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5 Foods for a Healthy Picnic

 

May 24th 2012

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This time of year is the best time to bring our food outside.  Hopefully, if the weather cooperates we should have some sunshine days that are not too hot and not too cold.  So, let’s pack up our food and take the family outside.  Picnics are great for Shabbat afternoons if you have a nice park nearby.  They are also a great part of a Sunday activity.  Go sightseeing to a mansion where they often have picnic tables or find a state park.  Bring a ball, a deck of cards and a frisbee for a fun and relaxing day as a family, a couple or even on your own.

The trick to making this a really great day is packing colorful, healthful foods that will be the envy of all who pass by.  Don’t just pick up potato chips and dip or bagels, take a moment to prepare a few dishes you won’t regret.  Almost any dish can be portable if packed well in a sealed container, but some sit better than others.  It is best not to bring salads that have to be dressed fresh instead find salads that do better after a couple of hours. Don’t worry about a perfect menu either, pick a few different kinds of foods so that there will be something for everyone.

Instead of store bought potato chips, that you could end up snacking on all day, bring some cut up veggies and fruits and even some flavored air popped popcorn, like this Chipotle Ranch Popcorn only 100 calories in 3 cups.

Mini Spanakopita

These Mini Spankopita filled with spinach and feta are great hot or cold and are easily transported for a picnic.  Althought typically part of a Greek meal, they can really go with anything.

Quinoa Black Bean and Mango Salad tastes better after a few hours of marinating if you leave out the spinach leaves, packs up easily and is high in protein and fiber.

String Beans and Tofu can practically be eaten by hand just in case you forget the forks.

For those who have to have a sandwich try this Turkey on Whole Wheat, use light bread or flat breads to keep the calories down so that you can enjoy a nice cold Popsicle for dessert – this you will have to buy, they do not transport well.

What do you like to bring on a picnic?


 

The Whole Foods Kosher Kitchen by Levana *Giveaway...

 

May 22nd 2012

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It’s finally here.  Chef Levana’s magnum opus.  Her masterpiece.  Levana has worked in the kosher food industry for over 30 years and has published four best-selling cookbooks.   The Whole Foods Kosher Kitchen includes more than 350 recipes, 250 of which are gluten free and 250 can be made for Passover.  This cookbook has all the basics of healthy whole food cooking with tips and stories that make it a must have for every kosher home.

Caesar Salad

We have sat down with Levana many times in the Joy of Kosher Kitchen, take a look through our past interviews: .  Today we sit down with her latest and greatest cookbook.

Beet, Kale and Seaweed Salad

The book opens with a story about Rivka, a young woman who after years of health troubles, found a cure through whole foods.   Levana hopes to help and inspire other men and women out there going through similar health challenges.  Levana credits her whole foods approach to her Moroccan mother, whose mantra was “the cure is in the pot”.  Levana knows many of America’s health problems can be solved in the kitchen instead of the doctor’s office.

Soba Noodles with Roasted Roots

I love the first chapter of this book, The Pantry:  Edible Gifts to Yourself and Beyond.  Levana talks about a well-stocked pantry made up of your own artisanal condiments.  She helps us make our own preserved lemons, spice rubs, salad dressings, and even liqueurs.  Having ready made pantry staples makes it easy to add great flavor to simple foods at mealtimes.  There is no need to buy sodium and preservative filled salad dressings, when all you need are a few oils and vinegars to create diverse dressings for any salad and any occasion.

Moroccan Chraimi Fish

In addition to the recipes there are tons of fabulous tips all through the book, such as using soy or rice milk powder in non-dairy dishes  to obtain a rich and dense texture similar to cream.  I tried her own blend of Chai in my tea and as a self proclaimed Chai connoisseur I can tell you it was spot on.  I also tried her versatile muffin recipe with rave reviews from all.

Chocolate Oats Pots de Creme

Levana shows how to use a hammer to make cutting large dense vegetables like winter squash a snap.  She has tons of recipes of all kinds and even recommendations for gluten free baking.  Whole foods doesn’t mean you have to skimp on dessert.  Levana has creative recipes for brownies, biscotti and macaroons, even chocolate salami (I’ll have some of that).  This book has it all!

***Giveaway**** Levana is giving away a copy of her book to one lucky reader!!! She would love for you all to go “like” her on Facebook and to enter the giveaway please share this post on facebook, google plus or twitter and let us know you did it in the comments below. For a bonus entry make and review any of Levana’s 37 recipes on the JOK site and review them.

Entrants must be 18 years of age or older, and must be US residents. Contest ends  May 29th at 12pm  EST.  The winner will be picked randomly from qualifying comments.

Here are a few recipes to give a you a taste of what’s inside:

Caesar Salad

Soba Noodles with Roasted Roots

Moroccan Chraimi Fish

Mock Crab Summer Rolls with Thai Dipping Sauce

Chocolate Oats Pots de Creme

Kale Beet and Seaweed Salad


 

Drink Up! Herbal Water Is Fun *Giveaway*

 

May 15th 2012

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For a while now, I’ve been making my own herbal iced tea.  Stick a few fruit flavored teas in some water, put the pitcher by the sun and voila, flavored water everyone enjoys with no added sugar.  We barely serve soda at home, but recently the kids have been getting into seltzer.  It’s their special treat and since there are no calories or sugar, I’m happy to oblige.  But it’s starting to get a little boring.

Along comes Dr. Ayala, who recently introduced me to her line of herbal waters.  She is a mother and pediatrician who was looking for an alternative to the sugar laden beverages everyone  else was seeking.  In 2005, she started to blend her own unique blends of herbs with water.  When demand grew so did this company.

“Herbs have long been the cook’s best friend,” says Dr. Ayala, “they add great flavor and complexity and are also nature’s gift when we want to cut some salt and fat from a recipe.”

Can herbs also solve our sugar addiction?  Sugary drinks are the single largest source of added sugars in the American diet, and are closely linked to obesity.  Diet sodas came to the rescue, but have not proven to be a savior.  Diet soda consumption has not been associated with meaningful weight loss and may also carry metabolic risks.

