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I love to EAT, TRAVEL,COOK, always searching for foods, restaurants, recipes, a LEVEL ABOVE ordinary fare - SATORI (Japanese word for AHA!) foods . Find my recipes and those I find, restaurants reviews from all over, posted travels, highlights from interesting TV shows (Travel Channel, Food Channel etc).
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Showing posts with label beef. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beef. Show all posts

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Gastronomic Musings: It's the beef, why is it better and how much do you pay?

Hereford House on Urbanspoon The Midwest is known for its beef. Having come from out East originally, I became enamored with the beef and its taste because it seemed so much better for some reason. There are so many steak houses all around the Kansas City area ranging from reasonably priced to expensive. Hereford is one of the ones that is the class of the latter. At this Leawood restaurant (as well as the other two), a wide array of choices also include chicken, salads and more. But if you come to this restaurant or one of the other ones, you have to go with a signature meal that comes from a steer, not a bird, fish or a set of greens. I mean its just heresy if you get something other then steak.
This place is relaxing and has a fine ambiance. The steaks are broiled over a hickory charcoal fire, which give it a nice flavor. Maybe that's what makes the beef better here, or one of the reasons? I had the small 5oz Top Sirloin. ( l love Prime Rib but I wanted to try "real steak"). At $12.95, its one of the lowest priced meals as well as the smallest steak. Twice baked potato with it is fine. The rest of our family and friends had the chicken and the higher prices steaks.
But the prices are much higher when you go about the small salmon steaks, grilled chicken and others. I guess there is something to be said for ambiance. But when do you choose a much higher priced entree in a restaurant ? Lately we've eaten steak at Ruby Tuesdays, Grill 54 and Outback and the steaks, like the one I ate here, have been flavorful and fine and were bigger pieces of steak for the price. I guess you could say " that's when bigger is better".
It is truly amazing to see the prices that people pay for higher priced steaks. I just can't do it though. If we go for steak, more "bang for the buck" is what I aim for . Still it was nice to try this venerable restaurant. Beef is where this place is at!

Hereford House on Urbanspoon

Hereford House on Urbanspoon

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Mossy Bayou company has some tasty condiments that have different zing to them

I regularly review the Chili Pepper magazine. There are many hot, spicy and usual recipes. Also there their are listing of awards from the magazine concerning condiments, (hot) sauces and more that are judged to be award winning . I look for winners in their categories. The Mossy Bayou company has achieved some prestigious awards so I decided to try them.

The Bayou Blend is a seasoning that is very unusual. I like that the main ingredients are not primarily salt but include more pepper, garlic powder and then others. The Bayou blend is subtle with its garlic, pepper blend that doesn't overwhelm your taste buds with salt. It has a nice heat flavor but is not by any meals too spicy. If you want a blend that "really burns " this is a not a good one for you. I like it.

The Louisiana Swamp Scum Hot Sauce is a muddy looking hot sauce made of peppers, vinegar, salt, molasses, natural flavorings and uses caramel coloring. The swamp sauce has the right blend of tangy vinegar and hint of salt and molasses which gives it a distinctive bite. I really like the flavor with veggie burgers, beef burgers, vegetables, cheeses, stews and more.

The Cajun Chow Chow calls itself a relish and is a medley of green cayenne peppers, vinegar, onion, garlic, salt and spices. Once again salt is down on the listing of the percentage of ingredients. I once again liked that and the relish gives a fresh flavor. I really like the garlicky and pepper tone of the relish. All are really good on the sweet potato fries, the burger and even a vegetable bean oriented veggie burger. I like the Chow Chow and the Swamp sauce the best as they don't take taste too hot but have a nice heat to go along with the other spices and vegetables.
I can see them being used with chicken, beef, vegetables and more. They could also add a little zing to soups, stews and more. So while I can't get back to Bayou country in the near future, I can taste Cajun country by using these condiments. Order and try some.

Check them out at

Monday, March 2, 2009

Cafe Casbah does Middle Eastern with a flair

Cafe Casbah on Urbanspoon We have been here several times. It is a classy looking place which is fancier then the average Eastern food fare place with higher prices as well. The are a perfect choice for guests or family meals. Get tips on making shish are first rate along with the rice. Expertly grilled and tasty.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

It is Chimichurri time

I love the simple but spicy Argentinan Chimichurri sauces. I always thought they were the same using green parsely and more. However through the last year, I have come to know that there are different kinds, all good, but difffrerent.

