I keep seeing food blogs that positively gush about “Congo Bars”. I didn’t realize Africa was really famous for a cookie, so the name caught my attention. I did a little research and quickly discovered that what they were referring to is what I would call a Blondie. I have to be honest--Blondies really aren’t my thing. If I’m going to eat dessert, it might as well be ...
Pineapple Sweet and Sour Sauce
Now, 14 years, two kids, and many frequent flier miles later I feel like I too can claim kamaina (that's Hawaiian for local). If you added up all of the time we have spent there, it is almost 6 beautiful months filled with sun, sand, sushi, and adventures. When I first met my husband and he told me he was from Hawaii, it didn't really sink in. I thought he meant Hawaii, Ohio, ...
Manapua-Meat Filled Buns
One of the most popular “snacks” in Hawaii bears testimony to the heavy Chinese influence the islands are under. Manapua—or meat filled buns—can be found in bakeries, restaurants, and convenience stores all over the islands. Just like the Chinese Dim Sum dish Char Sui Bao, each sweet bun is traditionally filled with a scoop of char sui pork or other barbequed meat. There are ...
Garlic Chili Eggplant
Sometimes you accidentally discover that you really love something. A few years ago, I was waiting somewhat patiently for some family members to finish shopping in a chain store and as usual, I was hungry. I knew that we would probably be eating after we left, but I also knew the meal would end up being burgers, pizza, or some other boring American food and I just couldn’t ...
Basic Sugar Cookies
This recipe creates a very soft sugar cookie if you do not overcook. The color of the cookies should be the same on both the top and bottom with little browning. For variety, try adding lavender, tarragon, lemon zest, lime zest or orange zest when you cream the butter and sugar mixture. [edamam-recipe-recipe:143] ...