“Herbs can do what artificial sweeteners can’t.  Herbs can fully flavor water, while adding no known health risks. We believe we have the simple, obvious solution to help kick the soda habit,” says Dr. Ayala.

Ambitious goal.  Since I like flavored waters and seltzers, I decided to give it a try.  When I opened up the box I was surprised by the flavors.  Lemongrass Mint Vanilla?  Lavender Mint?  Ginger Lemon Peel?  I’ve never heard of such flavors until now and my whole family was excited to try them.  The creative flavors are available in still and lightly sparkling varieties.

The water exceeded my wildest expectations.  The flavor combinations are so unique and so delicious.  My kids begged for more.  Dr. Ayala makes drinking water fun!

Currently you can order these OU-certified waters online by the case with free shipping at http://www.herbalwater.com/ or try and find them at many health food stores.

***Giveaway*** Dr. Ayala is giving away a gift set of 6 Herbal Water bottles 1 bottle of each of our still flavor plus our Food Pairing recommendation card.  In order to win, let us know in the comments below, let us know which flavors you think you would like or what other flavor you would like to see?

Entrants must be 18 years of age or older, and must be US residents. Contest ends  May 22nd at 9 am  EST.  Three winners will be picked randomly from qualifying comments.

(NOTE: The selected winner must provide an email address and a shipping address located within the 48 contiguous US states – no APOs, PO Boxes or shipments to Hawaii, Alaska, Canada or Mexico.)


 

Blogger Spotlight: Lil Miss Cakes (Melissa Kaye...

 

May 11th 2012

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The blogger spotlight is posted every Friday and gives us a little peek into the person behind the blog.  We are grateful to learn about all the wonderful bloggers out there and hope they continue to help us grow this kosher food community.

Today we shine our spotlight on Melissa Kaye Apter from LilMissCakes.com.  Melissa has become a favorite guest blogger of ours with her ever popular Peanut Butter and Jelly Hamantashen and Passover Chocolate Chip Cookies.  She has been baking from a very young age and clearly is also artistically talented (take a look at some of the cakes on her site).  Now it is time to find out more about Melissa.

Tell us about your blog and how you got started:

My blog is a place I created to share my adventures in baking.  I am always baking for customers, family and friends and figured that I might as well share my tips, tricks, and recipes with those that are interested.

Blondies

What is your earliest cooking memory?

My earliest kitchen memory is very vivid and clear to me.  I remember baking banana bread with my mom.  I must have been 5 or six years old, but I clearly remember mixing the batter by hand and licking the bowl.

What is your favorite kitchen implement / utensil / gadget?

I absolutely cannot live without my stand mixer.  It kneads my challah dough, whips my egg whites, and gently blends my cake batter.  Doing all these things by hand would be quite the workout!

Oatmeal Cream Pies

What’s your favorite kosher dish to cook?

Although I am known as a baker, and technically dessert is my specialty, I also love to cook.  I love to cook everything and anyththing.  I guess I would say that my favorite Kosher dish to create is potato kugel.  Making a good heimeshe potato kugel is a real science!  I had been struggling to make the perfect potato kugel for years before I got it right.

Who is your cooking inspiration?

My mom is my kitchen inspiration.  Although she is a great cook and is always cooking new and exciting dishes, my earliest memories are of my mom and me baking for the holidays.  I loved baking hamentaschen for Purim and sugar cookies for Chanukkah.

Please share a favorite cooking tip or trick with our readers:

My best kitchen trick is for baking perfectly even and round cookies.  To keep your cookies looking perfectly uniform, try using a small cookie scoop to portion your cookie dough out.  Not only will it speed up your baking process, but your cookies will look so professional!

Which recipes are you sharing with us today?

I would love to share my pareve recipes for Blondies, Oatmeal Cream Pies, and Chocolate Crinkle Cookies.

Melissa is a classically trained pastry chef who uses her expertise to create delicious kosher desserts. She started her baking blog, Lil’ Miss Cakes Lil’ Miss Cakes, to share her easy kosher pareve recipes and over the top cookies and cake creations.  Yum!


 

Garden Inspired Tablescape

 

May 7th 2012

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Want to set a formal table for a dairy Shavuos meal, yet the only options are a hodgepodge of breakfast bowls or, dare I say it, paper goods?  Let us help you.

Weekday to Holiday – White porcelain is the “black dress” of dinnerware and it’s also the best way to show off, or rather showcase, your food.

Mix it Up – Formal & Rustic pieces come together to form an eclectic scheme.

Supplement your dairy dinnerware with versatile pieces, paired together.

Add Accents – The addition of bold accent plates dresses up the table.

Scallop-edged stormy gray-blue stoneware dinner plates add rugged charm
(Anthropologie, $20, anthropologie.com)

Gold filigree and scattered blossoms crown each setting regally
(Aureus by Villeroy & Boch, avilable kitchenclique.com)

Floral Disarray.  Casual bunches of freshly picked flowers, garden or grocery, in repurposed jars.

Perch a decadent cheesecake atop a rustic whitewashed wooden cake stand (Williams Sonoma, $59, williams-sonoma.com)

Glass petaled bowl – Anni Glass, $76
(kitchenclique.com)

Tulip serving spoons of aluminum and enamel poetically capture this fleeting flower.
(Michael Aram, $75, available at kitchenclique.com)

 

 

Source: Naomi Weinstein from the 2011 May/June issue of Joy of Kosher with Jamie Geller.


 

In the JOK Kitchen With Stephanie Pierson ...

 

May 2nd 2012

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Stephanie Pierson recently wrote The Brisket Book: A Love Story with Recipes.  This book is the first of its kind, the first book solely devoted to this cross-cultural wonder, brisket.  The Brisket Book compiles everything you ever wanted to know about Brisket and more.  From cooking advice, to chef interviews to butcher wisdom and it’s remarkable history way beyond the Jewish history of brisket we are more familiar with.  With colorful photographs and every different kind of brisket recipe you can imagine this book is a must have.  Note: not all the recipes in this book are kosher, but most can be adapted with minor substitutions.  Here we find out more about the author and what inspired this book.

