Quick and Easy Jambalaya

Quick and Easy Jambalaya

1-1/2 lb. shrimp (chopped up)
1 cup oil
4 medium onions (chopped)
2 bundles of shallots (chopped)
1 bell pepper (chopped)
1 tbsp. salt (or to taste)
A sprinkle of garlic powder
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/2 cup smoked sausage (cut up)
3 cups rice (uncooked)
5 cup water

Saute onions, garlic, shallots, pepper, salt, peppers and sausage in the oil in a pot over medium heat. Add in the shrimp, rice and water; bring to a boil. Cover and put on the lowest heat; cook for 20-25 minutes; take off heat. Stir and replace the cover. Make sure rice is cooked and ready to serve; serve.

*Johnna's tip: Zatarain's jambalaya mix is another quick and easy road to take when you really are pressed for time and need to entertain on the nick of a dime. Change up the amount of flavoring for this recipe to your liking by adding more spice with the pepper and red pepper flakes (*as you know, JKGF is not much of a spicy cook).

Picture Source: http://www.ciaprochef.com/USARice/sausage_jambalaya.html

Long Island's Iced Tea (Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Long Island's Iced Tea

1/2 oz. vodka
1/2 oz. gin
1/2 oz. light rum
1/4 oz. tequila
1/2 oz. triple sec
1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
6 oz. cola

In a tumbler combine all ingredients over ice; shake; pour into a tall glass; Serve!

*Johnna's tip: WARNING: The Long Island iced tea can make for a good cause or a bad fall...Professional drinkers (*those that can consume large amounts of alcohol without the terrible hangover to follow..) should be the only ones consuming more than two of these as they are potent! But nonetheless, enjoy on a warm summer day as a cool after work drink...and please drink responsibly:-)

Johnna's Pick of the Week (Travel Edition): Elmo's Diner

Elmo's Diner- Durham, NC

Breakfast anytime, all the time and how you want it. Elmo's Diner is a breakfast staple in Durham, North Carolina and is a must try if you are in the area. This is probably some of the best omelets on this side of the Carolina's that JKGF has tasted. This spot makes breakfast into more than some eggs and grits, it is made with fresh ingredients that you can taste as if you were in your own house being served breakfast.

Some things to know:

1. it's full of people all the time (*college students galore, as the menu prices are nice and cheap.) and

2. it opens @ 6:30 am, seven days a week:-) and closes around 10 or ll most times.

Oooo and try the Western omelet, melts in your mouth, not in your hands;-)

Enjoy!

Picture source: http://www.oceanbreezes.ca/breakfast.html

Food.Fun.Stuff: The Crawfish Broil

The Crawfish Broil

Acadiana (*a prior JKGF pick of the week) in Washington, D.C. has made the summer's warm climate even more enjoyable with their new Friday edition: Crawfish Broil. From 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm each Friday this summer, patrons can sit on the outdoor patio and enjoy the breeze while munching on crawfish @ $13 a lb. or shrimp @ $17 a lb. If that doesn't fill you up, the corn and potatoes that come on the side will hit the spot;-) For those of you who can't make it to New Orleans this summer and miss the ole' crawfish gatherings and such, this is a great way to bring New Orleans to you in the District...Enjoy!

Picture source: http://www.roadwayevents.com/Images/Media/Roadstar/Swamp-Romp/target22.html

Food.Fun.Stuff. >>>FREE!!!

Wine for free?? Say it ain't so. This couldn't be true!!

Curious Grape in Shirlington Village is fulfilling the wine tasters dream in the D.C. area. They are hosting the Loire Valley Wine Seminar where guests will be able to sample among other things, Sauvignon Blancs alongside goat's milk cheeses that pair well with the wines served. This is all happening Saturday in Arlington, VA FREE WITH RESERVATIONS, again that's FREE:-) The Curious Grape wins major cool points for this one...so go, eat cheese, drink good wine and be happy!

