tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85082373832926860082012-01-19T13:11:16.456-05:00baking @ midnight"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.comBlogger931100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-89368198204650970122012-01-19T13:11:00.000-05:002012-01-19T13:11:16.462-05:00

As a kid, Tết (Vietnamese New Year / Chinese New Year / Lunar New Year) meant that I'd spend days munching on water melons, melon seeds, sweets & tart kumquats that I'd secretly pick from the kumquat trees we had in the house, the equivalence of the Christmas tree here (We were not supposed to pick at them because they end up not looking as nice anymore by the time it's the new year, so I'd take

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-91177171664003828732012-01-02T17:06:00.002-05:002012-01-03T18:58:52.422-05:00

Chúc Mừng Nǎm Mới!!! Happy New Year!!!!  Bonne Année!!! Feliz Año Nuevo!!! Buon Anno!!! La Mulţi Ani!!! 새해 복 많이 받으세요!!! Whichever language(s) you speak, write or understand, I wish you and your loved ones a new year filled with happiness, health, joy, laughter, smiles, and yummilicious food in your bellies. Speaking of which, here is a short & savory "recipe" for your drumsticks. Simply

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-16315610229640264252011-12-15T16:31:00.015-05:002011-12-15T16:36:47.425-05:00

Ok, so I know what you're thinking: "ANOTHER pasta sauce recipe!?" because of course, we all have enough pasta sauce recipes in our closet! But hear me out!!! 1-You won't have to keep going to check up on it 2-There is a twist that will give your pasta sauce a whole new depth. 3-No cleanup to do for splatters on the counter!!! Seriously, if you have a crockpot, DO IT! DO IT NOW!!!!! Ok, maybe

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-16680894734748073772011-12-02T21:52:00.000-05:002011-12-02T21:52:03.643-05:00

I'm having one of those times, you know... bloggers' block. I've literally been twiddling my thumbs for days now to come up with something interesting to say, and I've got nothing. Nada. Niente. *sigh* Good thing the pictures speak for themselves, *PHEW!*  XOXO or Tic-tac-toe, they all taste delightful!!! I've seen these checkerboard cookies for years, and have meant to make them for a while,

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-55464514969398488952011-11-21T22:36:00.000-05:002011-11-21T22:36:05.847-05:00

Seriously... There are tons of recipes out there for the best chocolate chip cookies and I don't claim to have tried them all, but the ones that I have, were always missing one thing or another. The one thing that they all had in common, was that they WOULD NOT FLATTEN! The pictures would show so, but not the result!!! *sigh* Now, don't get me wrong, the taste was never an issue, but for me,

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-3878661436239777402011-10-22T20:30:00.002-04:002011-10-22T20:58:57.152-04:00

Did you know that the word "fall" might actually have everything to do with the fact that things fall during the season? Really!!!! And oh boy, do they fall, EVER, all puns intented!!!!!*sigh* Fall is pretty, but like everything else, it has its ups and downs. And lately, it's been just the perfect excuse for indulging in comfort food. So bring on the squash and let's get it going!!! Such

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-15399511999295624642011-09-25T21:44:00.000-04:002011-09-25T21:44:01.795-04:00

Don't let the image of this simpleton fool you... The dressing on it, will make you addicted to salads. Now, I do realize that is quite a statement to make, but I'm just THAT confident.  Make this and you will thank me! (For those of you who are wondering who Heisenberg is and why does he have anything to do with my salad, it's a TV series I've just started watching, and there is top notch

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-85534084492838812942011-09-16T20:30:00.000-04:002011-09-16T20:30:52.535-04:00

Smartphones are IT these days. We can play games, video chat, listen to music, MAKE music, etc all on the same little device. I mean, I never would have thought that when I was a kid. Oof, "thinking"? Never mind thinking, there is probably an app for that now anyway ;) If your app hunger involves delicious mouth watering recipes that make you want to roll up your sleeves and pop into the kitchen

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-54748633547049174332011-09-11T21:18:00.000-04:002011-09-11T21:18:29.555-04:00

I like ginger, in food, in tea, in candies, but I was never a fan of Ginger Ale. I find the taste is too subtle. Basically not worth my tummy space and so, it remains one of the things I never even look at in grocery stores. Now, that's all changed. Forever. Thanks to one of my favorite bloggers, Joy the Baker, who led me to discover ginger syrup. (P.S: Thanks Joy!!! I would really love to hang

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-59820786676167270082011-09-04T16:14:00.011-04:002011-09-04T20:27:14.355-04:00

TWO WEEKS ago, I was speechless to see Halloween decorations already out in many stores and ready for purchase. It was August! Either they take them out earlier every year or I'm really in denial about how fall is near. I mean, can you really blame me? No amount of BBQ, wine tasting, wedding vow renewal parties, are ever enough. Don;t get me wrong, I love Halloween. But it's just that closer to

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-36641490192489503692011-03-20T20:03:00.006-04:002011-03-20T20:21:49.371-04:00

As I sat there having pancakes topped with sliced bananas and maple syrup this morning, a little voice whispered in my head: "Make pizza!" and that was it, I was weak and I followed the command. It's a total mystery to me how my mind works sometimes...  Of course, having lack of the right ingredients is part of this schizophrenic food-driven problem of mine. Fortunately, because of all the

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-34763944138144003262011-02-19T16:39:00.003-05:002011-02-26T13:25:06.281-05:00

