Food, wine, travel, and leisure are the essential lifestyle experiences. Bring elegance to the leisure in your life with exceptional tips, insights, recipes, and ideas.
Autumn means crock pots and soup. As a child fall was all about soup from fresh vegetable soup to French onion for Thanksgiving.
Autumn Soups
The first soup of the season was vegetable the last of the fresh garden vegetables. The root vegetables used were just a few from the garden. Many ended in a canner or the root cellar for the dark cold winter. The very last of the fresh greens, green beans, and corn were a great addition.
The soup season all of autumn went from the vegetable soup to chilli for Halloween night served with fried scones and honey butter. The autumn soup season would end with the deep rich French onion soup made from onion jam. Therefore the first of autumn was the last of fresh vegetables but ended with riches of the year’s harvest.
Autumn Soup Tips
Sauté your vegetables from heaviest to lightest to layer the flavors, seals in their flavor, and keep their shape better when added to the soup.
Toasting your seasoning slightly before sauté the vegetables draws out their deep flavors.
Cook the barley separately to allow for the soup to not thicken the soup while cooking.
Autumn Vegetable Barley Bean Soup
1 can white beans (can be any variety of bean you prefer)
1/2 cup corn canned, fresh, or frozen
1/2 frozen or fresh peas
2 medium potatoes diced
2 medium carrots diced
1 medium onion diced
Handful of snapped green beans
4 cloves of garlic chopped
3/4 cups of raw barley (this will be cooked separate from soup)
In a large warm sauté pan place your olive oil, add 1/2 seasonings toast slightly. Add onion, potatoes, carrots (heavier veggies) sauté for 3-4 minutes. Then add peas, corn, and spinach. Sauté fro 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic sauté 2-3 minutes.
In a Crock Pot set on low if cooking overnight or high if soup is for dinner (cook 4 hours) add the remaining seasoning, bay leaves, bouillon, sauté vegetables, and 4 cups of water. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
In a saucepan add 1 tsp. bouillon, salt, pepper, and 1 1/2 cup water, and barley. Bring to boil once boiling turn to low. Cook for 20 min. Then add to the soup.
Serve with your favorite sourdough bread or crackers.
Please note you can add any vegetables your family enjoys i.e. celery, green pepper, spinach, mushrooms or even a hot pepper for some heat. You can use the leftovers from the roasted Costco chicken or fresh sausage in place of the beans.
What is your favorite autumn soup? Post your answer on social media using #4ChionFoodie
Queen Elizabeth II’s drop scones recipe sent to President Dwight David Eisenhower, on January 24, 1960. Eisenhower enjoyed the drop scones while staying at Balmoral.
The Queen was a simple eater. She ate a similar menu each week. Therefore all new menu items required the Queen approve.
Drop Scones Ingredients
The drop scones also known as scotch pancake is a treat to enjoy for breakfast, brunch or afternoon tea. Therefore there is a a way to best eat the drop scones with clotted butter (a favorite of the Queen) on top of the jam, fresh fruit, or maple syrup.
Caster SugarCaster Sugar
Drop Scones
4 teacups flour (3/4 cup= 1 teacup) (360g) 4 tablespoons caster sugar (56.7g)(sugar with a texture between regular sugar & powdered sugar you can create this sugar by pulsing 1 cup(128g) white sure in a blender) 2 teacups milk (180g) 2 whole eggs (100g) 2 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) (8.4g) 3 teaspoons cream of tartar (14.3g) 2 tablespoons melted butter (28.3g)
Beat eggs, sugar, and about half the milk together, add flour, and beat well together adding remainder of milk as required, also bicarbonate and cream of tartar, fold in the melted butter. Do not let the mixture stand to long before cooking. Place on a hot griddle (375ƒ) for cooking (this is key to success with these scones). These are thicker and smaller than American pancakes. Serves 16 calories 268 per serving.
94th Oscars® Awards shows how I got you. The touching moments between Liza Minnelli and Lady Gaga present the Best Motions Picture. This brings the theme, movie lovers to unite to the forefront.
Lady Gaga and Liza Minnelli present the Oscar® for Best Picture
94th Oscars® Awards Ceremony
The 94th Oscars® Awards evening presenters honored the films from the past that change our culture, perspective, and brought forward struggles in life. The most inspiring moment of the 94th Oscars® Awards evening is Minnelli and Gaga’s interactions. The grace and beauty of two women supporting and sustaining generations disappeared and it is the true nature of humanity. Gaga reassures Minnelli as she appears unsure. Gaga states, “I got you.”
Regina Hall, Amy Schumer and Wanda Sykes brings the hostess role back to the 94th Oscars® Awards with laughter and style. It is great having the normalcy return. The night filled with glamour, beauty, and remembrance.
Regina Hall arrives on the red carpet Amy Schumer arrives on the red carpet Wanda Sykes & Alex Sykes arrive on the red carpet
Red Carpet
A full red carpet of fashion, friends, and people uniting is seen for miles. You can see the full read carpet looks here. The colors look like a spring meadow. The pastels, blush, bright colors, and texture is refreshing and renewing.
A few of the favorites on the red carpet are:
Reece Fledman with his pink jacket, sunglasses, and cropped pants.
Wesley Snipes brings the hope of summer with a monochromatic suit that is shorts.
Simu Liu looks sharp in Versace (personally dressed by Donatella Versace) wearing an Omega watch.
David Oyelowo love the fashion forward prints and bold colors.
Mila Kunis wearing a Zuhair Murad silk rose colored ruched bodice.
Diane Warren sure she is wearing her lucky socks with her bright green suite and beatbox handbag
Tiffany Haddish elegant in her custom Dolce & Gabbana gown and Pomellato jewels.
Ariana DeBose in Valentino red pant suit and diamonds.
Reece Feldman arrives on the red carpet Wesley Snipes arrives on the red carpet Jessica Oyelowo and David Oyelowo arrive on the red carpetSimu Liu arrives on the red carpet Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis arrive on the red carpet Diane Warren and guest arrive on the red carpet Tiffany Haddish arrives on the red carpet Ariana DeBose arrives on the red carpet
Governors Ball
The evening concluded with at the Governors Ball at Hollywood and Highlands. Wolfgang Puck and Ghetto Gastro’s prepare many of the traditions and brining masterfully blended influences from the African diaspora, global South ingredients and hip-hop to create offerings that address race, identity and economic empowerment.
