tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57102808863572582962024-02-20T16:44:40.729-08:00Dani Bravaa foodie in the fashion worldDaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.comBlogger107125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-60994054003936916992010-09-14T00:30:00.001-07:002010-09-14T00:30:58.047-07:00new blog!!!Thank you so much for reading Dani Brava!! Please follow me on my new blog <a href="http://dani-does.blogspot.com/">Dani Does It</a> :) Thanks!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-48336200939957295862010-07-28T19:37:00.000-07:002010-07-28T19:37:29.774-07:00buffalo chicken bitesI know what boys like, I know what guys want. Boys like, boys like, buffalo chicken bites!<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02103.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="buf" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02103.jpg" /></a><br />
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I hit a home run with the boyfriend by making these little babies. Matt's favorite thing in the world (I never exaggerate) is buffalo chicken. I refuse to heat up the deep fryer (an appliance I prefer to never learn to use) so when I saw <a href="http://joelens.blogspot.com/">Joelen's</a> take on buffalo chicken (<a href="http://joelens.blogspot.com/2010/06/buffalo-chicken-bites.html">here</a>), I knew I had to make them! Mine are significantly less attractive and I did make some alterations but they were definitely gone in less than five seconds (no exaggeration, obviously). <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02099.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="buf" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02099.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02100.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="buf" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02100.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02101.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="buf" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02101.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Buffalo Chicken Bites (my version):<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>1 packet Trader Joe's plain pizza crust</li>
<li>1 cup cooked chicken, finely chopped</li>
<li>1 cup shredded cheddar cheese</li>
<li>1/4 cup Frank's Red Hot</li>
<li>4 tablespoons butter, melted </li>
<li>olive oil for drizzling</li>
</ul><div>Mix together chicken, cheese, hot sauce and butter. Separate dough into twelve even-sized pieces. stretch out each piece of dough and stuff with chicken cheese mixture. Seal together like a mini calzone, drizzle with olive oil and bake as per the dough's instructions (400 degrees, 8-10 minutes).</div><div><br />
</div><div>I thought I had sealed my calzones well but many burst open. No matter, they were delicious! I was pleasantly surprised with the Trader Joe's pre-made pizza crust, I can't wait to try their garlic and herb crust! </div><div><br />
</div><div>My boyfriend's parents are in town and they brought with them two very ripe bananas so I am racking my brains to figure out what to bake with them. I don't want to make a traditional banana bread (yawn). I saw a banana tres leches recipe somewhere, must investigate further... </div>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-34567774074913162662010-07-24T11:25:00.000-07:002010-07-24T11:25:22.622-07:00quinoa granolaNormally I make myself a smoothie in the morning. It's quick, healthy and delicious and I love experimenting with flavors; using iced tea or almond milk as a base and mixing in fresh and frozen fruit. However, this morning my blender was dirty and I was craving something I could actually MUNCH on! Enter quinoa granola...<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02094.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02094.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02095.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02095.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div>I used <a href="http://runningwitharecipe.blogspot.com/2009/09/quinoa-granola.html">this</a> recipe. <br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<ul><li>1/4 cup of quinoa, rinsed</li>
<li>1 teaspoon agave syrup</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil (I didn't have canola)</li>
<li>few pinches of cinnamon </li>
</ul><div>Mix ingredients together and bake at 375 for 10 minutes. </div><div><br />
</div><div>This made the perfect addition to some greek yogurt with cashews and dried pomegranate seeds (officially my favorite dried fruit!) </div><div><br />
</div><a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02096.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02096.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02097.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02097.jpg" /></a><br />
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This really hit the spot this morning! Next time I think I'll use maple syrup instead of agave to give it extra flavor. But overall it was a very simple recipe and it has inspired me to make my own homemade granola, so stay tuned...DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-62048566545023670402010-07-20T22:12:00.000-07:002010-07-20T22:12:36.145-07:00sprinkles' strawberry cupcakes<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02089.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="sb" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02089.jpg" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today I made </span><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/candace-nelson-strawberry-cupcakes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">this</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> cupcake recipe. Living in LA, I have enjoyed </span><a href="http://www.sprinkles.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sprinkles' cupcakes</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> before and boy-oh-boy are they good! So imagine my excitement when a perfect storm of strawberry cupcakery occurred beginning with an abundance of strawberries and culminating with my finding a recipe for Sprinkles' strawberry cupcakes on the </span><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Martha Stewart</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> website. Here's the recipe I used:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sprinkles' Strawberry cupcakes</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ingredients</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"></span></span><br />
<ul style="margin-bottom: auto; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: auto; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 396px;"><li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2/3 cup whole fresh or frozen strawberries, thawed</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 teaspoon baking powder</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/4 teaspoon coarse salt</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 cup sugar</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 large egg, room temperature</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2 large egg whites, room temperature</span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Directions:</span></div><div><ol style="margin-left: 26px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 26px; padding-right: 42px; padding-top: 0px;"><li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 6px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners; set aside.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 6px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Place strawberries in a small food processor; process until pureed. You should have about 1/3 cup of puree, add a few more strawberries if necessary or save any extra puree for frosting; set aside.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 6px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a small bowl, mix together milk, vanilla, and strawberry puree; set aside.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 6px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter on medium-high speed, until light and fluffy. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy. Reduce the mixer speed to medium and slowly add egg and egg whites until just blended.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 6px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With the mixer on low, slowly add half the flour mixture; mix until just blended. Add the milk mixture; mix until just blended. Slowly add remaining flour mixture, scraping down sides of the bowl with a spatula, as necessary, until just blended.</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 6px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Divide batter evenly among prepared muffin cups. Transfer muffin tin to oven and bake until tops are just dry to the touch, 22 to 25 minutes. Transfer muffin tin to a wire rack and let cupcakes cool completely in tin before icing.</span></li>
</ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sprinkles' Strawberry Frosting</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ingredients: </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3f3f;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3f3f; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3f3f; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3f3f; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d3f3f; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><ul style="margin-bottom: auto; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: auto; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 396px;"><li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 cup whole frozen strawberries, thawed</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, firm and slightly cold</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Pinch of coarse salt</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted</span></li>