I realize that for a couple of times a year, I disappear from this blog for a while. This is usually due to a trip which is always closely followed  by a travel withdrawal. It takes a little bit of time before I can break that bubble and come back to "real" life. When real life is -20 to -30 degrees celsius, it's very hard to want to get back to.... *sigh* Anyhow, cold weather calls for comfort

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-18581606652566691662010-12-06T22:06:00.001-05:002010-12-12T21:19:53.169-05:00

We had our first snow storm today *sigh* ... Don't get me wrong, fluffy white snow floating in the air is cute, but when they are flying at 300 km/hour and hitting your face at full speed? NOT so fluffy, and especially NOT so cute... With the cold weather comes the face stuffing. This is the time most of us try to stay healthy and some of us fail miserably towards the end of the path. I mean,

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-51487375563988876482010-11-25T01:27:00.001-05:002010-11-25T01:32:25.220-05:00

Sometimes when the world seems dark and nasty, filled with daily horrendous news, we need a big dose of goodness to remind us of how it also has its great side. And when that goodness comes your way, make sure you appreciate every moment that it remains. Mine was Cupcake Camp Montreal this passed Thursday. I cannot express how deeply touched I was/am to see so many people came together for a

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-58433709510303603592010-11-07T18:52:00.001-05:002010-11-07T19:36:28.374-05:00

Yes, you read right, BAKED CORN DOGS. Ok, so the baked version of something fried always has its compromise BUT a picky 6 year old eater proclaimed her love for these yummies, so.... need I say more? These corn dogs are more on the corn-muffin-covered side, but they are quite good nonetheless, and they are really quick to make too. I actually made them in the toaster oven because they were

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-10535865772005295612010-10-31T20:55:00.002-04:002010-11-09T15:12:16.683-05:00

Happy Halloween to all you zombies, monsters and ghosts out there gathering around your witch's brew. I hope your Saturday night parties were great fun and that you are spending more time treating than tricking. I, did just that for the passed few days. Lots and lots of treats... Oof!!!! If it wasn't for the love of making treats, I think sugar and I would have to go on a break for a while...

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-67680771750646161112010-10-11T19:35:00.000-04:002010-10-11T19:35:45.909-04:00

Long weekends are like eating something sinfully delicious, then finding out that it's low-fat, low-cal and actually good for you, and so you get to grab another serving to indulge in. Right, it doesn't happen very often, but when it does, it's SO good! Happy Thanksgiving to all Canadians!!! I hope you all spent great times with your families and had all kind of delicious comfort food. Now, this

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-54546047821789386512010-09-18T01:45:00.000-04:002010-09-18T01:45:13.700-04:00

Ok... so it's been a LONG time since my last post, I do apologize to all [3]of you who actually read my yacking.... I've been busy with life, work and cakes, and so, I haven't actually cooked, this WHOLE time... Trust me, I'm hanging my head in shame... But today, I have great news to share... I've won a spot in the The Foodista Best of Food Blogs Cookbook!!! This is very exciting for me,

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-37370109699361789782010-06-29T00:36:00.003-04:002010-11-09T16:38:48.901-05:00

I love summer. I really do. It's a genuine love. But in every great love, there is usually a twist... and this love of mine involves sudden pouring rain and thunder attacking me from nowhere, with no warning. Feeling betrayed and shock, not to mention cold and wet, I needed something comforting for my tummy. ASAP. Something warm, fluffy and sweet. Ah yes, pancakes for dinner! Pancakes with

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-85810884537042942612010-06-13T12:54:00.000-04:002010-06-13T12:54:16.410-04:00

It's going to be a short and sweet post today. Right to the point. What you see is what you get. It's healthy. It's yummy. It's quick to make. It requires no cooking. And did I mention that it's yummy? It's a salad packed with good-for you things. 1 can of beans of your choice (I used a mix) rinsed under cold water. 1 ear of corn, cooked, shaved 2 stalks of celery, cubed 10-15 cherry tomatoes,

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-18948150538395381432010-06-03T22:59:00.004-04:002010-12-06T20:53:39.676-05:00

It's spring!!! The season of sun (supposedly...) flowers, yummy fruits and veggies. It's the season of the birds and the bees (understand that however you want to...) This is when we tend to lean toward the fresh, light tasting dishes, unlike in fall and winter where we need our dose of comfort food and cozy blankies. But because every season is a season to make someone happy, I made a pumpkin

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-86409909574848054212010-05-22T08:43:00.003-04:002010-06-03T23:17:09.868-04:00

Has it ever happened to you, being so tired, you couldn't think of what to make for dinner, so you eat oatmeal instead? Yes, me too... *sigh*.... Functioning on half a brain lately due to my love for making these babies, I haven't had much time to do the other thing I like so much: cooking. Shame... So a couple of days ago, when a bunch of lovely trout filets caught my eyes, I knew I couldn't

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-86363690712597912042010-05-02T10:43:00.006-04:002010-05-02T19:28:06.512-04:00

There are many happy moments in life. From big moments like becoming a home owner, to medium moments like getting a discount on a great pair of shoes, to little moments like eating ice cream on a sunny day, or any day for that matter (I'm easily amuse, what can I say...) Then there are sad moments...  From losing someone you love, to seeing a baby bird with a clipped wing, to hearing someone say

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-90087591982281189882010-04-18T15:04:00.008-04:002010-11-09T16:29:56.569-05:00