Picture source: http://curiousgrape.com/index

Short Ribs and Veggies (Crock Pot)

Short Ribs and Veggies (Crock Pot)

Crock Pot
3 lb. Beef short ribs (cut into serving-sized pieces)
2 tsp. salt (or to taste)
1 tsp. Accent
1/8 tsp. pepper (or to taste)
1/8 tsp. garlic powder (or to taste)
1/3 cup fat
1 onion (thinly sliced)
2 cup hot water
1/2 lb. green beans
6 potatoes (halved)
1 tsp. Salt
1/4 tsp. Accent
1/8 tsp. pepper
12 celery stalks (cut in 2" slices)

Season meat with salt and pepper and Accent. Heat fat on HIGH in the Crock Pot. Coat meat evenly with fat. Add in the remaining ingredients and cover. Cook on LOW for 9-9 1/2 hrs.

*Johnna's tip: Why JKGF loves this recipe?? Because you can veg out and have the hearty meat you want all at the same time without slaving over the stove for hours. Add in the veggies that YOU like i.e. you don't like celery?? Add in broccoli instead or whatever you like. This is the comfort food dish that allows you to just be yourself...so when your feeling down, make this, snuggle up with your favorite movie and enjoy the comforts of a few of your favorite veggies;-)

Picture source: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Braised-Beef-Short-Ribs/Photo-Gallery.aspx

Pineapple Twist (Non-Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Pineapple Twist

3 oz. pineapple juice
3 oz. grapefruit juice
1/2 oz. grenadine
Club soda
Fresh mint
slice of pineapple
Ice

Fill a glass with the ice; add in the first three ingredients and stir. Fill the glass with club soda. Stick the slice of pineapple on the rim of the glass and drop a piece of mint in the glass; give a slight stir and Serve.

*Johnna's tip: Summer is the perfect time for this type of drink. By almost tripling the ingredients you can turn this single serving into a party drink for the whole crowd. Also, change up the the fruits between frozen ones of your choice or add cherry's or even watermelon slices on the rim for added effect. Enjoy!

Food.Fun.Stuff: Jazz and Food

Jazz and Food. What a wonderful combination and a few good cocktails to go along with makes it the perfect combination. On this Wednesday night, foodies, jazz connoisseurs and the combination should make their way to Ozios (Washington, D.C.) for Smooth Soul Wednesday featuring the Marcus Johnson Project. JKGF is a huge fan of the Marcus Johnson Project (*check them out!!: http://www.threekeys.com/Main.asp) and you will not be disappointed in neither your eardrums or on your palate:-)

What to order:
1. A glass of your favorite wine ooorrr Ozio has some pretty delicious martinis (*strong too...)
2. The fried Calamari or the sesame chicken tenders...they are both so good with some drinks in hand...


Now enjoy the soulful jazz tunes of the Marcus Johnson Project;-) Don't forget to tell 'em who sent you!

Picture source: http://www.threekeys.com/Artists.asp

Food.Fun.Stuff: Inspiration

Inspiring Moments: The Lobster Burger

Today's "The Lobster Burger" recipe was inspired by the delicious one that JKGF had an opportunity to nibble on yesterday while at Michel Richard's Central restaurant. What a spin they put on the typical burger! It was light, delicious and filling....and it had this taste that could've only been attributed to Central's special sauce and blend of herbs for the lobster burger. Central is Michel Richard's newest addition to great cuisine alongside Citronelle (which, JKGF can tell you is an experience in itself!...and a little on the pricey side, but well worth it for the service and cuisine). JKGF suggests you run and try this burger immediately on your lunch break....or if lobsters not your thing the shrimp burger is just as exquisite....or you could always whip it up yourself with the recipe from today;-) Don't worry we won't tell anybody it wasn't your original recipe....Muah!

Picture source: http://www.centralmichelrichard.com/our_look/

The Lobster Burger

The Lobster Burger

1-1/2 lb. lobster meat (broken)
1 tsp. dry mustard
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped
2 eggs (beaten)
3/4 cup low fat mayonnaise
1/2 cup bread crumbs
Butter,clarified (Definition found here: http://www.ochef.com/540.htm)
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
4 potato buns

Gently squeeze all of the excess moisture from the lobster; make sure there are no shells in the mix; place in large bowl. Mix together the dry mustard, Worcestershire, parsley, eggs, mayonnaise, onion powder, pepper and salt in another large bowl, then fold in the lobster meat. Stir until just combined.