I already found three recipes (see below) including one listed from Chili Pepper Magazine. I like this magazine and have been reading it for years. Actually I started reading them at the stores and copying a few recipes I liked. I then thought I need to get this magazine and try more of the great recipes I had not tried an issue yet . Looking in this issue, I found a very different Chimichurri using red peppers and some of the ingredients in this recipes. I would try this fusion recipe.

Mixed Pepper merican Aregntina with Asia. What I created was an Asian style Red Pepper (3/2009 Chili Pepper, p. 34). The recipe has roasted red pepper, hot peppers ( I used some hot pepper sauce), red wine vinegar, parsley, shallots (I used red onion a substitute that I usually use as it is handy), tomatos, lemon juice , smoked paprika, and oil ( if you need the exact recipe, let me know and I will post it (I don’t have time now to write it out.,

I throught to mix South American Aregntina with Asia and beef. What I created was an Asian style Red Pepper Chimichurri Beef with noodles. I added a little garlic salt to round things outl.

It came out okay. But I guess I am used to the all green style Chimichurri sauces. The red pepper threw off the taste a bit. I prefer to go GREEN. I rated it 8.0/10.

If you feel that way try some of these below.


**

Categories
Salsa/sauce
Vegetables
So. america
Yield
1 -1/2 cups

Measure Ingredient
1⁄4 cup Olive oil
1 cup Red wine vinegar
2 tablespoon Aji chile powder, -OR- substitute New Mexican red chile powder
4 clove Garlic; minced
1 teaspoon Crushed black pepper-corns
1 teaspoon Dried oregano
1 each Bay leaf; crushed
1⁄4 cup Minced parsley (or substitute Italian parsley)
Salt to taste

Combine the olive oil and vinegar in a bowl and beat with a whisk. Stir in the remaining ingredients, mix thoroughly, and allow to sit for 2 hours to blend the flavors. Serve with broiled, roasted or grilled meat and poultry. Authors' Heat Scale: Medium _Hot and Spicy Latin Dishes_ from Chili Pepper Magazine Dave DeWitt, Mary Jane Wilson, Melissa T. Stock Prima Publishing, 1995 ISBN 1-55958-484-X Typos by Jeff Pruett Submitted By JEFF PRUETT On 08-15-95

***
(Argentine parsley-garlic sauce for grilled meats)

This pungent herb sauce originated in Argentina. Chimichurri is the classic accompaniment to Argentine churassco, or grilled meats. You can also use chimichurri as a marinade.
Makes about 1 1/2 cups

* Parsley, chopped -- 1 bunch
* Garlic, crushed -- 8 cloves
* Oregano -- 1 teaspoon
* Paprika (optional) -- 2 tablespoons
* Cayenne pepper -- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon
* Salt -- 1-2 teaspoons
* Red wine vinegar -- 1/3 cup
* Olive oil -- 3/4 cup
**
Recipe courtesy Guy Fieri, 2008
See this recipe on air Friday Aug. 29 at 3:00 PM ET/PT.
Show: Guys Big Bite
Episode: South of the Border
For the steak:
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon freshly chopped cilantro leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons tequila
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 1/2 pound skirt steak, trimmed

For the 4-Herb chimichurri:
2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro leaves
2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley leaves
1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil leaves
1 tablespoons freshly chopped oregano leaves
2 tablespoons minced white onion
2 tablespoons diced red bell pepper
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon pasilla peppers, dried
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the steak

Combine all ingredients, and let steak marinate, refrigerated, for 1 to 3 hours.

Heat grill or pan to high heat, cook skirt steak to medium-rare, let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then cut on bias in 1/4 inch pieces, and top with chimichuri sauce.

4-herb chimichurri:

Mix all ingredients lightly in food processor until a coarse sauce is formed. Set aside for 2 hours.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

Quiznos I want it my way -don't hold the lettuce, tomatoes etc

We have picked up subs a few times over the years when we had coupons, before going to Theater in the Park in Overland Park, KS. These subs are good for the toastiness and the different breads. But the really thing is what is inside. My wife likes the tuna sub and the fish salad is good. There is a good amount of tuna (with not much mayo which is how she likes it ) . The meat subs are not bad but you have to pay extra for double meat which is a rip off. There are not many coupons like there used to be or spealty days. There is new footlong subs for $5 and premium as well as the signature and the everyday values. But really does it really matter if there is not enough meat in the ones you want? Some have double meat so check . Then its worth it possibly. The Philly cheese steak and some of the meat ones that originally come with double meat were a good deal. However lately I have tried the meatball subs because there is a good amount of meat with them. (And if you want to extra toppings, like the tomato, lettuce etc, make sure to tell them to add them before they put them in the wrappers so you don't get a surprise. But whatever you do- make you don't add Italian dressing or some like that have a oils. It will go right through your sub especially if you have the wheat bread and/or leave the sub for awhile (even your frig) or in the car for awhile going home. You will end up with a a soggy mess . Trust me it is not pretty and a complete meltdown. I've learned that mistake.