I'm not really a "pie person", but I adore the smell of baking pies in the house. There is something so loving and cozy about the fragrant spices and the steamy bubbly filling that makes me want to hug someone special. And on cold rainy days like these, we can all use some love, hugs and a couple of slices of warm pies. So go call someone you love, tell them that you're coming over in an hour

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-61990587987174141972010-04-10T16:59:00.003-04:002010-06-13T01:24:02.719-04:00

No... not that war... I'm sorry (hang head down in shame)... It's just the war between macarons and I. Today, after the seventh attempt to tackle those sons of b****** cutie pies, I declare peace. A success with shine, dome and feet reigns upon us. The sun even came out to celebrate our victory. I can almost hear the music... This has been a long and somewhat disastrous voyage, haunting me

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-54646693918936083362010-03-12T22:51:00.006-05:002010-11-09T16:19:15.188-05:00

Dear Spring, Sitting here on a Friday night, with a patch on my left eye (don't ask... it's not that interesting really....) I realized that I have been slacking off on the blogging and the cooking, and I have a perfect excuse for it. Cakes!!! Yes, cake is always a good excuse for anything! I have been selling cupcakes to a little restaurant downtown and making quite a few cakes as well, so

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-56615171180489130012010-02-13T13:28:00.004-05:002010-03-27T23:37:00.828-04:00

We all need a little lift from now and then to keep our spirit high. When something goes wrong, we have to remember all the other good people & things that are still there with us, and it may sooth the pain. These are times when we need to keep our heart & tummy warm, because the temperature refuses to collaborate. I came to making this soup out of literally whatever I had in the house. The

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-5651080777946009222010-02-07T21:57:00.003-05:002010-03-27T23:35:58.437-04:00

Ptitim, also called Israeli couscous, is my new favorite pasta! There is a slight chewiness to them that is very pleasing to eat, somewhere between a pastina and barley. I've had them before in restaurants, but this is the first time I cook them. They really keep their shape through cooking, reheating and they don't clump like couscous. They cook a tad faster than other pasta because of their

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-1602516677477572432010-02-01T19:11:00.003-05:002010-03-27T23:27:16.518-04:00

Days like these, I'm happy I stock my freezer the way I do. It's like -1000*C outside!!!!!! Eesh! And the most recent things I made to add to the bunch, is gravlax. Gravlax? Gravlax?? Gravlax!!! It sounds unappetizing doesn't it? If you repeat it long enough, you might actually never want to try it! LOL! What it is, is simply cured salmon. The texture is just like smoked salmon, but the taste

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-28812943497148572592010-01-28T20:00:00.002-05:002010-03-27T23:24:59.131-04:00

There is one type of brownies that I am requested to make over and over again, and it's the Oreo Brownies. Actually, I think anything with chopped Oreo cookies in them, people will love it: brownies, biscotti, cakes, fudge, ice cream. Sold! I have already posted once on Oreo Brownies here, and this is just a slightly different version, from Kraft Kitchen, with no addition of cocoa powder, a

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-45372694346234477872010-01-16T21:01:00.009-05:002010-03-27T23:22:02.941-04:00

We just got back from Miami and a cruise in the Caribbean and now we are back to the freezing weather of Montreal. So usually, I would have opened this post with something along the line of "reality sucks!", or "it's like ripping the bandage off", but with all that is going on in Haiti, it just sounds... well... bratty and inappropriate. I don't think I need to say more on the horrible

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-80893782609301430402009-12-30T14:01:00.010-05:002010-11-09T15:14:34.818-05:00

I have started a new relationship. Yes, I am in love with a Rebel... Canon Rebel XS. I bought it yesterday and now I can't put it down. My heart flutters every time I hold it. With each picture taken, it beats a little faster. And with every glance, the butterflies in my tummy go haywire. Ok, ok, maybe it's not dramatic like that, but pretty close, no joke... So today, I made soup for my Rebel.

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-22374270238468395722009-12-28T00:19:00.002-05:002009-12-30T14:51:18.813-05:00

I had a block of Saint Morgon cheese just sitting in my fridge screaming "Spread me!" It's great on crusty bread because of its creamy smooth texture, pungent aroma and delicious taste BUT (yes... there is always a but... ) with all the hearty, rich and compact holiday meals wedged in, I just couldn't imagine myself ingesting all that. So I knew I had to make something with it... Quiche!

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-87204945994282525072009-12-17T17:00:00.002-05:002010-03-27T23:50:18.389-04:00

I hate when my attempts go wrong. And I love when my fails go right. A few days ago I decided that I would make Molasses Toffee for the first time. So I pulled out the brand new candy thermometer that I bought a year ago, and put on my game face. I. AM. PREPARED. Sugar and molasses. Check. Cream and butter. Check. Cocoa powder and a pinch of salt. Check. Boil. Whisk. Boil come more. Whisk some

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-76165346421583033192009-12-15T23:11:00.004-05:002010-03-27T23:26:00.712-04:00

I have been sitting here for 20 minutes trying to figure out how am I going to write the intro to this blog, and all I can come up with, is how long I've been sitting here thinking about it.... So when this happens, the best thing to do is to keep things short and sweet. Hhmmm... sweeeeet.... Actually, we'll keep things spice and sweet today. I present you, my society of gingerbread people: The

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-29886193758211374412009-12-10T17:45:00.002-05:002010-03-27T23:22:42.931-04:00