1.       What inspired you to write a book about brisket?

I was just in love with brisket and made brisket a lot. I realized 2 things: One, brisket is in just about every cookbook but never had a cookbook of its own. And Two, lots and lots of other people (check Chowhound boards and Serious Eats) are as passionate about it as I am.

2.       When was the first time you ever had brisket?

I first had it when I was in my 20s and had moved to New York from Baltimore. I could not believe how good it was and what I had been missing for all those years. My family – alas – had no brisket tradition.

3.       When was the first time you cooked brisket?

Right after I had tried it for the first time. I asked my close friend for her family’s recipe, which she was kind enough to share. And I could not believe how easy it was to cook.

4.       What is your favorite way to eat brisket?

I love all kinds of brisket – no surprise!!! But definitely barbecued. And of course, braised. It feels like someone loves you when they serve you brisket – and it makes me happy to make brisket for family and friends. Kind of corny, but there it is.

5.       What is your least favorite way?

I guess corned beef, hot. I could live without it. On the other hand, a corned beef on rye from a great deli. Yum!

6.       How long did it take to write this book and how much brisket did you eat?

It took about a year and a half and I ate so much brisket it is amazing that I do not weigh 400 pounds. (I did not ever eat the lean Weight Watcher’s brisket!!!) I cooked a lot of my own; went to bbq places; traveled to cook brisket with Cooks Illustrated, Joan Nathan, Nach Waxman; every trip I took I made sure to see how the local brisket was.

7.       After all of this do you still love it?

Now I love it even more – I can’t believe all the ways you can prepare it – also I have learned so much from chefs about techniques and their own lovely takes on it.

8.       You mention a vegan brisket, what is that and do you really feel comfortable calling it brisket?

Well, I do because it is very very good and seems – to vegans – to be a really excellent stand-in. And there is the fact that even people who don’t like meat seem to like brisket. Counter-intuitive but true!

Thank you for your sharing your love of Brisket and these interesting brisket recipes with us.

Brisket in Tahina Sauce

Cuban Creole Stew Beef Braised Brisket for a Scandinavian take.

Pictures and Recipes are all from The Brisket Cookbook by Stephanie Pierson.

 

***Giveaway*** One lucky JoyofKosher.com member can win their own copy of this fabulous book.  All you have to do to enter is make and review any Beef recipe on this site and then let us know in the comments below by linking to the recipe you reviewed.  You may enter more reviews for more entries, NO LIMIT.

Entrants must be 18 years of age or older, and must be US residents. Contest ends  May 9th at 9 am  EST. One winner will be picked randomly from qualifying comments.


 

In the JOK Kitchen with Amy Atlas *Giveaway*

 

April 24th 2012

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Sweet Designs – Bake It, Craft It, Style It, by Amy Atlas, brings the sweets stylist to the stars into your home.  Amy created this gorgeous book of sweets to help us make every occasion unforgettable.  The book is filled with 15 chapters, over 100 recipes, and 75 DIY crafts.  Learn to melt chocolate, work with fondant, use fabric to colorfully accessorize a cake pedestal and create a sweets centerpiece people will be talking abut for months to come.  Amy also happens to have a kosher kitchen. Today, we talk to Amy to find out more about her delicious new book.

This book is both cookbook and craft-book, what made you decide to combine the two?

I’ve always combined desserts and crafts on my dessert tables. I’ve had so many people ask me over the years how to put my tables together so I created an approachable book that shows how to make desserts and crafts using every day items.

You are considered the sweets stylist to the stars, who was the first star you worked for and what was it like ?  

The first star that I worked with was Brooke Shields. We created a princess themed dessert table for her daughter’s birthday. The table was pink and glittery and full of princess themed sweets. It was like every first, very memorable!

You teach your readers how to “bake it, craft it, and style it”, I’m very interested in the “bake it”, but I’m not sure I can “make it”, any tips for those of us that are intimidated with crafts and styling?

The best part about this book is that there is something in it for everyone.  From the novice baker to the seasoned crafter to the busy mom, there is a bake it, craft it and style it that everyone can do.

What is your earliest memory of cooking?

Baking rocky road cake in my grandma’s kitchen.  She gave me my first baking lessons and I cherish those memories.

As a working busy mother of two, can you share any tips on how to get dinner and dessert on the table every night?

I try to cook meals on the weekend and then freeze them so I can pull them out quickly during the week when I have less time.  As a working mom, it is very hard for me to cook during the week.

What is your favorite recipe to bake with your kids?

The Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars from my book!

What is your connection to kosher food? 

My husband comes from a conservative family and was raised in a kosher home.  When we got married, we decided to keep a kosher home.  We also make Shabbat dinner on Friday nights. Our boys decided a few months ago that they wanted to get dressed up every Shabbat.  It is so sweet to see them love this tradition.

Do you have any special Jewish holiday memories?

Rosh Hashana is a big holiday for our family. Of course, our kids love Purim and that is a fun holiday in our home.

Thank you to Amy for sharing a bit about yourself and these recipes (they are dairy so they would be perfect for Shavuot). 

Chocolate Chipper Cupcakes

Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

***Giveaway*** Amy Atlas is giving away a copy of Sweet Designs to one lucky JoyofKosher.com member.  All you have to do to enter is make and review any dessert recipe on this site and then let us know in the comments below by linking to the recipe you reviewed.  You may enter more reviews for more entries, no limit.

Entrants must be 18 years of age or older, and must be US residents. Contest ends  May 8th at 9 am  EST. One winner will be picked randomly from qualifying comments.

 

Images – From SWEET DESIGNS by Amy Atlas. Copyright (C) 2012 Amy Atlas and The Stonesong Press, LLC. Photography by Johnny Miller. Published by Hyperion. Available wherever books are sold. All RIghts Reserved.


