Crispy Chinese Duck with California Slaw

California Cuisine – Crispy Chinese Duck with California Slaw

Did anyone see that movie LA Story with Steve Martin in the in 80’s? It was so entertaining, and had all these jokes in it that are not as funny today because so many of the jokes actually came true.  The point is, there is this really funny scene where someone is asking what type […]

Herb Garden Pot

There is nothing like being able to cook with fresh herbs, don’t you agree?  I have heard many a famous chef describe fresh parsley adding elements of ‘zing’ or ‘color’ or ‘interest’ and shortly afterwards compare dried parsley to confetti, something NEVER to grace a chef’s meal.  Similar sentiments are used to describe fresh basil […]

Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies (wheat-free soy-free vegan cookies) (actually wheat, dairy, nut, soy and egg free cookies – Oh My!)

  No, I have not taken some sort of strange hallucinogenic turn down a windy path.  I have not ingested any acid, or other illegal drug.  I have not had such a drastic hormone swing post-childbirth (my youngest daughter is now 1 WHOLE MONTH old) that I have forgotten how awesome bread and pasta are. […]

Nectarine Pie and Mindfulness

There is something gloriously cathartic about making a fresh pie crust.  For me I happened to find that is a true opportunity to practice mindfulness… Which is actually a form of meditation.  Theoretically it helps your brain sort out and clean out and organize things better when you meditate or practice mindfulness. What a bonus […]

Asparagus – Roasted Asparagus with Soft Cooked Eggs

So it turns out you can actually grow your own asparagus. Who knew? I’m no stranger to having a vegetable garden, mind you. But asparagus has always seemed a little extra intimidating.  As with anything, it takes time.  A productive asparagus bed must be mature… Like a few years old… And then it should produce […]

Your Own Chickens – Part 2: The Coop

As promised: After posting “Your own chickens and your very own eggs” earlier this month, we are sharing below are some accumulated learnings from having kept backyard chickens for the past few years.  We have found it very rewarding, and we love the extra ‘pets’ and really love the fresh wonderful free range eggs.   We […]