Ariana DeBose attends the Governors Ball Wolfgang Puck on the red carpet Wesley Snipes and Queen Latifah attend the Governors Ball Finneas O’Connell and Billie Eilish get their Oscars engraved at the Governors Ball At the Governors Ball
94th Oscars® Awards Recipients
Best Motion Picture of the Year
CODA Philippe Rousselet, Fabrice Gianfermi and Patrick Wachsberger, Producers Recipient
Belfast Laura Berwick, Kenneth Branagh, Becca Kovacik and Tamar Thomas, Producers Don’t Look Up Adam McKay and Kevin Messick, Producers Drive My Car Teruhisa Yamamoto, Producer Dune Mary Parent, Denis Villeneuve and Cale Boyter, Producers King Richard Tim White, Trevor White and Will Smith, Producers Licorice Pizza Sara Murphy, Adam Somner and Paul Thomas Anderson, Producers Nightmare Alley Guillermo del Toro, J. Miles Dale and Bradley Cooper, Producers The Power of the Dog Jane Campion, Tanya Seghatchian, Emile Sherman, Iain Canning and Roger Frappier, Producers West Side Story Steven Spielberg and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role
Will Smith in King Richard Recipient
Javier Bardem in Being the Ricardos Benedict Cumberbatch in The Power of the Dog Andrew Garfield in tick, tick…BOOM! Denzel Washington in The Tragedy of Macbeth
Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role
Troy Kotsur in CODARecipient
Ciarán Hinds in Belfast Jesse Plemons in The Power of the Dog J.K. Simmons in Being the Ricardos Kodi Smit-McPhee in The Power of the Dog
Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role
Jessica Chastain in The Eyes of Tammy Faye Recipient Olivia Colman in The Lost Daughter Penélope Cruz in Parallel Mothers Nicole Kidman in Being the Ricardos Kristen Stewart in Spencer
Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role
Ariana DeBose in West Side Story
Jessie Buckley in The Lost Daughter Judi Dench in Belfast Kirsten Dunst in The Power of the Dog Aunjanue Ellis in King Richard
Best Animated Feature Film of the Year
Encanto Jared Bush, Byron Howard, Yvett Merino and Clark SpencerRecipient Flee Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie Luca Enrico Casarosa and Andrea Warren The Mitchells vs. the Machines Mike Rianda, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Kurt Albrecht Raya and the Last Dragon Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada, Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho
Achievement in Cinematography
Dune Greig Fraser Recipient Nightmare Alley Dan Laustsen The Power of the Dog Ari Wegner The Tragedy of Macbeth Bruno Delbonnel West Side Story Janusz Kaminski
Achievement in Costume Design
Cruella Jenny Beavan Recipient Cyrano Massimo Cantini Parrini and Jacqueline Durran Dune Jacqueline West and Robert Morgan Nightmare Alley Luis Sequeira West Side Story Paul Tazewell
Achievement in Directing
The Power of the Dog Jane Campion Recipient
Belfast Kenneth Branagh Recipient Drive My Car Ryusuke Hamaguchi Licorice Pizza Paul Thomas Anderson West Side Story Steven Spielberg
Best Documentary Feature
Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Joseph Patel, Robert Fyvolent and David Dinerstein Recipient
Ascension Jessica Kingdon, Kira Simon-Kennedy and Nathan Truesdell Attica Stanley Nelson and Traci A. Curry Flee Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Monica Hellström, Signe Byrge Sørensen and Charlotte De La Gournerie Writing with Fire Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh
Best Documentary Short Subject
The Queen of Basketball Ben Proudfoot Recipient
Audible Matt Ogens and Geoff McLean Lead Me Home Pedro Kos and Jon Shenk Three Songs for Benazir Elizabeth Mirzaei and Gulistan Mirzaei When We Were Bullies Jay Rosenblatt
Achievement in Film Editing
Dune Joe Walker Recipient
Don’t Look Up Hank Corwin King Richard Pamela Martin The Power of the Dog Peter Sciberras tick, tick…BOOM! Myron Kerstein and Andrew Weisblum
Best International Feature Film of the Year
Drive My Car Japan Recipient Flee Denmark The Hand of God Italy Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom Bhutan The Worst Person in the World Norway
Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling
The Eyes of Tammy Faye Linda Dowds, Stephanie Ingram and Justin Raleigh Recipient
Coming 2 America Mike Marino, Stacey Morris and Carla Farmer Cruella Nadia Stacey, Naomi Donne and Julia Vernon Dune Donald Mowat, Love Larson and Eva von Bahr House of Gucci Göran Lundström, Anna Carin Lock and Frederic Aspiras
Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original score)
Dune Hans Zimmer Recipient
Don’t Look Up Nicholas Britell Encanto Germaine Franco Parallel Mothers Alberto Iglesias The Power of the Dog Jonny Greenwood
Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original song)
No Time To Die from No Time to Die Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’ConnellRecipient
Be Alive from King Richard Music and Lyric by DIXSON and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter Dos Oruguitas from Encanto Music and Lyric by Lin-Manuel Miranda Down To Joy from Belfast Music and Lyric by Van Morrison Somehow You Do from Four Good Days Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
Achievement in Production Design
Dune Production Design: Patrice Vermette; Set Decoration: Zsuzsanna Sipos Recipient Nightmare Alley Production Design: Tamara Deverell; Set Decoration: Shane Vieau The Power of the Dog Production Design: Grant Major; Set Decoration: Amber Richards The Tragedy of Macbeth Production Design: Stefan Dechant; Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh West Side Story Production Design: Adam Stockhausen; Set Decoration: Rena DeAngelo
Best Animated Short Film
The Windshield Wiper Alberto Mielgo and Recipient
Affairs of the Art Joanna Quinn and Les Mills Bestia Hugo Covarrubias and Tevo Díaz Boxballet Anton Dyakov Robin Robin Dan Ojari and Mikey Please
Best Live Action Short Film
The Long Goodbye Aneil Karia and Riz AhmedRecipient
Ala Kachuu – Take and Run Maria Brendle and Nadine Lüchinger The Dress Tadeusz Łysiak and Maciej Ślesicki On My Mind Martin Strange Hansen and Kim Magnusson Please Hold K.D. Dávila and Levin Menekse
Achievement in Sound
Dune Mac Ruth, Mark Mangini, Theo Green, Doug Hemphill and Ron BartlettRecipient
Belfast Denise Yarde, Simon Chase, James Mather and Niv Adiri No Time to Die Simon Hayes, Oliver Tarney, James Harrison, Paul Massey and Mark Taylor The Power of the Dog Richard Flynn, Robert Mackenzie and Tara Webb West Side Story Tod A. Maitland, Gary Rydstrom, Brian Chumney, Andy Nelson and Shawn Murphy
Achievement in Visual Effects
Dune Paul Lambert, Tristan Myles, Brian Connor and Gerd Nefzer Recipient Free Guy Swen Gillberg, Bryan Grill, Nikos Kalaitzidis and Dan Sudick No Time to Die Charlie Noble, Joel Green, Jonathan Fawkner and Chris Corbould Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings Christopher Townsend, Joe Farrell, Sean Noel Walker and Dan Oliver Spider-Man: No Way Home Kelly Port, Chris Waegner, Scott Edelstein and Dan Sudick
Adapted Screenplay
CODA Screenplay by Siân Heder Recipient Drive My Car Screenplay by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Takamasa Oe Dune Screenplay by Jon Spaihts and Denis Villeneuve and Eric Roth The Lost Daughter Written by Maggie Gyllenhaal The Power of the Dog Written by Jane Campion
Original Screenplay
Belfast Written by Kenneth Branagh Recipient Don’t Look Up Screenplay by Adam McKay; Story by Adam McKay & David Sirota King Richard Written by Zach Baylin Licorice Pizza Written by Paul Thomas Anderson The Worst Person in the World Written by Eskil Vogt, Joachim Trier
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The 94th Oscars® Governors Ball returns after a break during Covid pandemic. The evening theme is Movie Lovers Unite. This after party will continue to unite with unifying elements of film.
Jon Gray, Pierre Serrao, and Lester Walker of Ghetto Gastro Master Chef Wolfgang Puck The Governors Ball Press PreviewThe Governors Ball Press Preview The Governors Ball Press Preview
Food Governors Ball
Chef Wolfgang Puck and Wolfgang Puck Catering is partnering with Ghetto Gastro’s to plan and prepare this year’s menu. There will be many of the traditions with mac-n-cheese, Smoked Salmon Oscar® with Iranian Osetra Caviar on Brioche, and gold covered Oscars®. Ghetto Gatro’s is brining masterfully blended influences from the African diaspora, global South ingredients and hip-hop to create offerings that address race, identity and economic empowerment.