 

Blogger Spotlight: Dinner In Venice – ...

 

April 20th 2012

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Today the spotlight is on Alessandra Rovati from Dinner In Venice our favorite Kosher Italian food blog.

What is your earliest cooking memory?
Making gnocchi while my mother was at work and I was at home with the chickenpox (I must have been about 8). Our housekeeper was a nice older lady who never tried to stop me from experimenting in the kitchen. Apparently, my mom knew what was going on as soon as she walked into the building – and we lived on the fourth floor! – because the traces of flour went all the way down to the street, at least that’s what she told me….

Crostata Di Ricotta

What is your favorite kitchen gadget?
Probably the “Mezzaluna”, my Italian double-handed knife… I am constantly chopping fresh herbs and that’s what gives me the most control.

What’s your favorite kosher dish to cook?
Having grown up in Venice, I have to say risotto: hundreds of years ago Venetian Jews were already famous for their risottos “all’onda” (creamy and not too dense) and everybody still loves them now. It’s actually the Venetian Shabbat rice that is thought by many historians to have inspired the famous ‘risotto milanese’ with saffron. I find the constant stirring required for making this dish well more relaxing than yoga, especially because I get to taste something yummy!

Who is your cooking inspiration?
l have always liked eating in people’s homes more than in restaurants, because there is something intimate about food (after all, you put it into your body!). For this reason, most of my inspiration comes from family and friends – my mother first, for her “scientific” approach to cooking, and her obsession with olive oil (she is from Tuscany!), even in the early 70′s when a lot of people in the Veneto region cooked everything with butter or seed oil. Also, because there are only about 450 (Italian) Jews living in Venice, we don’t use a caterer for most holiday community-wide meals, but rely on a handful of volunteers. I was always impressed by a couple of the older ladies who could easily pull off a meal for hundreds while also taking care of their own family meals, and basically with no staff…

Please share a favorite cooking tip or trick with our readers:
When making pasta, always add a ladleful of the cooking water to the sauce: it acts as both a thickener and an emulsifier and makes it taste creamy even if you didn’t use much fat.

When making pasta for Shabbat, make an oilier sauce, use more sauce, and add more cooking water. That way, when you reheat it, it won’t dry out. You should also keep it very ‘al dente’ and reheat it only for the time it takes to make it lukewarm, or it will become mushy.

Which recipes are you sharing with us today?


Main Image – Tagliolini in Lemon Sauce

Crostata di Ricotta

Alessandra Rovati

 

Alessandra Rovati was born and raised in Venice, Italy, and has had a passion for food since a very young age (she is said to have feasted on garlic and chili-marinated herring at 15 months). Alessandra writes about Kosher and Jewish Italian food and teaches cooking; she also posts free recipes and how-to’s, offering a glimpse of Jewish Italian culinary history, on her website, Dinner in Venice.

 


 

Thursday Deals of the Day – Five at Five

 

April 19th 2012

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Mondays through Thursdays at 5:00 PM EST, we will showcase the best food / kitchen deals of the day. We hope you find them useful. We present to you today’s round up of deals from across the web including storage containers, a pizza stone, and cookware.

Pfaltzgraff:  Lido Beach Dinnerware Set, 45 Piece, Service for 8 with Serving Pieces. Price: $99.99 SALE: $79.99. This Lido Beach 45 Piece Dinnerware Set will make dining a day at the beach! Each pure white, coupe-shaped stoneware piece in the collection brings a part of the beach to your table with an edge design of subtly raised seashells. 45 piece dinnerware set, service for 8, includes 8 each of: 10-1/2 inch dinner plate, 7-1/2 inch salad plate, 13 ounce soup bowl, 13 ounce mug, and 16 ounce fruit bowl, plus 1 each of: 36 ounce vegetable serving bowl, 12 inch round platter, 12 ounce sugar bowl with lid, and 10 ounce creamer. Microwave and dishwasher safe.

Housewares: Design for Living® Microban 18 Piece Food Storage Container Set. Reduced from $35 to $20! Deal Ends Midnight Tonight! This Design for Living 18 Piece Microban Polypropylene Food Storage Container Set is perfect for storing fruits, vegetables, seasonings, and leftovers, and will keep foods fresher for longer. Containers are constructed of extremely durable polypropylene, and the lids feature four locking tabs to prevent spills and inhibit the growth of bacterial odors on the container. The lids are also 100% airtight and watertight. Bases and lids nest for easier storage. 18 piece set includes: one 2-1/4 quart container with lid, one 1 quart container with lid, one 20 ounce container with lid, two 3/4 quart containers with lids, two 1/4 quart containers with lids, and two 1/5 quart containers with lids. Dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe.

Deal Genius: Farberware Pizza Stone Set for Restaurant Quality Pie at Home! Retail price $30.00 Your price: $12.99. Everyone loves pizza! Take our Neanderthal ancestors. They moved into the Stone Age when they invented the pizza stone to aid in food production. Get in touch with your pizza eating roots by ordering this Farberware 15-inch Ceramic Pizza Stone Set!
This pizza stone is made of ceramic to absorb excess dough moisture and provide constant, even heat to the crust. This heat results in a thin, crispy crust of exceptional professional quality! And at 15-inches in diameter, it can make enough for the whole family! This pizza stone also comes with a stainless steel serving rack that allows you to use the stone as a serving dish that keeps the pizza warm all through the meal. You’ll also receive a stainless steel pizza cutter for making slices. Although, with pizza this good you’ll probably just want to shove the pizza in your mouth.
This set will fool your family into thinking you got this from Mario’s down the street. But, one thing’s for sure, that no one will complain about what they eat! Get your Farberware 15-inch Ceramic Pizza Stone Set today!