Add in the bread crumbs and mix to combine; let sit for 1 hour. The lobster mix should be extremely moist and tender, to the point of falling apart. Divide the mixture into four portions; shape into burgers. Bring clarified butter to medium heat and sauté the burgers in skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Put in a baking dish and place in oven for 3-4 minutes minutes to ensure center is hot. While the lobster burgers are in the oven, toast the potato buns. Place the burgers on the buns. Serve!

*Johnna's tip: Lobster burgers are a lobster fans dream! (JKGF is a huge lobster fan) This is also a great treat for the summer that can be cooked on the grill as opposed to stove top or the baking part of the recipe could be done on the grill. Suggested additions are remoulade sauce (*recipe found on JKGF), mayo (*recipe found on JKGF), tomatoes, lettuce, tartar sauce (*recipe found on JKGF) and sliced pickles. Enjoy!

Picture source: http://www.stephencooks.com/2005/10/lobster_burger_.html

Strawberry Daiquiri (Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Strawberry Daiquiri

1-1/2 oz. rum
1-1/2 oz. lemon juice
4 fresh strawberries
1 tsp. sugar
Ice

In a blender, blend all ingredients together until smooth. Pour in your favorite summer cocktail glass and enjoy!

*Johnna's tip: Add in as much sugar as you like and you can add a flavored rum to this such as Malibu rum to give it a more nutty flavor. Dress the glass up with a strawberry slice and always drink responsibly!

Food.Fun.Stuff. >>>FREE!!!

Open Bar Ladies;-)

A JKGF fave for its super sexy decor and not to mention tasty drinks, Tattoo Bar, is hosting an open bar from midnight until last call for all ladies. WARNING: This announcement is only for those without day jobs...or those with day jobs who handle the hangover thing well;-) Just kidding of course! But anywho, go, enjoy, drink responsibly!

Pic source: http://www.tattoobardc.com/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=1216

Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie

Big can of sweet potatoes or 2 small cans of sweet potatoes
1/3 cup of evaporated milk
1 egg
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 tbsp. cinnamon
1 tbsp. nutmeg
2 tbsp. melted butter

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mash up the sweet potatoes; melt the butter and add it to the sweet potatoes. Add in the rest of the ingredients and blend well. Pour mixture into the pie crust and bake about 35-40 minutes (you can gage when its ready based on the pie crust being browned...). Serve warm:-)

*Johnna's tip: Sweet potatoes are such a great foodie resource, the same ingredients for this pie can be used without the pie crust into a delicious side dish. You can also freeze any left over mixture that can't be squeezed into the pie crust especially if you don't want to make two pies.

*Johnna's tip, tip: Add a whipped cream topping or a meringue topping (a mixture of confectionery sugar and egg whites whipped together; spread on top of the pie and bake until meringue turns light brown...yum!). Indulge yourself in the ultimate comfort food!

Picture source: http://allrecipes.com/Cooks-Profile/Photo.aspx?photoID=52258

Iced Coffee on the Go (Non-Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Iced Coffee on the Go

4 oz. crushed ice
4 oz. cream of coconut
4 oz. coffee

In a blender, blend ice, milk, and cooled coffee on medium speed for 10-20 seconds. Pour into your favorite on the go coffee mug and Enjoy!

*Johnna's tip: Iced coffees are the best things that could've happened to the caffeine summer! They are easy tasty and cool you off while still giving you the upper you need to get thru the day. This is the quick, easy and cheaper way to fulfilling your coffee urge whenever;-)

Food.Fun.Stuff: Indianapolis, An American Favorite

On this regular Monday, JKGF decided to discuss a pretty regular city with pretty regular food: Indianapolis.

***A few weeks ago JKGF took the opportunity to venture to the Midwest to see what was cooking in that neck of the woods. JKGF discovered Indianapolis has more to offer than the Indy 500 and with it being surrounded by staples of the Midwest, Chicago and Minneapolis. Indianapolis has this great American city appeal and by that JKGF means it is what comes to mind when you think of the classic American city. The people are extremely nice and welcoming. The scene is typical America: Starbucks everywhere, museums, hand made monuments...the usual suspects;-) And of course, we couldn't leave without surveying the food! The food is dee-lish and offers the typical all American cuisine...but hiked up waay nicer.

