​“Cooking Creates Community"     Cooking at home is more than a hobby for me, it's a continuation of a lifelong journey in the food industry. Drawing on years of experience as a food buyer and executive and home gardener, I bring a deep understanding of ingredients, sourcing, and culinary trends into my kitchen. Every dish I prepare is a blend of professional insight and personal passion, turning everyday meals into thoughtfully crafted experiences."

​                       “Cooking Creates Community,”
           ❤️ Heartfelt

• “From Our Kitchen to Yours—Where Every Meal Builds a Family.”
• “Gathered by Flavor, United by Heart.”

           😄 Playful

• “Whisk Together, Stick Together!”
• “Chop, Chat, Connect!”

           👩‍🍳 Professional/Inspirational

• “Crafting Connection, One Dish at a Time.”
• “Where Culinary Passion Meets Community Purpose.”

           🌍 Inclusive/Global

• “Many Cultures, One Table.”
• “Cooking Across Borders, Connecting Every Bite.”​

 Top-selling cookbooks for cooking at home,
​and here’s a curated list based on recent bestseller rankings and timeless classics:

All-Time Best-Selling Cookbooks
These have sold millions of copies and remain staples for home cooks:

1. Betty Crocker’s Picture Cook Book – Over 75 million copies sold; a classic for everyday recipes. [tastingtable.com]
2. Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer – A comprehensive guide to cooking techniques and recipes; over 20 million copies sold. [tastingtable.com]
3. Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child – A must-have for French cuisine enthusiasts. [tastingtable.com]

Modern Best-Sellers on Amazon (2025)
Perfect for quick, healthy, and diverse home cooking:

• The Well Plated Cookbook by Erin Clarke – Fast, healthy recipes for everyday meals. [thedailymeal.com]
• Super Quick & Simple Weeknight Cookbook by Clara Westwood – 10-minute, one-pan recipes for busy nights. [thedailymeal.com]
• The Complete Vegetarian Cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen – 700+ foolproof recipes for plant-forward eating. [thedailymeal.com]

Critically Acclaimed Favorites
Recommended by chefs and editors for inspiration and skill-building:

• The Art of Simple Food by Alice Waters – Celebrates seasonal, uncomplicated cooking. [unpeeledjournal.com]
• Larousse Gastronomique – The ultimate encyclopedia of culinary knowledge. [foodandwine.com]
• White Heat by Marco Pierre White – A legendary chef’s perspective on fine dining. [foodandwine.com]

Trending Titles (2025)

• Let’s Party: Recipes and Menus for Celebrating Every Day by Dan Pelosi – Ideal for hosting and entertaining. [foodnetwork.com]
• Something Delicious: 100 Recipes for Everyday Cooking by Lindsey Baruch – Vibrant, low-fuss meals for any occasion. [foodnetwork.com]

Richard Bramble, a British artist known for his unique designs on ceramics, textiles, and fine art prints. His work often features food and ingredient themes, and he collaborates with top chefs to create beautiful, functional art pieces. Richard Bramble's designs are available on various items like plates, mugs, and tea towels, and he even offers personalized pieces. His studio is based in Dorset, UK, and his products are available for worldwide shipping[1].   Richard Bramble Store        About — Richard Bramble Store

               CheeseXChange                                                     Authentic Italian Cheeses

The Michelin star list (often called the Michelin Guide) has a fascinating history—it actually started as a marketing tool for a tire company and evolved into the world’s most prestigious restaurant rating system.
Here’s a clear timeline of how it developed:

🚗 Origins (1900): A Tire Company Idea

• The Michelin Guide was first published in 1900 in France by brothers André and Édouard Michelin, who owned a tire company. [en.wikipedia.org]
• At the time, there were fewer than 3,000 cars in France, so they wanted to encourage people to drive more (which would increase tire sales). [en.wikipedia.org]
• The guide was free and included:
  • Maps
  • Tire repair tips
  • Gas stations
  • Hotels and restaurants [origin-trace.com]

👉 Important: Restaurants were just basic listings, not rated or reviewed.

📘 1920s: From Free Booklet to Professional Guide

• In 1920, Michelin began charging for the guide (about 7 francs) after realizing people valued it more when they paid for it. [en.wikipedia.org]
• They:
  • Removed ads
  • Expanded restaurant listings
  • Introduced hotel listings
  • Began using anonymous inspectors to review restaurants [guide.michelin.com]

👉 This is when it started becoming serious and influential.

⭐ 1926: The First Michelin Stars

• In 1926, Michelin introduced its first star rating system. [en.wikipedia.org]
• At first, restaurants could get only one star.

