Food for Thought: Picture Cook

Picture Cook is a feast for the eyes, literally.

 A graphic cookbook presented entirely through illustrations, it is a concept that gives new meaning to the art of cooking.

New York-based visual designer, Katie Shelly, told NPR she cooked up the idea for the visual feast back in 2009 when she realized as she listened to a friend relay instructions for eggplant Parmesan, she was drawing the process instead of writing it down. "In that moment, it was totally natural for me to draw the three bowls instead of writing all that out in words."

Shelly thinks other people may see things her way as well.

"It's just another way of slicing information," she says. "There will always be people who prefer the original way of doing recipes, and if you're in that camp, then no need to buy this book. I'm not suggesting that the whole world switch over to this format. But I think for people who are into it, if it works for you, then that's awesome."

 

The cookbook features more than 50 recipes Shelly hopes will inspire "experimentation, improvisation...and play in the kitchen". It is not, she warns, intended to be used as a "precise culinary blueprint". Think, more along the lines of how family recipes get passed along, a dash of this, and some of that to taste...

It's a fun idea with a new flavor all its own: A touch of the unexpected with just a hint of sweet.

 

Picture Cook is being published by Ulysses Press and will be served up in bookstores this October. 

 

DIY: Homemade Microwave Popcorn

 

My friend Michelle Martin teaches fifth graders for a living, but for her, being an educator doesn't stop when the bell rings. She is passionate about learning, doing and sharing -both inside the classroom and out. At home, she is currently exploring alternative grain flours, experimenting with chia seeds and trying to reduce, if not eliminate processed sugar from her family's diet. Happily, I am a beneficiary of her hard work and research -and I take good notes!

When I learned about her latest discovery, I knew I had to share: DIY Brown Bag Microwave Popcorn as demonstrated by America's favorite health guru, Dr. Oz. 

 

A simple, money-saving solution to popcorn that is as healthy as it is "green". No extra chemicals, fat or excessive packaging required! Love it!

Brown Bag Microwave Popcorn

(by Dr.Oz)

¼ C popcorn
Pour in brown paper lunch bag
Fold over top

Put the bag in microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until popping slows. Since microwave cooking times vary, it's important to listen closely. (Be warned, I burned my first batch...)

Pour into a container and spray the popcorn with a little cooking spray or lightly mist water (zero fat) to make the spices stick. Consider using olive oil spray or (Michelle's favorite) coconut oil spray available at Trader Joe's.

Finally, sprinkle on your favorite spices. Think: sea salt & parmesean cheese; cinnamon; garlic salt; or sea salt and a dash of cayenne!

Mix it up!

Eat: Huckleberry Bakery and Cafe

Two words: Salted Carmel.

I know my last post was about my new exercise ball and a renewed quest to determine the existence of any personal abdominal strength, but...if there's a legitimate reason to fall off the fitness wagon, the Huckleberry Bakery and Cafe in Santa Monica, California is it.

Surrender, Dorothy.

It's hard to know where to start...whole wheat shortbread cookies dusted with sugar? Mini chocolate dipped donuts? Scones? Croissants? Or of course, an actual meal (the warm-up act for dessert)?

First, you'll line up at the counter to place your order -don't worry about the wait, it will give you time to decide; change your mind; then change your mind again.

Once you've made a commitment and paid at the register, find a seat at one of the simple wooden tables with red-painted cafe chairs and put your order number on the holder provided.

Featuring locally-sourced farmer's market produce, hormone/antiobiotic-free meat and dairy and fresh baked breads and pastries, Huckleberry is the love child of a made-for-Romcom-romance baked in foodie heaven. Meet cute: Zoe Nathan met Josh Loeb when she took a job at his award winning restaurant, Rustic Canyon Wine Bar and Seasonal Kitchen. However, where a movie would have ended with the proposal, the story in real life continues.
 

  

The husband and wife team now own and operate, not only Rustic Canyon, but also Huckleberry Bakery and Cafe, Sweet Rose Creamery, and Milo & Olive.

All of the restaurants have been lauded in the press, including the Huckleberry Bakery and Cafe. Travel + Leisure Magazine raves, "Huckleberry takes the prize for L.A.'s best breakfast!" Angeleno Magazine writes, "Zoe Nathan pushes the boundaries of what it means to be a pastry chef." Los Angeles Magazine reports simply, "A Star (sandwich) is born."

Of course, the most important review of all is always your very own. Let me know what you order --and whatever you do, don't leave without dessert!