<li style="background-color: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; list-style-type: none; margin-left: 15px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 11px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Directions: </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Place strawberries in the bowl of a small food processor; process until pureed. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together butter and salt on medium speed until light and fluffy. Reduce mixer speed and slowly add confectioners' sugar; beat until well combined. Add vanilla and 3 tablespoons strawberry puree (save any remaining strawberry puree for another use); mix until just blended. Do not overmix or frosting will incorporate too much air. Frosting consistency should be dense and creamy, like ice cream.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">That's right, you read correctly, THREE sticks of butter! And since I had no milk (and had cream for some reason!) I substituted for heavy whipping cream. So they were all the more fattening, yay! Okay, okay, on to the food porn:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div></span></span></div></div><a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02082.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="sb" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02082.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02084.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="sb" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02084.jpg" /></a><br />
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Of course I had to try one! They were, in my opinion, the best cupcakes I've ever made :) Not to toot my own horn, of course. I also set aside five cupcakes for my girls' night at the Hollywood bowl.<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02090.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="sb" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02090.jpg" /></a><br />
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Yummyyyyy!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-89743934236195541852010-07-20T15:55:00.000-07:002010-07-20T15:55:44.202-07:00kale chips and almond butter cookies revisitedWhoa, things have been slow (non-existent) on here! While I have been keeping up with all of my favorite blogs, job-searching has basically consumed my life. I've been on a few interviews and had a couple paid assistant-styling jobs since I last blogged. I'm confident that a full-time career job is on the horizon for me :) I just need to keep applying my little heart out.<br />
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I really can't believe how long it's been (I didn't even have a "July" folder on Photobucket yet, eek!) Since I know you all have been so deprived, this post is a twofer! I am still, as you may know, on a hiatus from baking with chocolate... maybe that's why things have been slow. The boyfriend's brother and sister-in-law were in town for July 4th and here are some of the treats we made:<br />
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<a href="http://daniellabrava.blogspot.com/2010/03/vegan-almond-butter-cookies.html">vegan almond butter cookies</a>, revisited:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02069.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="ab" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02069.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02068.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="ab" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02068.jpg" /></a><br />
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As you may notice, this batch looks distinctly better than the first. The first batch was too oily, perhaps because it was adapted from a peanut butter cookie recipe. Here's the recipe with my adjustments in red:<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;">Almond Butter Cookies<br />
<em style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Makes 12 cookies</em></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;">1 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
2 tbs sugar<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1/3 cup almond butter<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">1/4 cup maple syrup</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">1/4 cup agave syrup</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;">1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 tsp almond extract<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">3 tbs canola oil</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">, omitted!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a cookie sheet.<br />
2. Sift flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir in the sugar and salt.<br />
3. In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter with the maple syrup and extracts. Stir in the oil.<br />
4. Add the dry mix to the wet mix until well combined.<br />
5. Place tablespoon-fuls of dough on cookie sheets. Bake for 7-8 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on racks.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;">I omitted the oil and used half maple half agave syrup because i was out of maple syrup. The cookies were vegan perfection!! </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;">Kale chips:<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02070.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="kale" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02070.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02071.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="kale" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02071.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02072.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="kale" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02072.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02073.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="kale" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02073.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02074.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="kale" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02074.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Kale chips have been floating around the blog world for a while now but I believe I saw them <a href="http://www.katheats.com/?page_id=2544">here</a> first. They're so simple to make and are crunchy and delicious! Just preheat your oven to 375, break kale into bite-sized pieces, massage with olive oil and salt, bake for 10-15 minutes until lightly browned and crisp. We threw these babies into a ziplock before heading to the <a href="http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/">Hollywood Bowl</a> for the fireworks spectacular.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/?action=view&current=DSC02029.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="july" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20july/DSC02029.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Not the greatest picture but I love how they made the stage into an American flag. I just adore the Hollywood bowl and already have a mid-week girls' night planned. Did you know that in season, they often have bowl shows with tickets for as little as $1! You can also bring your own wine and food, it makes for a really great, cheap night :)</div>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-84180481242603292212010-07-01T21:51:00.000-07:002010-07-01T21:51:24.560-07:00take a bite of my heart tonight...<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01764.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="art" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01764.jpg" /></a><br />
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Last Sunday I went to my local farmer's market where I picked an array of fruits and veggies including this lovely thing. I've never prepared an artichoke and, truthfully, have only had it this way once before years ago at a Cheesecake Factory restaurant. However, for a grand total of $2, I was up for the challenge. <br />
<br />
I did a bit of research before proceeding. So here's how I prepared it...<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01763.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="art" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01763.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01766.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="art" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01766.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01770.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="art" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01770.jpg" /></a><br />
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First wash your artichoke. Trim the lower leaves and stem. Because the artichoke will brown up on you, be sure to keep dunking it into lemon water as you go. Cut the top 1/4 of the artichoke and trim the leaves with a scissor. This step is not necessary as the thorns will soften but, seeing as they poked me all week every time I reached into my vegetable drawer, I had revenge to get! <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01771.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="art" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01771.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01772.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="art" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01772.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Ah, the choke! That would be the hairy part and it's inedible. I removed as much as I could before cooking (as well as the purple leaves which are VERY thorny!) but I think the choke is best removed once cooked. Anywho, I put an inch or two of water in a pot with two crushed pieces of garlic and some salt. I waited until the water boiled, place the artichoke in bottom down, covered and reduced the heat to simmer for 30-40 minutes. <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01776.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="art" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01776.jpg" /></a><br />