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Great BBQ but forget the ambiance

Lc's Bar-B-Q on UrbanspoonI had heard about BBQ in this place. I finally found it. It is not anything to look at inside or outside. I ordered burnt ends. I got the order and it was literally full of burnt ends, not the measly little bunch you get at other BBQ places (like Foreilla). It lined the whole Styrofoam box. That is what you pay for - the meat. If you want sides that is extra but hey I came for the meat and the BBQ just that is a good deal. My wife and I made 5 good sandwiches out of it. The burnt ends were meaty, had plenty of flavor and were succulent the way one would expect a little char but not too much. The sauce was some of the best. Try this place when you are nearby. You will be glad you did.

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Outback has good beef

Outback Steakhouse on Urbanspoon I come from out East originally. Beef here in the Midwest just tastes better for some reason. Went we go to restaurants, it is usually for ethnic, not beef and usually not chains. If it is beef (I like Golden Corral and I did like Fire Mountain before it changed to Ryan's), certainly not a pricey steakhouse. But when we get a coupon, we use it. This was the case to try Outback again for dinner. This chain has been pricey but the meals have been good. I really wanted to try a "Bloomin Onion" appetizer but since I heard the cholesterol and calories are "sky High", I passed on it.I was not going to go for the salads, fish, appetizer. My wife tried the small prime rib. It was succulent and she enjoyed it. I chose the Outback special the 12 oz center cut sirloin which was sensational. My wife liked her steamed veggies while I went for the Caesar salad (which I love). I went for the back potato and she did. The portions were generous and we even had some to take home. I mean this makes "a good thing" last for the next day. And it was still tasty. Like I said we don't go here often but when we do it is good.

Friday, December 26, 2008

Great , great buffet with really taste food

Peachtree Buffet on UrbanspoonI was blown away when we got here around noon one weekend. The place was packed. We dug in and found all the food to be very tasty. The pot roast was melt in the mouth, the fried chicken sweet and crunchy. The vegetable , and sides were excellent. Sweet potato and other vegetables has just the right spicy, sweetness and more. Basicly you come up and keep getting more and sit down. If you want a real site down place try the Peachtree buffet. For me I will take this anytime. Price is right and and it will " feed your soul"!

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Who are you buffaloing anyway: is this BBQ?

Buffalo Bob's Smokehouse on Urbanspoon Mostly when we have come here, it is before our friends will be joining us to see a performance of Right Between the Ears, a hilarious (mostly) monthly comedy troup in Lawrence. This is one of the places my friends like to gather as it is literally right across the theater and they like the place. I do not.
The menu has lots of items and combination plates. But it's always noisy. The Barbecue beef sandwiches are only so so and so are the prices. The fries not that great and are either the sides. It is just not my type of barbecue place. I've tasted better in and around the Kansas City area. Like I said, the only time we come here is for the friends not the food.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Yahooz on Urbanspoon
I had started a new group for gourmet cuisine lovers who wanted to get together each month. The purpose was to either have a themed party at a home or come together to eat at a new restaurant. For our first meeting, I chose Yahooz. The choice of the selection focused on the fact that I have seen this place from the road for many years but have we had never eaten here. My decison was a good choice for the most part.
It is nicely paneled with wooden beams and is a very handsome looking place inside. Quiet enough during these brunch hours to talk, converse and eat. And there was lots to choose from.
There were egg dishes and salads to start off. The beef ribs were meaty and moist. There were many other entree including spiced BBQ chicken and much more. This brunch cost $18 apiece which was a good deal considering this was the price (and above) of many of the entrees you will find most night for dinner. Most of the dishes are southwestern fare with steaks, fish, BBQ and more. All the entrees, sides and more were executed extremely well.
We all were glad we came and it was a nice cuisine adventure. Of course the company was just as good as the meal. We wanted a cozy place place and it is. The food is varied and everything tasted quite good. If you like regular American type fare with a Southwestern flare this is great. I can't complain. If we would come here again it would be for the brunch where you can pick and choose what you want for one price. But normally I would go for something a little more exotic with different taste, at reasonable prices. For us, that is the best way to go if we come back.

