December 17th, 2011
Tiramisu is an Italian dessert that uses Ladyfingers dipped in coffee. The layers in between are filled with a mixture of whipped eggs, mascarpone cheese, a little liquor and a sprinkle of cocoa on top.
My goodness, there are so many varieties!! I like the traditional one the best. Some still follow the classics; others have evolved from those methods and have different additions.
For the person that has to eat gluten free, then there is the question of the ladyfingers. No way.
Gluten intolerance or sensitivity is one of the most common conditions at present. Celiac disease is an allergy. Both have to approach food in a very different way. No wheat or its derivatives.
Adhering to a gluten free diet is the only way to go and the only remedy. Once the diet is started the results are amazing; you start feeling so much better; tests results will show that, as well.
The most important thing to know is that it is not a fad diet. People with no gluten issues that follow the gluten free diet do feel better; I do.
Some time ago I found a company called Schar. It is from Europe. Their gluten free products are fantastic. You can find these products at Giant in Rehoboth Beach. I am sure you can also find them in nature stores, as well.
They do make ladyfingers that are gluten free. In the back of the box there was a recipe for Tiramisu. Ha…finally!!
This recipe is so easy. No cooking is necessary. At this time of the year, it can be made ahead of time. Everyone will love it.
Sweet endings; dessert. It is the final chapter of a meal…I love a good ending.
I always change a recipe, making it my own. In the ingredients on the box it said 3 egg yolks. But, in the preparation it said 4 eggs. I figured it was a typo and just used the 3 egg yolks.
Another ingredient I changed a bit was the sugar. Instead of 4 tablespoons, I only used 3.
It said to use rum but I used white wine. There are gluten free rums; I just did not have any in the house.
The glass container could have been a bit larger. I had some of the mascarpone mixture overflowing,
Other than that, it was really good.
Tiramisu
3 egg yolks
3 egg whites
3 tablespoons of sugar
8 ounces mascarpone cheese
2 tablespoons white wine
A whole package of Schar Ladyfingers
1 cup of brewed espresso or coffee
2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
Beat the egg yolks with sugar; then add the mascarpone cheese and the wine.
Beat the egg whites until stiff and carefully fold into the mixture.
Dip ladyfingers in the coffee. Arrange them closely together in a flat glass or ceramic dish.
Cover them with half of the mascarpone mixture, then add another layer of ladyfingers and top with another layer of the mascarpone mixture.
Sprinkle with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 4 – 6 hours.
It makes about 6 servings.
A little tricky cutting it but it is very delicious and light…..well it does have plenty of calories.
Note: Schar’s Ladyfingers are not quite as big as regular ones. If you want to buy 2 packages, do so and add a few more. I just used one package, though.
Have a good one!! Talk to you later. You can find Schar and AboutMyBeaches on Facebook.
December 8th, 2011
Every time I make this recipe I get those “ooohs and aaahs” you want to hear. It is, actually, pretty good. For lunch? For dinner? You decide.
It is really a healthy recipe; light and ready in no time. Great for a crowd; you can double it, or for just a few.
Hope you like it. Here it goes:
Asian Chicken Slaw
1 cup low calorie sesame-ginger salad dressing (I used Wish-Bone’s Light Asian with Sesame & Ginger Vinaigrette)
1 lb. chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1 can (14.5 ounces) Mandarin oranges
1/2 lb. sugar snap peas, sliced
1 cup fresh basil, cut into thin strips
2 bunches scallions, trimmed and chopped
1 bag (16 ounces) cole slaw mix
1/8 tsp. salt (optional)
1/8 tsp. black pepper
Combine 1/2 cup of the dressing with the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag. Let it stand for about 20 minutes.
Toast almonds in a non-stick skillet, over medium-high heat for a few minutes. Watch them so they don’t burn. You want to obtain a light brown color.
Remove chicken from marinade and add to that same skillet or use another one. Cook over medium-high heat until the chicken is nicely done, turning a few times. It might take about 7 minutes or so. You want it cooked through. Then, cut into bite-size pieces.
Drain Mandarin oranges, reserving 1/4 cup juice. Whisk juice into remaining 1/2 cup salad dressing.
In a large salad bowl, toss cabbage, sugar snap peas, basil, scallions, cole slaw mix, salt, pepper and chicken with dressing.
Add Mandarin oranges and almonds; gently stir to distribute well. Serve and enjoy.
If you would like more dressing…then you know what to do….yes, make it your own…..talk to you later….
November 26th, 2011
 Rehoboth Beach
“A man who works with his hands is a laborer; a man who work with his hand and his mind is a craftsman; but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist.” st. thomas aquina
The Delmarva Peninsula surprised us with a gorgeous Black Friday. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love to spend it in Delaware, my home. Black Friday brought lots of shoppers to the tax free shopping we offer in the State.
Rehoboth was very crowded. The weather? 68 degrees!! No parking to be found. My car was heading south on Rt. 1 to the town of Bethany Beach and then heading west for a few miles to start my own little tour of the 17th Annual Southeastern Artists Studio Tour.
Following are the 3 artists that I visited on Friday; all very different and all pursuing their passion.
Keith Toms is a Builder Blacksmith, originally from England, he makes Sussex County his home. He is located at 35160 Roxana Rd., Frankford, DE. Tel. 302-519-3731 E-mail? keithtoms@verizon.net.
Even though the address says Frankford, I really call that area Roxana. To get to it from Rt. 26 in Millville, take Rt. 17 to Roxana, go through the traffic light which is the junction of Rt. 17 and Rt. 20 and you will find his studio about 100 yards on the right. It is a garage next to a white house.
“The ability to directly shape metal has held my fascination since 1993, using the energy and rhythm of hammer and anvil, hot metal is transformed into subtle forms and curves that are inspired by both nature and industry. The techniques I use are much the same as they were hundreds of years ago, with a few modern twists that allow more contemporary design.”
 
