograph.

Sneak in food. You own the theater.

2006-05-03T03:48:00.000-07:00

Does anyone sneak movie into the theater when they go? Confessional is to follow now. I sneak in drinks, water, snacks etc. due to the high cost of snacks. I feel they are trying to make a buck, so I carry a large purse. Gotcha! Any thoughts?

Visit your local farmer's market and taste the difference.

2006-05-03T03:42:00.000-07:00

Morels the mushroom of choice at the pricey restaurants. At the Farmer's market the great opportunity for you is the freshness and buying what is in season. They had a variety of mushrooms for all different prices.

Eggs Benedict Anyone?

2006-05-03T03:37:00.000-07:00

My Dad and I went to Sunday Brunch a few days ago. We had fun taking photos and eating delicious food what a treat.

How could you go wrong?

2006-05-03T03:32:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Covered Strawberries? It's Strawberry Season!

Holding Cocoa the Pug!

2006-05-03T03:27:00.000-07:00

Holding Cocoa before putting the sleepy Cocoa to bed.

Click Here Flickr Explore Interestingness!

2006-05-02T21:04:00.000-07:00

Photographs I took that made the Flickr Explore Interestingness Page!

Click here: A Blog Smorgasbord

2006-04-30T18:36:00.000-07:00

An article in the Seattle Times, A Blog Smorgasbord, talks about the world of blogs growing at a rate of doubling in size every five months. Great article that talks about food blogs and some of the food blogs are in the Seattle area.

Two Cupcakes Cupcake Royale in Seattle!

2006-04-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

Cupcake Royale Cupcakes! Yellow cake with lemon frosting. Vanilla cake with pink vanilla frosting.
Technorati Tags: cupcakes Baking Dessert vanilla lemon pink Weblog Blog Seattle

Mexican Food Fiesta! Cinco de Mayo loving it!

2006-04-29T19:59:00.000-07:00

Mexican Food Fiesta continues with Shrimp and monterey jack cheese enchiladas with beans and rice and Rib Eye Steak with mashed potatoes and veggies!
Technorati Tags: Seattle Mexican food Food Restaurants Cuisine Cinco de Mayo enchiladas

Mexican Food Fiesta! Cinco de Mayo!

2006-04-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went out for Mexican Food in honor of Cinco de Mayo this coming week! We started out with chips and salsa and than had a seared sea scallops appetizer garnished with tortilla chips, tomatoes,and chiles.
Technorati Tags: mexican food Mexican Food Restaurants Cuisine salsa blog

Peking Duck!

2006-04-28T19:06:00.000-07:00

We had such a good time last night at the Japanese restaurant that we decided to go out for Chinese food tonight. We ordered the Peking Duck and it was succulent.
Techonorati tags: duck peking duck chef Food Restaurants chinese food cuisine Cooking

Peanut Butter Fudge

2006-04-28T01:46:00.000-07:00

Ingredients
2 cups sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup cream
2 Tablespoons light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup crunchy peanut butter

Procedure
Lightly brush an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan with waxed paper, extending over 2 sides. Combine the sugar, cream, corn syrup and the salt in a medium heavy-based pan. Stir the mixture over low heat without boiling until all the sugar has dissolved.
Increase the heat slightly, until the mixture begins to simmer, then cover and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove the lid and clean the sugar from the sides with a wet pastry brush. Do not stir the mixture. Continue to boil the mixture for 10 minutes or until it reaches the soft ball stage or 240 degrees F on sugar thermometer.
Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly. Stir in the vanilla extract and peanut butter. Beat with electric beaters for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture loses its gloss and begins to thicken. Quickly pour into the pan and smooth the surface. Cover and allow to set. Cut into small squares. Can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Technorati tags: fudge Candy Recipes Baking Dessert peanut butter

Sukiyaki made with Kobe beef!

2006-04-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went out for Japanese food and we ordered Sukiyaki made with Kobe beef! It was incredible! I highly recommend ordering Sukiyaki when eating at a Japanese restaurant.
Techonrati tags: Japanese food Food Restaurants Cuisine Chef Cooking sukiyaki

Sushi

2006-04-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went out to dinner with my Dad and he ordered Sushi. He had the Alaskan Salmon and Avocado rolls and the California rolls with fresh crabmeat. They were garnished with ginger and wasabi.
Technorati tags: sushi japanese Food ginger wasabi restaurant Restaurants Cuisine

Top Chef Wedding Bell Blues Episode 8

2006-04-26T23:38:00.000-07:00

The couple decided from the concepts each chef came up with for the short challenge and decided to go with Leann's menu. The Top Chef contestants decided to make a wedding cake out of store bought cake mix. Tom Colicchio caught Tiffani with a box of cake mix. She came clean and said that it was a group decision to use the cake mix boxes. Stephen wanted no part of the wedding cake box mix dillema or the desserts and focused of course on the wine and the front of the house. He also prepared a dish in the back, but neglected to peel the stickers off of his serving spoons. Instead he just kept disappearing. Leann won the short challenge, so they were following her menu. Harold was concentrating on his salmon with salad dish, but was unhappy with how it tasted. Dave's dish went out to the diner's first and than he kept jumping in to help everyone. This was not Dave's first catered affair or wedding, so he had the most experience in this type of event. Tiffani worked on her dish and helped out with the other dishes and kept quiet except to ask where is Stephen? Tiffani's big problem is when she says something stupid at the elimination table about her opinions, that is the time to stay quiet. She obviously has strong beliefs. Harold on the other hand is almost always quiet, except tonight he said he would pick Stephen to go home not Leann. Everyone on the team had the same thought Stephen needs to pack his knives and go, but that was up to the judges. Would they send Leann home for not guiding the team through her vision or Harold for messing up the salmon? They were only given 24 hours real hours not the show 24 hours to pull together a very nice wedding reception. I think for the time allotted it appeared like beautiful food, but I was not there to taste it. I could just tell from the judges and the look on their faces that the wedding cake was a disaster too sweet. They paired the cake with a very sweet curd. The salmon was considered the worst dish by the couple and that was Harold's dish. Tom Colicchio believes in Harold and know he can cook. Who was asked to go this week? Yeah it's Stephen! Pack your knives and go. He gives this speech where he is going to be the best chef in America and he is going to change everything. He sounded like he was giving a Miss America speech. I can not stand Stephen! He is so arrogant and full of himself. Were down to Leann, Tiffani, Harold and Dave. Who do you think will win Top Chef and the $100,000 dollars plus prizes?