I bought a variety pack of Lobster, Shrimp and Salmon Mousse Spread a couple of weeks ago with the intention of making a savory mille-crepe cake. Unfortunately, I never got around to doing so... damn lazy bone.... But then I saw this and it went *taaaaaaa!!!* in my head.... I can make waffles and mix in the mousse!!!!! *taaaaaaaa!!!* Lobster, shrimp and salmon mousse waffles (adapted from

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-82133495322293035652009-12-05T19:10:00.001-05:002009-12-05T19:37:17.698-05:00

There is not much to say when it comes to tiramisù, except "hhhhhmmmmm!!!" LOL!I think it is one of those desserts that cannot be made "light" because it just wouldn't be the same... Seriously, have a salad for dinner or something because I am speaking from experience... Light tiramisù just tastes... sad!It is made by layering zabaglione (a custard-like mixture of egg yolks, liqueur, mascarpone

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-60673064227251852642009-12-03T21:02:00.005-05:002009-12-03T21:39:06.960-05:00

Even when you are an obsessive cook/baker, sometimes you just want to call delivery instead. And when that isn't an option because your stomach is digesting itself, something quick is required.Yes, I do eat instant noodle once in a blue moon... *sigh*As a kid, I used to love eating the noodle right out of the bag as a snack. My mom didn't let me do that too often because she would say "It is bad

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-37096860389195761502009-11-23T20:37:00.000-05:002009-11-23T21:04:10.700-05:00

This passed Sunday my friend and I participated in a charity event called Cupcake Camp, where bakers, professional or amateur, donated bunches and bunches of cupcakes to raise money for a good cause.3500 cupcakes were on site and the funds raised this year ($8000!!!!) is going to Kids Help Phone Canada.Lots of people (about 700!!!) came to support by buying all kinds of amazingly cute cupcakes,

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-7764149739386781812009-11-21T16:28:00.010-05:002009-11-23T21:23:59.295-05:00

Do you like mustache? Which style is your favorite?According to this chart, mine is "The Connoisseur". I don't even like mustache, but for the health of men everywhere, I am supporting it this Movember in order to raise money for Prostate Cancer Canada.What? Yes, MOvember, the month formerly known as November... A mustache-growing charity event that takes place every November, all month, to raise

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-12277837482865175512009-11-14T13:06:00.017-05:002010-11-09T15:27:27.467-05:00

-Grandma, there you are!!!!!!!! Good morning grandma!!!!!!! -Oh good morning my lovely bunch! Did you have sweet dreams???? -Yes grandma, sweet sweet dreams. What are you doing here staring out the window? -Well, my darlings, I have been preparing myself for the trip ahead. The time has come for me, your parents, uncles and aunts to get on the road, and be useful for a dinner of friends

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-74733313691102412412009-11-08T16:55:00.001-05:002009-11-08T19:07:01.584-05:00

The Laughing Cow Wedges was the only "cheese" at one point in Vietnam when I was a kid. I used to either just eat them right out of the wrapper one after another, or spread in "banh mi" for breakfast.After moving to Canada, most probably due to the overload of varieties of other cheeses, I forgot about The Wedges. Then I eventually started dismissing the idea of "La Vache Qui Rit" being a "real"

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-38763083242645482432009-11-04T23:23:00.001-05:002009-11-04T23:32:14.415-05:00

As much as I hate raking the leaves in the backyard, the nasty when-will-it-end rain and the unsuspected change of temperature, fall for me also means more reasons to bake, lots of yummy veggies, heart-warming food, and the pretty colors all around in the trees (which of course, leads back to the leaves in the backyard... *sigh*)I had an urge to make this duo color soup when I saw the colorful

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-35496341974469790932009-11-03T22:02:00.007-05:002009-11-03T22:52:56.716-05:00

I did it! I played with fondant!!! It was so much fun and I think I will do it again *gasp* LOL!!!The cake was for a friend's bridal shower/bachelorette party, and I wanted it to be different than the ones I've seen. As it was going to be the first time I experiment with fondant, I decided a ring-bearer pillow would be an easier choice for shape and so on...(image from http://

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-85120918376550675312009-10-31T12:20:00.006-04:002010-03-20T12:46:54.167-04:00

Ugh... Annoying never-ending rain... What a perfect drag to make Halloween night just a little more trick than treat. Good thing there will be lots of candy (and by candy I mean food, drinks, parties, fun) at the end of it all to compensate for all the effort. So before venturing out into the night to join the zombies & vampires, I will be staring at these truffles during the day. I made

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-67221695255433934632009-10-30T19:20:00.001-04:002009-10-30T19:39:04.254-04:00

Oh boy...So, I was immediately M.I.A again after the first disappearance due to our Europe trip back in the summer. But this time, it wasn't such a pleasant one... My laptop went into a coma after an attack of trojans, malwares & who-knows-what, even though the only porn I ever went to look at, was the ones on Tastespotting & Foodgawker... I was lucky enough to get tremendous help from a couple

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-40786975337863511422009-07-20T16:48:00.006-04:002009-07-20T17:59:58.680-04:00

Exactly 3 months ago, on April 19th, I had a very lemony day. One of the lemony things I made that day, was limoncello which was going to take 2-4 months to "mature".Russian Prince, meet lemons. Lemons, meet your Prince.So now is the time... And let me tell you, if you have access to a lot of lemons, and you like limoncello, DO IT! I actually prefer the home-made one to the store-bought

