ChezUS's Profile

The one thing I always have in my Toiletry Bag!

I have to completely agree with this post. Panna Cotta is often my go-to dessert to serve during large dinner parties. A basic buttermilk or cream panna cotta is the perfect canvas when creating the perfect ending to an evening. One of my favorite ones to make is a Vanilla Bean Buttermilk with a Passion Fruit gelee .... so refreshing.

Gorgeous my friend! I am a huge tart and quiche fan, but never think of making simply for the two of us. That is about to change. Thank you for the inspiration!

Have wanted this chair forever!

I am all about the soft boiled egg and have been since I was a kid. I had a doctor who I referred to as the "witch doctor" who said if I ate a soft boiled egg and chicken soup for a week it would cure my Bronchitis. It did. Now when I feel it coming on I start up with the same process. No meds ... just good ole fashioned soft boiled eggs. We actually did an entire series on the Perfect Egg http://chezus.com/2009/04/13/the-incredible-edible-egg-how-to-soft-boil-an-egg-perfectly/

I love making "new baby boxes". My friend Evelyn got me into it about 12 years ago and I think I enjoy putting together this meal, more than buying the baby gifts. I tend to keep the meal on the meatless side, just because they are probably looking for a break from heavy foods and having to cook too much. I always make a great homemade pasta sauce, either tomato based or a pesto. I make enough to enjoy and enough for their freezer. Then I pack it up with some really good pastas, fixings for a fresh salad (complete with homemade dressing), crusty bread, fresh cheese and a baked goodie such as Barefoot Contessa's brownies or my lemon bars. Then I add a bottle of wine or champagne (if they like bubbles). If there are other children already in the house, then I add a bottle of bubbly cider or grape juice for them as well as a book or puzzle, after all, they are probably feeling a little neglected.

I have always been a believer that dinner time should be made a bit more special as it is a way of coming together. It does not have to be formal; but, we do light candles and have music on. Time to talk about the day, the past and the future, while enjoying delicious food. I, also, find if I plan out the weeks dinner menu then there is less waste. I have a loose plan and shop every couple days and only buy what we are going to eat. Saves time and we eat everything we purchase.

I have not had a peanut butter sandwich with honey forever. Guess I know what I am having for lunch today.

Great list of comfort ...

This is one of our favorite ways to cook beets. We were just camping and did the same thing over the camp fire - amazing as they slightly caramelize and then all you do is drizzle a little balsamic over them. Perfect.

We do the same thing when camping. Thyme is great dipped into butter and brushed over meaty mushrooms.