94th Oscars® Governors Ball Cocktails and Wine at Governors Ball
Tequila Don Julio is proud to donate in support of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Governors Ball for the fifth consecutive year. As Mexico’s original luxury tequila, Tequila Don Julio is meant to be enjoyed during true moments of genuine 94th Oscars® Governors Ball celebration.
Francis Ford Coppola Winery will premiere two limited-edition wines in honor of the 94th Oscars®. The Francis Ford Coppola limited-edition 94th Awards Wines are housed in glistening gold colored bottles, and are crafted as symbols honoring the significant talent, passion and hard work achieved throughout the entire film industry.
Actors and filmmakers will be sipping all night long at the 94th Oscars®. Fleur de MIRAVAL – the only Champagne house exclusively devoted to Rosé Champagne.
Charles Joly, Don Julio The Governors Ball Press Charles Joly, Designer Official Don Julio Oscar® Cocktails Charles Joly, Designer Official Don Julio Oscar® Cocktails Catherine Cutter and Herbert Fabre of Fleur de Miraval
1 Tbsp Parmesan ¼ tsp Pink Peppercorns, toasted and ground
½ tsp Black Peppercorns, toasted and ground
¼ tsp Green Peppercorns, toasted and ground
1. Bring 2-3 quarts of water to a boil in a pot. Add 2 Tbsp of salt to the water and then the pasta. Cook for about 8 minutes or to al dente. Strain.
2. In a heavy bottom pot, melt butter and then whisk flour into the melted butter. Continue to whisk for two minutes on low heat avoiding any color.
3. Add milk to the butter and flour mixture continuing to stir until the milk thickens to a creamy consistency and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Add white cheddar, stirring to melt the cheese into the milk. Add ground pink and black peppercorns. 5. Add the pasta to the pot and stir in the Parmesan. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Serve!
CHOCOLATE BARK
CHOCOLATE BARK
Yield: Serves 16 Recipe courtesy Wolfgang Puck Catering
INGREDIENTS
1 pound dark chocolate (64 to 70 percent cocoa content), coarsely chopped
1/4 cup roasted pecan halves
1/4 cup coarsely chopped roasted macadamia nuts
1/4 cup roasted shelled pistachio nuts
1/4 cup roasted shelled sunflower seeds
1/4 cup dried cherries
1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
INSTRUCTIONS
If you start with raw shelled nuts, put them in a single layer in a baking pan and roast them in a preheated 350°F oven until golden, about 6 minutes; then remove them from the oven and cool to room temperature before making the bark.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Put the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Put the bowl in the microwave, set the power level to medium, and microwave for 20 seconds. Stir the chocolate with a rubber spatula and, if not smoothly melted, microwave again for 20 seconds longer. Continue only until the chocolate is smooth. Spread the melted chocolate on the parchment-lined baking sheet to a thickness of 1/4 inch. (It’s okay if the edges of the spread-out chocolate aren’t neat, since you’ll be breaking it up.) Immediately sprinkle the pecans, macadamias, pistachios, sunflower seeds, cherries, and apricots over the still-melted chocolate. Leave the chocolate to set until solid, about 20 minutes at cool room temperature or 5 to 10 minutes in the refrigerator. Break the chocolate into rough serving pieces and store in a covered container at cool room temperature until serving time
A BRONX COCKTALE
Ingredients:
▪ 1¼ oz Tequila Don Julio Reposado ▪ ¼ oz Rhum Vieux ▪ ¾ oz Fresh Lime Juice ▪ ½ oz Mango Juice ▪ ½ oz Coconut Milk ▪ ½ – ¾ oz Honey Syrup (2:1 ratio)
New York Ssam, Shiso Leaf, Nori, Pickled Fresno Chili, Cilantro, Sesame Seeds (made without gluten)
GNOCCHI ROMANA
English Peas, Baby Carrots, Fresh Peas of the Season, Pea Butter, Asiago (vegetarian)
BRAISED SHORT RIBS
Pommes Aligot, Sautéed Rainbow Swiss Chard, Braised Short Ribs with Caramelized Shallots, Pickled Mustard Seeds (made without gluten)
WOOD FIRE PIZZA OVEN
Margherita Pizza
Vegan Puttanesca Pizza
In The Kitchen
117 Chefs
25 pounds of Nishiki Rice
1080 Whole Eggs
10 Whole Yellowtails
300 pounds of Smoked Salmon
400 pounds Jidori Chicken
15 pounds of Caviar
6 pounds of Truffles
100 Lobsters
3 cases Harry’s Strawberries
5 cases Local Raspberries
60 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes
65 pounds Miyazaki Wagyu Beef
20 pounds Local English Peas
40 pounds Jackfruit
10 pounds Purple Ninja Radish
25 pounds Baby Rainbow Carrots
25 pounds Baby Planet Carrots
20 pounds Baby Turnips
40 pounds Baby Anise Fennel
25 pounds Premium Frisee
465 pounds Baby Green Romaine Lettuce
40 pounds Black Tuscan Kale
300 pieces Baby Lolla Rossa Lettuce
25 pounds Sugar Snap Peas
65 pounds Heirloom Mix Beets
50 pounds Local Rainbow Chard
4 cases Organic Rucola
100 pounds of Ground Beef 30 pounds of Prime New York
120 pounds of Ahi Tuna
25 pounds Valbrasco Feta
56 pounds of Jumbo Lump
50 pounds of Mozzarella
30 pounds of Fontina
30 pounds of Parmesan Reggiano
1600 Housemade Mini Brioche Buns
40 pounds of Duck Breast
25 Gallons of Alta Dena Whole Milk
2,600 Sesame Miso Cones
Ray Dolby Ballroom on the top level of Hollywood & Highland® immediately following the Oscars® broadcast.
The 94th Oscars® will be held on Sunday, March 27, 2022, at the Dolby® Theatre at Hollywood & Highland in Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and in more than 200 territories worldwide. Stay tuned here for all thing Oscars®.
4Chion Finds and Deals has this year’s Holiday Guide filled with finds and deals for your best holiday season. Welcome to early holiday shopping and celebration.
4Chion Finds and Deals ~ Artisans and Amazon
This is our top holiday finds from exceptional artisans and on Amazon for the holiday season.
Artisans
These artisans are all women owned businesses. They each create their products for your luxury and personalized gift giving needs. Please remember to order early for your specific gift giving needs.
The Olivia Shop
The Olivia Shop
The Olivia Shop is your location to get exceptional personalized gifts. There is a large selections for your holiday gifts from mugs to gift baskets. They are individually priced. The mug above is $45.00.
Lamonique Cosmetics
Lamonique Cosmetics
LaMonique Cosmetics is an all natural cosmetic line. Each product is natural with no talc, dyes or alcohol. They are also paraben, gluten and cruelty free. This is the makeup that is used for many red carpet and award show looks. Our favorite is the Bomb Balm, it keeps our lips moist and kissable.
5th Chapter Scents
5th Chapter Scents Body Butter
5th Chapter Scents is about being natural, beautiful, and you. This is handcrafted soaps, lip balms, melts, and body butter. Each product is created with high grade oils for the best skin care. Our favorite is the body butter it is luxurious and beautifully scented. Discount 4chionLS10 10% OFF $25 or more spent Good through Cyber Monday.
Proofy Organics
Poofy Organics is a modern apothecary, a consciously crafted skincare and wellness brand that creates clean botanicals and sustainable products. They offer free shipping on all orders over $70 (USA Customers only).
Phenomenal U
Phenomenal U Custom made Jewelry specially designed for your Phenomenal Person in your life. Made with natural stones and charka beads. Phenomenal deals during the holiday shopping. Join the brand here Saturdays starting November 27, 2021 10 AM-1 PM EST for details.