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-23734794983828678162009-07-18T09:07:00.017-04:002009-07-19T23:10:09.525-04:00

Hello everyone!My BF & I were away in Europe (Amsterdam, Venice, Prague, Budapest & Vienna) for 2 weeks, hence the disappearance of posts, but Tramie's Kitchen is back! The cooking and baking has not yet begun since I've only been back for a few days & still nursing vacation withdrawal syndrome, so I bring you pictures of food that we've encountered, eaten, digested and in my case, heart-burn

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-10705346414997533112009-06-24T19:48:00.006-04:002010-03-27T23:42:42.997-04:00

I bought a bunch of asparagus a few days ago. Fat, juicy, crunchy looking asparagus. But my cold have drenched me of my desire to cook & bake for the passed few days, so the lovely asparagus have just been laying there, staring at me everytime I opened the fridge. They would have eventually started talking. So I started obsessing over the thought of what I was going to make with them.

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-10368905432515603682009-06-22T21:03:00.004-04:002009-06-22T21:49:40.391-04:00

Bleh! I've been nursing a cold for the passed week. You know, the slow torturous one that starts two weeks in advance, with muscle pain and headaches, then "BAM!" just like that, it hits, and you're completely thrown off balance.Left with no energy & no appetite, I lost the desire to cook. I KNOW! It's soooo wrong!!! Everything tastes mediocre or yucky, so I haven't cooked or baked ANYTHING at

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-35906366505735291632009-06-18T17:37:00.001-04:002009-06-18T17:39:28.300-04:00

Last Sunday we went to a friend's family cottage for his birthday/pizza party. They have an awesome wood oven that he built by himself, so we basically just made pizza, ate, drank & hung out near the lake.The infamous wood oven that my BF would love to haveCoogee, the best dog EVER!The weather was great. The sun was shining. The breeze was subtle & almost omni-present. And the bugs... well the

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-70595445734944361822009-06-15T20:36:00.000-04:002009-06-15T20:36:45.350-04:00

I'm a fan of breakfast food. I can eat breakfast anytime of the day. Although technically, it's a loophole in the system for me, since in Vietnam, breakfast can range from "xôi" (sticky rice) "Phở" (Tonkinese soup) to pan-fried eggs with drizzles of Maggi or "cháo" (rice porridge) with seafood and/or pork.This passed Saturday morning wasn't a relaxing one for me, so breakfast was just another

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-55944062661627352012009-06-14T00:40:00.001-04:002009-06-15T13:14:37.640-04:00

Although being Asian, I'm definitely still perplexed by wacky Asian product names & packaging. Most of the time, the translation is completely off, or there isn't any at all. The other day, I went to Chinatown to get red bean paste (and glutinous rice flour) for a mochi attempt, and it took me forever to find a bag where the expiration dates are of the future and not the past. Finally, the two

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-4519188834146155892009-06-10T23:11:00.000-04:002009-06-10T23:11:00.225-04:00

We had gone to a French restaurant the night before, and being famished from my Pilates class as always, I took the five-course tasting menu. I was full after half of the appetizer which was the size of a main course! So obviously, when my filet mignon came along, I took two bites and had to settle for taking it home.You know what? No regret!!! My BF actually said he wish he'd done the same

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-66538402334065402302009-06-08T10:03:00.005-04:002009-12-10T21:29:18.649-05:00

Imagine my surprise when a few days ago, a close family friend brought us a full box of ripe avocado. A WHOLE BOX!!! I mean, I've never had more than four avocados at a time in the house... Whenever I see them at the grocery store, they'd be either too ripe, or too expensive. Only once in a blue moon would I see a perfect bunch.***SCORE!!!!***In Vietnam, we eat avocados like fruits. Slice one

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-5082807518121316402009-06-06T13:33:00.001-04:002009-06-06T13:33:33.016-04:00

Dad: What's that in the tub???Me: It's strawberry & rhubarb coulisDad: Oh cool! But... that's a whole tub, what are you gonna do with all of that?Me: Well, I can decorate dessert plates, pour it over ice cream & cakeDad: Right. But... that's a whole tub...Me: Well, I can freeze the rest into ice cubes you know!Dad: ... (still staring at the tub)3 days laterMe: (pulling out the tub from the fridge

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-52150205946245886052009-06-04T23:31:00.006-04:002009-06-05T00:34:42.841-04:00

It was that time of the year again, when I know I should make a Pralines & Cream ice-cream cake with Oreo cookies base. It's called The BF's birthday. Yup, he's specific like that (I love you!!! :P)Since last year's experience with pralines still left me traumatized, I decided I was going to avoid it at all cost (1st batch burnt, 2nd batch not caramelized enough, 3rd batch was ok but there was

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-27989798120654879992009-06-02T00:46:00.005-04:002009-06-02T09:36:12.831-04:00

So, there might never be a cookie that brings world peace, but there will always be these cookie pops for a great cause.Lemon lime sugar cookies, 50% whole wheat, 100% love :)I'm participating in a Yoga Mala fundraiser organized by the awesome Dawn & Zazen. 100% of all proceeds go straight to Amnesty International for stopping "Violence Against Women".Today was technically my 1st day of selling

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-59590318194237595862009-05-28T23:36:00.007-04:002009-05-29T00:34:00.458-04:00

One 15-minute wait in an empty metro station, one static intercom announcement, one 40-minute wait for a ghost bus, one rain pour and finally one 30-minute walk later, I was finally home to be greeted by a nice red lobster at the dinner table. My mom is the best!This was worth ever minute spent outside in the freezing weather so-called spring. Worth both strands of hair that were caught in the