When we say "typical all American appeal", the food here is typically what you would expect when you go to an American restaurant anywhere else, but juiced up waaayyy better. For instance, The Slippery Noodle Inn in Indianapolis, serves potato wedges with cheese...but wait, these are not just any potato wedges where the wedges are sliced like potato chips, topped with fresh ingredients, has cheese on it that never seems to get hard..no matter how long it takes you to eat it and to top everything off...its dirt cheap ($6.59..and you'll be stuffed)!! But this spot only gets better where its offering up some of the best blues of the Midwest from local celebs showcasing their talents every night. This is just a taste of what this town has to offer with plenty of dining options, good folks and classic American living. It's simple, easy...try it and of course eat!

Picture source: http://www.indy500.com/community/fanphotos/view/latest?utm_source=fanphoto&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=frontpage

Creamy Spinach

Creamy Spinach

3 tbsp. butter
4 tbsp. flour
1-1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup low fat sour cream
2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. onion (minced)
1/4 cup water
20 oz. frozen spinach (chopped) (*You may use fresh spinach..about 3 lbs. should be fine..)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Melt 3 Tbsp. butter in a pan on Medium to Low heat. Stir in flour and salt until creamed together. Stir in milk a little at a time. Increase the heat to Medium. Constantly stir with a whisk until mixture is thick and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside. Melt 2 Tbsp. butter in a pan over Medium heat, add in onions and cook until transparent. Add spinach and water to pan, lower the heat and cover. Stir several times until spinach is almost completely cooked.
When spinach is almost done, add white sauce, sour cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir well and simmer until completely blended together. Serve!

*Johnna's tip: Creamed spinach is such a treat. It is healthy and tasty at the same time. Make it even more healthy by substituting the dairy ingredients with organic products. Serve with a lean beef or on top of veal scallopini or even baked lamb. Enjoy!

Picture source: http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/photo/CREAMED-SPINACH-231198

Margarita's For Everyone! (Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Margarita's For Everyone!

1-1/2 oz. tequila
3/4 oz. triple sec
1/2 oz. lemon juice
1/2 oz. lime juice
Margarita salt
1 lime wedge
Ice

Blend together tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, lime juice and ice. On a plate spread out the salt and dip the rim of your favorite Margarita glass into the salt on the plate. Pour the mixture into the glass and stick the lime wedge on the rim of the glass. Serve.

*Johnna's tip: You do not have to blend the ice in the mixture if you are looking for a less frozen drink. Just shake all the ingredients together in a tumbler and pour. Margaritas are great by the pool...so find a pool with a rooftop deck (if you don't already have one) and enjoy some sun and tequila, yaay for summer!

Johnna's Pick of the Week (Travel Edition): Spoonbread (New York, NY)

Spoonbread

Soul food at its best in the heart of Harlem. Spoonbread is sort of like going to someones house to eat except there's a bill and a tip included at the end of the meal. The fried chicken, smothered chicken and Louisiana catfish are favorites of JKGF. If you live in the city and friends are in town who want soul food, Take Them Here. It is a guaranteed crowd pleaser when the taste buds are calling for food for the soul. Don't forget to add a side of that mac 'n cheese, some cabbage and/or the collard greens to your pallet...Don't worry about the calories. NYC walking will work it right off;-)

*Johnna's tip: This may be biased, but the one on Lenox Ave. is the JKGF most common pit stop...

Picture source: http://www.spoonbreadinc.com/miss_maudes.htm

The Salmon Croquette

The Salmon Croquette

1-12 oz. can pink salmon
2 large eggs
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup all purpose flour
2 tbsp. yellow corn meal
salt (to taste)
pepper (to taste)
Frying Oil (*Suggested: Crisco)

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients together except for the flour. Add in the flour last and mix. Mold the mixture into patties (*they should look like hamburger patties). Coat a frying pan with the oil over medium heat. Add the patties to the frying pan until there is no more room. Cook on each side until medium brown turning every 3-5 minutes. On separate plate, place a paper towel on it and place the salmon croquettes on it when they are done frying. Serve fresh out the frying pan, hot!