Hot Pepper Seeds for Planting – Garden Starter Kit
Blue Garden Collective This Amazon Choice is the top selling personal gardening kit. This is an exceptional gift for friends with green thumbs or loved ones who wants to explore the lush world of indoor gardening. There are a wide variety of starter gardening kits from tea to spicy pepper and more. We have a special offer just for you: 15% Discount Code: XEBU8CQ8 at check out on Amazon.
Amazon Finds
Loving Amazon when it comes to convince, exceptional products, and hand crafted products. This is an easy way to shop, ship, and enjoy the holidays. We have included some of Oprah’s Favorite Things for easy shopping. These products selected are from our favorites during the year. They will enhance your holidays, home, gift giving, and parties.
Here is our Amazon Holiday Guide:
Calvin Klein Men’s Slim SuitLark & Ro Women’s Sleeveless Black DressFlounce Neckline Sheath DressCalvin Klein Boys’ Suit Family Pajamas FleeceFamily Christmas Pjs Women’s SlippersSlippers Memory FoamMen’s SlippersSLEVEL Toddler BoysComfy Slippers Mens winter coatDouble Breasted PeacoatDouble-Face Wool CoatCalvin Klein Boys’ Suit Men’s Long-Sleeve Fleece CoatBonnie Jean Winter DressWomen’s Watch Invicta Men’s Aviator WatchManicure Set Eyelash CurleNanoSteameApple AirPods with Charging CaseSpa Gift for Women Lotion Gift Set Kaya Lavender Mini Gift SetChocolate Cookies Gift BasketBeard Brush for Men & Beard Comb SetBurt’s Bees Gift SetAll Natural Bath and Body Luxury SpaKitchenAid Professional 5 PlusKid Chef Bakes Coaster II-CO Serving CartHamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker Calphalon Nonstick BakewareNordic Ware Natural Half Sheet Christmas Cookie CuttersCOSORI Pour Over Coffee Maker Cusian Art Pan set Eddie Bauer Home EdgewoodFHI HEATFHI HEAT Hair DryerBarbie Signature 2021Juegoal Cars Advent CalendarJewelry Making Kit Gross Science LabChristmas Pop FidgetBusy Ball Popper TeeTurtleLEGO Technic McLaren SennaLeapFrog Learning
4Chion Deals
We will not let the holiday season pass without great deals. 4Chion has the following exceptional deals for the holiday season.
Here are the our holiday deal details:
5th Chapter Scents 4chionLS10 10% OFF $25 or more spent Good through Cyber Monday.
Poofy Organics They offer free shipping on all orders over $70 (USA Customers only).
Party At Home this is the year to enjoy a big at home party with family and friends, while watching the 73rd Emmys®. Present an evening of elegance and entertainment with these party ideas and recipes.
Ben Whinshaw Governor’s Ball
Party at Home ~ Décor & Viewing Fun
Beautiful elegant floral arrangements with crystals in the center of each flower goes with this year’s glitz and glamour logo. You can contact your local florist for the best arrangements or shop the local Costco for exceptional variety of flowers. Place large pillows around the room on the floor for comfortable floor sitting during the show.
Include gold decorative items with an interesting shape or texture that will harmonize with the key art. Your party at home can include gold or shimmery fabrics from your local fabric store can create beautiful table covers, drapes around your flat screen, runners and napkins that add a pop of Emmy® gold. Sprinkle the tables with Swarovski crystals or rhinestones found at your local craft store.
Create a fancy selfie area for your party at home in the corner of the room with draping. You can print an enlarged copy of this year’s artwork or award themed selfie items. Don’t forget to #Emmys in your Instagram posts.
Party at Home ~ Viewing Fun
Print up a nomination card and have your guests fill out their predictions prior to the show starting. You can have prizes for the most correct answers overall and in drama and comedy.
You can divide guests into groups to play play a trivia game (printable trivia fact sheet) to play during commercials. The winning team earns a prize.
Prize ideas:
T-shirts, mugs or merchandise from a favorite TV Show
Go to your local party store for great themed award show items
A cocktail recipe book and a beautiful cocktail shaker
A special bottle of Sterling wine, Ferrari Trento Sparkling wine, or Ketel One Vodka.
A pair of wine or champagne glasses for toasting all the winners
Find the most elegant gifts at your local dollar store
Party at Home ~ Recipes
This is the time to enjoy fun new elegant or simple menu. Please find simple and elegant menu planning from cocktails to main course to yummy dessert below:
Grilled New School Quality American on Sourdough Bread with Tomato, Balsamic Onion Jam, and bacon
by Chef Eric Greenspan Yields: 4 sandwiches Ingredients For the sandwiches:
8 slices sourdough,
1 lb. New School Quality American, sliced in 1oz slices (substitute other American Cheese where unavailable)
1-2 tomatoes, sliced into 8 slices
8 slices good bacon, crisped
¼ lb. butter, unsalted and softened For the jam:
1 oz. vegetable oil
2 red onions, thinly sliced
½ cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt to taste Directions To make the jam: In a large sauce pot, heat the oil and sweat the onions. Add the sugar and vinegar and bring to a simmer. Cook slowly until vinegar completely reduced, approx. 45 minutes to an hour. Add salt to taste. To build the sandwiches: On each slice of 4 pieces of bread, spread ½ tablespoon of onion jam. Add 4 slices to New School Quality American cheese, top with two slices of bacon and two tomato slices. Top with additional slice of bread. Spread butter end to end on each side of the sandwich. Griddle on a 375 degree griddle until crispy and golden brown on each side and the cheese is melted. Cut in half and serve.
Candy-Popping Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Pops
by Chef Sherry Yard Yield: 24 pops
Ingredients
8 oz. Valrhona Jivara Milk Chocolate (or your favorite)
½ cup Peanut Butter, creamy
1 cup Puff Rice Cereal
4 packets Pop Rocks (or more as desired) Directions
Melt the chocolate in a microwave bowl to 90 degrees F.
With a rubber spatula or spoon, fold in the peanut butter, rice cereal and pop rocks.
Place 1 Tablespoon of base 1 inch apart onto sheet tray lined with wax parchment paper.
Press flat and inset lollipop stick
Top stick with 1 Tablespoon additional spoonful to secure stick.
Once tray filled refrigerate for 30 min – 1 hour, set. Note: Keeps 1 week in refrigerator
Seven Minute Martini Classic
Seven Minute Martini Classic Size
INGREDIENTS 6 OZ Ketel One Vodka 3 OZ Bianco Vermouth 4 OZ Water 5 Dashes orange bitters
STEP #1 Combine Ketel One Family made Vodka, Bianco Vermouth, water, and orange bitters in a bottle or large mason jar. Chill until ready to serve.
STEP #2 Use a vegetable peeler to cut a long, wide piece of grapefruit peel.
STEP #3 Curl and place into french press (or other infusing vessel) with dried mint, 1/2 slice peach and hibiscus tea.
STEP #4 Pour over pre-chilled cocktail into french press for serving.
TO SERVE Pour small portions of the infused drink into martini or coupe glasses every 90 seconds. Watch the flavor and presentation transform over the course of seven minute. Each infusion serves 3 cocktails. For a fresh twist try using a mint bouquet instead of dried mint. Makes 6 cocktails.
Cafe Oranje (A cocktail enjoyed at Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass this is not their recipe)
1.25 oz. Ketel One® Vodka Oranje
1 oz. espresso coffee cold brew
.5 oz. simple syrup
.25 oz. Kahula
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass. Shake with ice and fine strain into a chilled coupe glass over ice. Garnish with with 1/8 orange slice.
Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
Emmys® 2021 Cafe Oranje Cocktail
Here are previous taste sensations from Patina and Chef Joachim Splichal that you can make at home. Note that you can half the quantities depending on the size of your gathering and desire for leftovers:
NICK + STEFS PRIME BEEF TENDERLOIN: (Serves 12)
1 5 lbs. prime beef tenderloin 2 oz. unsalted butter 6 each thyme sprigs 4 each garlic cloves Kosher salt & ground black pepper
Method: Preheat oven to 400°F. Season beef tenderloin with salt and pepper on all sides. Over medium-high heat in a cast-iron pan, sear beef tenderloin until golden and caramelized on all sides. Add butter, thyme and crushed garlic to the pan and baste the beef with the frothy melted butter. Once basted, place in the oven and cook until medium rare, approximately 15 minutes. The internal temperature should be roughly 125° if using a meat thermometer. Remove from the oven and allow beef to rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
Party At Home Dinner Emmys
WHITE CHEDDAR POTATO GRATIN:
4 lbs. Russet potato, peeled and finely sliced 6 each shallot, finely sliced 6 each garlic cloves, chopped 2 cups whole milk 4 cups heavy cream 2 tablespoon kosher salt 2 tablespoon thyme leaves, chopped 6 oz. White cheddar, grated 4 oz. Parmesan cheese, grated
Method: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a heavy bottomed pot, sweat garlic and shallots until soft and fragrant. Add cream, milk, salt, and thyme leaves and reduce by half. While the milk and cream mixture is reducing, peel and slice the potatoes as thinly as possible and cover in cold water to prevent browning. Prepare a 8×10 inch heavy bottomed casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Arrange one layer of the sliced potatoes into the bottom of the casserole dish. Carefully cover the potatoes with the reduced cream. Sprinkle with the white cheddar and parmesan. Place a second layer of potatoes and again cover with cream mixture and grated cheeses. Continue this process until the casserole dish is completely full. Add one final layer or the grated cheeses and cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil. Bake the gratin for 1 hour at 350°F, remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes to brown the top of the gratin. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
FILIPINO BBQ CHICKEN SKEWERS (Makes 12 Skewers)
1/2 cup soy sauce 1/2 cup banana ketchup 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic 1 teaspoon finely minced ginger 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 4 lbs. organic chicken thigh meat, cut into small cubes 12 bamboo skewers – pre-soaked in water for 30 minutes 1/2 cup finely sliced scallions Banana ketchup for dipping (recipe and instructions below)
Method: Combine first 9 ingredients to make a marinade. Marinade the chicken for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Thread chicken onto skewers and brush with oil. Cook over a grill, turning as needed and brushing with reserved marinade, until charred and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Transfer to serving platter and garnish with sliced scallions and additional banana ketchup sauce alongside.
Banana Ketchup (yummy)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1/2 cup chopped Vidalia onions 2 teaspoon finely minced garlic 1 jalapeño seeded and minced 2 teaspoon finely grated ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 2 cups mashed ripe bananas 1/2 cup white wine vinegar 2 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon tomato paste 2 tablespoon soy sauce 1/4 cup brown sugar
Method: Cook onions in vegetable oil over medium heat until soft, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic, jalapeño, ginger, turmeric and allspice, and cook about 1 minute. Add the tomato paste, bananas, vinegar, honey, soy sauce and brown sugar. Continue cooking an additional 15 minutes, stirring often. Let cool and refrigerate.
GREEN GODDESS CHOP SALAD (Serves 8)
1 cup baby zucchini, blanched 1 cup asparagus tips, blanched 1/2 cup English peas, blanched 1/2 cup edamame, blanched 1/2 cup green romanesco florets, blanched 1/2 cup shishito peppers, lightly grilled 8 each broccolini, blanched 2 heads baby artisan lettuce, leaves picked washed 1/2 cup Green Goddess dressing
Method: Prepare the vegetables as stated and cut all into bite-size pieces. Wash and dry the lettuce leaves and cut into a bowl. Combine with cut vegetables and drizzle with the green goddess dressing. Carefully toss and serve. Garnish with fresh tarragon leaves and fennel frond.
Green Goddess Dressing
2 cups watercress, picked leaves, washed 1/2 cup basil leaves 2 tablespoon chives, chopped 2 tablespoon tarragon leaves 1 lemon — zest and juice 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons crème fraiche 1 each anchovy 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 each garlic cloves
Method: In a blender mix lemon juice, mayonnaise, crème fraiche, anchovy, Dijon mustard, and garlic cloves. Puree until smooth adding a small amount of water if the mixture becomes too thick. Add the fresh herbs and lemon zest to the blender cup and carefully pulse to combine and fully mix the herbs and the pureed base. “EMMY®” MACARONI AND CHEESE (Serves 5)
1 lb. box Dececco Ziti Cut No. 118 Pasta 2 quarts half and half 3 whole shallots, peeled and sliced 10 cloves of garlic, sliced 2 branches fresh thyme 1 bayleaf Ground or fresh grated nutmeg Kosher salt Freshly ground white pepper cup unsalted butter 3/4 cup sifted flour 15 slices Vermont white cheddar, sliced very thin
Method: Cook box of pasta in 2 quarts of boiling half and half, that has sliced shallots, sliced raw garlic, thyme, bayleaf, salt and pepper, and just a touch of nutmeg. Cook the pasta 1/2 of the way, then use a slotted spoon to lay out on a parchment lined tray in a single layer and chill. Make a sauce bechamel, by adding a blond roux to the poaching liquid, and simmer for 5 minutes only. (if it reduces too much, add a touch of cream or milk). Strain thru a sieve. Blond roux: Melt the butter in a saucepan without letting it brown. Add flour to butter and cook whisking, for 4 minutes. The color should be blond or very light gold. Use a basting brush to paint/glaze the macaroni with bechamel, and chill. Once cold, cut into 15 equal-sized circles or squares. Place one slice of cheese on each macaroni square/circle, and stack up 3 high, giving you 5 three-layer Macaronis. Cover with plastic in the refrigerator, so as not to absorb odors.When ready to serve, place in a pre-heated 350 degree oven until hot throughout.
DARK CHOCOLATE BROWNIES WITH BOURBON SAUCE
1 & 1/3 cups butter, softened 2 and 2/3 cups sugar 4 eggs 3 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup baking dark cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon salt Confectioners’ sugar, optional
Baby Bourbon Caramel Sauce: 1 cup sugar (+ 1/4 cup water) 1/2 cup heavy cream 1 tablespoon Hudson Baby Bourbon pinch of sea salt
Method: For the brownie: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy; beat in eggs and vanilla. Sift together the flour, cocoa and salt; gradually add to the butter, sugar and egg mixture. Spread into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until the top is dry and the center is set. Cool completely and cut into bars or squares. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired. Baby Bourbon caramel sauce: Simmer sugar and 1/4 cup water on medium heat, swirling in the pan – NOT stirring -for about 15 minutes, or until a deep amber color is reached. Watch closely as not to let it burn. Turn off burner, remove from heat and slowly add cream while stirring. Add a pinch of salt and bourbon and place back on still-warm burner for another minute while stirring. Transfer to a heat-safe dish or container and let cool in the refrigerator. Drizzle over a plate of cooled, dusted brownies, or pipe a design of whipped cream onto each brownie and then drizzle! Enjoy!
