April 29th, 2013
I will be the first one to tell you that when I first tasted “mole”, let’s say I was not that thrilled. Was it a sauce to cover otherwise a tasteless piece of beef or chicken? Over the years I have learned to acquire the taste. So many variations of this sauce…some nutty, sweeter, more cumin, less cinnamon. Mine just has a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder and brown sugar. Not traditional but it tastes good.
The pork mole is gluten free; so is the rice timbale and salsa. Make sure your store bought ingredients are gluten free. It also does not take long to make, either. Pretty easy and tasty, actually.
You can make both dishes at the same time or start with the pork mole, keeping it warm while making the rice. Make it your own, remember?
PORK MOLE!!
1 1/4 lbs. pork tenderloin. Cut into bite size pieces
1 teaspoon crushed garlic (store bought or your own)
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, no salt added (No salt added stewed tomatoes can be substituted.)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/8 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teasppon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons brown sugar, lightly packed (Splenda has a Brown Sugar substitute that can also be used.)
Spray or lightly oil a large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until the pork is no longer pink. Stir occasionally.
Add garlic and oion and cook for a couple of minutes until tender and lightly browned.
Add remaining ingredients, bring mixture to a boil. Then, reduce and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
SALSA & RICE TIMBALE
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 red pepper, seeded and finely diced
2 shallots, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (store bought or your own)
1 cup uncooked long grain rice
2 cups low sodium, chicken broth
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2-3 cups fresh salsa
In a medium sauce pan heat oil over medium-low heat. Add the red pepper, shallots and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes.
Add rice and stir well. Add the stock, bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and cook for about 17 minutes, until rice is tender.
Mix in the cilantro.
Spray or lightly oil (your preference), the timbales (tartlet pans), or ramekins. You might need 40 to 6 depending on size.
Once rice is ready, mix one cup of the fresh salsa into the rice. Then, spoon rice into the timbales, pressing down firmly with the back of a spoon. Turn one timbale on each serving plate to unmold and garnish with the rest of the salsa.
Place 1/2 – 1 cup of the pork mole on the plate.
I served mine with sauteed spinach….it gave it more color!! Cook your favorite veggie!
Note: I bought “fresh salsa” from the supermarket, by the vegetables…or, you can prepare your own.
Enjoy!!
April 9th, 2013
When you think of it, pizza is a complete meal. Bread, veggies, and protein. And, for those with a gluten allergy; what’s out there is not the same, but it is getting better, definitely.
My guests were hungry in Delray, so a call to Pizza Rustica was in order. It is located at 1155 E. Atlantic Avenue, one block from A1A and Delray’s famous beach. Tel. 561-279-8766. Website? http://www.pizzarusticaldelray.com.
Pizza Rustica does deliver, even if it is a few slices (square slices)…a minimum of 3.
Arriving to pick up our well done pizza, we waited for about 5 or 10 minutes. It was a busy place.
Pizza Rustica has about 27 choices of pizza. They sell by the slice, medium with a thin crust, extra large with a thin crust and a very large pan pizzaa, as well. Salads are also big at Pizza Rustica.
Our choices were:
A traditional American Pizza – They were hungry. No waiting allowed for a little photo.
The Marguerita was traditional with plum tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, herbs and garlic pesto with garden grown basil.
And, the Provencal had a combination of roasted peppers and garlic, over plum tomato sauce and mozzarella with fresh basil, Roma tomatoes and French goat cheese.
Gone in no time…all thought they were very good, and a larger pizza pie than usual!
April 8th, 2013
This past week-end was the 51st Delray Affair, in the Village by the Sea, also called, Delray Beach!! After the rainy Friday, Saturday and Sunday proved to be that Delray Beach was at total capacity.
The beach in Delray looks fantastic. A lot of work has been done to the beach and it shows. It is so wide; the sand so soft; the water is still so clear.
But, during the Delray Affair visitors and residents alike were in Downtown Delray Beach. The streets were opened to pedestrians.
The Delray Affair is the largest arts and crafts festival in the Southeastern U.S. It showed with multitude of people walking shoulder to shoulder.
Festivals bring food. At the Delray Affair there was plenty to taste.
The cheesecake and berries on a stick caught my attention.
This vendor really captured our group’s attention….The Man Apron!! Plenty of raunchy comments!!
After The Man Apron…some wine tasting was needed.
Jason Colannino was attracting a big crowd. He plays at the Sundy House in Delray Beach. He was really good. For more information, please visit http://www.jasoncolannino.com
At the end of the day….taking a break on the beach was all we needed, and pizza from Pizza Rustica to follow.
