Monthly Archives: August 2011

Fig, Applesauce, and Almond Breakfast Loaf

Rumor has it that my mom craved Fig Newtons when she was pregnant with me and to this day, it is one of my favorite cookies EVER. But I can honestly say I’d never in my life purchased figs before, dried or fresh. Come to think of it, I don’t think I’d even tasted a fig except for those newtons (at least not that I remember). Something about those wrinkled, odd looking fruits intimidates me. So when I came across this Fig, Applesauce, and Almond Breakfast Loaf, I thought I’d give them a try. And I can now say I’m intimidated no more! The figs in this bread are sweet and chewy and the almond extract give this bread such a comforting aroma that I just want to curl up on the couch with a warm buttered slice or two, a nice cup of coffee and a good book. Yum!

Additions: None

Omissions: None

Substitutions: None

Overall Rating: Love It

Source: Cooking Light Magazine

Bourbon and Orange Smash

Even though not everyone likes or appreciates bourbon, I dare say a bourbon naysayer might like a Bourbon and Orange Smash. The fresh-squeezed orange juice in this cocktail helps to smooth the bourbon so there is no wincing as is goes down (this is best when using in-season oranges, although I’m sure store-bought orange juice is good too). This cocktail makes me want to go sit outside and put my feet up just as the sun is setting on a warm summer night with an appreciation that there isn’t two feet of snow on the ground.

Additions: None

Omissions: None

Substitutions: None

Overall Rating: Like It

Source: Real Simple Magazine

Adobo Chicken

Yes, this is yet another chicken recipe. As I mentioned before, I used to be a vegetarian (13 years!) and now I eat poultry and some fish but still no pork or beef. Therefore, you will see a LOT of chicken recipes here. That being said, Adobo Chicken is another one. I was happy to make this recipe because I actually had all of the ingredients on hand and didn’t need to run to the store. But…I didn’t love it. It wasn’t bad, but it reminded me of something that I used to eat as a kid that I didn’t like (the only thing that pops in my head is liver and onions – yuck!). This sauce was okay and the onions actually added a little something to the chicken but unfortunately I doubt I’ll make this one again.