by Angela on March 25, 2010
How do you choose which cookbooks to buy? I have to admit that I rarely buy them for myself, I give them, and receive them as gifts. Well, aside from the times I’ve been dieting, and bought the latest diet craze book, with a matching cookbook.
This blog post makes a lot sense Omnivoracious: Try Before You Buy: Sampling Cookbook Recipes:
“Buying a new cookbook is always a little daunting for me. Pictures can make any dish look delicious, but I’m hesitant to invest in a cookbook if I don’t know how challenging (or tasty) the recipes are going to be.”
That’s so true.
Nigella Lawson’s a favorite cookbook author of mine. Most of her recipes are easy, and they always taste great. If you haven’t sampled any of her recipes, check around the web, and try some. You’ll be pleased — and your friends will be impressed, if you’re giving a dinner party.
by Angela on March 24, 2010
If you’re trying to lose weight, chances are you’ve given up chocolate. But don’t be too hasty. Dark chocolate is good for you (sorry, if you love milk chocolate) — in small amounts, of course.
Researchers are discovering interesting facts about chocolate, including:
* Since chocolate contains flavenoids, which are antioxidants which combat the aging process, chocolate lovers may look younger;
* If you grab a piece of chocolate when you’re stressed it helps you to feel better, because it stimulates endorphins in your brain;
* Dark chocolate may even reduce your blood pressure.
So if you’re dying for a piece of chocolate cake, go ahead and bake — a slice may be good for you.
Here are two tips to create a great chocolate cake. The Cake Mix Doctor’s Top 10 Tips for Chocolate Cake – iVillage recommends:
“* Use shiny pans. If your pans are dark, the edges of your chocolate cakes will darken and harden as they bake.
* Don’t overbake. Cocoa has a drying effect on cake batters, causing them to bake more quickly. Be cautious. Get to know your oven, whether it under- or overbakes. Use a kitchen timer or write down the exact time the cake went in the oven. A dry chocolate cake will not taste as delicious as a moist chocolate cake.”
by Angela on March 24, 2010
Gourmet chocolate gifts are sure to be treasured. However, there is a difference between truly superior chocolatiers and those who simply slap the word gourmet on its chocolate. Here’s how to buy the best chocolate for that special person.
1. Determine a budget. Gourmet chocolate gifts can vary wildly in price, from less than $10 to more than $100. Don’t worry: A small gift of the finest chocolate will make a fine present. On the other hand, an expensive box of waxy, stale chocolate would be a disappointment.
2. If possible, find out the recipient’s preferences. While dark chocolate is all the rage for its health benefits, many people dislike its slightly bitter quality. Some people also like their chocolate straight, with no nuts, fruit or other ingredients, while other enjoy such fillings. For people who want to live clean,î check out some of the organic chocolatiers.
3. If possible, read online gourmet chocolate reviews. Many website have rated gourmet chocolate companies to help you compare not only the chocolate but also the packaging, the timeliness of the delivery, etc. Most of these sites list the ingredients of the chocolate. The best gourmet chocolate should list cocoa first. While there may be other ingredients, there should be less than 10 grams of sugar per serving and an iron content of at least 4 percent.
4. Visit local stores and check out their gourmet chocolate gifts. If possible, ask for a sample or buy a small box that you can try yourself. While everyone has his or her own chocolate preferences, professional chocolate experts evaluate it on appearance (glossy as opposed to powdery), snap (a crisp sound when it is broken as opposed to crumbling), aroma (different cocoa beans and processing methods produce different scents), mouth feel (smooth and creamy or gritty or waxy) and taste (which, like wine, varies as the chocolate melts in your mouth).
5. Don’t forget other forms of chocolate. In addition to gourmet chocolate candy, there are also chocolate liquors, hot beverages, cakes, mousse and more. Consider whether the recipient may actually prefer one or more of these.
6. Determine which chocolate has the most attractive packaging for the best price. If you find you like the chocolate but don’t think the box is attractive, you can transfer the chocolate to a different box. Most discount stores sell gift boxes (even traditional Valentine heart boxes), tissue and wrapping paper and bows. Or visit a craft store and make your own personalized box. This will be an extra special gift that he or she will treasure.
7. Take a look around for additions to your gift. For example, if the recipient collects teddy bears, pick out a unique bear to hold the chocolate when you present it. Or, if the gift is for a guy who is into sports, tuck your chocolate gift inside a box of golf balls or a tackle box.
With a little thought and effort, gourmet chocolate gifts can be perfect for virtually any person and any occasion. Just don’t spend too much time sampling them yourself, or you may end up giving an empty box.
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