2013 Flavorful Journeys – My Favorites

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2013 was an adventurous year for me. I experimented with many new cooking techniques, tried new cuisines, and explored new restaurants and markets. I love how food brings people together, and I believe that much can be learned about a culture from the food they eat. In a way, cooking can transport us to a particular place and time–it’s magical in that way. Through Flavorful Journeys I hope to inspire readers to try new things, go new places, and share in the flavors of the world. Thanks for following my blog, cooking with me, and sharing memories! read more

Korean Mixed Rice Bowl with Bean Sprouts (Kongnamul Bap)

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Korean Mixed Rice Bowl with Bean Sprouts (Kongnamul Bap)Kongnamul Bap (Korean Mixed Rice Bowl with Bean Sprouts) and Kimchi

I love Korean food! The spicy fermented vegetables, the seared meats served straight off the grill, the infinite variety of banchans (side dishes that accompany the main course), and the bibimbap (mixed rice bowls). These flavors awaken the taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Kongnamul bap is a type of bibimbap that features soy bean sprouts. Kongnamul bap is easily prepared, healthy, and inexpensive. Bean sprouts, kimchi*, and cooked rice are placed in a pot with a small amount of water and oil. The pot is then covered and heated, effectively steaming the vegetables and rice. The kongnamul bap is then ready to serve, topped with spicy soy sauce . . . it’s really that simple! This is a perfect meal for a busy weeknight. read more

Applebee’s Copycat Recipe: Fiesta Lime Chicken

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Applebee's Fiesta Lime Chicken Copy Cat RecipeFiesta Lime Chicken with Salsa Fresca and Mexican Red Rice

I love the Fiesta Lime Chicken at Applebee’s. It’s tender, juicy, and flavorful. I’ve been making a copycat version of this signature dish for a while now, and it’s quite good. I’ve even had a few friends request this meal on their birthdays. Broiled chicken is served atop crispy tortilla strips, alongside salsa fresca and Mexican red rice. The chicken is covered with a mildly spicy ranch sauce and melted cheese. Lime slices add some zest.Applebee's Fiesta Lime Chicken Marinade read more

Chinese Egg Rolls with Pork

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Chinese Egg Rolls with Pork

These Chinese egg rolls with pork are amazing! Every year for my birthday my family makes me a Chinese dinner featuring these egg rolls, shrimp toast, mu shu pork, sweet & sour pork, pan-fried dumplings, cubed steak, Mongolian beef, fried shrimp, and beef and broccoli. It’s an all-day affair and everyone pitches in to help. The crowd favorite are these Chinese egg rolls with pork.

My grandfather learned a lot about Chinese cooking from Shu-min Hsieh—a Chinese immigrant who came to the US in 1963. She taught Chinese cooking classes in Gainesville, FL from 1970-1990 to increase awareness about Chinese food within the community. I know her recipes are much appreciated in our household and we have  incorporated them into our family traditions. read more

Revolution Brewing – Chicago, IL

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Revolution Brewing Coaster

Meet Revolution Brewing—a gastropub with savory grub and a broad selection of craft beers brewed here in Chicago. Their slogan, “come for a beer and join the craft revolution,” surfaces in the pub’s design and iconography. Take, for instance, the creative titles of their excellent house brews: anti-hero IPA, coup d’etat, mother of exiles, and local hero, to name a few. Trust me, these beers deserve their powerful names. And after having a few at the pub, you can purchase growlers (large glass containers that contain about six beers) to take home with you! read more