I miss traveling. The anticipation when planning a trip, foreign foods, experiencing new places, meeting people around the world. I miss it all. Undoubtedly, you do too. While countries outside the United States may be closed for now, we can still create our own foreign getaway at home. A few years ago I spent the summer in Paris. The City of Light is known for its fashion, cosmopolitan vibrancy, and delicious food! While there, I learned how the Parisians entertain. It’s easy! So, if we can’t go to Paris, let’s bring Paris to us! Call a few friends to join you for a Parisian evening. There are a few basic customs and items you’ll need to add oh la la to your fun party! I’ve included links to help you find pieces that will make your gathering truly French. Here are tips on how you can host a French themed dinner party! Dinner Party Ambiance ~ Lighting, Music and Flowers The French are masters of presentation. They take a simple gesture and make it spectacular. Candlelight is a must on any table. Turn down the lights and place a few candles down the center. Voluspa suede blanc candle ~This beauty has a subtle scent and gorgeous packaging. Burn time is 100 hours, so you’ll have it for many different occasions. Voluspa Goji & Taracco candle in a red jar ~The crimson color will add a pop of color to your table. Taper candle holder set ~A classic set of white taper candleholders are truly elegant. Music playing softly in the background sets the mood at a dinner party. Whether you use a streaming audio service or old fashion CD’s, choose a genre that evokes an evening in Paris. Two of my favorite are: Karrin Allyson ~ From Paris to Rio ~Multilingual
I miss traveling. The anticipation when planning a trip, foreign foods, experiencing new places, meeting people around the world. I miss it all. Undoubtedly, you do too. While countries outside the United States may be closed for now, we can still create our own foreign getaway at home. A few years ago I spent the
French Polynesia is a breathtaking archipelago in the South Pacific an 8.5 hour flight southwest of Los Angeles. A total of 118 islands over 2,500 square miles make up the territory. Many of them are uninhabited. But, breathtaking Tahiti, Bora Bora, Mo'orea and a few other atolls call the area home and are popular tourist destinations. Papeete is the capitol of French Polynesia and located on Tahiti. Although two towering volcanic cones make Tahiti habitable only along the coast and valleys, it boasts the highest population of any surrounding islands. Nightlife, entertainment, and shopping are vacationers' activities of choice on Papeete. Most airlines fly into Papeete, making it the jumping off point for travel throughout French Polynesia. Mo'orea island lies 12 miles away and is more laid back. Ferries run on a regular schedule. The scenic crossing takes 30 minutes. Mo'orea's varied terrain ranges from white coral sand beaches to rainforest and cattle farms inland. As with all the islands, the diverse marine life makes snorkeling a highlight. Another stunning French Polynesian island is Bora Bora. Surrounded by a turquoise lagoon and protective coral reef, it's nicknamed "leading lady." Bora Bora's beaches are ranked among the top 10 in the world, and a scuba divers' paradise. Luxury resort bungalows perched over the water on stilts are coveted by vacationers. A few fun facts about French Polynesia...the fragrant tiaré flower is used to signify relationship status. Placing the single white flower behind your left ear shows you're in a relationship. Placing it behind the right ear means you're single. Vanilla beans and pineapples are two widely grown crops on the islands. Noa Noa Vanilla Paste with it's thick consistency and bits of vanilla bean seeds is a favorite souvenir. Tahitian pineapples and the libations made with them are a close second. French
French Polynesia is a breathtaking archipelago in the South Pacific an 8.5 hour flight southwest of Los Angeles. A total of 118 islands over 2,500 square miles make up the territory. Many of them are uninhabited. But, breathtaking Tahiti, Bora Bora, Mo’orea and a few other atolls call the area home and are popular tourist
Irish brown soda bread is served in homes and restaurants throughout Ireland. Its rustic, nutty flavor are the perfect addition to a meal. This bread is savory, not sweet. Traditionally served warm with salted butter alongside hearty stews, citrus jellies on top are another favorite spread for breakfast with a pot of tea. Most families have their own Irish brown soda bread recipe passed down through the generations. It's an integral part of daily life. Baking techniques vary. Northern Ireland regions divide the dough into quarters and cook the sections on a griddle. The south's Republic of Ireland bakes loaves in a round pan and cuts a cross on top of the dough prior to placing it in the oven. Modern versions of the staple include raisins, seeds, honey, even Guinness. But the classic Irish brown soda bread sticks to the basics such as the following recipe. Enjoy! Ingredients: ● 2 cups whole wheat flour ● 1 cup bran flour ● 1/4 cup wheat germ (the center of the wheat kernel) ● 1 cup All-purpose flour ● 2 tsp. sugar ● 1 tsp. salt ● 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda ● 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder ● 2 cups buttermilk Recipe & Preparation: 1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 2) Combine the whole wheat flour, bran flour, and wheat germ. 3) Add the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Stir all the ingredients together. 