*Johnna's tip: Ummm salmon croquettes! These go really well with some rice or even some orzo with some gravy on the side. They are best served hot off the frying pan...it's just something about the moisture that's in them during that time...

Picture Source: http://www.gourmetsaint.com.au/Salmon_Croquettes_with_Lime_Aioli.htm

Cream & Peaches (Non-Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Cream & Peaches

2 parts of chilled peach juice
2 parts half & half cream
Ice

In a tumbler, shake all ingredients together. Strain into glass; Serve!

*Johnna's tip: Some freshly sliced peaches would go nice on the side or on the rim of the glass;-) Such a nice poolside drink!

The Birthday Cake

We All Scream for Ice Cream!!

Well we don't all scream for ice cream, but JKGF does:-) Typical birthday cakes are some bread and some icing...boring! Now with the creation of so many wonderful bakeries and cake shops, the birthday cake has new meaning. The Food Networks "Ace of Cakes" has given new meaning to creative cakes: whatever your fetish is, it can now be made in the form of a tasty, delectable, delicious...well you get it..a good cake. JKGF is a totally, tremendously, over the top...well you get it...fan of the ice cream birthday cake. This obsession turned into a hunt for the best places to get birthday cakes with ice cream...umm dee-lish! Here's what we found:

Fosselman's Ice Cream (Los Angeles, CA)- Have you ever had dreams about your favorite foods/desserts/...ice cream cakes?? Well after you visit this tasty ice cream haven, I'm sure you will dream about ice cream if you already haven't. Try their cookies & cream ice cream cake or the mint chip...yum, yum gimme some!

Jake's Ice Cream (Atlanta, GA)- Soo we got a little side tracked with the ice cream cake after visiting Jake's...ever thought about ice cream pie?? Try it. In any flavor. Delicious.

Milk & Cookies Bakery (New York, NY)- Ok..soo..we got even more sidetracked when we visited Milk & Cookies...how's this for an ice cream loop?? Berry-nice which is a sugar cookie with Strawberry Ice Cream...umm...Cocoa Monster which is a Double Chocolate Cookie with Double Chocolate ice cream...or umm...Sweetheart which is a Chocolate Chip cookie with strawberry ice cream...your mouth watering yet?? These are just a few of the many different ice cream Sandwiches that are offered at this icy retreat..eat and Enjoy!

And of course, who could talk about Ice Cream cakes without mentioning...Cold Stone.

ColdStone (Everywhere!)- These ice cream cakes are ridiculously good! and for the price who can beat a good ice cream cake to say I love you and Happy Birthday...one that never tasted so good?! Just go in to ask for the Cake Batter Confetti cake and you'll get just what you asked for;-)

I hope this finds you foodies in good ice cream spirits...now go and eat some ice cream birthday cake! Happy Birthday!

Picture source: http://www.coldstonecreamery.com/cakes/signature_cakes.html

Lobster Mac 'N Cheese (Is your mouth watering yet??)

Lobster Mac 'N Cheese (Is your mouth watering yet??)

8 oz. elbow macaroni
16 oz. heavy cream
8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz. cream cheese
6 oz. fresh grated Parmesan cheese
4 oz Gruyere cheese (shredded)
1 lb. lobster meat (chopped)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
3 garlic cloves (minced)
garlic powder (to taste)
onion powder (to taste; just a sprinkle)
1 medium onion (chopped)
1 tbsp. olive oil
salt (to taste)
pepper (to taste)


Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a pot bring salted water to a boil and add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain the pasta and in the same pot, add cream, wait until the cream warms up, and then add half of the Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, Gruyere cheese and stir in until melted and thoroughly combined. In another pan heat the olive oil and saute garlic and onion. Add in chopped lobster meat and cook until the lobster is opaque. Add the lobster, garlic and onions to the pasta and cheese mixture. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder to taste. Add all ingredients to a greased baking dish and cover with breadcrumbs and remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake until breadcrumbs and cheese are golden brown (about 8-10 minutes). Serve.