Sunflowers are a specialty of his. You can see it in a lot of his work. He really can build anything. You can go through his portfolio and see some of his work.
 
I was looking at a piece to hang pots. It was huge. You would need a large kitchen. Keith told me that some of the bigger pieces do not take as long as the smaller ones. The smaller ones can take up to 50 hours for just one piece.
 
Keith is at his studio practically every afternoon. You can call him or e-mail him at keithtoms@verizon.net.
To be able to transform metal into such art was beautiful to see.
The next artist on my list was Tom Frey. He is a woodturner located at 30424 Marina Rd., Dagsboro, DE 19939. Tel. 302-732-6172. E-mail? tefpwf62@gmail.com. His studio hours are by appointment.
It is a little tricky to get there but just follow these directions and you will find it. Go west on Rt. 26. This becomes Rt. 26/20 in Dagsboro. Turn right at the stoplight to go into Dagsboro. Go through the stoplight in the center of the town (now Rt. 20) and turn right onto Piney Neck Rd. Go approx. 3 miles, take a right on Marina Rd. and his house is 3rd on the right. Got it?
“Tom has pursued a specialty of thin-walled, natural edge turnings using mostly local woods that are stressed by nature. A soft matte finish has become a second hallmark of Tom’s work. In 2009, Tom achieved Master designation in the Delaware By Hand organization.”
We were received with big smiles from Tom and Pat, his wife. She had hot cider, cheese balls, made by her and crackers. Delicious. I was hoping my kids would not eat the whole thing.
I am in awe of his work. It is so delicate using the most unique pieces of wood. He told me he has plenty of wood to work with. He does get mesquite from a friend and supplier in Texas. Mesquite is now being used for hardwood flooring.
His minis were so cute and he told me they were so easy to make. So, here he is at work.
His works of art are, definitely, conversation pieces. They are perfect for the person that has it all. Here are some more pictures.
     