4) Pour in the buttermilk. Mix together with a spoon until the buttermilk is worked in and the flour has absorbed all the liquid. It will have a craggy texture. 5) Put the dough on a board. Not all cutting boards are created equal. Bamboo boards are durable, lightweight and most don't have added dyes or stains. Here is a good quality board: https://amzn.to/3yJqw7z
Irish brown soda bread is served in homes and restaurants throughout Ireland. Its rustic, nutty flavor are the perfect addition to a meal. This bread is savory, not sweet. Traditionally served warm with salted butter alongside hearty stews, citrus jellies on top are another favorite spread for breakfast with a pot of tea. Most families
Irish stew is native to Ireland and considered their national dish. There are numerous variations of the stew. Many households use beef for the protein, as well as potatoes, leeks, or cabbage. But, traditional Irish stew is made with lamb and root vegetables. In the Irish language the stew is called stobhach gaelach. Once a necessity during the early 19th century's economic turmoil, the attainable ingredients allowed impoverished families to survive on the stew. Today it's thought of as a comfort food. With its hearty fixin's, Irish stew is the perfect dish to cook during chilly months. Here is the recipe. Enjoy! Ingredients: ● 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil ● 4 1/2 pounds of lamb shoulder chops, 1” - 1 1/2” thick ● Salt + pepper ● 3 large onions, chopped ● 4 Tablespoons All-purpose flour ● 3 cups water ● 1 teaspoon dried thyme ● 1/2 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4” pieces ● 1 purple top turnip, peeled, stem end cut off. Cut turnip into 1” cubes ● 1/4 cup fresh minced parsley Recipe & Preparation: 1) In a Dutch oven put 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil. Turn to medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it. If you don't have a Dutch oven, it is worthwhile to purchase one. I love mine and use it a lot for cooking soups, sauces, stews, browning chicken, etc. Here is a good one you'll use for many years: https://amzn.to/4083Ycc 2) Cut lamb shoulder chops into 1 1/2” chunks. Season the meat with salt and pepper. 3) Cook the lamb in the Dutch oven in 2 batches. Cook the first side of meat about 2 minutes, until it begins to brown. Turn the pieces over and cook for about another 5 minutes. 4) After the lamb pieces are cooked, take them out and put
Irish stew is native to Ireland and considered their national dish. There are numerous variations of the stew. Many households use beef for the protein, as well as potatoes, leeks, or cabbage. But, traditional Irish stew is made with lamb and root vegetables. In the Irish language the stew is called stobhach gaelach. Once a
During COVID-19 when families around the globe are isolated, meals provide needed solace. Gathering for dinner is the great equalizer, and shows how similar we all are. Preparing food together draws us closer. This is a time to collectively cook global recipes which transcend borders and unify humanity. While traveling isn't possible now, experimenting with new global recipes is. Here's one of the global recipes to cook while in quarantine! White Chicken Enchiladas This oh so decadent enchilada recipe is popular with my husband’s Mexican family. It's exactly what is needed in times like these! 2 Tbs. Butter 2 onions, large & sliced thin 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced 6 oz. cream cheese, diced 2 cups Jack cheese, shredded 1/2 cup pimentos, chopped 2/3 cup whipping cream 12 corn tortillas 2 cups corn oil Salt and pepper Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large pan, cook onions in butter until soft (about 15 minutes). Remove from heat. Add chicken, pimento, and cream cheese. Mix with a fork. Season with salt and pepper. Heat corn oil in a skillet. Dip each corn tortilla in hot oil until it begins to blister and become limp. Take out of oil and place on plate with paper towels to drain. Repeat with all 12 tortillas. When tortillas are cool to the touch, spoon a 1/3 cup of chicken mixture onto a tortilla and roll. Set it seam side down in a 9” x 13” baking dish. Repeat with all 12 tortillas. After filling, rolling and placing all tortillas in the baking dish, spoon whipping cream over the enchiladas. Then sprinkle with the Jack cheese. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Serves six.