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Deeeeeelish! The leaves just fell right off. I ate them with some garlic butter. I'll probably stick to canned artichoke though, this was a lot of work for little result.DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-73710410998562003982010-06-22T21:08:00.000-07:002010-06-22T21:10:52.734-07:00key lime cookies<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I have a confession: Yesterday I made chocolate cashew cookies! I know, I know, the chocolatiatus (similar to </span><a href="http://thewayaliseesit.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Ali</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">'s </span><a href="http://thewayaliseesit.blogspot.com/2010/06/so-i-love-you-dadblogiatus.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">blogiatus</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> but with chocolate). But those cookies were a late Father's day gift and are currently en route to Miami, so OBVIOUSLY they don't count! And the Pops loves chocolate and cashews so it would have been selfish of me to not make them. I am taking my hiatus from chocolate seriously though! I was in the baking mood today and had a bunch of limes I had bought to juice but knew would spoil before I got through them all so I made...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01761.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="lime" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01761.jpg" /></span></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<a href="http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/key-lime-cookies-i/Detail.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">key lime cookies!</span></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup of butter</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup white sugar</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 egg</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 egg yolk</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 cup all purpose flour</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon baking powder</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup lime juice</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 teaspoons grated lime zest</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup confectioners sugar for decoration</span></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">In a large bowl, cream butter, sugar, egg, and egg yolk until smooth. Stir in lime juice and lime zest. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; blend into the creamed mixture. Form dough into 1/2 inch balls, and arrange on the prepared cookie sheet.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until lightly browned. Cool on wire racks. Sift confectioners' sugar over cookies while still warm.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I followed this recipe to a tee but found the dough was goopy and really more of a batter. The first batch came out like this:</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01753.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="lime" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01753.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01754.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="lime" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01754.jpg" /></a><br />
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They weren't bad but they were more pancake than cookie. I followed my baker's instinct and added about a 1/2 cup more of flour which gave them the correct consistency.<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01762.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="lime" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01762.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01759.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="lime" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01759.jpg" /></a><br />
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Lesson learned: don't be afraid to follow your instinct when baking. Recipes can differ due to elevation, humidity, temperature, etc. What works for one baker may not work for you and if the recipe is off, don't hesitate to fix it! These cookies were light and citrusy, a good summer cookie. And while I found these cookies good, they were far from my favorite. One chocolate-free recipe down, four to go! The boyfriend's brother and his wife (who is allergic to chocolate) are visiting next weekend which coincides perfectly with the chocolatiatus!<br />
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Today, as it was a free-day for me, I made enchiladas for dinner. The boyfriend (finicky eater) told me he wasn't too hungry so imagine my surprise when he cleaned his plate AND went back for seconds. I've known him since high school and I don't think I've ever seen him eat so much; he declared them "the best thing" I've ever cooked! Really?? I wasn't going to blog them but this was truly momentous.<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01760.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="enchiladas" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01760.jpg" /></a><br />
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So there it is, the "best thing" I've ever cooked! I couldn't believe how much we ate (four enchiladas each!!)<br />
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I just rubbed some chicken with garlic salt and cooked it in a pan. Then I shredded the chicken between two forks, added back to the pan and stirred in oregano and garlic. I spread a thin layer of store-bought enchilada sauce on the bottom of a glass casserole dish. I filled each corn tortilla with some chicken and shredded Mexican cheese and placed seam down. I poured enchilada sauce all over the tightly packed enchiladas and sprinkled with cheese on top. I baked at 350 for 30 minutes.<br />
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And this will probably be my last bird pictures since they seem to have left...<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01748.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="birds" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01748.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01749.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="birds" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01749.jpg" /></a><br />
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Too sweet!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-8247772818659698182010-06-21T19:02:00.000-07:002010-06-21T19:03:09.728-07:00food, in reviewI had a blast this past weekend in San Diego visiting an elementary school friend. Our boyfriends bonded over golf, we shared a delicious Italian meal in Little Italy and went out to the swanky W hotel to ring in her birthday in style! I even picked up a fabulous new techno-tribal skirt at the mall which I can't wait to show you :)<br />
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Unfortunately, I was a complete waste when it came to photographing the trip! I'll try to snag some photos from my friend but for now I have nothing for you. I did, however, realize I had lots of unposted food pictures. So, I'm going to do a quick recap of the last month in food!<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01621.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="pizza" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01621.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01636.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="shepherd's pie" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01636.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01639.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="pumpkin" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01639.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01642.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="shrimp" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01642.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01643.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="shrimp" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01643.jpg" /></a><br />
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1. veggie <a href="http://daniellabrava.blogspot.com/2010/04/pita-bread-pizza.html">pita pizza</a> on a whole wheat pita with tomato sauce, onions, mushrooms, banana peppers, arugula, and cheddar cheese plus a fresh juice made from 3 carrots, 2 apples, 1 orange, 1/2 lemon and a one inch piece of ginger - the perfect lunch. period.<br />
2. crockpot shepherd's pie - tasted just like it does in England.<br />
3. pumpkin waffles using Trader Joe's Pumpkin pancake and waffle mix topped with almond butter and maple syrup - a DECADENT breakfast!<br />
4. shrimp tacos the boyfriend made with spicy marinated shrimp, shredded cheese and salsa verde on tortillas - he was so proud that he wanted me to show you guys!<br />
5. what I did with my portion of shrimp: served over arugula with hummus and salsa verde - I am so over arugula for some strange reason but I love hummus on my salads like there's no tomorrow :)<br />
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And because I KNOW you care, this morning the bird's nest was empty. I was admittedly a little worried that something may have happened since they left so suddenly but was glad to see them back later on in the day. I'm so happy that they are learning to fly and that their parents still watch them diligently. I just know they'll grow up to be well-rounded <span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: line-through;">individuals</span> pigeons :)DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-80228065695343825112010-06-18T10:29:00.000-07:002010-06-18T10:29:00.137-07:00black bean burgersThis post is as per my friend Ty's request. Yesterday I made black bean burgers (inspired by <a href="http://www.katheats.com/favorite-foods/homemade-bean-burgers/">this</a> post). <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01719.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbburger" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01719.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01720.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbburger" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01720.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01721.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbburger" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01721.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01722.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbburger" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01722.jpg" /></a><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
<ul><li>1 can black beans, rinsed</li>
<li>1 tablespoon flour</li>
<li>1 tablespoon of Trader Joe's red pepper spread (optional)</li>
<li>1 tablespoon of sun dried tomatoes (optional)</li>
<li>1 healthy piece of goat cheese (optional)</li>