Thanks Pat and Tom. You were so gracious receiving us all into your home.
The next artist is a self made painter; Damon Pla. If you were in Rehoboth Beach for the Independent Film Festival you probably saw his work. Every year artists submit their work, hoping to be chosen for what best describes the theme of the Festival. He won!!
I stopped by his Damon Pla Fine Arts Studio located at 119 South Newport Way, Dagsboro, DE 19939. From Rt. 1 go west on Rt. 26, turn right onto White’s Neck Rd. (Millville Pet Shop on corner). Travel 1.6 miles. Turn slight right into Bethany Forest. Take 1st left onto South Newport Way. House is at the end of the street facing you.
“Through ambience, composition, movement and light, creating art will always be an instrument for me to interpret my perception of our surroundings. To quietly converse with the viewer through my work, provoking thought and meditation, is my passion.”
His studio was comfortably crowded, people asking him questions. I met his Mom, who was visiting from Ft. Lauderdale. Damon is originally from Florida; home is here now. His wife was there to help out, as well.
His paintings were amazing capturing the essence of his subjects. You can contact Damon by calling him at 302-541-6057 (studio), 302-841-3790 (cell), or visit his website, www.DamonPla.com. Just like everyone else, he is on Facebook; facebook.com/damonpla.
He offers original paintings, limited editions, commissions, trompe l’oeil/murals.
It was great meeting you and your family, Damon.
Some were hungry, so, to finish a really nice day off to Nicola Pizza on Rehoboth Avenue we went. I told you at the beginning that Rehoboth Beach was so crowded; like any summer day. Finally, we found parking.
As usual, Nicola Pizza, hit the spot.
A walk through the Boardwalk and looking out to sea in such a clear and warm day, we were able to see Cape May, New Jersey.
Note: Some of the Artists will be open on Sunday November 27th from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. Please check www.artstudiotour.com.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later…
November 15th, 2011
Contractors for a Cause is an organization of local contractors that give back to the community that supports them. It is based in the Bethany Beach and Ocean View, Delaware in Southern Delaware.
Mike Cummings from Miken Builders located at 32782 Cedar Drive, Millville, DE 19967, www.mikenbuilders.com, will be the Workshop Leader. This is a free event and it is only limited for the first 20 women that register. You can register by calling Andrea at 302-537-4444.
There will be babysitting provided on site during the workshop. Topics will be anything from fixing a loose toilet handle to caulking and drywall patch techniques. Also weather stripping and squeaky doors, as well.
It will be Saturday, 11/19 from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. for coffee and pastries.
Location? Better Living Showroom located at 32442 Royal Blvd., Dagsboro, Delaware, at Clayton Crossing and next to Mediacom.
Give them a call and reserve your spot….talk to you later…
November 4th, 2011
Many years ago when my husband and I came to Bethany, the “scene” was very different. But, that’s what we liked about it. Small town, great place to bring up a family. Through my children I met most of my friends. Some I saw frequently and some just once in a while. One thing is for sure; all those friends are still there.
I met Mike Cummings and his family at the Pyle Center in Roxanna. Yeap, we were in Little League. Rain or shine; early mornings and at times early evenings, as well. Roxanna is near Bethany Beach. I am sure Mike remembers all that. We were also on the same team. I have forgotten if we were good or not.
Through the years I have met parents through sports and some were very intense. Mike is one of the few people that I know that has kept it constant. Even temper, friendly, caring, good sense of humor, and a consummate professional in his work. It was like that then, and it is now, as well.
He is the Founder and CEO of Miken Builders, located at 32782 Cedar Drive, Millville, DE 19967. Tel. 302-537-4444. Cell 302-381-0773 and website, www.mikenbuilders.com. You can find Miken Builders on Facebook.
The website will give an insight on this commercial and residential construction company. You can also find them on the right hand side of my website and just with a click you will have direct access into his site.
Through the years Miken Builders has built a reputation as a company that is well respected in the community with high standards and superior craftmanship.
Mike’s company has received so many awards in construction and renovation from Associated Builders & Contractors. You can see those on the website, and you will also be able to see other awards and memberships in charitable organizations. Yes, Mike and his company have given back to the community.
Personally, I can recommend Miken Builders fully. I just used the company to do renovations in my house. His staff, well, I cannot say enough. Suggestions, designs, and carrying the job through in the most efficient way was good to see and experience.
Under Miken Builders, there is BetterLiving Patio & Sunrooms of Delmarva. Same address, but the telephone is 302-251-0000. Website? www.betterlivingdelmarva.com. This Miken Builders’ company is the exclusive provider of Betterliving 3-season, year-round sunrooms and awnings. They can transform an unused deck or patio into a totally different room; a focal point of your home.
No job is too small for Miken Builders. You can call Mike personally. I just gave you his cell and have him give you an estimate for any work needed around your house. If you are planning on building a house in the Delmarva Peninsula, you will not be disappointed if you are dealing with him, his company, and staff.
Talk to you later….have a good one!!
October 29th, 2011
You only have to look out the window to see that the parades, at the Delaware Beaches, have been rained on today. Don’t let that nor’easter dampen your spirits. The first Wags, Witches & Warlocks Parade to be held in Bethany Beach has been rescheduled for Sunday at 11:00 a.m.
Can you imagine? You will be in Bethany without having to pay the meters. Park wherever you want and enjoy this beautiful coastal town, also known as the Quiet Resort.
As I was driving by yesterday afternoon, I noticed the thickening clouds. I had to stop, first to take the picture and then I noticed a person working on the bushes, winter pansies and new perennial plantings right by the ever present Chief Little Owl.
I finally got to meet Melinda. She is the person responsible for the beautification of Bethany Beach. As the seasons change, so are her plantings. I told her how gorgeous everything always looks. That I hoped people gave her credit. She said people do.
 New perennials.  Winter pansies
That was it…she got on her truck and off she went….this is my post too…see you later…
October 11th, 2011
I don’t know what’s the sequence, regarding the heading of this post. Probably depends with Alice’s mood and the time of the year.
Alice H. Klein is the artist and designer behind TKO, along with her husband, Bryant and now her niece, JoAnne.
TKO is located at 100 Garfield Pkwy., #6 in the town of Bethany Beach, Delaware. Tel. 302-539-6992. Website? www.alicehklein-tko.com.
I have written about this store on 9/3/09 and on 10/25/10. You can check those posts by clicking on the months of September and October and scrolling down to the dates.
You can always find something at TKO. Her designs are beautiful and target a wide range of prices. It could be something for a friend or something more dramatic for yourself.
 