Monday, December 22, 2008

There is the good and the bad at Corona Gardens in Olathe, KS

Corona Garden on Urbanspoon Corona Gardens

This restaurant has been here for several years. I had never seen them doing much of a business especially with Mexican restaurant competition very close by. But I decided to give it a try. I've been here a couple time with my wife and once without her. The buffet is all you can eat which is the good thing. The bad is that most of the food is horribly fried. The best are the real good chicken and beef fajita. This you can all you want and that is what I have focused on. Wrapped in tortillas, you can make a meal of just this entree at a good price. The tacos and the meat are fine but how badly can you ruin tacos (well there was one place over in Missouri that did). I had them at a luncheon for staff at one of the schools and it was not bad fare. The enchiladas and the other dishes are average at best and fried so that you can hardly taste anything. There are other Mexican specialties but they are not really goo . There are sopapillias, condiments and other stuff do not really make the buffet tastier. They are just fillers for your belly. There are several Mexican restaurants nearby that much better and are just as reasonably priced. I will go elsewhere for Mexican next time unless I want all you can eat fajitas.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue: Nice place, versatile menu, good food but it's not the best BBQ

Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue on Urbanspoon

We first came here years ago at the first original one on the Missouri. Very rustic crowded but worth it. The burnt ends were great and so was everything. This restaurant has a lot of character. Then the Overland Park one arrived. Since then have been many times to this location, with friends and ourselves.
This location is big but does not have the rustic flavor compared to the Missouri location to the South. However just like the other location, the menu is huge. Of course there is beef, brisket, pork, fish, sides and desserts so there is lots to choose from. This place is popular so you might have to wait.We did not have to wait long.
This time, I tried a combination plate. I had the burnt ends which the lamb ribs. The lamb ribs were more meaty then I thought they would be and very flavorful.This was a great find. My burnt ends were were meaty and had smoky flavor. The portion was good for about two small sandwiches. I liked the smoky BBQ beans and coleslaw. We tried the huge stack (like a pyramid) onion rings which were succulent. However I think this side is over priced.
My wife's burnt arrived " very burnt " so much so she did not want to eat it. The waitress was nice enough to order another free order of burnt ends that were be more to her liking, juicy, meaty and with less char. Since my wife's portion was going to be thrown away anyway, I asked to take it home anyway and it was okay for me. Previously at another trip, my brother-in-law got the Grilled Salmon which was very good. What is unusual about this fish is that the salmon has meat juices drip on it from above to you get that really smoky taste with the fish. If you don't want any type of beef or if you are a vegetarian that eats fish, then you should be aware of this.
This location can be quite noisy. The crowd was huge but we could still talk. Its a nice place but I have discovered some BBQ places that "give you more bang for your buck". I prefer a place that is not so frugal with the main portion of the meal and provide a bigger portions for the price. While the sides are very good, I would rather pay for more " meat".Still I have to give this place thumbs up. It has ambiance and looks nice and is a nice place to have a dinner or lunch with friends, family, kids and others of all ages. But now when I want BBQ, I will go to some other BBQ places that I have discovered that fills the plate to a greater extent and gives more "bang for the buck".

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Rick Bayless recipes and Mexican Everyday book

My wife comes from Chicago originally. While I have been to Chicago, I have never been to one of Bayless's restaurant. I've known about his recipes and his battles with Iron Chef Bobby Flay (Bayless lost by 1). My cable can't get his shows so I started to search for his recipes and books. Recently on Emeril Live on Fine Living he talked about his book while doing a trout entree. His book was mentioned.
Mexican Everyday (Recipes Featured on Season 4 of the PBS-TV series "Mexico One Plate at a Time") (Hardcover)
by Rick Bayless (Author), Deann Groen Bayless (Author)
Whenever I search for books I start at Amazon.com. While I post my own book review there too, I also look for reviews by others concerning books I might be interested in purchasing. Their views are insightful and I learn more about whether I should buy the book and why. It is more convenient to start her until I check them out personally if I need to. Also I start at Amazon because there are excellent and better prices. There are even used and even new ones (check for the prices and the condition to meet your needs). Usually even with the postage (usually under $4) you save almost half the price! For the price of almost 1 recently, I ordered 3 books about China traveling etc as we are going to China in the summer 2009 to travel and see the total solar eclipse and I want to be prepared as I always am wether I have traveled to Arizona, Europe, and elsewhere.