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-76515723997772343762009-05-26T23:23:00.000-04:002009-05-26T23:24:03.207-04:00

I'm sure it happens to you too sometimes... You really don't know what to make for lunch, but you know you have to brown bag it because the day before, you took a taxi to work instead of the bus so the "daily allowance" is gone with the wind. ...*sigh*...So in times like this, I raid the fridge & try to be creative. Once in a blue moon I end up with a case of "wtf?" but usually, it's ranged from

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-5867079115405223752009-05-25T20:53:00.002-04:002009-05-25T22:03:30.166-04:00

Every part of the world has its own version of corn on the cob. Boiled. Grilled. Roasted. Then slathered with: butter & salt, or mayo, chili & lime, or "mo hanh", in this case. "Mo hanh" means "scallion oil" and it's exactly just that:1 bunch of scallion, washed & chopped. Cooked in a couple of tbsp of oil for a few minutes over medium low heat.Add a pinch or two of salt.This is one of the night

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-35877065706708736752009-05-24T17:36:00.007-04:002009-05-24T18:22:01.011-04:00

No, that's not a typo. Apparently I say "coo-kee" most of the time without noticing... I just realized that it's probably my Frenglish (instead of saying "biscuit" when I speak French, I say "cookie" instead and thus, my accent just automatically changes)So anyway, I got this awesome cookie cutter stamp thingy thanx to 2 Stews and La Table de Nana. I was SO excited!!!!! It was shipped over from

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-59694918026812065542009-05-22T22:39:00.007-04:002009-05-23T21:31:27.251-04:00

It's supposed to be end of spring here in Montreal, yet the weather is still extremely moody. Yesterday was crazy hot and sunny. Today was cold & cloudy most of the time.The only good things that remain stable so far are the yummy fruits & vegetables. The vibrant colors, the ripe smells & the feel of them in your hands. I love everything about spring and summer (except for my allergies and the

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-24664587376166473822009-05-20T13:41:00.005-04:002009-05-20T20:37:39.785-04:00

For years, every spring & summer that I'd see rhubarb, I'd pick one bunch up and then put it back down after 30 seconds of ponder.This time however, I grabbed one bunch & proceeded to the cash register without any hesitation. It is time for rhubarb & I to be introduced beyond the acquaintance fence (Ever since my discovery of Tastespotting a year ago, I've seen many beautiful posts on rhubarb and

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-42221671589261866582009-05-19T01:30:00.001-04:002011-06-16T08:35:56.835-04:00

My parents went to a restaurant last night and apparently the fish my mom ordered, well, smelled fishy. So today while I was at the grocery store staring down the empty lobster tank with sad puppy eyes, my mom called & asked if I could make my special salmon for supper. It was like she read my mind or something! The salmon was meant to be... (Well... I meant to get trout since there is less fat

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-43078366829926559632009-05-18T15:02:00.000-04:002009-05-18T15:02:42.132-04:00

Six Feet Under, season four, episode 50, Claire said to Billy: "Hey, do you like ceviche?" And that's all it took for me to jump out of my comfortable vegging state & head into the kitchen to make some, almost immediately.See, my goal today was to not get out of the house at all. So I made this ceviche with jumbo frozen shrimps instead of fresh white fish. The lemon juice came from fresh lemons

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-65049187457013282232009-05-17T15:20:00.000-04:002009-05-17T15:19:14.961-04:00

I am in for a lazy day. It's the long weekend with crappy weather, so going anywhere is not an option unless it's very important. I'm thinking of whipping up some ice cream, but I need to have my fix of vegging out first before I start doing anything.So in order to achieve maximum vegging time, one needs to use minimum time for making lunch. Since my main course seemed to be a crusty loaf of

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-19731917957991745042009-05-16T02:37:00.004-04:002009-05-16T03:21:49.353-04:00

This is definitely one of those things that you have to make to store in the freezer for those grab-and-run moments, or just to fill your bf's freezer when he's away for school. All you need to do is dab the frozen ones with a bit of water on the surface, and pop in the microwave to reheat for about 45 seconds or a minute and voila!They're seriously yummy. Make sure you bake an extra batch or two

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-84292536299103864922009-05-14T20:11:00.005-04:002009-05-14T20:42:54.928-04:00

When I gave my dad a bite of this, he decided that he needed to pour a glass of wine to fully enjoy it. That's when I know it's good, because my dad, whom I consider a picky eater, made his way up the stairs for just three pieces of "amuse-bouche"I made a pear version and a mango version. The pear one was crunchy, with a refreshing burst of juice. The mango had a more pronounced sweetness and so

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-57147889444306236472009-05-13T12:08:00.012-04:002009-05-13T12:41:44.773-04:00

Speaking of birthday, I had mine too a couple of weeks ago. And let me tell you, I don't think anyone has ever gotten a birthday cake as AMAZING & AWESOME & FULL OF LOVE as mine.It was made by one of my best friend Catherine and it took her FIVE days to make it: my favourite alien of all time, Stitch.See, that's not just a sprinkle of love. That's a truck load of love and then some more.As you

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-45512868655417063942009-05-11T22:34:00.004-04:002009-05-12T00:31:19.457-04:00