CHOCOLATE CROISSANT BREAD PUDDING (Serves 4)
1/2 cup milk 4 cups cream 1 cup egg yolks 1/4 cup sugar 1 lb. torn croissants (4 croissants 4 oz each) 1/4 cups dark chocolate chips Icing sugar, for dusting
Method: Preheat oven to 300°F. Place the milk, cream in a small saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring, until just below the boil. Remove from the heat and set aside. Place the egg yolks and sugar in a large heatproof bowl and whisk to combine. Gradually whisk the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture to combine. Arrange the croissants in a 12 cm x 18 cm 1.5-litre-capacity baking dish, layer with chocolate chips. Pour over custard and cook for 25 minutes in a bain-marie or until golden and just set.
What will you be serving at your Emmys® party at home? Post your menu here #4ChionFoodie. The Emmys will be broadcast on Sunday, Sept. 19 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/5:00-8:00 PM, live PT) on the CBS Television Network.
Tour De Taco Tuesday Phoenix AZ is a great out of towners activity. You can take visitors on a site seeing tour of the city and enjoy some great local tacos. My nephew, Kaleb, came to visit from Illinois. We ventured out on Tuesday afternoon of eating and site seeing.
Tour Da Taco Tuesday
Tour Da Taco Tuesday City Tacos
City Tacos in North Phoenix is the first stop of the afternoon. It is funny as we each order a taco not 3 or 6 but 1. We are asked, “Are you sure?” We answer, “yes we are sure.” Kaleb order a carne asada with a white tortilla and ordered a shrimp taco corn tortilla. Kaleb ended up with a shrimp taco on white tortilla. He really enjoyed the taco even though it was a surprise. The adventure was picking out toppings from the salsa bar and watching them cook the tacos.
The tortillas are all homemade. The corn tortilla was so sweet and perfect. The addition of strong corn flavor difference from manufactured tortillas brings a real experience for taco Tuesday. City Tacos is, “fresh and authentic Mexican experience at our restaurant. We pride ourselves in making handmade corn and flour tortillas daily, in-house-made salsas, and only using CERTIFIED Angus Beef.” The attention to top ingredients makes this taco a real taco moment. They do delivery with Grub Hub, lobby is open, and takeout is an option.
City Tacos Shrimp
Tour De Taco Tuesday Scenic Drive
We took a side trip between North Phoenix and Scottsdale to enjoy the desert scenery and plants. Desert Foothills Scenic Drive, brings the best of natural plants and the dynamics of the Sonoran Desert. Watching the summer sky try to break open for much needed monsoon storms brings excitement and eeriness as the sun gets ready to set and the clouds appear to rise up from the ground.
Kaleb takes in the scenery and enjoys taking photos of the landscape around. We each gather a rock from area to add to our collection ( a tradition I have done since touring the US).
Desert Foothills Road
Tour De Tacos Maskadores Taco Shop
Next stop is a fun bright location call Maskadores Taco Shop in Scottsdale. This location was a lot of fun. You are greeted by a large well lit blue mask of the lucha libre, translated as free fight. The decor brings the maskadores front and center. It is a great location for street tacos.
The order here is a fish taco on corn with all the veggies (this does make it very spicy) and carne asada with corn tortillas. The treat here is the Mexican Coke. It is sweeter than regular Coke. Kaleb enjoyed every last drop.
The menu has authentic Mexican flavor from family recipes. Kaleb notes that the two different taco shops create a regional feel to the tacos. They are similar in set up but flavors vary from each taco shop. The lobby is opened, delivery with Uber Eats, and takeout.
MASKADORES TACO SHOP
Maskadores Taco Shop
Last Drop of Mexican Coke
Tour De Taco Tuesday El Taco Santo
El Taco Santo is in Chandler. The cashier was warm and welcoming. It was like walking into your family’s kitchen on a holiday. The restaurant’s tables has a lucha libre. The business started as a food truck and the loyalty of customers has lead to locations in Gilbert and Ahwatukee with the food truck. There are plans for more locations in the Phoneix area.
The Sonora Style tacos are created with fresh ingredients including tortillas and family recipes. Kaleb ventures for a quesadilla. This was enjoyable and over filled with meat. I enjoyed the veggie taco. This is a great treat at the end of the day. As we leave there is a most beautiful sunset on South Mountain. Kaleb takes out the camera for a photo of one beautiful summer sunset in Phoenix. You can eat in the lobby, takeout or delivery with Uber Eats.
El Taco Santo Ahwatukee
Tour De Taco Tuesday Los Taquitos
Los Taquitos is my favorite taco shop that I frequent, love the street tacos. They have a very festive decor with exception art.
Guy Fieri enjoyed the tacos here. He says, “they are some of the best I have ever had.” The family (5 sisters and a brother) have been creating these taco since 1981, while using their mother’s guidance and father’s memory.
Kaleb is at the end of eating today but the small pocket size taco is packed with flavor. I enjoyed my favorite there a grilled fish. Perfect end to the Tour De Taco Tuesday. There are four locations in the Phoenix area. There is even a happy hour each day. They serve great traditional breakfast all day. You can enjoy the lobby, takeout, or delivery with Uber Eats.
Los Taquitos comida mexicana
This was a great regional adventure of tacos in the Phoenix area. What is your favorite taco spot? Post your shops here.
Party Like an Oscar® nominee. Party Like an Oscar® nominee. Here are your dinner party ideas and recipes for a spectacular evening. Brining normalcy back after this year. The evening is at the Union Station Los Angeles and the Dolby® Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®.
Smoked Salmon Oscar®
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Chicken Pot Pie
The Trilogy
Party Ideas For Oscars®
You can celebrate this time with a great dinner party much like the nominees celebrities. Here are a few recipes for your dinner guests.
Smoked Salmon Oscar® with Iranian Osetra Caviar on Brioche
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Chicken Pot Pie
The Protagonist Cocktail
Party Recipes For Oscars®
Smoked Salmon Oscar with Iranian Osetra Caviar on Brioche
Ingredients
Oscar® Brioche
1 loaf brioche
1 cup dill cream (recipe below)
1 lb. smoked salmon
2 oz. Iranian Osetra caviar
Dill Cream
1 cup sour cream
1 T lemon juice
2 T shallots, chopped
1 T fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
Cut the brioche into the shape of an Oscar statuette.
Toast until golden.
Spoon small amount of dill cream on the brioche (see below).
Layer smoked salmon on top and garnish with caviar.
Dill Cream
Whisk ingredients together thoroughly. Pinch of salt and white ground pepper.
Chicken Pot Pie
(recipe courtesy Wolfgang Puck, adapted from “Wolfgang Puck Makes it Easy,” Rutledge Hill Press, 2004)
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch chunks
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/2 pound organic red-skinned potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 pound organic carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, peeled and diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
1 sprig thyme
1 bay leaf
1 cup white wine
2 cups organic chicken stock
1 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream
1/4 cup dry sherry
1/2 cup shelled or frozen peas
Approximately 1/2 pound frozen puff pastry, defrosted following package instructions
1 cage-free egg
Ingredients
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and toss in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of the flour until evenly coated. In a large skillet over high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add the chicken pieces, reduce the heat slightly, and sauté, turning them occasionally, until light golden and thoroughly cooked, about 5 to 10 minutes. sing a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. Add the remaining oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter to the pan, then add the potatoes, carrots, and onions and sauté until they begin to look glossy and bright, 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium, stir in the garlic, red pepper flakes, thyme, and bay leaf, and sauté, just until the vegetables begin to color slightly, 2 to 3 minutes more.