I found a great review for this book at
http://www.amazon.com/review/R260IYV4SZ34NM/ref=cm_cr_pr_viewpnt#R260IYV4SZ34NM

but even before I (might) get the book I found some links to the recipes on this show including the sauce I was looking for
http://www.foodnetwork.com/emeril-live/mexican-mania-with-rick-bayless/index.html

Sopa de Lima (Yucatan Lime Soup)
Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Roasted Poblano Chiles, Grilled Onions and Mexican Crema
Striped Bass Veracruz-Style
Traditional Mexican Flan Flavored with Orange and Lime
Lime Ice with Cucumber and Mint
Trout with Macadamias, Serrano and Green Beans (Trucha con Macadamias, Chile Serrano y Ejotes)
Here is one of the recipes
Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Roasted Poblano Chiles, Grilled Onions and Mexican Crema
Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse, 2006
Show: Emeril LiveEpisode: Mexican Mania with Rick Bayless
RECIPECOMMENTS & REVIEWS(2)
Cook Time
18 min
Level
Intermediate
Yield
6 to 8 servings
Recipe Tools:
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Ingredients
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons buttermilk
3/4 cup finely chopped onion
6 cloves garlic, minced
6 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
1/4 cup lime juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crumbled
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 3/4 pounds flank steak, trimmed of surface fat and silverskin
4 to 6 poblano chiles
2 large onions, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices
Toothpicks for securing onion slices on grill
12 to 16 corn tortillas
2 limes, cut into wedges, optional
Directions
The day before you plan to make the tacos, combine the heavy cream and buttermilk in a glass bowl or jar with a lid and stir or shake well to blend thoroughly. Allow to sit in a warm place, unrefrigerated, until cream is thickened and somewhat "set," up to 6 hours. Shake well and refrigerate overnight before using.

In a blender or in the bowl of a food processor, combine 1/2 cup of the onion, the garlic, 3 tablespoons of the vegetable oil, half of the lime juice, cumin, oregano and 1 teaspoon of the salt. Process until smooth. Place the flank steak in a shallow non-reactive dish and spoon the marinade over the meat. Turn the steak so that both sides of the meat are in contact with the marinade and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours, turning occasionally.

While the meat is marinating, prepare the poblanos: Place the poblanos over a direct flame and roast, turning occasionally with tongs, until the skin is charred and blistered all over. Transfer to a container with a tight-fitting lid, cover, and let sit for 20 minutes. Remove the poblanos and, when cool enough to handle, carefully remove the charred skin by rubbing with your fingers. Remove the stems and any seeds and, if necessary, rinse briefly under cool running water to remove any remaining skin. Slice the poblanos into thin strips and place in a small mixing bowl. Set aside at room temperature for up to 2 hours, until ready to serve the tacos. (Poblanos may be roasted 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container. Bring to room temperature before using.)

Preheat a grill to high.

Place the onion slices on a flat surface and insert 1 or 2 toothpicks into the concentric rings in order to hold the rings together on the grill. Brush the slices on both sides with 1 tablespoon of the remaining olive oil and place the onion slices on the grill. Grill, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on the edges and soft, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the toothpicks from the onion slices and add the onions to the poblanos, separating the onion rings with your fingers. Toss to combine. The heat from the hot onion slices will warm the poblanos. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of lime juice and season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Set aside until ready to serve the tacos.

Remove the meat from the marinade and shake or use a spoon to remove any excess. Rub the meat all over with the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and season on both sides with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Grill the steak, turning once, to the desired degree of doneness; for medium rare, this should be 6 to 8 minutes per side. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes.

While the meat is resting, heat the corn tortillas as instructed on the package. Wrap in aluminum foil to keep warm.

When the meat has rested, slice against the grain into very thin strips and serve, with the warm tortillas, poblano-onion mixture and crema. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.

This one also looked good

Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Roasted Poblano Chiles, Grilled Onions and Mexican Crema

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons buttermilk

• 3/4 cup finely chopped onion

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil

• 1/4 cup lime juice

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crumbled

• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 1 3/4 pounds flank steak, trimmed of surface fat and silverskin

• 4 to 6 poblano chiles

• 2 large onions, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices

• Toothpicks for securing onion slices on grill

• 12 to 16 corn tortillas

• 2 limes, cut into wedges, optional

Directions

The day before you plan to make the tacos, combine the heavy cream and buttermilk in a glass bowl or jar with a lid and stir or shake well to blend thoroughly. Allow to sit in a warm place, unrefrigerated, until cream is thickened and somewhat "set," up to 6 hours. Shake well and refrigerate overnight before using.

In a blender or in the bowl of a food processor, combine 1/2 cup of the onion, the garlic, 3 tablespoons of the vegetable oil, half of the lime juice, cumin, oregano and 1 teaspoon of the salt. Process until smooth. Place the flank steak in a shallow non-reactive dish and spoon the marinade over the meat. Turn the steak so that both sides of the meat are in contact with the marinade and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours, turning occasionally.