Walmart: Tramontina 6.5-Quart Cast-Iron Dutch Oven. $39.97. Was: $49.00. The Tramontina 6.5-quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven is durable and contains a porcelain interior for easy cooking. It’s an ideal serving piece that can use on the stovetop or in the oven. It can also be used as a covered casserole dish. This red enamel cast iron oven can also go straight to the table after cooking to keep the food hot. Made of durable porcelain material, this stove top oven can hold food at very high temperatures, With cherry red finish, it is not only functional, but also stylish.

Tramontina Enamel Cast Iron Dutch oven:
Porcelain enamel interior
Can be used as a covered casserole dish
Goes on stovetop or in oven
Serve food straight from the red cast-iron Dutch oven to keep food hot
Red cast-iron Dutch oven has a lifetime warranty

Brylane Home: Stainless Steel Copper Bottom Cookware Set. Orig: $279.99 Sale: $89.99. Preferred by professional chefs: durable stainless steel cookware, crafted with copper bottoms which ensure fast and even heat distribution. Easy-view glass lids. 8-pc. set includes: 3-qt. saucepan, 5-qt. stock pot and 12″ saute pan with lids; 10″ and 8″ fry pan. Hand wash.


 

Wednesday Deals of the Day – Five at Five

 

April 18th 2012

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Mondays through Thursdays at 5:00 PM EST, we will showcase the best food / kitchen deals of the day. We hope you find them useful. We present to you today’s round up of deals from across the web including toasters, storage containers and flatware.

Sur La Table: Sur La Table® Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Nonstick Skillet with Glass Lid, 12½”. Now: $49.99 Was: $99.95. With a durable Teflon Platinum Pro finish, our nonstick skillet enables you to prepare healthier meals, without the need for excess butter and oil. Versatile pan features an extra-large surface area, so you can easily make stacks of pancakes or a sizzling stir fry for the whole family. Tight-fitting glass lid enables you to monitor cooking progress without releasing moisture. Plus, it keeps food warm till you’re ready to serve.
A remarkable value, Sur La Table cookware is designed to exceed the expectations of both accomplished and novice cooks. Capitalizing on our familiarity with the world’s top cookware, we selected the best features for this distinctive nonstick skillet.
Our Tri-Ply design features gleaming 18/10 stainless steel top and bottom layers bonded to a middle layer of pure aluminum, ensuring quick and even heat distribution. The stay-cool, stainless steel handle is curved for maximum comfort and efficiency and a sturdy assist handle to enables easy transport. Compatible with all stovetop heat sources, including induction. Nonstick coating cleans up easily with warm, soapy water. 12½” diameter. Limited lifetime warranty.

Kohls: KitchenAid Artisan 5-qt. Stand Mixer. Regular $449.99 – Sale $349.99 Use Code SMS7302 at check out and it’s $279.92!!. Shipping Surcharge $7.50
Mix it up with KitchenAid! Featuring a wide array of colors to choose from, this stand mixer is the perfect complement to any kitchen. Whip up your favorites in style with the KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer.
Kitchenaid will donate a portion of the proceeds from the purchase and registration of the Light Pink Artisan 5-qt. stand mixer to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation.
Bonus buy. Purchase this KitchenAid stand mixer and follow the instructions on the rebate form to get a 5-qt. glass bowl (K5GB, a $69.99 value) or a food grinder attachment (FGA, a $49.99 value) by mail. Offer valid on purchases made March 25 – May 30, 2012
Tilt-up head provides easy access to the bowl and beaters.
Unique extended-reach mixing action adds versatility.
Speed control lever offers ten mixing speeds, ranging from a slow stir to a fast whip.
Two-piece pouring shield prevents ingredient splash-out.
Built-in power hub lets you attach a variety of accessories.
Details:
Includes: 5-qt. stainless steel bowl with ergonomic handle, metal wire whip, nylon-coated flat beater, nylon-coated dough hook & 2-piece pouring shield
14″H x 8 3/4″W x 14 1/8″D
325-watt motor
Bowl: dishwasher safe
Attachments: hand wash
Mixer: wipe clean
Total replacement 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
Model no. KSM150PS

Brylane Home: Nesting Food Storage Set. Orig: $19.99 Sale: $9.99. Designed for dry food storage only, this space-saving nesting set is BPA-free. Includes 1 each: 190-oz. large, 110-oz. medium and 52-oz. small. Plastic. Hand wash. 3-Pc. Set.

Pfaltzgraff: Towle® Living Ariel Satin 101 Piece Flatware Set, Service for 12. Price: $125.00 SALE $69.99. This Towle 101 Piece Living Ariel Satin Flatware Set is made from durable 18/0 stainless steel and never needs polishing. Gentle curved (solid) handles, a subtle band around the neck of each handle, and the smooth satin finish make this a timeless set for both casual and formal entertaining. The 101 piece set includes 12 each of: dinner fork, dinner knife, soup spoon, and steak knife, plus 24 each of: salad/dessert fork and teaspoon. Also includes 1 each of: serving spoon, slotted serving spoon, cold meat fork, butter knife, and sugar spoon. Dishwasher safe.

Groupon: $26 for an MLB Original ProToast Toaster ($39.99 Value). 29 Teams Available. The MLB Original ProToast toaster emblazons team logos across the face of fans’ favorite starchy sustenance. The ProToast’s twin slots sear team loyalty onto multiple slices of bread, and its adjustable settings ensure grains with no team spirit also toast to perfection.
Features:
Brands bread with team logo
Team logo also featured on the exterior
Two slots for tandem toasting
Adjustable toasting settings


 

Tuesday Deals of the Day – Five at Five

 

April 17th 2012

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Mondays through Thursdays at 5:00 PM EST, we will showcase the best food / kitchen deals of the day. We hope you find them useful. We present to you today’s round up of deals from across the web including BBQ tools, stockpots and slow cookers.