</ul><div>Mash the black beans and flour in a mixing bowl with a fork. Add desired mix ins and mash further. Form into two round patties. Heat in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side. </div><div><br />
</div><a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01723.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbburger" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01723.jpg" /></a><br />
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I served my burger over a bed of romaine lettuce with a hefty dollop of Trader Joe's white bean and basil hummus and a small drizzle of balsamic. On the side, a broccoli cauliflower medley that I cooked up on a pan, tossing in some pesto in the last minute of cooking. Overall it was a great light lunch and the mashed beans and hummus made it taste deceptively decadent.<br />
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The burgers them self fall apart a bit which I liked for the purposes of my salad but if I were to grill them outside, I would definitely add more flour and an egg to help them hold together. The red pepper spread, sun dried tomatoes, and goat cheese added so much depth of flavor to the burgers. They were simple, healthy and vegetarian friendly!<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01726.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="birds" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01726.jpg" /></a><br />
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Meet the babies! Too cute but my poor cilantro plant is clearly the victim in all of this.DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-44865172521709151762010-06-17T15:53:00.000-07:002010-06-17T15:53:15.649-07:00on birds, running and smoothiesHere's a birdie update:<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01707.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="birds" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01707.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01709.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="birds" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01709.jpg" /></a><br />
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They hatched!!! You can see one birdie butt in the first pic and the second birdie's face in the second. We're such proud inter-special grandparents! They've been rustling around and I saw them feed from Papa bird today. I tried to get a picture of it for you but Papa bird saw me behind the sliding glass door and froze up. He stared me down, he always stares me down, he's VERY overprotective! <br />
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On to running...<br />
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The boyfriend and I were so good last week with gymming it up! However, between Vegas this past weekend and me having a paid assistant-styling job earlier in the week, working out has been shot to hell. I had a free day today and decided I would run to the gym. Instead of the 5.2 mile route that would take me to the gym and back I ended up just running a 3.7 mile loop with no gym. What can I say? I'm out of shape apparently. Also, it's EXTREMELY hot outside; I had to take lots of walking breaks. Boooo! I used to run 5 miles straight not too long ago but now I'm majorly struggling. But struggling in style, check out my pink running gear...<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01711.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="run" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01711.jpg" /></a><br />
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1. <a href="http://www.zensah.com/womens-running-leg-sleeve.html">Zensah Running Sleeves</a><br />
2. <a href="http://www.camelbak.com/en/sports-recreation/bottles/quick-grip-podium-chill.aspx">Camelbak ChillJacket bottle</a> which has a nifty backpack to carry my ID, insurance card, $5 and keys. Muy importante!<br />
3. <a href="http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod?afid=p219%7CGOUS&cid=OAS-US-KWG-iPodBrandTerms-US">my iPod</a> so I can listen to my tunes :)<br />
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After a hot and sweaty run, I couldn't wait to have a smoothie! And credit where credit is due, I must thank the boyfriend's friend Kyle for suggesting using iced tea in my smoothies. I had been making mine with almond milk which is great as well but iced tea and frozen tropical fruit makes for the most light and refreshing smoothie ever!<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01716.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="smoothie" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01716.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01717.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="smoothie" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01717.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01718.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="smoothie" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01718.jpg" /></a><br />
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It was everything I wanted and more :)<br />
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San Diego this weekend!!!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-89776048135472900112010-06-17T15:23:00.000-07:002010-06-17T15:23:35.888-07:00no more chocolate!!!I asked my friend Natalie what I should bake next and she said it should be something that is NOT chocolate to which I wholeheartedly agreed and then look what I did....<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01712.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="rkcookies" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01712.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01713.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="rkcookies" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01713.jpg" /></a><br />
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I made <a href="http://www.ricekrispies.com/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookies.aspx#/recipes/chocolate-chip-cookies">Rice Krispie chocolate chip cookies</a>! What can I do? The boyfriend LOVES chocolate chip cookies and I know I shouldn't spoil him so but I won't eat an entire batch of cookies on my own and I like making stuff he likes. However, I DID put my foot down; I said "No more chocolate for at least FIVE recipes!!!" He tried to haggle me down to one but I wasn't having it! A recipe counts as any sweet I make and can include ice cream; it doesn't have to just be baked goods. <br />
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Okay, back to the cookies! Now because I substituted Rice Krispies for Trix in my Trix treats, I felt bad for Mr. Snap, Crackle and Pop. It's not their fault Rice Krispie treats are overdone. I remembered making similar cereal cookies in college so I found a recipe on <a href="http://www.ricekrispies.com/#/Default">the Rice Krispie website</a>. These are best directly out of the oven (what cookies aren't?) when they're oh-so-soft and crunchy at the same time. It's mind blowing! They lose their softness quickly so nuke them in the micro for 20 seconds if you're not eating them fresh. <br />
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Ingredients:<br />
<ul><li>1 1/2 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup of butter, softened</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>2 cups of Rice Krispies</li>
<li>1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips (I didn't have enough so I broke apart some German <a href="http://www.milka.com/">Milka chocolate</a>, blasphemous, I know!)</li>
</ul><div>Stir together flour, baking soda and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, beat well. Add flour mixture, mix till combined. Stir in cereal and chocolate chips. Drop tablespoons onto greased cookie sheets and bake at 350 for about 12 minutes, until lightly browned. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Delishhhh!</div>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-83827658216673838512010-06-15T21:48:00.000-07:002010-06-15T21:48:57.270-07:00trix treats and vegas<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01675.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="trix" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01675.jpg" /></a><br />
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It feels like FOREVER since I last blogged! This past weekend the boyfriend and I went to Vegas with some friends. You know I used the road trip as an excuse to make goodies!! Rice Krispie treats are SO yesterday so I made Trix Treats but I was sorely disappointed to find that they changed Trix shapes from fruit shapes to balls.<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01671.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="trix" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01671.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01672.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="trix" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01672.jpg" /></a><br />
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I used <a href="http://www.ricekrispies.com/#/recipes/the-original-treats">this recipe</a> substituting Rice Krispies for Trix. This was an absolute sticky mess!!! There was too much marshmallow and not enough Trix. It makes sense because there's less surface area since the Trix are bigger therefore there's less of them per cup. I would recommend the recipe though using either less marshmallow or more cereal; it was delish but uber-sugary! Next time I will use something more similar to a Rice Krispie in shape like Fruity or Cocoa Pebbles. <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01673.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="trix" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01673.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01674.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="trix" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01674.jpg" /></a><br />
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Look at the mess I made! There's a reason they tell you to use a buttered spatula to pat them down. I had to eat my way out of that mess. <br />
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And on to Vegas...<br />