During COVID-19 when families around the globe are isolated, meals provide needed solace. Gathering for dinner is the great equalizer, and shows how similar we all are. Preparing food together draws us closer. This is a time to collectively cook global recipes which transcend borders and unify humanity. While traveling isn’t possible now, experimenting with new
Montreal is a city famous for its food. Boasting a culinary scene that’s at the forefront of innovation, it’s just one of the many reasons this cosmopolitan city is high on any traveller’s wish list. Foodie’s come from far and wide to experience the city's tried-and-tested favorites, classics with a twist and unusual flavor combinations. But, with curfews in place due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, in-dining experiences are limited. Many restaurants now offer their unique fares in the comfort of your own home. Takeout options have exploded. Here are just a few of our favorites. LOV on McGill Street Offering up elevated vegan and vegetarian plates, this stylish restaurant is popular with meat-eaters and vegans alike. Voted number 11 of 72 contemporary restaurants in Montreal, the whitewashed walls and intimate seating options make it a favorite with locals and tourists. Now available for takeout and delivery through Uber Eats, you don’t have to live without their mouth-watering plant-based deliciousness. However, it’s well worth returning to the Montreal restaurant when protocol allows. You'll experience the welcoming atmosphere that's mentioned in almost all of its 2,120 reviews. It’s even better if you can snag one of the hanging wicker chairs to enjoy it from! Boris Bistro on McGill Street With minors not allowed, this Montreal restaurant serving eclectic French fare is the perfect place to enjoy a grown-up night out. Complete with a buzzing and spacious terrace, Boris Bistro is a popular location come the summer months. Its vast selection of wines are now available to order at Boris Bistro for takeout. Those with gluten intolerance will be happy to know this Montreal restaurant is certified gluten-free! Maison Christian Faure on Place Royale Voted the number three bakery in Montreal, Maison Christian Faure should be a mandatory stop for anyone with a
Montreal is a city famous for its food. Boasting a culinary scene that’s at the forefront of innovation, it’s just one of the many reasons this cosmopolitan city is high on any traveller’s wish list. Foodie’s come from far and wide to experience the city’s tried-and-tested favorites, classics with a twist and unusual flavor combinations.
Irish food is underrated. Most think of fish and chips, potatoes or hardy soda bread when the Emerald Isle’s cuisine comes to mind. While those are delicious, Éire is also a county of fresh seafood, farm to table fare, and artisan sweets. While I explored Ireland, I sampled some of their best regional eats and they were delicious! Here are 5 local foods to try in Ireland! Tayto Original Irish Crisp Potato chips are called crisps in Ireland. Tayto is THE brand and has been a staple in pantries across the country since 1954. The original flavor is cheese and onion. They don’t produce a plain version. Other choices include prawn cocktail and smokey bacon, with limited editions of roasted chicken and pickled onion, to name a few. Being a self professed potato chip junkie, I’ve tasted different kinds of the savory snack around the world. Tayto is definitely one of the best. They’re light and have the right amount of salt. If you can’t wait until you visit Ireland to try the popular snack, they’re available to order here: https://amzn.to/3k8Aw6s. Quinland's Portmagee Crab Claws I still dream of these sizzling crustaceans tossed in garlic butter and served with crunchy sourdough bread. They’re fished in County Kerry’s village of Portmagee off the southwest coast of Ireland. Their motto is “from tide to table.” Papa Quinland started the business 60 years ago. His sons now run the show. They are maintaining the same freshness and sustainability. There are six Quinland Seafood Bars in the Republic of Ireland. They serve whatever has been caught; squid, salmon, prawns, hake. But I highly recommend the crab claws. Murphy's Brown Bread Ice Cream The most common bread in Ireland paired with cream from Kerry cows culminates is this super yummy ice cream.