Talk to you later.
April 3rd, 2013
This should be interesting. My first time at this type of auction. An impressive line-up. The cars look amazing.
Tonight, a Gala event for the Auction Opening night. The culinary fare? BB King’s Barbecue, Di Salvo’s Trattoria, Havana Cafe, Monroe’s of Palm Beach, and PCI.
The evening’s entertainment? Soul Survivors.
Bidders receive exclusive access during their event. Among other amenities; drink passes.
Through Saturday, 4/6….”some things just get better with age”.
Location? South Florida Fairgrounds on Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach. More info? Call 480-421-6694 or visit http://www.barrett-jackson.com. In the website, you will find the list of cars available for each day.
Have a Good One!!
April 2nd, 2013
Teriyaki, Tempura, Sushi, and Sashimi; the cuisine offered by Ziree Thai & Sushi; fresh and delicious.
Ziree Thai & Sushi is located at 401 West Atlantic Avenue, across from the South County Court House, in Delray Beach, Florida. Tel. 561-276-6549.
They open for lunch and for dinner. Take out is available.
The bar offers wine, Thai and Japanese beers, and Sake.
I have been following this restaurant since they opened about 8 years ago. Since the beginning, it has been a local’s favorite.
My family makes a point to stop by for dinner every time we are in Delray Beach.
It has a casual atmosphere, friendly owners and staff. I feel totally at home.
Tonight stopping for a quick dinner I ordered the Spicy Conch Salad. It had masago, scallions, cucumbers and spicy mayo. I few customers stopped by to see what I was eating. It was so refreshing and being that it was a balmy night in South Florida….it was perfect. No more words are necessary, the photo says it all.
Then a little Sashimi Morin, a combo, completed by dinner.
Perfectly satisfied, it was time to head home.
Ziree Thai & Sushi can be found on Facebook. And, they do offer gift certificates.
Talk to you later. Have a good one.
April 1st, 2013
During the 1940’s and 1950’s , it was when the U.S. interstate system came about. People took to the roads….much easier now to see the states; more direct routes. States wanted to capitalize on tourism. They made packable souvenirs. Tablecloths were one of such souvenirs. They showed the tourist areas of that particular state traveled. These vintage tablecloths are now sought after.
Taking to the roads, that’s what I should have done on Easter Sunday when I found myself traveling south. US Airways is the reason for my venting.
The international airports closest to the Delaware and Maryland Beaches are BWI, and Philly. But, there is one regional airport that when it does go smoothly, then, it is very convenient. It is in the town of Salisbury, Maryland. US Airways flies from this airport with stops in Philly or Charlotte. You will then have to connect to your final destination.
Getting up at 5 a.m. with plenty of time to get to Salisbury. About one hour’s drive. Flight was at 8:30 a.m. Lots of people were there already; the plane holds about 50 people or even more.
First delay….I already missed my connection. They put me on a later flight from Charlotte. People started panicking. Some were even getting on cruises.
What’s the problem?…I asked. “The plane is broken. They are trying to fix it.” Hmmm, that was comforting.
Another hour goes by. Next delay. Now instead of PBI (West Palm), I am now being sent to Ft. Lauderdale.
Another hour goes by. A later plane to Ft. Lauderdale.
Finally, they said….an indefinite delay, but it could take off. Well, they told me that there was a flight leaving from Baltimore at 3:30 p.m.
So, there I was driving to Baltimore, another 2 plus hours, which is where I should have gone in the first place.
The people that were going on the cruise went home practically in tears.
The lady that had paid $150 extra to go through Salisbury instead of Philly….oh yes…she was rerouted through Philly.
BWI was not as crowded. Of course, I am now in Baltimore and my return flight is to Salisbury. No, they could not change that there. That was a Salisbury thing. I needed to call their Customer Service pronto and tell them my dilema. They gave me the number and they graciously changed it to Baltimore with no added charges. Surprise, surprise!!
Charlotte airport was crazy. It was packed and you better be in good shape otherwise you will miss your connection. People were running to get to their gate. I took my time. I had one hour.
By this time I was thinking that if I had driven to Florida, I would have been almost to Jacksonville.
Of course, there was a slight delay as we sat on the runway. Imagine that.
We got to Ft. Lauderdale at 8:20 p.m. My 4th airport, and not a soul in sight. Easy drive to my final destination…about 25 minutes.
Then, I opened my email and there is a survey from US Airways….asking me to let them know how my last experience flying with them was. I am still laughing. I cannot wait to really vent to them.