1saleaday.com:  Lock & Lock 28 Piece BPA Free Container Set With 4-Sided Locking Lids – Microwave, Freezer & Dishwasher Safe! List Price $89.99 Price: $19.99. Simplify your life. Say good-bye to worries about spillage, spoilage, and storage. Get this 28-piece set and solve your food-saving needs. Lock & Lock storage systems keep your food fresher for longer with their silicone seal and locking tab system that makes their containers both air- and water-tight.
A must-have for any organized kitchen, this collection is the convenient, space-efficient way to store food in your refrigerator, pantry, or cabinets. When empty, each nests easily inside the other. When full, the clear plastic bodies allow you to easily identify what’s inside. Highly durable, these containers are also ideal for kids’ lunches and work snacks. Save food, space, and money with Lock & Lock.

Housewares Deals:  Hoffritz® 4 Piece Nesting Stockpot Set. Reduced from $115 to $49. Deal Ends Midnight Tonight.This Hoffritz 4 Piece Nesting Stockpot Set is perfect for preparing big family dinners or holiday meals. The capacities of 8, 12, 16, and 20 quarts ensure you always have the right size pot for stews, soups, chili, and more. Each pot comes with a lid and has an aluminum body to conduct heat evenly and thoroughly. The pots nest together for easy and simple storage, saving valuable cabinet space. 4 piece set includes one each of 8, 12, 16, and 20 quart pots. Hand-wash with warm water and a mild detergent; rinse and dry immediately.

Tiger Direct:  Hamilton Beach 33965 6-Quart Slow Cooker. List Price: $59.99 NOW $29.99 with Free Shipping today! Hamilton Beach® 6 Quart Slow Cookers make dinnertime almost effortless. You can cook hot, mouth-watering meals as you go about your day, with no stirring needed. These oval, 6 Quart Slow Cookers take up little space, yet have all the room you need to prepare a large chicken, or pot roast.
Hamilton Beach® 6 Quart Slow Cookers work well for family dinners, parties or other large gatherings. The portable design includes easy-grip handles and some models have a Lid Latch™ strap for meals on the go. Also, the removable, stainproof stoneware is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
What It Is and Why You Need It:
6 Quarts of Space
Easy-grip Handles
Lid Latch Strap for Meals on the Go

Sur La Table:  Le Creuset® Cassis Deep Covered Sauté Pan, 3¾ qt. $149.95 Value: $250.00. Deep sauté pan is expertly sand-cast, painstakingly polished and finished by hand, then sprayed with two coats of enamel and fired twice—no other procedure yields cookware that so evenly conducts and retains heat while withstanding the rigors of daily use. Porcelain enamel interior finish requires no seasoning and has unmatched strength and durability that resists scratches and chips.
This is a pan you’ll love to use every day. It’s perfect for braising and sautéing larger cuts of meat, and deep-frying. Use it to make an abundance of one-pot meals and so much more. The tight-fitting lid seals in moisture while cooking. Goes easily from oven or stovetop to table for beautiful presentation. Dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended. Made in France. 3¾ qt

Sears:  Ace 10 Piece BBQ Stainless Steel Tool Set With Tongs, Fork, Spatula, Carry Case & More. Reg Price: $64.99 Now $11.99!! Deal Ends Midnight Tonight. Thinking of firing up that grill? This 10 Piece BBQ tool set features all the tools any grill master needs to manage their savory steaks, juicy burgers, succulent fish, fresh vegetables, and more. These durable stainless steel tools with wooden handles fit comfortably in your hands and bring a touch of style to your grilling area. Plus, the zip-up carry case with its adjustable shoulder strap makes storing and traveling with your set a breeze.
Condition: NEW Packaging: Plastic Wrap
Warranty: 30 Day Limited
Manufacturer: Ace Model:
10PC-BBQSET Features Include:
10 piece BBQ tool set Brushed wood finish
Stainless steel material Grilling tongs
Grilling fork
Grilling spatula
Basting brush
(4) corn cob holders
(2) skewers
Black zip carry case with handle
Adjustable removable shoulder strap


 

Monday Deals of the Day – Five at Five

 

April 16th 2012

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Mondays through Thursdays at 5:00 PM EST, we will showcase the best food / kitchen deals of the day. We hope you find them useful. We present to you today’s round up of deals from across the web including knives, a pizza stand and stemware.

Jdeal: $18 for Children’s Chocolate Making Workshop at Chocolate Works NYC (usually $36), through May 31st. Sure, glue and crayons can be fun. But making crafts out of chocolate? Now that’s FUN. Buy this deal for $18, and bring your kids to a $36 chocolate workshop at Chocolate Works. It’s a creative and chocoloate-y experience that they’ll never forget.
Between now and the Summer, there is a class for everyone…
Thursday April 19th: Cheerful, Chocolate Candy Creatures
Thursday April 26th: Twisted Treats of chocolate covered pretzels — salty and sweet!
Thursday May 3rd: Come join the party for a Chocolate Molding “Fiesta”
Thursday May 10th: Treats for Mom — just in time for Mother’s day!
Thursday May 31st: Summertime Sweets that will melt in your mouth.
Buy this deal, and you and your kids can make some delicious and chocolate filled memories. Yum. Chocolate Works is under the kashrus supervision of Rabbi Arthur Marmorstein.

Housewares deals: KitchenAid® 12 Piece Cutlery Set. Reduced from $70 to $35. Deal Ends Midnight Tonight. This KitchenAid 12 Piece Cutlery Set features high-carbon stainless steel blades that hold an ultra-sharp edge. The contoured handles provide a comfortable grip and the knives are perfectly weighted and balanced for precision and accuracy while cutting. 12 piece set includes: 8 inch chef knife, 8 inch slicing knife, 5-1/2 serrated utility knife, 3-1/2 paring knife, 5 inch Santoku knife, 4 steak knives, kitchen shears, sharpening steel, and storage block. Hand-wash with warm water and a mild detergent; rinse and dry immediately.

 

West Elm: HOLLOW STEM GLASSWARE SET. $40.00 SALE $15.99. Sophisticated stemware. A twist on traditional glassmaking, this Hollow Stem Glassware has a delicate, sculptural shape. Make it personal by adding a monogram.

