Corvuskorax's Profile

Lychee fruit (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lychee). While commonly found at most Asian markets when in season, they had them on sale at a large chain market (I'm assuming because they mistakenly ordered them or got a deal on them), so we picked up a few. We had tasted lychee fruit mixed in things before (Ramune lychee soda, jelly, candies, etc.), but never fresh. They were surprisingly easy to peel and wonderfully sweet. The flavor can't really be compared to anything, but the texture is like that of a peeled grape. Definitely would be right at home in a fruit salad.

In my opinion, astringent is the way to go for flavor. With so many starchy, savory, and sweet dishes around, something bright and tangy will be a welcome reprieve. I will, however, be a rare vote against a salad, because realistically diners will likely overlook the dish in favor of more indulgent options ('tis the season, after all).

A green side that's always a big hit with our dinner guests: braised asparagus. You can vary the recipe slightly to either be rich or (nearly) fat-free.

You'll need: olive oil, 1-2 bunches of asparagus (with tough ends removed), 3 or more sliced cloves of garlic, the juice of 1-2 lemons, and salt & pepper for seasoning.

Warm a large, non-reactive skillet over medium-high heat. Coat lightly with olive oil (or cover the bottom with oil for richer version). Add asparagus with the sliced garlic cloves and cook, stirring frequently until softened slightly. For lighter version, add a splash (1/8 c.) of water and cover tightly, steaming the asparagus for 4 minutes. Richer version, omit water and continue to sauté until softened to preference.

Now for flavoring-- whatever method used, once the asparagus is a little "al denté", add the lemon juice and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the lemon juice is reduced and clings to the asparagus. Serve hot or cold. Reheats well in the microwave or a skillet.

Bonus: The lemon juice will turn the asparagus tips bright magenta. Makes for a colorful presentation!

We're putting together a small assortment of N'awlins dishes to celebrate Mardi Gras.. So far we have muffulettas, etouffee, beignets, jambalaya and king cake with cream cheese. Not enough people know about all the wonderful cuisine you can find on the streets of NO. I'd also recommend Po'Boys or Red Beans and Rice for something a little more interesting/easy.

Hope your party goes well!

I think it largely depends on what type of iron bed you have. We have an original from the late 1800's and it's amazing! The bars are close enough together that you CAN sit back in bed and read without the pillows slipping (unless your pillow is made of jello), it's so heavy and sturdy it doesn't bang against anything, ever, during even the most enthusiastic activities and I've yet to stub my toe on it. Plus the springs are original as well (weird waffled things), so it's the best night's sleep if you're looking for support. Plus having lots of bars is good for tying things to.. ..Ahem. Like a key lanyard. Yeaah.

I love our giant metal bed. Would I put a very modern platform one in a guest room? Probably. But only in a guest room. :-)

I third the Furminator. Every single person I know of who has ever bought one has never had a bad word to say about it, including me. Plus it has a lifetime guarantee, so if something bad did happen, you can replace it for free.

Also, add some oils (like Halo's Dream Coat which has a proper balance of Omegas or any type of supplemental Salmon Oil you can buy at a Pet Store) to your cat's diet and make sure it's on a good food (Evo, Cal. Natural, Halo, Innova, Fromm, or a raw diet like Primal, just to name a few). This will cut down the shedding more than a brush ever will.

Great tool for any cook, but more importantly, The North Market is a great resource for any foody.

<3 for Columbus.

I would have to use the Dutch Oven for a potato and egg-dumpling stew with fresh veggies! And how nice to cook in such beautiful colors.

I'd love to regift these to my sweetie.

These plates would always make me smile.

Twigs sounds interesting, I'd love to smell if it is..