Add the wine, turn up the heat, stir and scrape with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan deposits, and simmer until the liquid reduces by about half, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the chicken stock and the 1 cup of cream. Bring the liquid to a boil, reduce the heat slightly, and simmer briskly until the liquid reduces by about half again and is thick and creamy about 15 minutes. Remove the sprig of thyme and the bay leaf. Stir in the reserved chicken pieces and the sherry. Stir together the butter and remaining flour and stir this paste into the mixture. Season the sauce to taste with salt and pepper.
Transfer to 4 large individual ovenproof 2-cup soup bowls, 4 ramekins of the same size, or a 2-quart baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the filling is cold, at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Make sure the puff pastry is no thicker than 1/4 inch. With the tip of a sharp knife cut the pastry into 4 circles that will overhang the rim of the serving bowls or ramekins by about half an inch; for a single large baking dish, cut 4 circles that will cover its top, or use one large sheet.
In a small bowl, beat together the egg and the remaining 1 tablespoon cream to make an egg wash. Brush the tops and outsides of the rims of the bowls. Place the bowls, ramekins, or baking dish on a baking tray and place the puff pastry circles on top, pressing them gently over the sides of the dishes. Pierce the tops with the tip of a paring knife. Brush the top of the pastry with egg wash. Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake until the filling is bubbling hot and the pastry is a deep golden brown, 25 to 35 minutes. Serve hot.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese (recipe courtesy Wolfgang Puck)
Ingredients
8 ounces elbow macaroni
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups milk
3 tablespoons finely chopped black truffle (optional)
1/2 medium white onion
1 bay leaf
10 ounces sharp aged white Cheddar, shredded
3 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 ounce freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch cayenne
2 drops black winter truffle oil (optional)
1 cup fresh brioche or challah bread crumbs
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
Thinly sliced fresh black truffles, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, tender but still chewy, about 7 minutes. Drain and transfer to lightly oiled baking pan. Set aside.
While macaroni cooks, melt 3 tablespoons butter in a separate pot over low heat. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 4 minutes.
Add milk, chopped truffle, onion, and bay leaf to butter-flour mixture. Raise heat slightly and simmer for 10 minutes, until creamy, stirring regularly. Discard onion and bay leaf. Remove from heat.
Stir in 3/4 of aged Cheddar along with other cheeses. Season with salt, black pepper, cayenne, and truffle oil if desired. Fold in macaroni. Pour into 2-quart casserole. Top with remaining Cheddar.
Melt remaining butter in sauté pan. Add breadcrumbs and parsley. Toss to coat. Spread crumb mixture evenly over top of macaroni.
Step Six: Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven let stand for about 5 minutes. Top with shaved truffle, if desired, before serving.
The Protagonist
Ingredients
1/2 ounce Pimm’s The Original No. 1 Cup
3/4 ounce Fresh Lemon Juice
1/4 ounce Simple Syrup
2 ounces Tonic Water
Sliced Cucumber and Borage Flowers for Garnish
Instructions
Combine Don Julio Blanco, Pimm’s, lemon juice and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Gently shake and roll in tonic water.
Pour over fresh ice in a Collins glass.
Garnish: Wrap thin cucumber slice around inside of glass and top with borage flowers.
Check out the Oscars® Live Sunday, April 25th at 6:30 PM ET / 3:30 PM PT on ABC. What is your pick of the night? Post our answer here.
Spring Break Staycation time. As you manage work, schooling, and a new way of living a staycation can be a wonderful adventure. Arizona is home to great history, beauty, and top resorts in the world.
Taking a staycation with your children can be incorporated with their school work – history, geography, geology, and even math. Here is a great road trip for spring break or any weekend.
Spring Break Hotel
Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort Phoenix, AZ
A glorious resort in Phoenix nestle in the Tapatio Cliffs . This resort has comfort, COVID-19 protocols, and great entertainment. The comforts of home are here. A nice sitting room, and comfortable bedroom. The location is stunning for sunsets and sunrises. The several pools are accommodating for children and an adults only pool with a pool side bar.
Relaxing and enjoyment with spa, salon, and room service available. Take a moment to enjoy a desert and glass of wine on the patio or pool side. Experience the stunning outdoors with golfing, hiking, or the sun deck for evening sunrises. This location is prefect to venture and explore the great location around the state.
Hilton Staycation
Spring Break Food
Staycations really need to have great food stops along the way.
Pappadeaux Phoenix, AZ
Pappadeaux Dining
Southern food is comfort food. Pappadeaux is a generation to generation restaurant brings fresh seafood and Louisiana-style favorite to the plate. Attention to details and tradition brings the comfort food to your dinner plate. This is a great place to get family style for your picnic or party in your hotel room. Dinner this night is Shrimp Etouffee, green beans, fried crawfish with one of the 2.27 million baguettes they make each year. Curb side pick-up perfection, not one item missed. Dinner was delish.
Foodie Ellie enjoying her first Spring Break in Phoenix AZ
Andreoli Scottsdale, AZ
This is a home take on traditional Italian restaurant is popular with local. They have had many features including Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. This quant location serves as an Italian grocer and restaurant. You can cook your own or enjoy a home cooked meal.
They make everything from scratch including their own prosciutto, desserts, and homemade breads. The food is like walking into a great Italian home on Sunday. The food is a purest approach. If you are looking to mix and match your pasta this is not the location. They portion are fitting for one person not family style.
We enjoyed the Filetto Di Sogliola alla Mugnaia (fresh seafood), Gnocchi alla Corsara, and spaghetti with meat sauce. Dessert a must, the pasta is not over filling or heavy. We enjoyed chocolate mouse, coconut cake, and almond chocolate bark. The food is fresh and organic. The hand crafted pasta and food is by chef Giovanni Scorzo. He states on the web profile, “EAT the BEST FOOD IN THE WORLD and SHUT UP.”
The atmosphere is a true antique decor replicating any Italian grandmother’s living room. The family affair is felt within the staff as well.
Eclectic Cafe Tucson AZ
Eclectic Cafe
Dining
Road Trip to Tuscon
Eclectic Cafe in Tucson is “Where quiche meets enchilada.” The concept is a fusion of a variety of cuisines. The meal today includes vegan gazpacho (great summer treat chilled with garden fresh vegetables, Sherry’s shrimp salad, and Chicken Quesadilla. Took home a loaf of their zucchini bread, fabulous toasted with eggs for breakfast.
Mammoth Steak House and saloon
Mammoth Steak House and Saloon Lost Dutchman Gold Mine
This location is inside the The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine has great views of Superstition Mountains, food, and atmosphere. You can sit on the patio, at the bar, or inside. There is always a musician performing and has the real feel of the old town saloon. Enjoy a shot and a beer at the bar or a great meal.
Sweet Country Charm Payson AZ
Sweet Country Charm Candy Shop
The smell of sweet permeates the parking lot. It is a quant cozy welcoming candy shop in Payson Arizona. This sweet shop is in the Swiss Village Shoppes. They have homemade fudge, gelato, locally roasted coffee, handmade organic chocolate truffles, popcorn bar, nostalgic candies, handmade gifts.
Spring Break Attractions
Tucson Mission San Xavier del Bac
This mission is apart of the wonderful history in Tucson. The missions are a big part of the culture and religion in the Southwest.
Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Spanish Catholic mission, is 10 miles south of downtown. This mission on the Tohono O’odham Nation San Xavier Indian Reservation. This location began with Franciscan missionary Fr. Juan Bautista Velderrain beginning in 1783. This mission has been apart of the New Spain, Mexico, and the United States since construction began.