• Set of 4: Red Wine, White Wine, Champagne.
• Glass.
• Hollow base.
• Dishwasher safe.
• Imported.
• This item is monogrammable for an additional $7

Taylor Gifts: PIZZA STAND AND PAN. Was $29.98, now $13.99! Raised tabletop pizza stand and pan maximize table or counter space,and avoid dinner table clutter. Nostalgic pizza parlor design elevates pizza above the surface, creating room for plates, drinks, cutlery, toppings and additional guests so you can enjoy every bite without fighting for a spot around the box. Steel stand, aluminum pan, 8″L x 8 1/2″W x 8″H.

Woot:  Frigidaire 12-Cup Coffee Maker. $39.99. It’s Frigidaire? And it makes coffee? That’s either “crazy” or “so crazy it just might work”. I’m no expert, but I don’t trust the sound of a Frigidaire 12-Cup Coffee Maker. Think about it, pal: “frigid?” “Air?” Neither of those things generally accompany the making of a piping hot cup of coffee.
Would you buy a “Stone Cold” barbecue grill? What about a “Molten Hot” refrigerator? Or a “Venomous” Teddy Bear? Of course not! So you can talk all day about PowerPlus™ Brewing Systems, Side-View Water Level Indicators, Permanent Gold-Tipped Metal Filters, and Auto Pause Functions, but I’m sticking with my knee-jerk reaction.
And if I’ve learned anything, it’s that knee-jerk reactions sometimes wind up being correct in limited circumstances.


 

Prime Grill Exclusive Recipes for your Passover...

 

April 4th 2012

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Wine and dine your guests this holiday, in the comfort of your own home.

Chef David Kolotkin, executive chef of The Prime Grill in New York City, brings his passion and innovation to your table this Pesach. Learn the secrets behind the unique flavors and flare Prime Grill diners enjoy. Chef David’s love for cooking didn’t sprout in a commercial kitchen. They were born in his childhood home, enjoying his mother’s delicious home-cooked meals and bonding moments with his parents in the kitchen. There, his deep respect for food grew, leading to his illustrious culinary career. Now, this Pesach, find that same inspiration—in your own home, around your own table with these recipes:

Chilean Sea Bass Mousse Wrapped with Smoked Salmon with Horseradish Lemon Aioli

Sweet and Sour Beets with Basil

Dry Rubbed Double Cut Veal Chop for Two

Sweet Potato Soufflé

Wine Recommendation: Domaine du Castel Petite Castel

A full bodied white win such as a Viognier would definitely work well with the sea bass, souffle, and veal chop, but a medium bodied red wine might work a little better and be a more festive option.  Pinot Noir has a lighter body and higher acidity than big red wines (Cabernet or Merlot) and will complement the subtle flavors found in this fish appetizer and veal main rather than overwhelm them.

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at home.


 

Tuesday Deals of the Day – Five at Five

 

April 3rd 2012

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Mondays through Thursdays at 5:00 PM EST, we will showcase the best food / kitchen deals of the day. We hope you find them useful. We present to you today’s round up of deals from across the web including dishes, bamboo utensils and hot and cold coffee cups.

Jdeal:  $30 for Passover chocolate package that includes a 4lb tray of Chocolate-covered Matzo & 1lb Box of Macaroons (a $60 value). Chocolate. It’s one of the few foods that taste delicious year round and on Passover, too. Indulge yourself: Buy this deal for $30, and you and your seder guests can enjoy $60 worth of luxurious desserts from Chocolate Works.
As the newest destination in the high-end kosher scene, Chocolate Works has gone the extra mile and transformed their entire operation into a strictly kosher for Passover venue. Their shop now features a selection of 60 Kosher for Passover Chocolates, Matzo, Macaroons and an additional 55 assorted candies and nuts that are Kosher for Passover. Their tasty treats include matzahs that are freshly covered in chocolate right on premises, chocolate seder plates, and candies that have been molded into every Passover symbol imaginable. Fine milk chocolate, dark chocolate, truffles and nuts can all be selected individually, so you can craft a basket or platter that tailors to your own – or your host’s – sweet tooth perfectly.
No one really wants to eat another matzah-meal filled cake. Buy this deal today, and dessert will be something you and your family will truly enjoy.
Chocolate Works Kosher Supervision is under Rabbi Arthur Marmorstein.

Groupon: $24 for a World Cuisine Tri-Blade Plastic Spiral Vegetable Slicer ($49.88 Value). The plastic spiral vegetable slicer’s three different-sized blades generate ream upon ream of curlicue-shaped fruits or veggies, opening up novel cooking techniques and upping presentation levels. The easy-to-turn crank sends fresh produce hurtling toward eternity and acts as a barrier between slicer and hands. The countertop tool slices wide ribbons of zucchini that masquerade as al dente pasta, coils of sweet potatoes for homemade curly fries, and rings of carrots to lure snobby horses. Four suction-cup feet keep the nonslip tool fixed to countertops, and solid plastic construction helps the slicer withstand regular wear and tear.
Features:
Vegetable slicer creates curly fries or vegetable ribbons
Includes three blades—one for 3 millimeter spacing, 6 millimeter spacing and a straight blade blade for ribbon cuts
Base sits on four suction-cup feet that cling tightly to countertops for fear of retribution from apple slices
Durable plastic construction
Dishwasher safe
Assembled product measures 12″x10″x6″

Housewares Deals: Design for Living® 4 Piece Hot and Cold Coffee Set. Reduced from $36 to $16. Deal Ends Midnight Tonight. This Design for Living Hot and Cold 4 Piece Coffee Set includes on-the-go mugs for all your needs. The push-button coffee mugs keep your drinks hot while helping prevent spills by using a unique opening mechanism. Simply press the conveniently located center activation button to sip and press again to seal. The reusable plastic iced coffee mugs with straws and lids offer a reusable way to take your cold drinks with you. The mugs are very durable, will not retain odors or tastes, and are designed to fit most standard car cup holders. 4 piece set includes two 13 ounce push button hot coffee mugs and two 16 ounce plastic mugs with straws and lids. Push-button coffee mugs are hand-wash only; plastic mugs are dishwasher safe.