Irish food is underrated. Most think of fish and chips, potatoes or hardy soda bread when the Emerald Isle’s cuisine comes to mind. While those are delicious, Éire is also a county of fresh seafood, farm to table fare, and artisan sweets. While I explored Ireland, I sampled some of their best regional eats and
The Lunar New Year is Sunday, January 22nd. The holiday is determined by a traditional Chinese calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycle and the Earth’s course around the sun. It falls on the second new moon after winter solstice. Each Lunar New Year is associated with an animal; 2023 is the year of the rabbit. Just as we do in America, people in China, Korea, Vietnam, Singapore and other countries celebrate their new year with favorite foods. Most importantly, many dishes are thought to bring good fortune, prosperity, and health in the year ahead. Over the years, I’ve hosted dozens of foreign exchange students from the Orient. Each taught me techniques for preparing foods from their homeland. I’m astonished how a few ingredients mingled in a pan result in such flavorful dishes. While the following recipes will adorn new year’s tables, they can be eaten year round. So grab your wok and let’s get cooking! Here are five, simple Lunar New Year recipes! Stir-Fried Lettuce Lettuce is a popular vegetable for Chinese New Year. The Cantonese word for lettuce sounds like “rising fortune.” For this reason it’s a must have at holiday feasts. Ingredients: 1 head iceberg lettuce 2 teaspoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon sugar ground pepper to taste 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 slice ginger (1/8” thick, smashed with the side of a knife) 1 clove of garlic (chopped) Recipe & preparation: Take the lettuce and firmly hit it on the counter, core side down. Turn over and remove the loosened core. Remove the outer layer and any discolored leaves of the lettuce. Discard. Tear the lettuce with your hands into large 4”- 5” pieces. Place the lettuce in a large bowl of very
The Lunar New Year is Sunday, January 22nd. The holiday is determined by a traditional Chinese calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycle and the Earth’s course around the sun. It falls on the second new moon after winter solstice. Each Lunar New Year is associated with an animal; 2023 is the year of
Ireland is even more awe-inspiring in person. Recently, I traveled throughout the country's southern part — the Republic of Ireland. Verdant pastures, historic estates, and grazing livestock provided picture-postcard scenery around every corner. Gazing at the Cliffs of Moher will leave you awestruck. The bluffs tower 702-feet over Clare coast and stretch five miles. They've been featured in movies including Harry Potter and The Princess Bride. It's only one of the natural beauties along the 1,500 mile Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland's west coast. Castles dating back hundreds of years dot the landscape. Blarney Castle in Cork County was constructed in 1446! Climbing the stone stairs to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, you imagine those who lived in the castle during the middle ages. The surrounding, award winning 60 acres of gardens add to the spectacle. Ashford Castle in Cong was built 800-years ago by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family. After numerous iterations, including home of the Guinness family, it became the five-star luxury hotel it is today. The owners painstakingly restored it back to the original grandeur while incorporating modern day amenities. A one night stay in this majestic manor is highly recommended. Ireland and sheep go hand-in-hand. If census numbers are correct, there are over five million sheep on the Emerald Isle! The fluffy bovidae are ubiquitous and add charm to the roadside meadows. Another quintessential animal throughout the country are Irish Wolfhound dogs. They were bred in Ireland to hunt wolfs, hence the name. Their substantial size is menacing. But, when I participated in an organized walk with four wolfhounds, I found them to be docile and sweet with people. The following photos are a snippet of the charm that makes Ireland a destination to put on your bucket list. Here are 10 photos to inspire you
Ireland is even more awe-inspiring in person. Recently, I traveled throughout the country’s southern part — the Republic of Ireland. Verdant pastures, historic estates, and grazing livestock provided picture-postcard scenery around every corner. Gazing at the Cliffs of Moher will leave you awestruck. The bluffs tower 702-feet over Clare coast and stretch five miles. They’ve
Ireland is a must-visit destination in Europe! On a recent trip to Southern Ireland I was amazed at the kindness of locals, the jaw-dropping natural beauty and the centuries-old castles dotting the countryside. Planning ahead allows you to make the most of your vacation. Certain tips save time and money while you're exploring the Emerald Isle. Here are 10 tips when planning your trip to Ireland! Check Your Passport to Make Sure It’s Not Expiring Within the Next Six Months Most countries require your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond completion of your trip. Some in the EU require only 3 months, others none. It’s better to err on the side of keeping your passport within six months to a year of expiration. That way there are no disappointments when arriving at the airport without the proper validity. With a valid US passport, you can stay up to 90 days for tourism or business during any six month period. Click here for up to date passport information to Ireland. Take an International Adaptor With Numerous Plugs The United States uses two plug types — types A and B. Plug A is the standard two flat prong device. Type B has three prongs; two flat and one grounding. While most of Europe uses type C, Ireland uses type G. As you can tell, this becomes confusing determining which country uses which plug. For this reason I purchased a universal travel adaptor. The one device converts USA plugs to UK, EU, and Australian outlets. It came in handy as I traveled through Ireland, Greece and Croatia. The universal adapter saves you from needing to purchase multiple adapters. Click here to shop the adaptor. If you use a hairdryer and hot tools, you’ll need a converter, as well. I found this
Ireland is a must-visit destination in Europe! On a recent trip to Southern Ireland I was amazed at the kindness of locals, the jaw-dropping natural beauty and the centuries-old castles dotting the countryside. Planning ahead allows you to make the most of your vacation. Certain tips save time and money while you’re exploring the Emerald