I made these cake pops my cousin's bf K's birthday. Of course, totally inspired by the amazing Bakerella. She always has such crazy great ideas, it's awesome! (THANK YOU BAKERELLA!!!)Her basic cake pops are made with: one 13x9 cake, made from cake mix as according to instruction on box; 1 can frosting (16 oz) Candy melts (1 lb package)I used what I had on hand and made 40 pops total:9x9 chocolate

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-10687477056338345562009-05-09T15:41:00.006-04:002009-05-09T16:30:39.640-04:00

Literally shots.Not because they're in these adorable micro mini Tic Tac Toe shooter glasses that are as big as my thumb, but because they're boozy. I was quite generous on the alcohol, so the custard refused to set properly, thus these alcohol-ish creamy chocolaty concoctions came to life.Dark chocolate & Kahlua. White chocolate & Cointreau. Who said intentional accidents are bad? Dark

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-52226821337866429512009-05-07T23:31:00.005-04:002009-05-08T00:00:26.299-04:00

You know when you go to a Vietnamese restaurant, anywhere in North America, there will be a "Grilled chicken/pork/beef served with vermicelli/rice and salad and fish sauce" on the menu? Well this is the stir-fry version, for when you just have to have it NOW & got no patience for marinating meat.Ok, this is not a recipe. Ready?Meat: chicken/pork/beef/shrimp/tofu, whatever you have on hand.

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-47658677828313238772009-05-06T21:33:00.006-04:002009-12-10T21:26:56.060-05:00

My waffle bowl found a friend.It was my first time buying Balkan style yogurt, and I really liked it. The taste reminds me of the yogurt I used to eat in Vietnam. The tang tastes different than other full-fat yogurt sold in stores. There's no thick layer of yogurt breath on the tongue after you eat it. Or maybe it's just me...Even though the 6% Balkan style yogurt is thick, I still drained it

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-1317206957105051612009-05-05T21:14:00.007-04:002009-05-05T23:48:37.627-04:00

When we were little kids in Vietnam, my cousin & I had quite a few eating habit that we would do together. One of our routines, was afternoon visits to the vendor around the corner. The lady sold fresh cut fruits, creme caramel, agar-agar jelly, "che" (Vietnamese rice pudding) freshly made "goi cuon" (spring rolls) "bi cuon" (pork rolls) and occasionally the man with his cart of "goi du du kho

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-69108706882763923482009-05-04T11:21:00.006-04:002009-06-09T16:39:46.766-04:00

I'm on a roll with these crispy thin waffles. It's hard to stop when there are so many possibilities!So here is the savory version that I came up with (after the Almond Mocha Bowls that Chic Cookies so kindly linked on her Edible Crafts blog. Thank you!!!) Parmesan "Craffle"(inspired by the recipe on the box of my Rival Waffle maker)3 eggs1/2 cup olive oil1 cup whole wheat flour1 tsp baking

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-45270201008185942452009-05-02T00:33:00.008-04:002009-05-02T02:09:41.070-04:00

I love gadgets. No, it has nothing to do with me being Asian because there is no Hello Kitty on any of them...I'm talking about kitchen gadgets. I once paid $20 for an ice cream scoop, and when my bf asked me what is so special about it, I went on for a good 2 minutes about the shine, another 2 minutes about the rubber grip, almost 3 minutes on the curves, and then about 1 whole minute on the way

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-72618509275600384402009-04-30T00:10:00.000-04:002009-04-30T00:11:20.446-04:00

This pie might look small but it actually feeds 2 peopleThis is one of those what's-in-the-fridge creation. There's no actual recipe except for the crust which I always have a batch of, in the freezer. But you can use any home-made or ready to use store-bought crust.I used the same crust that I made for my fruit tarts here. (And since I only made two, I actually used the toaster oven, baked them

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-75300267725831966662009-04-29T01:57:00.009-04:002009-04-29T12:23:24.637-04:00

Last summer we went to a friend's BBQ, and there were sausages, steak, fishes, etc, you know, the usual. And then there was chimichurri, which my bf fell head over heels for, and smeared it on everything he ate.Then he kept talking about it for days.So, since one of his favorite food is steak (i can almost hear him agreeing with me: "hmmm... ya... steak...") me stumbling onto this over at the

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-68591928283974813892009-04-28T00:30:00.000-04:002009-04-28T09:47:42.005-04:00

Ice cream machine?Check!"The Perfect Scoop"?Check!Lots & lots of empty tubs waiting to be filled with cold sweet goodness?*wiping drool* Check!I am definitely equipped for the heat!!!Lemon Sorbet from The Perfect Scoop by David Lebovitz (page 116)2 1/2 cups water1 1/4 cup sugar (or 1 cup for a more tart taste)zest of 2 lemons (preferably organic or cleaned of wax & spray)1 cup freshly squeezed

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-1738300326994439762009-04-27T16:42:00.000-04:002009-04-28T09:48:02.667-04:00

Whole grain tortilla wrapRicotta cheeseMesclun mix saladHalved cherry tomatoesProsciutto slicesA crack of pepperWrap & roll!!!A side of sliced Lebanese cukes & yellow bell peppers. Lunch is ready!!!!

