This is a sweeter, chewier, lighter and richer version of Traditional Irish Soda Bread. And, in my opinion and experience, seems to be more in harmony with the American taste. The conventional Irish Soda bread simply combines flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk; it’s not sweet and has a very dense, somewhat doughy crumb. Most…
Tag: fruit
Bailey’s Donegal Oatmeal Creme
I wish to thank all of my dear friends for seeing me through a recent, nasty bout of flu. I’m slowly emerging from the quagmire and I have much catch up to play. As the air continues to clear I will thank each and everyone of you for your support and lovely comments. You were…
Fluffy Made From Scratch Pancakes & a little history
It’s National Pancake Week (I think) and we kicked off the week with an Americanized version of savory French crepes. Today I’m bringing you the history behind pancakes and the best, fluffy, made from scratch recipe…ever! It’s said the origin of pancakes can be traced back to the Ancient Greeks who made a form of…
Catsup or Ketchup? The Victorian Era Cure-All & Some Other Saucy Claims
The British-based “ketchup” or American-named “catsup” is a tomato-based table sauce used for dunking fries, spiraling on hot dogs and glazing meatloaf…on and on. However, in the Victorian Era, it held some pretty saucy claims. European traders were first introduced to the thick red pottage while visiting the Far East in the late 17th century….
Balsamic: The Real Deal or Knock Off?
Did you know that real aged balsamic vinegar actually costs anywhere from $75 to $400 or more? Here are a few reasons why: Balsamic vinegar is NOT like other vinegars. What defines vinegar is the fermentation of alcohol — typically wine but also beer or cider — into acetic acid. Red wine vinegar, white wine…
Dutch Baby: The Eggsellent, Super Easy, Delectable, Dutch Delight
This Pennsylvania Dutch cross between custard, pancake and semi-sweet popover is puffy and roundish on the the outside and flat in the center offering the perfect nest for sliced fresh fruit, jam, preserves, apple butter or a combination. This “baby” is airy, light and makes a beautiful presentation with a little added whipped cream. The…
7 Prosperous Good Luck Foods for the New Year
“Out with the old in with the new.” This age old wish rings true in most every home on New Year’s Eve and Day. Why not welcome in the year proper with the addition of your favorite foods to ensure good fortune? Here are the wondrous 7 to help lead the way. Fish Fish are…
Christmas Beginnings: Rosemary Corn Mini Muffins with Country Ham & Cranberry Chutney
I’m always searching for recipes that include fresh, pungent rosemary. Our garden here in Arizona is filled with fountains of the piney herb filled with a tea-like aroma. These delightful, corn infused, sweet and savory mini muffins are a crowd pleaser –perfect for dinnertime beginnings during any holiday season. They can be made up to 2…
Christmas Gift Ideas: “Lovely Layers in a Jar” White Chocolate Cranberry Pistachio Cookies with Oats
I’ve always loved the idea of giving and receiving layered dry baked goods in a Mason jar. They can be safely tucked away in the pantry for later use, once the sweetness of the Holidays are through and one needs a gentle, delightful reminder of the over and done festivities. Simply print out the recipe,…
Guest Chef Cookie Exchange! Anna’s Italian Orange Ricotta Cookies Scented with Cardamom
Anna’s Italian Orange Scented Ricotta Cookies These luscious Ricotta cookies are typically flavored with lemon. However, Anna prefers a more distinctive orange flavor kissed with cardamom. She uses whole milk ricotta only; giving them a soft, cake-like texture and the fresh orange zest imparts a burst of bright citrus essence. The icing also has orange…
Once Upon a Spice 