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Look who it is: the boyfriend!!!!!<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01677.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vegas" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01677.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01679.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vegas" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01679.jpg" /></a><br />
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He convinced me to play the Sex and the City slot machine. I lost $5 :( which I later won back in blackjack leaving up $10 :) I'm really not a gambler. <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01680.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vegas" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01680.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01695.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vegas" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01695.jpg" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>blazer, Free People; tube top, Free People; jeans, Siwy; flats, Report; bangles, Amrita Singh; earrings, Cara NY</i></span></span></div><br />
We all went out and I could NOT stop dancing. It was not alcohol-induced, I just REALLY wanted to dance!!! Notice I rocked the flats at night. I normally don't but what a great idea; there's so much walking involved and I comfortably danced the night away.<br />
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While in Vegas, we got the deal of the century: a pass to eat at any Harrah's owned buffet (there's 7!!) for 24 hours for $35! I've never been so well fed. My plan of attack was to fill my plate with every veggie I could find and add just a couple of indulgent items. I must say, the Caesar's buffet macaroni and cheese was my favorite thing I ate there, I had to pry myself away from it. Yummmmmm!<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01703.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vegas" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01703.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01705.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vegas" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01705.jpg" /></a><br />
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Isn't the Caesar's pool gorgeous? Saturday was overcast but we managed to get sufficient pool-time in on Sunday and I'm happy to say I wore my sunblock and didn't burn :) I burn soooo easily!<br />
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Overall it was a great trip but I'm glad to be back in Los Angeles and ready to eat right and hit the gym again. I had another paid assistant-styling opportunity Monday and today! Also, the baby birds hatched. I was a little concerned that I haven't seen them move and the parents are still sitting on them but Matt googled it and that's normal, so yay!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-48671714182152257482010-06-08T18:12:00.000-07:002010-06-08T18:13:40.619-07:00milk chocolate cookies<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01670.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="milkch" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01670.jpg" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Today I made milk chocolate cookies (seen </span><a href="http://technicolorkitcheninenglish.blogspot.com/2010/05/milk-chocolate-cookies.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> and </span><a href="http://everylastcookie.blogspot.com/2010/02/cookie-067-milk-chocolate-cookies.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">). They were decadent! I love how they came out so flat and cracked on the tops. I recently made </span><a href="http://daniellabrava.blogspot.com/2010/05/chocolate-chip-chocolate-pudding.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">chocolate chocolate chip cookies</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> and while those were simpler (these required melting chocolate on a double broiler and such) the texture of these is so unique; a slightly crisp cracked top and rich fudgey center. They are definitely worth the extra effort!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><span style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding-bottom: 0pt; padding-left: 0pt; padding-right: 0pt; padding-top: 0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Ingredients</span></span></span><br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">½ cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">½ teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">¼ teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">340g (12oz) good-quality milk chocolate (I used chocolate chips)</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 ½ cups granulated sugar</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">2 large eggs</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 325°F; line two large baking sheets with baking paper.<br style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding-bottom: 0pt; padding-left: 0pt; padding-right: 0pt; padding-top: 0pt;" />Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside. Melt half of the coarsely chopped chocolate with the butter in a small heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water; let cool slightly.<br style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding-bottom: 0pt; padding-left: 0pt; padding-right: 0pt; padding-top: 0pt;" />Put chocolate mixture, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until combined. Reduce speed to low; gradually mix in flour mixture. Fold in chocolate chunks*.<br style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding-bottom: 0pt; padding-left: 0pt; padding-right: 0pt; padding-top: 0pt;" />Using an ice cream scoop (I used a tablespoon), drop dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake until cookies are flat and surfaces crack, about 15 minutes (cookies should be soft). Let cool on paper on wire racks.<br style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding-bottom: 0pt; padding-left: 0pt; padding-right: 0pt; padding-top: 0pt;" />Cookies can be stored between layers of parchment in airtight containers at room temperature up to 3 days.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">As noted earlier, I used a tablespoon measuring spoon to scoop my cookies (I fit 6-8 per cookie sheet because they flatten a lot). I would love to try them with an ice cream scoop as suggested; I think they'd make a great over-sized cookie! The boyfriend was just happy to have some real dessert in the apartment after the </span><a href="http://daniellabrava.blogspot.com/2010/06/decandently-healthy.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">black bean brownies</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> I made last week!</span><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01665.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="milkch" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01665.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01669.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="milkch" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01669.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01667.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="milkch" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01667.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01668.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="milkch" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01668.jpg" /></a>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-85573263635909442642010-06-06T19:31:00.000-07:002010-06-06T19:34:56.132-07:00farmers' marketToday Matt and I walked over to our local farmers' market. Neither of us knew whether the fresh produce would be less or more expensive than what we buy at our local grocery store, especially since it was in such a nice part of town! Either way, I brought along my <a href="http://www.blueavocado.com/">Blue Avocado</a> reusable bag just in case we lucked out... <br />
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And, oh boy, did we! I managed to knock out 95% of the fruits/vegetables on my list for about 1/2-1/3 of the price!! Here's what we got...<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01659.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="farmers" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01659.jpg" /></a><br />
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<ul><li>1 bunch of bok choy - $1 (SCORE!)</li>
<li>1 bunch kale - $1</li>
<li>1 bunch beets (4 beets) - $1</li>
<li>3 avocados - $4</li>
<li>1 medium sized piece of ginger, 1 onion, 1 bunch of broccoli, 1 garlic bulb, 1 zucchini - $3.50 for the bunch (double SCORE!)</li>
<li>3 tomatoes - a couple bucks</li>
</ul><div>I don't remember the price of the strawberries as they were the boyfriend's purchase. I also got a "Tri Color Salad"</div><div><br />
</div><a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01660.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="farmers" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01660.jpg" /></a><br />
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I tried a little bit when I got home and, while I love the small ingredient list, I found it a bit bland. It could really use some lemon or vinegar to give it a kick and at $4 it was hardly a steal. Overall I found the fresh produce to be great, fresh and cheap; plus I love supporting the local farmers! The prepared foods such as the Tri Color salad and dried fruits, etc weren't as good a deal. Later, Matt and I went to the gym where I worked out my legs BIG time! After, I used half of the bok choy, the zucchini, the broccoli and two carrots I had at the apartment to make a wonderful veggie brown rice stir fry for tonight's dinner.I'll be eating these leftovers all week!<br />
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Oh, and did I show you the bowl I bought for my fresh produce last week??<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01661.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="farmers" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01661.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01663.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="farmers" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01663.jpg" /></a><br />