Talk to you later..Have a good one!
March 6th, 2013
So sorry you are stuck in Delray Beach, I told my friend, Debbie…her daughter’s flight was canceled. In The Village by the Sea, I am feeling her pain, as we, the ones that are in the Mid Atlantic States, deal with….March. In like a lion, definitely.
So, check out what’s going on in Delray Beach…
The Cornell Museum Building is turning 100! It is located at the corner of Swinton and Atlantic Avenues. The Cornell Museum of Art & American Culture is honoring this milestone with a special museum admission of $1.00 through April 1st.
Until April 21st – At the Cornell Museum at Atlantic Avenue and Swinton. The Seagate Hotel & Spa World of Golf: The Gary Wiren Collection – One of the finest private collections of golf memorabilia in the world, as well as fine art from the Academy of Golf Art. The avid golfer can expect to experience things they have never come in contact with before. The non golfer will pleasantly surprised. This collection is hailed as the “most unique golf exhibition in the history of the United States”. Dr. Gary Wiren is a golf educator, a Master member of the Professional Golfers Association of America, a former national PGA staff director, and one of only three professionals named to both the PGA Hall of Fame and Golf Magazine’s World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame.
Putt with the putters from 1890, 1925, and 2012 to compare!!
Admission is $10; $6 for seniors and students with ID, $3 ages 4-12; free for ages 3 and under.
Wednesday, 3/6, Thursday, 3/7, Friday, 3/8…Go Paint, Drink and Haven Fun!! Check the Calendar at Vino Van Gogh! Whether you are an inspiring Van Gogh or just looking to explore your creative side.,..In a relaxed, social, group setting, an artist will guide you through replicating the night’s featured painting step by step. It’s the new thing in Delray Beach, and it is located at 153 NE 4th Avenue. Tel. 561-272-5272. Website? http://www.vinovangohflorida.com. Go to the calendar and choose a date and painting you like. Reserve your spot online or by phone. For example, tonight, Wednesday, 3/6 is Splatter Tulips, Thursday, 3/7 is Well Behaved Dogs, and Friday, 3/8 is Margarita Time. The classes are 2 – 2/12 hours and the price is $35-40/class, depending on the day and time. Canvases, paint, brushes, easels, aprons, plus entertainment is provided!! Each class ticket includes 1 complimentary glass of wine, soda, or water. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes earlier.
Thursday, 3/7 – Delray’s First Major Wellness Event – WellFest Delray Beach 2013. A free event!! It will take place at 3 outstanding venues: Old School Square Gym (11 a.m.-7 p.m.), Hyatt Place (10 a.m.-7 p.m.), and at the Old School Square Amphitheater with Fitness Demos at 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Demos and classes on vinyasa yoga, tai-chi and, boot camp fitness. The event is targeting the importance of education, information, motivation, entertainment and inspiration. More info? Please visit http://www.wellfestdelray.com
Old School Square is located at the Delray Center for the Arts, 51 North Swinton (corner of Atlantic Avenue).
The Amphitheater is also on this location.
Hyatt Place is located at 104 NE 2nd Avenue (Pineapple Grove).
Friday, 3/8 – Arts Garage – Global Invasion at 7:30 p.m. with Errol Rackipov, a Master Vibraphonist who blends jazz and classical chamber music with Eastern European fold rhythms and motifs. Arts Garage is a multi-disciplinary cultural hub for visual artists, musicians, performers, film presenters and arts educators. It is located at 180 NE First St. Tel. 561-450-6357 Website? http://www.artsgarage.org
Friday, 3/8 – Sunday 3/10 – TAP, at the Crest Theatre. Friday at 8 p.m. Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $42. This is a non-stop explosion of energy. Celebrating the world of dance. The cast? Award-winning dancers and singers that travel seamlessly through decades of styles; from Broadway and Big Band to world music and poprock. By tickets online. Visit http://www.delraycenterforthearts.org The Crest Theatre is located at 51 North Swinton Avenue.
Saturday, 3/9 – Delray GreenMarket – It is an open air market, featuring the best local produce in Delray Beach. It takes place every Saturday until May 11th. 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Location? The Old School Square Park at NE 2nd Avenue. 1/2 block north of Atlantic Ave. Their cookbook is also on sale for $12. You can also call Lori at 561-276-7511 to order your copy. Please add an extra $3.00 for shipping and handling.