While the meat is marinating, prepare the poblanos: Place the poblanos over a direct flame and roast, turning occasionally with tongs, until the skin is charred and blistered all over. Transfer to a container with a tight-fitting lid, cover, and let sit for 20 minutes. Remove the poblanos and, when cool enough to handle, carefully remove the charred skin by rubbing with your fingers. Remove the stems and any seeds and, if necessary, rinse briefly under cool running water to remove any remaining skin. Slice the poblanos into thin strips and place in a small mixing bowl. Set aside at room temperature for up to 2 hours, until ready to serve the tacos. (Poblanos may be roasted 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container. Bring to room temperature before using.)

Preheat a grill to high.

Place the onion slices on a flat surface and insert 1 or 2 toothpicks into the concentric rings in order to hold the rings together on the grill. Brush the slices on both sides with 1 tablespoon of the remaining olive oil and place the onion slices on the grill. Grill, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on the edges and soft, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the toothpicks from the onion slices and add the onions to the poblanos, separating the onion rings with your fingers. Toss to combine. The heat from the hot onion slices will warm the poblanos. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of lime juice and season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Set aside until ready to serve the tacos.

Remove the meat from the marinade and shake or use a spoon to remove any excess. Rub the meat all over with the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and season on both sides with the remaining teaspoon of salt. Grill the steak, turning once, to the desired degree of doneness; for medium rare, this should be 6 to 8 minutes per side. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes.

While the meat is resting, heat the corn tortillas as instructed on the package. Wrap in aluminum foil to keep warm.

When the meat has rested, slice against the grain into very thin strips and serve, with the warm tortillas, poblano-onion mixture and crema. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.

also recently I had tried Emeril's Yucatan Lime Soup (see below) but it was not as good as I thought it was going to be . It was too limey or something needed to be with it to make the Lime better.

Sopa de Lima (Yucatan Lime Soup) was e-mailed
Emeril Lagasse
Sopa de Lima (Yucatan Lime Soup)

Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse, 2006

Show: Emeril LiveEpisode: Mexican Mania with Rick Bayless

Ingredients

* 8 corn tortillas
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil
* Salt
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1 celery rib, thinly sliced
* 1 carrot, thinly sliced
* 1 jalapeno or serrano pepper, stemmed, seeded and finely chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 bay leaf
* 1/4 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crumbled
* 1 large tomato, peeled and chopped
* 8 cups chicken stock or canned low sodium chicken broth
* 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 2 green onions, finely chopped
* 3 limes, juiced (about 1/3 cup)
* 1 large avocado, pee

Directions

Cut the tortillas into 1/4-inch strips. Heat the oil in a medium skillet and, when very hot, fry the tortilla strips, in small batches, until lightly golden and crisp, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer to paper towel lined plate to drain. Season with salt, to taste. Repeat until all tortilla strips have been fried. Set fried tortilla strips aside and reserve the vegetable oil.

Transfer 1 tablespoon of the reserved cooking oil to a large saucepan and add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and jalapeno pepper. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until vegetables have softened, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic, bay leaf, and Mexican oregano and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the tomato and season lightly with salt. Cook, stirring, until the tomato is softened and has released its liquid and the mixture is nearly dry, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the chicken stock and chicken breasts and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a slow simmer and cook until the chicken is just cooked through, 12 to 15 minutes. Remove chicken from the soup and set aside until cool enough to handle. Allow soup to continue simmering.

When the chicken has cooled a bit, shred into bite size pieces and return to the pot along with the green onions and lime juice. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the soup is piping hot. Season the soup, to taste, with salt and ladle the soup into wide soup bowls, with a handful of tortilla strips added to each bowl. Garnish with the avocado and cilantro and serve immediately.

I found this one that was pretty similar
http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1648,130176-249196,00.html

another recipe had a pinch of cloves in it and maybe that is what was missing in some of these soups. The Worcestershire sauce might be the missing "keep it up another level " that I was looking for. I will let you know when I try it. If you try it first let me know!

CHICKEN, LIME AND TORTILLA SOUP

1/2 lb. chicken breast, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken stock
juice of 3 limes
1/2 cup tomato juice
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 tsp. chopped green chilies
1 jalapeno, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
3 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup rice
1/4 cup corn
1 avocado per each bowl (diced small)
1 cup mixed Mexican cheese (shredded)
1 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
salt to taste
tortilla strips

Simmer chicken stock, tomato, Worcestershire, and lime juices with the jalapeno, cilantro for 45 minutes.
While simmering; grill the chicken until cooked all of the way through, then dice into small cubes or strips.