*Johnna's tip: Isn't this the most delectable dish?? JKGF recently took a trip to Indianapolis's 14 West (*the lobster mac 'n cheese here honestly brought a tear to the eye because it was soo good...) and is smitten by this concept of lobster+mac 'n cheese! It just melts in your mouth and is the ultimate comfort food. So when your feeling low or even super high, try this it will make whatever is wrong or right turn to fantastic!

*Johnna's tip, tip: Now after thinking about it, some chopped up broccoli might add a nice flair to this dish as well...;-)...

Picture Source: http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/photo/LOBSTER-MACARONI-AND-CHEESE-230624

Easy Bake Mojitos (Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Easy Bake Mojitos

A bottle of Grey Goose
A bottle of Citron Vodka
2 limes
Ziploc bag full of mint
12 pack cans of Sprite

In a large bucket/bowl, mix the Grey Goose, Citron, squeezed juice from the limes with limes and mint leaves. Let this sit outside for a day in the heat and strain out all the mint leaves; take out limes. Bottle the mixture up and put the mixture in the freezer for about 4-6 hours. Serve individually with about a cup of sprite in each serving and stir. Serve and Enjoy!

*Johnna's tip: This is the perfect party drink. JKGF attended a friends summer party this weekend and drank one of these...Dee-lish! but Warning: it's strong! The drink gives the best effects of a Mojito without the mint leaves being in the actual drink. Summer is also perfect for this drink because the ingredients need the heat to meld together and make one of the most potent and tasty alcoholic beverages you'll taste. As always, drink responsibly and Enjoy!

Food.Fun.Stuff: Singles Night

Cha, Cha, Cha!

Soo Chi Cha lounge is doing a little something for singles in the city tonight. Chi Cha is sponsoring an International Four Minute Dating series. People from all races and nationalities will be in the building trying to make that initial love connection in four minutes alongside some nice drinks and cool atmosphere. Chi Cha is a JKGF fav (*the velvety couches offer such a 'lax atmosphere...relax and drink!) so if for nothing else, go. have a cocktail. or two.;-)

*Oooo and of course, you must try their food...JKGF personal faves: Empanada de Pollo and mojitos, mojitos, mojitos!

Picture source: http://www.latinconcepts.com/gallery.php?level=picture&id=24

Baked and Cheesy Grits

Baked and Cheesy Grits

1-1/2 cups grits
6 cups water
2-1/2 tsp. salt
1 stick butter
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
3 eggs, beaten
1 lb. sharp cheese, grated
1 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Add grits to salted boiling water and cook till done. Add in butter, cayenne pepper, eggs, and 14 oz. of cheese; mix well. Pour into a buttered baking dish; top with remaining cheese, and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Garnish with parsley; Serve.

*Johnna's tip: Baked grits give such a southern flair:-) Makes you think of your grandmothers kitchen...They are a classic southern dish that is the perfect way to start a day for breakfast. Make fun with them by adding some shrimp (*see JKGF shrimp and grits recipe). Also, for those health conscious readers (I know, I know...the one stick of butter sounds frightening to the arteries) take out some of the cheese and butter or just substitute with reduced to no fat options of the two. Enjoy!

Picture Source: http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,1977,FOOD_9936_127128,00.html

Summer Love (Non-Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Summer Love

3 oz. cranberry juice
1 oz. grapefruit juice
4 oz. ginger ale
Slice of lemon or lime
Ice

Fill a glass with ice. Pour in juices and ginger ale; Stir. Garnish with lemon or lime slice. Serve!

*Johnna's tip: You could add in some sugar to make it as sweet as you want it...or you could spike this beverage with your favorite tequila...

Apple Crisp

Apple Crisp

4-5 apples (pared and sliced)
1/2 cup cinnamon sugar
1 tbsp. butter (softened)
1/2 sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Arrange apples in circular layers in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and bake while preparing the batter.

Batter: Cream butter and sugar; mix with remaining ingredients. Spread the batter evenly over the sliced apples and place back in oven for 35-40 minutes. Let stand to cool and serve!