Alice can design anything you want or she can also update a special piece.
I was at the point in Cape Henlopen State Park last week. I always take visitors to that side of the park. You can see the town of Lewes and the Ferry on one side and on a clear day you can see New Jersey on the other.
It was windy and so many kiteboarders. I heard my name being called. It was Alice. She and all these other kiteboarders were having a blast. Actually, she might have been the only woman too. You see she has her passions; designing unique, never boring, pieces of jewelry or doing the extreme; kiteboarding.
This week I went to her store in Bethany. She opens Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
She has so many new pieces. Ones that I fell in love with were the earrings made out of shells she picked up in Puerto Rico. Here they are.
The rest is just a little peak into her designs. The pictures don’t do justice; you need to visit and have her explain to you the types of pearls, the stones, the metals, etc. etc.
 
 
 
Have a great day!!!…talk to you later…after I digest the subs from Casapullas; my next post….
October 11th, 2011
Hi Everyone: I have gotten a few names for you in case you need these services. Not needed at the present time? Then, just keep the info. because at some time or another you might need them. Other services are on AboutMyBeaches. Just go on the left hand side of the website. Under Categories click on “Services”.
Miken Builders – Located at 32782 Cedar Drive, Millville, DE 19967. Tel. 302-537-4444. Website? www.mikenbuilders.com.
Michael J. Cummings (Mike) is the Founder and CEO of this company. I have known Mike for many years. Very professional, reliable and knowledgeable. I recommend his company fully.
Charles Brown Glass Co. is located at 6581 Hobbs Road, Salisbury, Maryland. Tels. 410-749-3316 or 1-800-278-3316. Website? www.charlesbrownglass.com. They service the Delmarva Peninsula, so even though they are located in Salisbury, Maryland, they also work all over the beaches. They have been in business for over 50 years.
I just used them. They will do anything related to glass, except cars.
Grout – It looks pretty ugly when it gets dirty. What can you do? Grout Fix Services restores tiled surfaces with a 5 year warranty.
You can call for a free estimate at 302-236-5585. I have not personally used this company, but it was recommended by a trusted friend.
So, these are the latest to make the AboutMyBeaches list….talk to you later.
 
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