Strain soup and add green onion, chilies, red bell pepper, rice, corn, garlic and simmer for 20 minutes.

Place the tortilla strips, diced Avocado and shredded cheese on a side plate to be added by the guests as desired. (To make sure that your avocado doesn't turn brown toss it in some extra lime juice.)

Splendid Soups: Recipes and Master Techniques for Making the World's Best Soups

Friday, December 12, 2008

Turkey Cholent Crockpot

When it comes to cold, winter weather, this Jewish type hearty stew is really good . This is a version I just made up but you can use any kind of poultry, lamb, turkey, beef etc.

Turkey Cholent Crockpot
by Eric Flescher
Kansas City Traveling Gourmet
http://cpmputergourmet.blogspot.com/

Turkey wings, pieces of turkey, turkey thighs (you can also use chicken, beef flanken etc)
1 onion, chopped fine
2 tablespoons oil
1 tbls Hungarian / Spanish or hot Paprika
1/2 cup medium barley ( is used Quick Barley from Quaker but you can use other)
15 bean prepackaged soup ( I used Hurst's but not the package flavoring that came in a little package)
5 or 6 beef marrow or neck bones
2 cloves garlic, chopped fine or put through a press cold water
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

1. Get crockpot or pan.
2. Rinse barley in a sieve under cold running water, until water runs clear. Pick over beans and rinse thoroughly.
3. Brown meat and onions in oil in wok, pan or crockpot.
4. Add barley, beans, turkey bones and garlic to meat and onions in the saucepan. Add enough to cover, and bring to a boil over high heat or if use crockpot let it simmer on low for overnight while covered. Season with salt and pepper.
5.A few hours before serving, check the cholent. If it's too dry, add some water. If it's too moist, uncover and leave it in the oven to dry.
6. Spoon into dishes or plate, add meat, Dash some exgtra salt or spices as needed or wanted and enjoy.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Orange Beef-Style Tofu Stir-Fry

I thought my wife would like some tofu and more for dinner. I found this nice recipe. This was the first time I crisped the tofu well by by putting weight on them to take the water out of it. Then mixed in cornstarch to coat before frying.

Orange Beef-Style Tofu Stir-Fry

SUBMITTED BY: JACKSKELLINGTON PHOTO BY: BalancingLife
"When I get a craving for orange beef, I make up this tofu stir-fry! Pieces of firm tofu in a mildly spicy orange sauce. Serve over rice noodles, and use any vegetables you like!"
RECIPE RATING:
The reviewer gave this recipe 84 stars. This recipe average a 4.2 star rating.
Read Reviews (69)
Review/Rate This Recipe
PREP TIME 15 Min
COOK TIME 15 Min
READY IN 30 Min
SERVINGS
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Servings


US METRIC
INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)

* 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 1 (16 ounce) package firm tofu, drained and cut into strips
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1/2 cup orange juice
* 1/4 cup warm water
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1 teaspoon chili paste ( I used Sirachi)
* 1 teaspoon cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 2 carrots, sliced

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DIRECTIONS

1. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Place the 1/4 cup cornstarch in a dish; press tofu slices in the cornstarch to coat on all sides. Stir-fry in the wok 5 minutes, or until golden brown on all sides. Drain tofu on paper towels. Allow wok to cool, and wipe clean.
2. In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, orange juice, water, sugar, chili paste, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in the wok, and stir-fry the carrots until tender. Form a well in the center of the carrots, and pour in the sauce. Bring sauce to a boil. Mix tofu into the wok, and continue cooking until coated with the sauce.

FOOTNOTE

*
We have determined the nutritional value of oil for frying based on a retention value of 10% after cooking. The exact amount may vary depending on cook time and temperature, ingredient density, and the specific type of oil used.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Can you eat a 72 oz steak?

I've been around Amarillo while stormchasing but have not gotten to this place. I can eat a lot but I am older now and I doubt I could achieve this challenge. Here is a webcam that you can see what is going on and more.

Home of the Big Texan 72 oz steak eating challenge.

http://www.bigtexan.com/72ozlive.php

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Tomato BBQ Sauces

Tomato BBQ Sauces are ones I really like. They are traditionally thick and sweet barbecue sauces. Here is more about dos and don'ts in a good article I found
http://bbq.about.com/od/barbecuesauce/a/aa020798.htm?nl=1

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Hamburger perfection

I was trying to find some Hamburger perfection tonight.

I found some recipes in the 60 minutes Gourmet by Pierre Franey which might wife must have bought and which I have never tried.