👉 This marked the shift from a travel guide to a restaurant quality guide.

🌟 1931–1936: The Modern Star System

• In 1931, Michelin introduced the now-famous three-star system: [en.wikipedia.org]
  
  • ⭐ 1 star: Very good restaurant
  • ⭐⭐ 2 stars: Excellent cooking, worth a detour
  • ⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars: Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey
• In 1936, Michelin officially published the criteria for ratings. [guide.michelin.com]
  

🌍 Mid–Late 20th Century: Global Expansion

• After World War II, the guide became more influential and expanded beyond France. [modernadventure.com]
• It spread across:
  • Europe (1950s–1970s)
  • Later to the U.S., Asia, and beyond [andyhayler.com]

👉 It gradually became the global authority on fine dining.

🍽️ Modern Era (1990s–Today)Michelin expanded its system beyond just stars:

• Bib Gourmand (1997): Great food at reasonable prices [nationalge...raphic.com]
• Green Star (2020): Sustainability and eco-conscious restaurants [nationalge...raphic.com]

Today:

• Michelin rates thousands of restaurants in 40+ countries [modernadventure.com]
• Stars are considered one of the highest honors in the culinary world

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Started in 1900 as a tire sales strategy
• Became paid and professional in the 1920s
• Stars introduced in 1926
• Modern 3-star system created in 1931
• Now the gold standard of global fine dining​

Imported Tuna from Spain

Alessi Risotto with Mushrooms                                 Ortiz Tuna from Spain

Ortiz Ventresca White Tuna Belly in Olive Oil

click on image to buy on Amazon

click on image to buy on Amazon

mushroom soup 12-9-25                                                                             and chicken

Green Beans for Thanksgiving with nuts and Italian (cocaine) Reggiano Parmesan  11-27-25

9-10-25

9-7-25

click on image to buy on Amazon

Orzo Shrimp Summer Salad  8-16-25

Click on image to buy on Amazon

​

---

Click on pan to buy on Amazon Anchor Cast Iron

Easter 2025

Eggs are sometimes the best idea for dinner

The word "avocado" has an interesting etymology:

• Nahuatl Origin: The term comes from the Nahuatl word "ahuacatl," which means "testicle." This name likely refers to the fruit's shape and its reputation as an aphrodisiac in ancient Mesoamerican cultures.
• Spanish Influence: When the Spanish encountered the fruit, they adapted the Nahuatl word to "aguacate."
• English Adaptation: Over time, the word evolved in English to "avocado."

​
It's fascinating how language evolves and adapts across cultures! 

Avocados are grown in Italy, primarily in the region of Sicily[1][2]. Farmers in Sicily have taken advantage of the warming temperatures to cultivate tropical fruits, including avocados[1]. The northern coast of Sicily, particularly areas like Caronia and Sant'Agata di Militello, are known for their avocado production[1].

It's fascinating how climate change is influencing agricultural practices.

References
[1] Tropical Italy: Sicily’s Mango and Avocado Boom
[2] Tropical Italy: Sicily’s Mango and Avocado Boom

​Jon Bon Jovi Opened Restaurants to Help Feed the Homeless

JBJ Soul Kitchen

​Here’s a breakdown of the top cuisines in North and South America, highlighting their most iconic dishes and what makes them stand out:

🌎 Top Cuisines in North America1. Mexican 🇲🇽

• Signature Dishes: Tacos, enchiladas, tamales, mole
• Why It’s Loved: Rich use of spices, corn-based dishes, and vibrant street food culture.

2. American (USA) 🇺🇸

• Signature Dishes: Burgers, BBQ, fried chicken, mac & cheese
• Why It’s Loved: Regional diversity (Southern, Cajun, Tex-Mex), comfort food, and global fusion.

3. Canadian 🇨🇦

• Signature Dishes: Poutine, butter tarts, tourtière, Nanaimo bars
• Why It’s Loved: French-English fusion, indigenous influences, and hearty cold-weather cuisine.

4. Caribbean (Jamaican, Haitian, Cuban, etc.) 🇯🇲🇭🇹🇨🇺

• Signature Dishes: Jerk chicken, rice and peas, roti, mofongo
• Why It’s Loved: Bold spices, tropical ingredients, and African-European fusion.

🌎 Top Cuisines in South America1. Brazilian 🇧🇷

• Signature Dishes: Feijoada, pão de queijo, churrasco, moqueca
• Why It’s Loved: Indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences with rich flavors and variety.