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-7150003678554927032009-04-26T13:14:00.008-04:002010-11-09T15:40:07.052-05:00

Yup, it's exactly what the title says.... Green tea frozen yogurt! YUM! I found this recipe on Sticky, Gooey, Creamy, Chewy who got the basis from David Lebovitz, one of my favorite chefs, whose book "The Perfect Scoop" I just bought yesterday, aaaaahhhh!!!!! (I'm so happy!!!!) ...*catching my breath*... (I only had full-fat yogurt, not Greek, so I drained it over night. And I also halved

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-9050299581586687442009-04-25T16:36:00.009-04:002009-04-26T00:23:33.549-04:00

Sun dresses, bermuda shorts and flip-flops were frantically pulled out from the closets all over Montreal this morning. The humidity was suddenly quite present in the air.This is it! This is when the ice cream machines take over the ovens, when cold treats are invading the brownies & bread puddings. This is when I'm prone to making noodle soups for lunches & suppers instead of well... everything

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-83634669068159204202009-04-24T23:42:00.006-04:002009-04-25T00:16:52.083-04:00

Today was the first day of 2009 that I was able to walk outside without a jacket. The sun was out and about doing its thing. It was wonderful!!! The bar terraces were completely packed with people drinking & staff running around like chickens without heads.I literally had to duck and hop through a sea of mini micro skirts and "wifebeater" tank tops on my way home.So let's celebrate the nice

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-49711272540468036052009-04-23T19:34:00.008-04:002009-04-23T21:48:44.223-04:00

I find it hard to have simple things nowadays. There is always an "ick" in the way. A bow too big on a pretty dress, a color too many on a cute pair of shoes, an ingredient that we can't pronounce, etc...You get the point.So some days, I just want a really simple meal.When I was a kid, in the summer days when school was out & parents were at work, my cousin & I would each grab a big bowl, fill it

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-63291323792434184952009-04-22T20:44:00.006-04:002009-04-23T21:49:11.202-04:00

If I were a dessert today, I'd probably be a fruit tart (because tomorrow is another day and I might wanna be chocolate cake, who knows!!!)What I don't get, is why is it insulting to call someone a tart... I mean, look at it!!! It should be a compliment...NOO? That wasn't convincing enough, was it? *sigh*How about now...????? Look closer!!!Fruit tart with lemon curd for 3 tarts of 4.5 inches1

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-89634766239101807392009-04-21T20:43:00.009-04:002010-11-09T15:35:03.938-05:00

First of all, I have to announce that I got my 1st post on Tastespotting today!!!! What a great way to start the day!!! I mean, Tastespotting is only... like... OMG... my FAVORITE website EVER!!! Yes, we've already established that I am a nerd, moving on! Gonna keep this one short & sweet, well, actually, short & savory, then I'm off to make a chocolate ricotta cake for my friend J. & the baby

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-27860430229115027612009-04-19T21:47:00.005-04:002009-04-19T23:04:29.151-04:00

We went to a fruit & vegetable market yesterday, and oh my... I get light-headed every time from excitement... Lame, I know, leave me alone...One of the many things that I filled my cart with, was a bag of lemon. A LOT of lemon. Why? Because they were plump, cheap, yellow which is one of my favorite colors, and I had limoncello in mind... (This sounds so wrong for some reason...)So all day today,

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-45717840045872731162009-04-18T13:18:00.000-04:002009-04-28T09:48:24.186-04:00

Yummy. Quick to prepare. That's all I need to say!I used asparagus, tiger shrimps and pasta meat sauce that I made & stocked in my freezer. Which you can substitute with whatever you prefer or have on hand (string beans, chicken, you get the point)So, pour yourself a glass of wine, and here we go...Lemony Peppered Shrimp on Pasta & Asparagusper portion, approximately6-7 asparagus (because I

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-55276673603012514642009-04-17T21:40:00.011-04:002010-11-09T15:31:04.192-05:00

A close friend of mine calls these brownies "the ones with the goop" I got the recipe from Baking Bites whose creation was inspired from a box of Peppermint Jo-Jo's cookies. I don't like peppermint in my sweets, so I just used regular Oreo cookies. The only thing I changed was the amount of sugar, as usual :) Oreo Brownies (adapted from Baking Bites) 1 cup butter 6 squares unsweetened

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-66790229172162892182009-04-16T20:02:00.001-04:002009-04-22T17:03:11.418-04:00

I love soup. Chunky vegetable soup. And this recipe is just that.I usually make a big pot of this, store in the fridge and just eat it throughout the week. It takes 5-10 minutes to throw together, literally. And it can be super versatile. Depending on what you have in your pantry you can swap things around to adjust it to your taste.What's-in-the-pantry chunky veggie souprecipe by TramIngredients

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-25865046149807000552009-04-15T22:30:00.001-04:002009-06-15T12:50:20.430-04:00

Always finish cooking or baking with a sprinkle of love. So if the food doesn't turn out so well, at least the love is there...And the love definitely shows through.And love concurs all... well, unless "all" are crispy burnt meringue cookies, then love might have to make an exception and look the other way...Love makes you do crazy things, like baking at midnight for example... *sigh*

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8508237383292686008.post-14814590221817088642009-04-15T15:22:00.003-04:002010-02-07T23:06:51.605-05:00

So, I have a blog... Let me just start by saying welcome to Tramie's Kitchen, where Baking @ Midnight happens quite often. The purpose of this blog (I still feel weird writing that...) is to yack about my baking & cooking urges, followed by posted pictures of the final products of my obsession. A pretty selfish purpose if you ask me, but a girl is allowed to have her me-time (in this case YOUR

"Tramie"http://www.blogger.com/profile/11239444076254087715noreply@blogger.com1