Category: Cocktails

Cocktails, Food

A Good Little Wife: Back in the Kitchen

lauraleeimhoff

I don’t know anyone that likes to be sick.  I think most would actually prefer to be at work or school than be home in bed.  I rarely get sick and when I do, it’s at the mercy of allergies.  This past week was one of the times I feel victim to seasonal allergies with a serving of mold allergies.  There was a stretch that I slept for 24 hours, not an exaggeration, which drove me to go to the doctor.  Something I avoid at all costs because I know it always results in antibiotics. On three, 1, 2, 3,…. UGH!

I’m on the mend, finally.  I have an urge to move around the house, cook, and get back to making things.  While I still a have limited energy, the sun has been such a driving power… and the salsa music… and the coffee, of course, the coffee.

I have my next batch of jam simmering away (details soon) but I just have to share some of my kitchen creations, as of the last few months I have felt completely uninspired in this department.

Saag PaneerFullSizeRender

Indian food is my favorite.  Hands down.  It’s what I consider comfort food at its best.  A world of complex flavors that warm the soul.  Saag Paneer (spinach & cheese) is my go to when I am feeling blue.  It has been tough to find a recipe that I like, but, believe it or not, I nailed one down!  Of course, I amped up the amount of ginger, garlic, and spice, but it’s a good one!   (Click here for the recipe)

 

IMG_1983Infused Rum

Ok, so I can’t drink at the moment due to being on antibiotics, but boy, oh boy, this one is going to be a treat once I’m in the clear to have an adult beverage!

2 cups of white rum + 1 cup pineapple + 1 tsp. red chili flakes = cocktail in 2 weeks.

I’m hoping for some sweet and spicy goodness! Just add club soda!

 

Juice, Juice, Juice

I really like to say that I am not a picky eater.  I was raised to eat what was put in IMG_1975front of me, because there are starving children all over the world.  Admittedly, there are a few things I just cannot stand: my grandmothers hot red sauerkraut with vinegar being at the top of that list. Raw celery, number two.  If I have the opportunity, I pass on cooking with parsley or munching on a green apple.  Feeling under the weather lately and having no appetite, I know that parsley and green apple are so good for you, so I bent my rules.

(4 Granny Smith + 1/2 bunch Parsley)/juicer = DAMN!

I’ve made this 3 times this week! That has to say something about how good it is, right?

Enjoy!

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Cocktails, Recipes, Uncategorized

Last of the Season: Melons & Margaritas

lauraleeimhoff

IMG_0258Summer is slowly coming to an end, which in Texas, means cooler weather is rapidly approaching. In fact, we actually got some this weekend, but I’m not holding my breath as this weeks forecast is back up in the nineties.  While we are all itching to bust out our sweaters and scarves, This particular seasonal crossover allows for glorious finds at the farmers market. The last cucumbers, melons, and peppers are still making an appearance, but the fall favorites are starting to show themselves too. Although, I am eagerto be able to walk outside without my make up sliding off my face, I am not quite ready to let summer slip through my fingers. Reflecting on these last few months, I definitely got in my vacation time, hiking, swimming at the springs, but the one thing I did not get my fill of are summer fruit and margaritas. Now, in most cases, they don’t have to be combined. In this instance, I went for the most bang for my buck. Inspired by Rio Rita’s Honeydew Thyme infused tequila, I grabbed a cantaloupe and jalapeños from the farmers market. I’ve dipped my fingers into infusing many a time (yes, the rumors of bacon infused vodka are true), but for the sake of quenching my thirst, the juicer came out!

I’m looking forward to drinking this Jalapeño Cantaloupe Margarita next year, all summer long.

Jalapeño Cantaloupe Margarita

  • 1/2 cantaloupe, cubed
  • 1 jalapeño (seeds removed)
  • 1 lime- tequila of choice-triple sec (or Cointreau)
  • ice
  • agave (optional)

Put cantaloupe, jalapeño, and half of the lime through the juicer. In a glass, pour 2 parts tequila and 1 part triple sec over ice, top off with melon pepper mix. Garnish with lime wedge.

Note: I find margaritas are very personal, just like coffee in the morning. Some like them stronger, sweeter, or more sour. I dissolved a little agave and shook it in with the mix and tequila. However, you like your margarita, this one is delicious! Enjoy!