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I thrifted it for $4!! The boyfriend and I are loving all of the great thrift stores around Los Angeles and the wonderful treasures they hold!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-21545369975969705722010-06-02T21:24:00.000-07:002010-06-02T21:24:10.980-07:00decandently healthyOr healthfullly decadent? In either case, tonight's dinner definitely struck the balance between healthy food and comfort food. Dinner was a three cheese brown rice and veggie casserole. <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01648.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="casserole" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01648.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01649.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="casserole" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01649.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01654.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="casserole" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01654.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01655.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="casserole" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01655.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
my portion:<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01656.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="casserole" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01656.jpg" /></a><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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<ul><li>1 bunch asparagus</li>
<li>1 8 oz package of mushrooms</li>
<li>1 cup uncooked brown rice</li>
<li>3 tablespoons sun dried tomato</li>
<li>1 tablespoon minced garlic</li>
<li>1 jar of artichokes (quartered)</li>
<li>4 oz light cream cheese</li>
<li>1 cup shredded mozzarella </li>
<li>4 oz goat cheese</li>
<li>olive oil</li>
</ul><div>Cook brown rice as per instructions and preheat oven to 350. Chop asparagus into 1-2 inch pieces. Saute asparagus and mushrooms in olive oil and garlic over medium heat until cooked but asparagus should be crisp-tender. Combine asparagus, mushrooms, artichokes sun dried tomato and the three cheeses (save 1/2 of the mozzarella) in a large mixing bowl and stir until well incorporated. When rice is done, stir cheese and veggie mixture into rice. Spread onto a casserole dish and top with remaining mozzarella. Bake until cheese is lightly browned and bubbly (I got inpatient and put the broiler on after 15 minutes!)</div><div><br />
</div><div>This casserole dish was truly decadent but I couldn't feel too bad about it since it was full of vegetables!! </div><div><br />
</div><div>Dessert was inspired by <a href="http://carrotsncake.com/">Carrots N' Cake</a>'s <a href="http://carrotsncake.com/2010/06/lots-of-lentils.html">lentil brownie</a> post. I wasn't quite brave enough to incorporate lentils into my baking but I did find <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Black-Bean-Brownies/Detail.aspx">this</a> black bean brownie recipe. <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01647.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbb" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01647.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01651.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbb" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01651.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/?action=view&current=DSC01657.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bbb" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20june/DSC01657.jpg" /></a><br />
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These brownies came out bee-you-tee-full! And while I liked them very much, let's just say they could not fool the masses. I'm proud of the boyfriend for trying a bite but he did NOT like them, even when covered in Ben and Jerry's Karamel Sutra!! So while they don't rival full butter and flour brownies, they are a good healthy alternative in my opinion. Definitely worth a try (especially since I had all ingredients on hand).<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #7a7a7a; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 14px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></span></b></span></span><br />
Ingredients<br />
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<ul><li>1 can of black beans rinsed and drained</li>
<li>3 eggs</li>
<li>3 tablespoons olive oil</li>
<li>1/4 cup cocoa powder</li>
<li>a pinch of salt</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
<li>3/4 cup sugar</li>
<li>a handful of chocolate chips</li>
</ul><div>Preheat oven to 350 and lightly grease a small brownie pan (I used a loaf pan because the recipe doesn't yield a lot). Combine all ingredients except for the chocolate chips in blender and blend till smooth. Pour batter into pan and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Bake for 30-40 minutes until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. </div><br />
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P.S. I'm officially the worst liar ever!! When the boyfriend came home I told him I was baking brownies but "wasn't too sure" about the recipe; he looked at me suspiciously and asked, "What healthy sh** did you put in them??" Hahahaha, he knows me too well...</div>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-53982829483332979522010-05-31T20:48:00.000-07:002010-06-01T17:22:04.050-07:00to-do list and bird grandparentsLast week was insanely busy (hence the radio silence on the blog) but this coming week I'm only working (interning) one day so you'll be hearing a lot from me. Last week I had my first paid assistant styling gig which went incredibly well plus it was nice to see that my hard work had finally paid off! Unfortunately, the nature of fashion styling is that it is freelance which is why I will be hitting the job search big time tomorrow!!<br />
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This will be the first time since I first moved to Los Angeles that I'll actually have some time off. Here are some of the things I want to accomplish:<br />
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<ul><li>JOB SEARCH! JOB SEARCH! JOB SEARCH!</li>
<li>go to the Post Office to mail a couple things I've been meaning to</li>
<li>run, run, run!</li>
<li>exercise that is not running (weights, spinning, yoga, etc)</li>
<li>cook in the crockpot</li>
<li>bake something new (I'm thinking oatmeal cookies!)</li>
</ul><div>In case you were wondering, the birds came back and rebuilt their nest. There's two eggs in the nest as of a couple days ago and the momma and poppa birds take shifts keeping them warm. I like to tell the boyfriend that we're going to be grandparents because it bugs him and bugging the boyfriend is my favorite activity. It's true! </div><div><br />
<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01640.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="birds" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01640.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01641.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="plants" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01641.jpg" /></a><br />
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Our zucchini plant has flowers!! Although, after looking at these pictures, I'm a little concerned by the look of the leaves that we may have bugs :/ Hopefully we'll have fresh zucchinis to eat soon!</div>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-83040682050162096992010-05-24T18:02:00.000-07:002010-05-24T18:02:30.526-07:00slow cooker surpriseYou can take the girl out of Miami but you can't take the Miami out of the girl! Never mind that I made my awesomely delicious <a href="http://daniellabrava.blogspot.com/2010/05/flan-de-queso.html">flan de queso</a> just the other week. This week I broke in my new <a href="http://daniellabrava.blogspot.com/2010/05/new-kitchen-appliance.html">slow cooker</a> by making lechon aka shredded pork in mojo aka citrus/garlic marinade. I apologize in advance if the pictures offend any vegetarian/vegan blog readers! I myself am slowly becoming a quasitarian and felt horrifically barbarian pulling the meat apart with my own hands. However, the pork came out EXACTLY like my dad makes it and reminded me tremendously of home! <br />
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It took all of yesterday to cook so I had it for lunch today with some Trader Joe's Cuban-style black beans which were surprisingly good/authentic tasting and a side salad of arugula, edamame and balsamic dressing (not in keeping with the Cuban theme but I wanted to get some veggies in). <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01632.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="lechon" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01632.jpg" /></a><br />
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and here's a picture of it last night in the crockpot:<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01630.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="lechon" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01630.jpg" /></a><br />
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Using the crockpot was amazingly simple! I just rubbed the pork shoulder with salt and cooked it on low for, basically, forever (8-10 hours), added mojo (which I made from scratch as well) and cooked on high for 2-3 more hours. Delish!<br />
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Bird Update: Yesterday my boyfriend, fearing we would somehow harm the birds, disassembled their nest so they could go elsewhere. The birds came back this morning with a stronger nest! They clearly want to nest in the herb garden so we decided it was fate and they should stay. I plan to leave them be and just observe from afar. It would break my heart to disassemble the nest again not knowing if they'd have time to build another one. <br />
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This is what it looked like during lunch today:<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01633.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bird" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01633.jpg" /></a>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-82300926185412523322010-05-22T17:58:00.000-07:002010-05-22T17:58:12.912-07:00chocolate chip cookies<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01626.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="cchip" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01626.jpg" /></a><br />