Technorati tags: Top Chef reality Television TV tivo topchef blog

Click here for the eGullet Society for Culinary Arts!

2006-04-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

I have been a member of eGullet for a few months and I recommend it for anyone who is in culinary school, is a chef, cook, pastry chef, baker or just likes to learn more about food. There are forum discussion boards where you can post responses or read about what is going on. Tonight I was reading about Top Chef and the episode that aired on Bravo where the Top Chef contestants had to cater a wedding in 24 hours. They resorted to using white cake mix out of the box for the wedding cake. It is strange how not one of them can make a cake. I guess my pastry chef that taught me to bake is right baking is more of a science than cooking. What do you think?
Technorati tags: Top Chef Bravo Television reality tv cooking cooking shows eGullet chef

Coca-Cola-Blak

2006-04-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

Coca-Cola-Blak was released April 3rd, I was wondering if anyone has tried it yet? A combination of Coca-Cola with coffee essence will it sell? In 1984, Pepsi market tested Pepsi Kona, but that never appeared on shelves. Starbucks has tried to partner with Pepsi to bring out a coffee product called Mazagran. Since, it was a Starbucks beverage some people bought it once, but the taste did not leave customers coming back for more. Any thoughts will Coca-Cola-Blak make it or bomb?
Technorati tags: soda Coca-Cola American Coca-Cola Blak coffee Starbucks Pepsi Coke

Rhubarb Tart

2006-04-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

No Sugar Added Rhubarb Tart

Ingredients for filling:
4 cups chopped Rhubarb
1/2 cup sugar free strawberry jam
2 ounces blueberry concentrate
2 Tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
2 Tablespoons flour
1 Tablespoon butter

Procedure for filling:
In a saucepan on the stovetop on medium heat. Add 1 Tablespoon butter until melted. Then add the orange juice and blueberry concentrate. Next add the sugar free strawberry jam. Gently add the 4 cups chopped Rhubarb. Mix in the 2 Tablespoons of flour. Bring to a boil and than reduce heat to low. Cool and refrigerate until the tart crust is ready.

Ingredients for tart crust:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 sticks and 4 tablespoons very cold butter
8 Tablespoons of ice cold water
3 teaspoons of freshly squeezed orange juice

Procedure for tart crust:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
In a large bowl place flour and salt and mix. Than add 2 sticks plus 4 tablespoons of very cold butter. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips break up the butter into pea size pieces in the flour mixture. Add some of the ice cold water and the 3 teaspoons of freshly squeezed orange juice. Mix with pastry scraper and/or spatula until just combined. Add a couple more tablespoons of the ice cold water. All the water may not be needed or extra water may need to be added depending on the humidity. Form into a ball and flatten into a disc. Place dough in the refrigerator to rest for 1 hour. On a lightly floured board place the disc of tart dough and roll one direction at a time until rolled out into a 9 inch circle. Place the dough into the bottom of the tart pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Press down into the sides and cut edges off to protect from burning. Pre bake in 375 degree oven for 12 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with egg wash. Place in oven for 2 more minutes. Remove from oven and fill with the rhubarb mixture. Bake for 45-50 minutes depending on oven temperature.
Technorati tags: baking rhubarb tart food red recipes

Click here to go to the World's 50 Best Restaurants 2006!

2006-04-26T03:19:00.000-07:00

French Laundry in Napa Valley, California is on the list at number 4. I have heard that you have to make reservations months in advance to eat there. They also have a garden there to grow their own foods. I went to culinary school with someone who works there now and he not only cooks, but plants herbs and vegetables in the back of the restaurant. Talk about farm to table. Maybe one day I will eat there. I should put it on a list. You know how people make list of things they want to do during their lifetime. However, I think I would rather eat at number 18 Daniel in New York City, because than I could visit New York again and eat at a restaurant run by a top chef in the country. On the other hand, number 15 is Alain Ducasse-Plaza Athenee in Paris, France. That would be something to put on a list. Which restaurant would you want to eat?
Technorati tags: restaurants 2006 Best Blog

Smoked Salmon Appetizer

2006-04-26T03:03:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my trip to Portland, Oregon was great to get away. My dad ordered this appetizer and I could not help notice the beautiful presentation and good knife skills of the chef. Meanwhile still giving him an adequate portion. These days it is not unusual to go to a restaurant and walk away hungry. The goal of white space on the plate, minimalism, and artistic presentation sometimes leave the patrons hungry. What do you think. Is less more or do you want more for your money?
Technorati tags: salmon appetizer food Restaurants

Word of the Day for Wednesday April 26, 2006

2006-04-26T02:06:00.000-07:00

Genoise is a type of egg-foam cake known as a whole egg foam or sponge cake in which whole eggs are warmed and beaten with sugar until thick and then folded into dry ingredients, usually with the addition of melted butter. The interior of this cake is layered with genoise cake and the top of the cake is layered with genoise rolled with jam.