Kohls: Totally Bamboo 5-pc. Utensil Set. sale $4.49. This Totally Bamboo utensil set gives you an extra hand in the kitchen. No matter the meal you’re making, these utensils will be your number one choice for food prep. Enjoy fabulous feasts, thanks to this Totally Bamboo utensil set.
Bamboo construction offers long-lasting use.
Details:
5-piece set
Dishwasher safe

Mikasa: Global Cuisine Chocolate 16 Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 4. Was : $149.99 Now: $49.99. This Mikasa 16 Piece Global Cuisine Chocolate Dinnerware Set features a rich chocolate color palette and rounded edges designed to complement any style of food or entertaining. Quality-crafted from durable stoneware, its imaginative styling coordinates with any table setting. 16 piece set, service for 4, includes 4 each of: 11-3/8 inch dinner plate, 8-3/4 inch salad plate, 8-7/8 inch soup bowl, and 16 ounce mug. Microwave and dishwasher safe.


 

Monday Deals of the Day – Five at Five

 

April 2nd 2012

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Mondays through Thursdays at 5:00 PM EST, we will showcase the best food / kitchen deals of the day. We hope you find them useful. We present to you today’s round up of deals from across the web including flatware, frying pans and a bamboo snack tray.

Pfalztgraff:  Heritage 200th Anniversary Dinnerware Set, 32 Piece, Service for 8. Reduced from $99.99 to $59.99!! For a limited time, this 32 Piece Heritage Dinnerware Set is specially priced to commemorate Pfaltzgraff’s 200th Anniversary. Set comes gift boxed, and there is a ’200th Anniversary’ back stamp on the dinner plates. Heritage offers traditional styling in classic white. Most of these stoneware items are 12-sided and boast generous proportions, while many accessories are architecturally inspired. 32 piece set, service for 8 includes 8 each of: 10-1/4 inch dinner plate, 6-3/4 inch salad plate, 20 ounce soup/cereal bowl and 12 ounce mug. Microwave and dishwasher safe.

Housewares Deals: Vasconia® 3 Piece Fry Pan Set. Reduced from $40 to $19. Deal Ends Midnight Tonight. This Vasconia 3 Piece Fry Pan Set has a size for every need, from small breakfast omelets to full family dinners. Each pan features aluminum cores for even heat distribution and nonstick interiors for easy food release and simple cleanup. Comfortable, ‘stay cool’ handles provide a secure grip. Includes 8, 10, and 12 inch fry pans. Dishwasher safe.

Deal Genius:  Chef Collection Bamboo Snack Tray – Party Time! retail price $23.00 your price: $6.99. Deal Ends Midnight Tonight. Spring is here! Which, is call for celebration if there’s ever been one! And there’s no better way to serve up some finger foods than with this Chef Collection Bamboo Snack Tray! Easy to grab and put anywhere, this tray is perfectly sized for holding any number of snacks including chips & a bowl of dip, some crackers & cheese, pigs in a blanket, and even pâté on artisan bread! The bamboo is not only stylish and simple, it’s easy to clean and eco-friendly as well. Save the Earth with any extra scrubbing! It’s ideal for presenting foods at parties, but it’s also great for a night in when you want to get your snack on and there’s a good movie on TNT. So, what are you waiting for? Make the next snack a great time. Get your Chef Collection Bamboo Snack Tray today!

Mikasa:  Towle® Paris 44 Piece Flatware Set, Service for 8 w/Serving Pieces, 18/10 Price: $499.99 SALE : $99.99! Towle Paris flatware is superior quality 18/10 stainless steel, that meets our most demanding standards for strength and durability. The handles feature a simple yet elegant design that will make a striking addition to your dining experience. 44 Piece Set, service for eight with Service Pieces, includes (8) each: dinner fork, salad fork, dinner knife, dinner spoon and teaspoon, PLUS (1) each: serving spoon, serving fork, gravy ladle and cake server. This attractive set is dishwasher safe and never needs polishing.

Woot.com:  Lock & Lock 32-Piece Set. $14.99. Sale Ends Midnight Tonight. Each container is like a time capsule from a long-forgotten day when Lemon Chicken sounded like a good idea. Journey back into the past as you scour the chilliest corners of your refrigerator searching of the Lost Meals and Failed Experiments of long ago. Or a few days ago. Whichever. Either way, this Lock & Lock Airtight BPA-Free 32-Piece Set will help you relive your prior kitchen triumphs and tragedies as you attempt to solve your biggest culinary mysteries, such as:
- Why didn’t my wife take the rest of the meatloaf to work with her?
- Why can’t I just accept that no one likes my tuna casserole and let go?
- Oh geez, even with the semi-transparent, BPA-Free plastic, I have no idea what this used to be.
- Should I open the four locking sides and silicone seal and loose this abomination upon the world, or should I just pitch the whole thing, container and all?
With sixteen different sizes of containers and lids, you can finally turn the simple act of cleaning out your fridge into the adventure you’ve always wanted it to be. Within weeks, you’ll have all kinds of leftovers no one wants to eat again hiding just behind the milk and waiting to be discovered.
Warranty: Lock & Lock Limited Lifetime
Condition: New
Features:
These stackable containers are semitransparent, airtight and come with matching lids
Made with superior raw materials that are heat-resistant, durable, and BPA-Free, which is safe for the human body
Equal pressure to all 4-sides makes it possible for the containers to be airtight
Locks tightly with hollow-center silicone
Durably made to withstand repeated bending and extreme temperatures (-4°F to 210°F degrees)
Stacking system saves space in the cupboard, refrigerator and freezer
Silicone seal can be removed for cleaning if necessary
Containers and lids are microwave safe (for reheating only)
Dishwasher safe (top rack only)