Authentic Brazilian Cookbooks

2. Argentinian 🇦🇷

• Signature Dishes: Asado (BBQ), empanadas, chimichurri, dulce de leche
• Why It’s Loved: World-famous beef, grilling culture, and European-style pastries.

3. Peruvian 🇵🇪

• Signature Dishes: Ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, anticuchos
• Why It’s Loved: Fusion of Incan, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines; fresh and flavorful.

4. Colombian 🇨🇴

• Signature Dishes: Arepas, bandeja paisa, sancocho, empanadas
• Why It’s Loved: Diverse regional flavors, hearty meals, and tropical ingredients.

5. Chilean 🇨🇱

• Signature Dishes: Pastel de choclo, cazuela, empanadas, seafood stews
• Why It’s Loved: Coastal seafood, Andean ingredients, and European influence.

​

​The world is full of rich and diverse culinary traditions, but some global cuisines stand out for their widespread popularity, cultural influence, and unique flavors. Here are 10 of the top global cuisines, celebrated for their taste, variety, and international appeal:

🌍 Top Global Cuisines

1. Italian 🇮🇹
   
   • Famous for: Pizza, pasta, risotto, gelato
   • Why it's loved: Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and comfort food appeal.
2. Chinese 🇨🇳
   
   • Famous for: Dim sum, Peking duck, fried rice, noodles
   • Why it's loved: Regional diversity (Sichuan, Cantonese, etc.), balance of flavors.
3. Japanese 🇯🇵
   
   • Famous for: Sushi, ramen, tempura, sashimi
   • Why it's loved: Precision, presentation, and umami-rich dishes.
4. Mexican 🇲🇽
   
   • Famous for: Tacos, enchiladas, mole, guacamole
   • Why it's loved: Bold spices, street food culture, and vibrant flavors.
5. Indian 🇮🇳
   
   • Famous for: Curry, biryani, naan, samosas
   • Why it's loved: Complex spices, vegetarian variety, and regional depth.
6. French 🇫🇷
   
   • Famous for: Croissants, coq au vin, escargot, crème brûlée
   • Why it's loved: Culinary technique, fine dining, and pastries.
7. Thai 🇹🇭
   
   • Famous for: Pad Thai, green curry, tom yum soup
   • Why it's loved: Sweet-sour-spicy balance and aromatic herbs.
8. Spanish 🇪🇸
   
   • Famous for: Paella, tapas, churros, gazpacho
   • Why it's loved: Social dining, Mediterranean ingredients, and bold flavors.
9. Greek 🇬🇷
   
   • Famous for: Moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, baklava
   • Why it's loved: Fresh ingredients, olive oil, and Mediterranean diet.
10. Korean 🇰🇷
    
    • Famous for: Kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap, Korean BBQ
    • Why it's loved: Fermented flavors, communal eating, and health-conscious dishes.

Would you like a visual map of these cuisines or maybe a ranking based on popularity or healthiness?

​The Panel of Chip Aficionados

• Emily Fedner: Chef at Petite Pasta Joint, Host of Friends of Anthony Bourdain podcast, and recipe developer at @foodloversdiary
• Breana Killeen M.P.H, RD: Food editor at Food & Wine, recipe developer, farmer, and dietitian
• Jamielyn Nye: Recipe developer and blogger at @iheartnaptime
• Shelbie Todd: Blogger and foodie at @sincerely.shelbie
• Ivy Manning: Author of 10 cookbooks, food editor, and Simply Recipes contributor​​

Here’s a comprehensive overview of National Food Days from January through December based on the most complete lists available:

January

• Month-long themes: National Oatmeal Month, National Hot Tea Month, National Soup Month
• Popular days:
  • Jan 1: Apple Gifting Day, Bloody Mary Day
  • Jan 4: National Spaghetti Day
  • Jan 5: National Whipped Cream Day
  • Jan 15: National Bagel Day
  • Jan 19: National Popcorn Day
  • Jan 24: National Peanut Butter Day
  • Jan 27: National Chocolate Cake Day
  • Jan 30: National Croissant Day [digitalhygge.com]

February

• Month-long themes: National Snack Food Month, National Cherry Month
• Popular days:
  • Feb 2: National Tater Tot Day
  • Feb 9: National Pizza Day
  • Feb 14: Cream-Filled Chocolates Day
  • Feb 27: National Strawberry Day [digitalfoodworks.com]

March

• Month-long themes: National Nutrition Month, National Peanut Month
• Popular days:
  • Mar 1: National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day
  • Mar 6: National Oreo Cookie Day
  • Mar 14: Pi Day
  • Mar 20: National Ravioli Day
  • Mar 26: National Spinach Day [kitchensensei.com]