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Today I made <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/best-big-fat-chewy-chocolate-chip-cookie/detail.aspx">these</a> chocolate chip cookies because they got a very high rating and I had all of the ingredients (yes, sometimes I do judge what I should bake on that!) As per the boyfriend's request (he's getting very spoiled), I put mini Trader Joe's peanut butter cups (noticing a trend here??) in half of them and semisweet chocolate chips in the other half. I used the same tablespoon to measure out all of my cookies so I'm not quite sure why the ones with TJ mini peanut butter cups came out larger and flatter. <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01627.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="cchip" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01627.jpg" /></a><br />
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*chocolate chip on the left, peanut butter cup on the right<br />
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My personal preference:<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01629.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="cchip" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01629.jpg" /></a><br />
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Just plain ole chocolate chip! Sometimes a cookie doesn't HAVE to be fancy. The texture of these were perfect (there's really no other word)! The edges of the cookie were slightly crunchy and the middle was nice and moist.<br />
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Bird update: The birds are gone!! I haven't seen them all afternoon but here's what they left behind in my herb garden...<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01625.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bird" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01625.jpg" /></a><br />
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The string and twigs were definitely not there before and I know nobody bothered them since we were out all day. I wonder if this means they are in the process of gathering nest-building material or if they're gone for good.DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-72406824632551755052010-05-22T11:17:00.000-07:002010-05-22T13:30:00.742-07:00my cilantro is for the birds - update<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01623.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bird" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01623.jpg" /></a><br />
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This morning, my boyfriend and I woke up to a bird sitting in the corner of our herb garden, right next to the cilantro. After eating breakfast, we went to a golf tent sale where he bought a new set and when we came back, she was still there plus another birdie visitor. I don't yet know if she's injured or hatching an egg in our herb garden but her visitor comes often and even snuggles with her. The boyfriend says that their presence will probably kill the cilantro to which I responded that we can always buy more cilantro, this is her nest (?) now.<br />
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Sadly, I have not had the best luck with birds. My mom and I tried nursing a baby bird to health and ended up overfeeding and killing it. I also found a dead bird while swimming in my pool in Miami. This time I'm not going to interfere and just watch nature take its course. The most I can do is give her space and sacrifice my cilantro.<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01624.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="bird" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01624.jpg" /></a><br />
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P.S. How great does my basil (far right) look???<br />
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Update: When I got home from my run, the bird was on the ground then flew off! I'm glad to know she's not injured. I went on the balcony to inspect the herb garden which was well nestled into and there were bits of twine and a couple other small items so I definitely think the two are building a nest!!! I feel oddly honored that they chose my cilantro :)DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-49866554965761913902010-05-19T22:34:00.000-07:002010-05-19T22:34:40.496-07:00ranchero styleOn Sunday, Matt and I decided to make some burritos ranchero style. This is one of our favorite meals to make; it's amazingly simple and actually tastes like it should be served at a restaurant! Not to toot my own horn, hehe.<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01591.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="burrito" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01591.jpg" /></a><br />
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Our "semi-homemade" burritos included:<br />
<ul><li>tortillas</li>
<li>instant rice </li>
<li>cilantro from our herb garden</li>
<li>pre-marinated carne asada</li>
<li>shredded cheddar</li>
<li>canned pinto beans</li>
<li>sour cream</li>
<li>salsa</li>
</ul><div>While Matt cooked the carne asada on the grill, I made the instant rice adding fresh cilantro to it, rinsed and microwaved a can of pinto beans and preheated the broiler to high. All that was left to do was assemble our burritos to our own liking, wrap, douse in tomatillo salsa and cheese and place in the oven. The cheese on top will brown VERY quickly so all ingredients should already be hot before the burrito goes in the oven and for goodness sake, keep a close eye! This was a filling and delicious meal. I've also made a healthier version before using brown rice, black beans and smashed avocado which was, in my opinion, equally tasty :)<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01587.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="burrito" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01587.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01589.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="burrito" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01589.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01590.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="burrito" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01590.jpg" /></a></div>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-44874379183279404922010-05-18T19:51:00.000-07:002010-05-18T19:51:42.801-07:00quinoa muffins<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01617.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01617.jpg" /></a><br />
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Last night I made Martha's <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/quinoa-muffins">quinoa muffins</a>. Before I tell you how they came out, let's talk about quinoa. Quinoa (keen-wah) is a complete protein in that it includes all nine essential amino acids. It is also a good source of magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus and may be beneficial to people with migraines, diabetes and atherosclerosis. Full list of health benefits <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?dbid=142&tname=foodspice">here</a>. Now imagine my shock when the boyfriend couldn't find it at our local Ralph's! And they say California is green and health conscious... Of course, I was able to get my quinoa at another local grocery store.<br />
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I love finding ways to cook or bake healthy foods in new/interesting ways so, of course, I bookmarked this recipe when I came across it. Before I list my rants and raves about the quinoa muffins, let me explain how I changed the recipe: I omitted the raisins, substituted milk for almond milk and I cooked the quinoa as per the packets instructions, not Martha's (for some reason that's what I thought she meant). And now, my thoughts:<br />
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Rants:<br />
<ul><li>The muffins didn't rise very much</li>
<li>The muffins came out very moist (not in a good way), almost as if they weren't fully cooked (they were!)</li>
</ul><div>Raves:</div><div><ul><li>The muffins went perfectly with my new <a href="http://daniellabrava.blogspot.com/2010/05/new-kitchen-appliance.html">sweet potato butter</a></li>
<li>I ate one of these puppies at 11 AM today and it held me over for a surprisingly long time till I ate lunch at 2:30 PM</li>
</ul><div><br />
</div></div><a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01608.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01608.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01614.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01614.jpg" /></a><br />
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I even added some Trader Joe's dark chocolate covered pomegranate seeds to the last three. <br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01609.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="quinoa" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01609.jpg" /></a><br />
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The pomegranate seeds were a wonderful addition! At first they tasted like chocolate chip muffins but the chocolateyness (not a real word) slowly gives way to a tart fruitiness (a real word) and the actual seeds add a good crunch!<br />
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P.S. Matt and I did not go to the gym BUT I did go for a 3.62 mile run (yay, me!) after work followed by a fresh juice of 3 carrots, 1 apple, 1/2 lemon, 1/2 orange and a small piece of ginger. Lesson learned: When juicing ginger, a little goes a LONG way!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-86718703714637283342010-05-18T09:22:00.000-07:002010-05-18T17:21:22.554-07:00a bloody messI admit it's a tad dorky but I was so excited yesterday to finally juice a beet in my juicer. Cutting the beet was quite gory. For a split second the knife slipped ever so slightly and I thought I had cut myself yet again! Luckily it was just beet juice that had me so freaked out. Oh boy did that look like a bloody mess! I was tempted to leave my juicing mess to wash later since I was on my lunch break but the juice was so deeply tinted I was worried it would stain everything. In my juice was 2 carrots, 1 beet, 1 tomato, 1 apple, 1/2 lemon.<br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01603.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vj" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01603.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01606.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="vj" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01606.jpg" /></a><br />