There was an interesting burger recipe Steak Hache avec Oeufs a Cheval (I could actually use my french). This one called for making a burger. It called for something (taking it to the next level hopefully) and making a sauce topping with
4 tspn butter
4 eggs
6-12 anchovy fillets
2 tblspn capers
1 tblspn parsley

The book has an introduction by Craig Claiborne.

I took out my book which I have used sparingly The Tabasco Cookbook and found that Claiborne's Ultimately Hamburger.
It's recipe including using butter, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco (hey that is what this book is all about it) , juice of 1 lemon and parsley.

So I decided to blend both recipes. Craig's was in the burger itself and the Franey would go on the top. I liked the dash of saltiness, the egg and burger. It was different 9/10.

I then found a yahoo blog with Jeffrey Steingarten (whom I see a lot on Iron Chef America) while searching for his blog. This blog piece was very interesting.

http://food.yahoo.com/blog/ahamburgertoday/4653/vogue-s-8-steps-to-hamburger-perfection

He suggested adding a bit of water to the meat.
Another chef, he found, says flip it every 30 seconds to char the outside and keep the inside moist.
Pepperidge Farm's Farmhouse Sandwich Rolls (not the company's classic hamburger buns) are said to be the best.
He liked using a blend of two parts chuck, two parts boneless short rib, and one part brisket.

Meanwhile there are reviews from chains.

http://food.yahoo.com/blog/ahamburgertoday/40/national-burger-chain-taste-test

Well they don't do many of them but some that they are found include Red Robin and ones around here. I was once in Red Robin and don't think much of it at all. Yeah they have a great variety but they are too pricey. I am not interested in paying $8 and more for a burger that really costs $4 or less.
Of course there are some exceptions so if you find them, let me know.
I think Backyard Burger (not mentioned in blog) is good. They haver a good char flavor.


I like to make my own. I don't usually have a burger when I go out to a restaurant. I am usually looking for something ethnic or different. Burgers I can make at home.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Like rubs and marinades? Run and buy this book as soon as you can as you are really missing out

Marinades: Dry Rubs, Pastes and Marinades for Poultry, Meat, Seafood, Cheese and Vegetables (Paperback)
Run and buy this book as soon as you can as you are really missing out. I bought it in the 1990's and always still making fanatastic recipes from this book.. There are all kinds of US and worldy marinades, rubs and more. The contents divide the book into 10 categories including about marinades , rubs and pastes, stocking the pantry, vinegars, all tyes of marindes, even for shellfish, vegetables, lamb, and even rabbit, game birds, venison. Several marinades and rubs can be used for different meat etc. Also has section on salsas, chutneys, The directions are clear and easy to read. The index is well done. The chart "Marinades at a glance, is another way to find what you are looking for. There is short set of pages where to find and purchase Indian spices, Asian staples and more (but you really should be able to find most of the ingredients locally).
I have tried so many all excellent. These included spicy tomato marinade for fish (9.8/10); Thai marinade (9.8/10); Thai cocont (9.8/10); pineapple jalapeno salsa (9.8/10). Many more I have tried are a great just a tad less in my rating but fantastic none the less.

http://www.amazon.com/Marinades-Pastes-Poultry-Seafood-Vegetables/dp/0895945312

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Book review: The Korean Kitchen


I have quite a few Asian and other cookbooks. I have been to several Korean restaurants, tried some and found recipes in these books I have and on the internet. My two kids gave me this book as a present (it is the older one from 1993). The author writes for many magazines but it seems like he is more a traveler then a chef. But still he must like the food enough to be able to write about it and post the 140 recipes in the book. The book does not have photos but that does not bother me. I can cook and I don't need the fancy photos. It is the ingredients and the instructions that are important. The ingredients are easy to find and use. American based measurements are used so you don't have to hunt. The Seng Sun bulgogi BBQ (spiced fish) was very good (9.7/10). I marinated the fish with the paste and put the fish on my gas grill. Fish came out great with a little kick to it and a level above average stuff which is what I look for. It was different. There is a good variety of recipes for kimchi (spiced cabbage), vegetables, soups, rice and noodles and meat and poultry.I've only gotten started but you can bet I will try more of the recipes. It's a good place to start with Korean recipes if you want to go beyond regular Chinese. (PS Don't be scared that the recipes might be too hot. They aren't but you can always scale the ingredients up or down a bit. So don't let Korean, Thai, Vietnamese or other Asian foods scare you away because you think it is too spicy (which is what I always hear). You don't know what you are missing if you don't go beyond Chinese.)