Saturday, 3/9 and Sunday, 3/10 – Artists in The Park at Veteran’s Park on Atlantic Avenue, right by the Intracoastal. This is the longest running outdoor fine arts show and sale in South Florida. It is sponsored by the Delray Art league. You will see the tents up on Saturday and Sunday!! Website? http://www.delrayartleague.org
 Historic Colony Hotel  Historic Sandoway House Saturday, 3/9 – “Ride & Remember” Historic Tour of Delray Beach. The tours are held every second Saturday of the month. It includes some walking into the historic sites, but those who choose not to walk may wait on the bus. Now in its seventh year, the Ride & Remember tour has added the Colony Hotel and the Sandoway House Nature Center. Departure location? The Spady Museum at 170 NW 5th Avenue in Delray. Departure time is 10 a.m. Return is 12 p.m. Cost is 20/person. Tel. 561-279-8883 Website? http://www.spadymuseum.com
Thursday, 3/14 – The 12th Annual Delray Beach Home Tour from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. It draws hundreds of guests from all over SoFlo. Some of Delray’s most distinctive residences will open their doors to the public. Tickets are $100 and can be purchase online by visiting http://www.delrayhometour.com. Guests will explore the residences. It will be a leisurely day with catered luncheon and trolley service between homes. This signature event for Delray Beach raises funds for the Achievement Centers for Children & Families. You can also call 561-266-0003 to purchase tickets by credit card. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express are accepted.
Achievement Centers for Children & Families is a non-profit organization that provides a safe, nurturing environment for children who need them the most….more info at http://www.delraychild.org.
Sunday, 3/17 – A Hands On Sushi Workshop at Morikami Gardens, located at 4000 Morikami Park Rd. – Learn the basic of sushi making, cultural info about sushi and enjoy your creations. 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Oki Education Center. Instructor? Mitsutoshi Sekita Cost? $70. Bring a sharp 7″ – 8″ knife, cutting board (approx. 10″ – 15″) and apron and dish towel. More info? Please visit http://www.morikami.org/education/basics-of-sushi Tel. 561-495-0233.
Have a great time!! Enjoy the weather!!
February 14th, 2013
If you are visiting Delray Beach, Florida this week-end, you are in for a treat when the 16th Annual Chili Cook-Off will be taking place at Old School Square. It is sponsored by the Delray GreenMarket. Visit http://www.delraycra.org.
It is a free event. Saturday, 2/16 from 10 a.m.until 12:30 p.m. Watch the bravest cooks in town battle over bragging rights for the best traditional, new age, and vegetarian chili recipes. Sample each batch and help choose the People’s Choice winner!! Trophies will be awarded.
Listen to Heidi and The El Cat’s sing the blues!!
After reading 50 Shades of Grey…hmmmm, a friend gave me Fifty Shades of Chicken, a parody in a cookbook. Actually, the recipes are great. So, I decided to tackle the Chicken Chili. Having a gluten allergy in my household I changed the recipe a bit to make it gluten free.
Remember to make it your own. Want it more spicy? You know what to do, right?
Chicken Chili
3 tablespoons extra virgin-olive oil
1 1/2 lbs. ground chicken, preferably a mixture of dark and white meat. Mine was all white.
1/2 tablespoon of Kosher salt (I really don’t use salt, but it was in the recipe.)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 onion, chopped
1/2 green pepper chopped
1 jalapeno chile pepper (If you think it will be too hot, then just use some Tabasco instead.)
2 tablespoons chili powder (If you want to use more, you know what to do.)
1 28 ounce can whole peeled tomatoes
1 bottle dark beer (I got gluten free beer.)
1 15 ounce can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed (If you want more beans….)
1 cup of chicken broth.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, or to taste
Sour cream, for garnish (I bought lite sour cream.)
Grated cheese, for garnish (Your preference.)
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown for about 7 minutes or so. Add salt and pepper. Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan and then stir in the tomato paste. Cook, stirring, until the paste is fragrant; about 2 minutes. Stir in the onions, bell, pepper, garlic, and jalapeno. Cook until the veggies are golden; about 10 minutes.
Stir in the chili powder, adjust salt content. Cook for a few minutes more.
Add the tomatoes. Stir for a minute.
Then, add the beer, beans. and the cup of chicken broth. The gluten free beer I used is the one of the left….a Spanish beer. Add cilantro and lime juice.
Ladle the chili into bowls. Serve topped with sour cream and shredded cheese. Enjoy!!
Note: Please remember to make sure your ingredients are gluten free if you are following the allergy diet. Grate the cheese yourself, as well.
This recipe will serve 4 hungry people!! Easily doubled.
 
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