The mission presents shells as a symbol of pilgrimage. The Baroque architecture is traditional with marbling, faux doors, and other details. The mission represents the struggles that have been with the Southwest, living in harsh conditions, the changes in governments, fire, and earthquake.
Domes of Casa Grande
Casa Grande Domes
This is fun spot to stop and see from your car. It is a no trespassing area that is very unsafe especially for young children. This location was the hopes and dreams of many that never came true. This location was for manufacturing of computers but was never completed. There is an eerie feeling here. You can hear the walls speak as if there was life there but really the life has been one of decay and destruction.
Road Trip to Payson AZ
Spring Break Payson Arizona
Payson Arizona is about 89 miles from downtown Phoenix to Payson on highway 87. It is a great drive from the Sonoran Desert to the top of the Mongolian Rim. The change in climate, altitude (from 1100 to 5000 ft.), and from big city to small town. This town offers a real homie feel and great location for adventure. A great lake and park for picnics, photos, and more. The beauty is pristine with four seasons of recreational activities.
Spring Break Tonoto National Forest
This is a great day in the old west driving up Apache Trail, an old trade route. There is so much to see and experience here. There is the Elvis Church with some old scenery from old cowboy movies, and a small replica of in the area gold mining. The actual gold mining town The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. This location has great fun, shoot outs, and a train ride to the mine. It is the actual town prior to the mine flooding and the town shut down.
The road winds up to Tortilla Flat a small place with a gift shop and restaurant. This location was established as they built the Roosevelt Damn. The location has great water fun from boating, swimming, and kayaking. It is a breathtaking ride but well worth the journey.
Photo Olivia Rose
Wonderspace Scottsdale AZ
Great interactive art at Wonderspace in Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall. The art here is interactive, bigger than life, and digit. You experience a new reality from the artist creations. The art changes the frame of art to an endless pallet. The children enjoyed the exhibit. My favorite is a tie from Myrkvidr and Shigeto: Hovering. The art on exhibit at this time is:
RAINBOW ROOMS ~ Pierre le Riche
Stimulates a dialogue about identity, exploring struggles of discrimination, acceptance, and masculinity
FUJI ~ Joanie Lemercier
Focuses on projection or light in space and is influence in our perception.
SEWING MACHINE ORCHESTRA ~ Martin Messier
12 antique sewing machines presents a 3 minute concert
PLUME ~ Ian Brill
This creation is an immersive, interactive dome of synchronized light and sound gestures.
HUMAN STUDY #1, 3RNP ~ Patrick Tresset
This exhibits allows the participant to have a portrait drawn by robots.
THANK YOU BAGS ~ Reed van Brunschot
This is displaced, daily life through transitional moment one in which a a given situation suddenly and unexpectedly changes.
MYRKVIÐR ~ Yasuhiro Chida
This is a circular hoop, not linear, rotates around in the piece to create the effect of immateriality.
KILLING TIME ~ Eric Mesplé
This combines Mesplé use of ferrofluid and metal work
OUR TOP 100 ~ Jody Servon
This is a community-built playlist consisting of songs and memories about songs shared by participants
AYAHUASCA KOSMIK JOURNEY ~ Atlas V
This is a journey is from a mind-altering visual-aural journey of an ayahuasca ceremony.
MICROMONUMENTAL MAPPING,THE ESSENCE OF CREATION ~ Limelight
Created by a group of artists who specialize in projection mapping and light art. This uses the Greek god Apollo images built into the Lille Opera House.
LIGHT LEAKS ~ Kyle McDonald and Jonas Jongejan
Created after McDonald noticed how environments that filled up his peripheral vision with light created a usually immersive mirrors.
A MIND SANG ~ Vier Nev
Short film on perception, rebirth, and transformation.
SHIGETO: HOVERING ~ Conor Grebel and 79Ancestors virtual reality
The virtual reality film inspired by how water came to earth.
A great place to visit and explore. There is so much more than just a desert in Phoenix, Arizona. What is your favorite location in the state of Arizona? Post your response here.
Making cinnamon rolls Food Ellie is excited to create grammy’s cinnamon rolls. Ellie’s favorite treat from grammy is cinnamon rolls.
Ellie comes for a summer visit to celebrate the Juneteenth and swim for the weekend with grammy. She made her first pie crust for a sweet potato pie for the family Juneteenth dinner.
Measuring out the Flour
Loves Washing The Dishes
“always check for eggshells.”
Juneteenth Dinner
Ellie’s advice is to always check the bowl for eggshells and wash up the dishes when done. She was determined to do this herself. She measured each cup of flour to be one cup ( I usually use my senses to measure for bread). It was a wonderful day baking with her. Sharing the tradition I learned from my own grandmother.
Cinnamon Roll Tradition
My grandmothers on my mother’s side were known for their outstanding baking skills. They always used all-purpose flour, white sugar, and no eggs to make cinnamon rolls. Family recipes are fun to create.
I remember reading my great-great grandmother’s story gathering sego lilies and grinding them into flour to bake bread, cinnamon rolls, and creating pies. They did this after settling in Idaho from the Mid-West and food was scare. It is a make it work moment.
In a large bowl or Kitchen Aid, mixing bowl with the bread hook attachment. Add 2 cups of the flour and both yeast pkg. on top of the flour.
In a large pot on the stove on low add whole milk, butter, salt, and sugar heat warm to the touch.
Foodie Ellie Warming Milk
Pour the warm to touch mixture over the flour and yeast. Mix well on low if using Kitchen Aid. When mixed well add
2 eggs blending after adding each egg.
Slowly add the remaining flour (this will vary each time how much) 1 cup at a time. Mix well after each addition. Increase speed on the Kitchen Aid as needed. The dough should be firm and start to pull away from the sides of the bowl when enough flour is added. Knead by hand for 12-14 minutes (stretch and pull using palms of your hands). In the Kitchen Aid mix for two minutes on setting 8. This is equivalent to 12-14 minutes needing by hand.
Food Ellie Measuring out the Flour
Raising Cinnamon Rolls
Butter the sides of a large bowl. Place dough in a buttered bowl and cover with plastic wrap. My grandmothers used a clean dish towel. This does create a slight crust on the dough as it rises. Let dough rise until double size about 1 1/2 hours. Punch down, let rest 10 min.
Cinnamon Roll Dough
Punching Down Dough
Punching Down Dough
Next, roll the cinnamon roll dough into a circle, dust with flour if sticking, roll about 1/4″ thick. Brush the melted butter on the rolled out dough. Then sprinkle the cinnamon and then sugar till well covered. You are welcome to mix the butter, cinnamon, and sugar together then spread on the dough with a butter knife. Roll the dough each roll please pull towards you. Then cut in 2-inch rolls with a sharp knife (children can use a butter knife it will be a change the shape of the cinnamon roll some but good experience for them).
Rolling out Dough
Sprinkling Sugar on Dough
Rolling Out Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon Rolls
Finishing Cinnamon Rolls
Place cinnamon rolls in grease baking pan 9×13″. Let rise he cinnamon rolls rise until the are touching each other for about 20 minutes. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 350° f until golden brown. Mix up the icing using a hand mixer. Cool cinnamon rolls until warm to the touch. Frost the cinnamon rolls. This is great to make ahead for a family Sunday brunch or holiday breakfast. Store in an airtight container.
Me, Great Grandma Lucy, Grandma Ruth, and Mother Eileen 1970 something
Teaching family recipes are so important in keeping the traditions and flavors alive. Taking time to recreate and creating new alterations make a life long memory that can last for generations. We enjoyed homemade pizza with the extra dough.