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The juice was rather refreshing albeit earthy. That's my euphemism for "it tasted a bit like dirt". I definitely washed my beet well but just by the look of it I can tell that it grows in the ground. Perhaps I should invest in a vegetable brush? Or do I need to peel my beets before juicing them? Or is it supposed to taste like that? Either way I drank the whole glass and, other than the "earthy" taste, it was actually quite good. I have this theory that my insides must be a tie-die of bright colors between the yerba mate tea (which has a green stain to it), the carrot juice and the beet juice I've been drinking. I mean that in the best possible way of course.<br />
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Today was supposed to be my day to start running again. Well it's 9:15 AM and I'm still lying in bed (I have to be at work at 10). The boyfriend says we'll go to the gym before dinner; we're always so tired when we get out of work (why I work out in the morning) but I hope that we do end up going. Either way, I have the slightest bit of sniffles today so maybe it's best I take it easy. But tomorrow I'm going to set my alarm a half hour earlier (7 AM) so I have more time to convince myself to get out of bed, hehe. The other day I purchased <a href="http://www.zensah.com/womens-running-leg-sleeve.html">Zensah Compression Sleeves</a> for my shins. I don't consider myself hardcore by any means but getting shin splints really sent me off track. Probably the right thing to do is to get fitted for new running shoes but I'm still on an intern's salary (not making any money!) so that will have to wait.DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-21018031813291725112010-05-17T23:56:00.000-07:002010-05-18T08:20:52.408-07:00i got you covered<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=gotyoucovered.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="got you covered" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/gotyoucovered.jpg" /></a><br />
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I love summer! Today was a chilly day in Southern California but overall the weather has been gearing towards hot beach days. This coming weekend the boyfriend and I have plans to go hiking which should be lots of fun but I really can't wait till the weather is right for playing in the sand and water. Due to my excitement, I've been thinking about the best outfits to throw on over my favorite bikini; be it an oversized men's shirt, a colorful dress or a flirty nautical romper. Of course wedges, sandles and boat shoes are at the top of my list to pair along with my beach cover-up. Here are some of my favorite selections:<br />
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1. TopShop - <a href="http://us.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=true&catalogId=32051&storeId=13052&categoryId=162916&parent_category_rn=133419&productId=1705040&langId=-1">Bonded Military Shirt</a> - $55<br />
2. Charles by Charles David - <a href="http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=40125&vid=1&pid=784671&scid=784671002">Braid Wedge</a> - $125<br />
3. Dolce Vita - <a href="http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=35978&vid=1&pid=781331&scid=781331012">Ivory Sandal</a> - $125<br />
4. TopShop - <a href="http://us.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=32051&storeId=13052&categoryId=162944&parent_category_rn=133427&productId=1725965&langId=-1">Pastel Check Ladder Sundress</a> - $70<br />
5. TopShop - <a href="http://us.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=20&viewAllFlag=false&catalogId=32051&storeId=13052&categoryId=146492&parent_category_rn=133487&productId=1635948&langId=-1">Stripe Frill Playsuit</a> - $55<br />
6. Sperry Topsider - <a href="http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=55938&vid=1&pid=779472&scid=779472012">Authentic Original Boat Shoe</a> - $85<br />
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I have a pair of Sperry Topsider brown patent leather penny loafers and I practically live in them! They're the perfect balance of stylish and comfortable which is great on long shoot days. I would love to get my hands on a fun colorful pair of boat shoes like the above. However, I got my Topsiders on <a href="http://www.ruelala.com/invite/dalberni">Ruelala</a> for $40 and have seen them on various sample sale websites so I definitely would not purchase them full price.<br />
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On an unrelated note, when I realized I had an $8 credit on eBay I immediately purchased the cookbook <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ice-Cream-Galore-Caroline-Barty/dp/1846013232/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1274165621&sr=8-1">Ice Cream Galore</a> (which ended up costing me a whopping $.99!) I'm so excited to try lots of new flavors!DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-74518124878444087652010-05-17T09:23:00.000-07:002010-05-17T09:23:14.491-07:00flan de queso<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01593.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="flan" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01593.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01594.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="flan" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01594.jpg" /></a><br />
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Last night I made flan de queso as per the boyfriend's request. This is an old family recipe (not the one I'm making in the slow cooker) passed down from my grandmother to my mother to me. Unfortunately, I can't post this recipe on the internet (you know, family secret!) but I can tell you some interesting facts about making flan:<br />
<ol><li>The flan you are probably used to eating at restaurants is "flan de huevo" or flan made with eggs. My family recipe is "flan de queso" which means flan made with cheese.</li>
<li>The cheese in the recipe yields a rich and creamy texture similar to that of a cheesecake. It's almost a "flan de huevo"/cheesecake hybrid, if you can imagine that!</li>
<li>You have to melt a cup of sugar to coat the pan (how you get that golden brown, drippy caramel on top) which scares the bejeezus out of me! Hot sugar is far more frightening than hot oil. </li>
<li>Flan is cooked in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"baño de Maria" or </span></span><a href="http://recipes.howstuffworks.com/tools-and-techniques/what-is-a-water-bath.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">water </span>bath</a> (similar to cheesecakes and custards) to ensure slow, even cooking. </li>
<li>Flan, like cheesecake, needs to cool overnight (or until completely chilled) before eating which is why my boyfriend and I shared a slice this morning for breakfast, hehe. </li>
</ol><div>If you don't like flan de huevo, do NOT discount flan de queso! The texture is completely different, it's almost an entirely different dessert. Also, if you want to make flan for a dinner party and don't have time to make it a night in advance, I suggest making little individual flans in ramekins or a cupcake pan. The smaller surface area will lead to a shorter cooking and cooling time (plus everyone loves individual desserts!)</div>DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5710280886357258296.post-60435802829620607192010-05-16T23:37:00.000-07:002010-05-16T23:37:23.799-07:00not so lazy sundayI had just about the laziest Saturday ever (not sure I left the apartment other than for brunch) which was good because it allowed me to rest up and feel better. Today (Sunday) was panning out to be just as relaxed until Matt told me I needed to get out. He was right. I felt much better and there was no reason to stay cooped up and in bed. Either way, we had groceries to buy! A little known fact about me: I take grocery shopping VERY seriously!! I spend all week composing a list and relish going down each and every aisle. It's probably one of my more annoying/endearing traits. <br />
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For this week, I had two missions: <br />
<ol><li>eat my veggies</li>
<li>use my slow cooker</li>
</ol><div><a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=DSC01592.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="produce" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/DSC01592.jpg" /></a><br />
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Consider Mission One accomplished! And since I don't yet have a bowl to put my produce in, I'm temporarily putting it in my slow cooker. I purchased oranges, lemons, tomatoes, beets and ginger for juicing, bananas for smoothie making and garlic for the slow cooker meal my boyfriend requested I make. In the fridge is a fresh-cut stir-fry mix and extra large bag of carrots.<br />
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As for Mission Two, well that's a surprise! I will blog later in the week about it but for now I can tell you it is a family recipe and requires lots (two entire bulbs) of garlic.<br />
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My friend Allen who recently moved to Canada sent me some pictures of the foods of his new/old land: Smarties, coffee crisp and ketchup chips</div><br />
<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=smarties.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="smarties" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/smarties.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=coffeecrisp.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="cc" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/coffeecrisp.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://s101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/?action=view&current=ketchupchips.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="ketchup" border="0" src="http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m64/danibanani213/blog%20-%20may/ketchupchips.jpg" /></a><br />
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These pictures are very nice and all but when do I get to try these foods?? Hopefully Allen will come visit soon with samples I can try and review for you.DaniBravahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05955441215934782967noreply@blogger.com1