*Johnna's tip: Serve with your favorite ice cream or a whipped topping. Also, for a crispier taste, let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. Enjoy!

*Picture source: http://guesshowmuchiweigh.blogspot.com/2007_09_23_archive.html

Classic Martini (Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Classic Martini

1-1/2 oz. gin
1/2 oz. dry vermouth
Green Olives
couple of ice cubes

In a tumbler, mix together all ingredients except green olives. In your favorite martini glass, place olives at the bottom of glass and strain ingredients in tumbler over the olives, Enjoy!

*Johnna's tip: The martini is such a classic. It's sort of like a white button down shirt, it never goes out of style and there are so many ways to use it...so change up the mixers with apple, strawberry or even raspberry and always, always drink responsibly;-)

Johnna's Pick of the Week (Travel Edition): St. Elmo's

St. Elmo's-Indianapolis

After searching the U.S. for the best steakhouses, St. Elmo's is definitely competition from the Midwest. The steaks are tender and juicy and you just run your knife straight through..umm, dee-lish! Probably one of the oldest and most famous steakhouses in Indianapolis, St. Elmo's has become a staple for tourists, celeb's and the like visiting the Indianapolis area. The evidence is in the pictures that line the wall of celebs from famous actors and actresses to of course, Indy 500 winners and other fast, race car drivers. You couldn't talk about St. Elmo's, however, without discussing their famous cocktail sauce...O-M-G! This sauce is delicious! It is made from scratch everyday with the horseradish (which is the hottest thing you'll taste in life!) being made through some intricate overnight process (*that's their secret to this must try..). JKGF is not a spicy food fan, but this shrimp cocktail is a must order and for other non-spicy foodies...just ask them to turn down the heat on the sauce...they will, and it'll still be spicy :-(, BUT once you have one you are going to want 10 more no matter spicy they are...lol...

Picture source: http://www.stelmos.com/history.php

The Vegan's Stuffie Tomatoes

The Vegan's Stuffie Tomatoes

2 cup broccoli (chopped)
1/2 cup red onion (chopped)
1 cup tofu (cut into small squares)
1/2 tablespoon basil
6-8 medium tomatoes
salt (to taste)
cayenne pepper (to taste)
vegan cheese (*your choice of what you like...)

Preheat oven at 325 degrees. Mix broccoli and tofu with onion and spices; Slice stem end off of tomato and scoop out pulp leaving about 1/4 of an inch of tomato to the skin. Fill tomato with mixture and bake in a baking dish for 20 to 25 minutes. Top tomatoes with about a tbsp. of vegan cheese and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes. Pull out of oven and let stand for 2-3 minutes, Serve!

*Johnna's tip: This recipe is so much fun especially for JKGF vegan lovers! The dish can be changed and shaped into whatever you desire for that meal...i.e. add in another veggie with the broccoli such as zucchini or substitute the broccoli with another veggie...long story short: have fun with it;-)

*Johnna's tip, tip: WARNING FOLKS: Due to the tomato crisis going on, JKGF advises before you attempt this recipe please, please, please make sure your tomatoes are not contaminated due to the salmonella tomatoes out there. Be Careful!

*Picture source: http://allrecipes.com/Cooks-Profile/Photo.aspx?photoID=8714

Healthy Pineapple (Non-Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Healthy Pineapple

1-1/2 cups chilled pineapple juice
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
6 ice cubes
slice of pineapple

Combine ingredients in a blender; blend on High until well blended and smooth. Serve with slice of pineapple on the rim of glass.

*Johnna's tip: This is the perfect after workout drink. Make a little healthier with a low-fat yogurt;-)

Food.Fun.Stuff.: The Food Crisis

"The End of Food"--NOOOOO!

The End of Food, well not really, just tonight the Author of "The End of Food" Paul Roberts will be at the Washington Ethical Society (7:15 pm @ 7750 16th st. NW) discussing the global food crisis. The program will be followed by a reception which in turn sounds like free food at this free event;-) Check it out, eat, learn, Enjoy!

Tasty Dip for Everything

Tasty Dip for Everything

1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 tbsp. chopped garlic
1 cup olive oil
Salt (optional; to taste)
Pepper (optional; to taste)

Combine vinegar, mustard and garlic in a food processor/blender. Gradually add in olive oil. Add in salt and pepper if desired. Serve!