April

• Month-long themes: National Garlic Month
• Popular days:
  • Apr 12: National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day
  • Apr 19: National Garlic Day
  • Apr 26: National Pretzel Day
  • Apr 28: National Blueberry Pie Day [kitchensensei.com]

May

• Month-long themes: National Barbecue Month
• Popular days:
  • May 4: National Orange Juice Day
  • May 11: National Eat What You Want Day
  • May 28: National Hamburger Day [thenibble.com]

June

• Month-long themes: National Dairy Month
• Popular days:
  • Jun 4: National Cheese Day
  • Jun 7: National Chocolate Ice Cream Day
  • Jun 22: National Onion Ring Day [thenibble.com]

July

• Month-long themes: National Ice Cream Month
• Popular days:
  • Jul 4: National Barbecue Day
  • Jul 12: National Pecan Pie Day
  • Jul 19: National Ice Cream Day
  • Jul 21: National Junk Food Day [kitchensensei.com]

August

• Month-long themes: National Sandwich Month
• Popular days:
  • Aug 3: National Watermelon Day
  • Aug 8: National Zucchini Day
  • Aug 31: National Trail Mix Day [thenibble.com]

September

• Month-long themes: National Honey Month
• Popular days:
  • Sep 5: National Cheese Pizza Day
  • Sep 16: National Guacamole Day
  • Sep 29: National Coffee Day [kitchensensei.com]

October

• Month-long themes: National Pasta Month
• Popular days:
  • Oct 4: National Taco Day
  • Oct 14: National Dessert Day
  • Oct 31: National Caramel Apple Day [thenibble.com]

November

• Month-long themes: National Peanut Butter Lovers Month
• Popular days:
  • Nov 6: National Nachos Day
  • Nov 23: National Espresso Day
  • Thanksgiving: Turkey Day traditions [thenibble.com]

December

• Month-long themes: National Fruitcake Month
• Popular days:
  • Dec 4: National Cookie Day
  • Dec 13: National Ice Cream and Violins Day
  • Dec 31: National Champagne Day [thenibble.com]​

Click on Image to buy on Amazon

​https://www.barmutz.com/

www.facebook.com/share/v/16c3VTtJdF/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Click on Images to buy
​on Amazon

Buy these plates on Amazon click on plate

Ravioli making tools buy on Amazon

2-23-25

2-23-25

2-24-25

2-24-25

2-16-25

2-16-25

2-16-25

2-12-25

Superbowl was shitty but the chili was great.

1-25-25

1-25-25

1-25-25

1-19-25

1-19-25

1-19-25

1-19-25

12/21/24

Lodge Cast Iron Pans

8-3-24

9-9-24

9-9-24

9-29-24

9-29-24

9-29-24

6-24-24

​Here are some great diabetes-friendly dinner recipes that are both healthy and delicious:
​
🥗 From Taste of Home [1]

1. Chicken Veggie Packets – Chicken and vegetables baked in foil for easy cleanup and juicy flavor.
2. Blackened Tilapia with Zucchini Noodles – A low-carb, high-protein dish with a spicy kick.
3. Turkey Cabbage Stew – A hearty, comforting stew with lean ground turkey and fiber-rich cabbage.

🔗 Full list of 59 quick diabetic-friendly dinners

🍲 From EatingWell [2]

1. Slow-Cooker Braised Beef with Carrots & Turnips – A warming, low-sodium dish perfect for batch cooking.
2. Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan – Uses whole grain pasta and lean protein.
3. Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry – A plant-based option with complex carbs and healthy fats.

🔗 Explore 30+ diabetes-friendly dinner recipes

🍛 From Diabetes Strong [3]

1. Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas – Uses low-carb tortillas and lean chicken.
2. Zucchini Lasagna – A pasta-free twist on a classic comfort food.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and veggies.

🔗 Check out 15 low-carb diabetic dinner ideas
Would you like me to help you plan a full week of diabetic-friendly dinners or generate a shopping list for any of these meals?

References
[1] 59 Easy Diabetic Dinner Recipes Ready in 30 Minutes - Taste of Home
[2] 30+ Diabetes-Friendly Dinner Recipes to Make Forever - EatingWell
[3] 15 Healthy Dinner Recipes for Diabetics (Low-Carb) - Diabetes Strong

2-8-25

Farm to table or was it from the balcony ?

Think about those who struggle to get food  while others are overeating on holidays

​Easter 2024 Dinner  - My go to Christmas and Easter DinnerShop Rite runs this great promotion twice a year for Christmas and for Easter