*Johnna's tip: This dipping sauce can be served alongside a variety of dishes including but not limited to breaded/fried shrimp, broccoli, chicken strips, etc. JKGF made breaded shrimp yesterday which inspired the creation of this dipping sauce.

It offers a tangy but smooth taste, however, JKGF feels there is something that is missing, can you help?? Answer the poll this week with suggestions on what you think should be added, taken out or simply should be left alone. Thank you and always Enjoy!

Picture source: http://www.mydavaocity.com/salutti/

Blue Hawaii (Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Blue Hawaii

1 oz. Blue Curacao
1/2 oz. dark rum
1/2 oz. light rum
1 oz. orange juice
5 oz. pineapple juice
3 oz. crushed ice

Mix all ingredients together in a tumbler; strain into a glass and serve.

*Johnna's tip: Serve with a slice of mango or a pineapple on the rim of the glass and enjoy on these heated summer nights;-)

Chocolate-Deluxe-Chips...Chocolate Chip Cookies;-)

Chocolate-Deluxe-Chips...Chocolate Chip Cookies;-)

1-1/2 cup flour

1/4 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 cup butter (softened)

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla

1 cup brown sugar

1 pkg. chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients together and bake for 12-13 minutes. Serve!

*Johnna's tip: This is a quick way to entertain unexpected guests. Most of these ingredients are in your cupboard so cook, eat and drink with lots of milk, Enjoy!

Picture Source: http://medicineworld.org/news/news-archives/heart-watch-blog/Dec-20-2006.html

Caramel Swirl (Non-Alcoholic)

Caramel Swirl

2 cups low fat milk
5 tbsp. packed brown sugar (divided)
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract (divided)
1 tbsp. caramel (divided)

Pour milk into microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high about 80 to 90 seconds; until the milk is hot (or you can boil on the stove, whichever method is best for you...). Pour milk into 2 mugs. Stir half of the brown sugar and vanilla extract into each mug. Top off each mug with caramel (make it into a swirl) Serve!

*Johnna's tip: This is not the most ideal time of the year for this drink especially due to the sweltering temperatures (98 degrees. DC. today. yikes!), but this is a good drink if for some reason your body picks up a slight cold or a sore throat during these heated times...Enjoy!

Chocolate, Chocolate Frosting

Chocolate, Chocolate Frosting

1 stick of butter
2/3 cups Hershey's cocoa
3 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Melt butter and stir into cocoa. Alternately, add in the powdered sugar and milk; beat on medium speed until there is a consistency. Add in milk, if needed, and stir in vanilla. Now spread!

*Johnna's tip: Add the frosting to your favorite cupcakes, cakes or muffins...yum yum, gimme some!

Picture source: http://tastegoblet.wordpress.com/2007/03/22/awesome-chocolate-frosting-as-promised/

Pink Lemonade (Alcoholic)

Drinks on Me:

Pink Lemonade

1 1/2 oz. citrus vodka
1/2 oz. raspberry liqueur
2 oz. sour mix
Ice
Slice of lemon

In a tumbler, shake all ingredients together. Strain into a glass, stick lemon on rim of glass, Serve!

*Johnna's tip: Good summertime cocktail especially alongside grilled food.

Food.Fun.Stuff: Missing In Action

Hello JKGF readers,

Just wanted to shoot out a note and apology for the lack of content this week:-( However, JKGF has a great excuse for the delay!:-) Well, if you count the fact that JKGF day job required it travel for work, blah, but while traveling JKGF was able to collect more information for the absolute foodie. JKGF will be posting all next week on the travels to the great state of: Indiana! I know, I know, doesn't sound exciting?! Aha! Indiana, specifically Indianapolis, however has some of the most scrumptious dishes and food combinations in this great place of America;-) JKGF picked the city apart and has plenty of good recipes and stories for its loyal readers, stay tuned!

Signed Apologetic JKGF;-)


Image Reference: http://www.mswoods.com/indianapolis/downtown_canal_walk.htm