Blog | Food Culture | Food culture, that is, the sum of all food activities composed of people's ways, processes and functions in eating activities.

Coconut Cream Pie Smoothie Recipe

drinks-cocktails

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July 23, 2019

This smoothie tastes just like a slice of coconut cream pie. Rich, creamy, and refreshing, it's a delicious, healthy alternative to heavy holiday desserts. Made with simple ingredients like coconut milk, frozen banana, and graham crackers, it's ready to drink in just seconds. This smoothie is a breeze!

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Tip

You will need to plan ahead and freeze the banana chunks. Freeze the banana for at least 6 hours before blending, as frozen banana is the key to a creamy smoothie.

Things You\’ll Need

2 large bananas, cut into chunks and frozen for at least 6 hours
2 standard-sized graham crackers
3/4 cup cold coconut milk, more if needed
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut flakes
2 teaspoons honey, optional
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients in a blender.

Pulse until smooth and creamy.

Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

This healthy treat is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up!

How to Crush Ice Without a Blender

drinks-cocktails

Annie Carter

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July 22, 2019

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Things You\’ll Need

Sandwich bag
Dish towel
Hammer or rolling pin

If appearance is important, work on making the ice as uniformly crushed as possible. Image Credit: gueritos/iStock/Getty Images

While having a blender is a great aid in the kitchen, sometimes they break down or don't do as good a job as you wanted, especially when it comes to crushing ice. Crushed ice cools drinks more quickly, may be part of a cocktail or you may need it for keeping a buffet platter cool. If you want to crush ice without a blender, it's possible to do but takes some effort.

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Step 1

Place the ice cubes into a plastic bag and seal it closed.

Step 2

Wrap the bagged ice in a dish towel.

Step 3

Place the wrapped, bagged ice on a sturdy surface, such as the kitchen counter or the floor of the kitchen or garage.

Step 4

Hit the wrapped ice with a hammer or a rolling pin. Hit repeatedly until the ice is at the consistency you want.

Tip

Make sure to hold the bag while hitting it so that it doesn’t go flying from the impact. Keep your hand away from the point of impact to limit any injuries.

5 Flavored Simple Syrup Recipes

Sweet Treats

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July 21, 2019

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Simple syrup, also known as sugar syrup, is super easy to make at home. As a liquid sweetener, it's perfect for cocktails, iced lattes, baked goods and more. You can even flavor simple syrup by infusing it with other ingredients. (DIY flavored seltzer, anyone?) Read on to learn how to make a basic simple syrup, along with five fun variations.

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Basic Simple Syrup Recipe

Things You\’ll Need

1 cup water
1 cup sugar

Tip

One recipe makes about 1 cup of simple syrup. If you'd like to make a smaller or larger batch, simply divide or multiply the ingredients as needed. Just be sure to use equal parts of water and sugar.

Step 1

In a small pot over low heat, combine the water and sugar. Heat for 5 minutes, mixing occassionally until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and gently boil for 15 minutes.

Step 2

Let cool. Transfer to a clean air-tight jar and store in the refrigerator for about 4 weeks.

Berry Simple Syrup

Things You\’ll Need

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 cups berries of choice

Step 1

Add the berries, water and sugar in a small pot over low heat. If using strawberries, slice them into fours.

Heat for 5 minutes, stirring occassionally until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and gently boil for 20 minutes. Mash the berries with a large fork.

Step 2

Let cool. Strain into a bowl, pressing on the berries with a large spoon. You can save the berries for a smoothie or baked goods.

Step 3

Transfer to a clean air-tight jar. Since the syrup is made with fresh berries, it will last for about 1 week in the refrigerator.

Ginger Simple Syrup

Things You\’ll Need

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup fresh ginger, thinly sliced

Step 1

Over low heat, combine the water, sugar and ginger in a small pot. Heat for 5 minutes, mixing occassionally until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and gently boil for 15 minutes.

Step 2

Let cool. Strain the syrup into a bowl.

Step 3

Transfer to a clean air-tight jar. Store in the refrigerator for 1 week.

Lavender Simple Syrup

Things You\’ll Need

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender

Step 1

In a small pot over low heat, add the water, sugar and lavender. Heat for 5 minutes, mixing occassionally until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and gently boil for 15 minutes.

Step 2

Let cool. Strain the syrup into a bowl.

Step 3

Transfer to a clean air-tight jar. Store in the refrigerator for 1 week.

Lemon Simple Syrup

Things You\’ll Need

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 lemon

Step 1

Zest the lemon. Take care to avoid the bitter white pith.

Step 2

Juice the lemon and discard the seeds.

Step 3

In a small pot over low heat, combine the water, sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice. Heat for 5 minutes, stirring occassionally until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and gently boil for 15 minutes.

Step 4

Let the syrup cool. Strain into a bowl.

Step 5

Transfer to an air-tight jar. Store in the refrigerator for 1 week.

Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Things You\’ll Need

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
4 cinnnamon sticks

Step 1

Over low heat, combine the water, sugar and cinnamon sticks. Heat for 5 minutes, stirring occassionally until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and gently boil for 15 minutes.

Step 2

Let cool and remove the cinnamon sticks. Transfer to a clean air-tight jar. Store in the refrigerator for 1 week.

Add Apricots, Bacon and Brie to Your Grilled Cheese

Main Dishes

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July 21, 2019

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Add Apricots, Bacon and Brie to Your Grilled Cheese

At this time of year, apricots are ripe, abundant and just begging for the early-summer spotlight. While simply biting straight into one is a great idea, this is the type of fruit that tastes wonderful as part of a sweet or a savory treat — so why not get creative? Grab a bunch, along with some brie, baby greens and bacon, and create an incredibly decadent grilled cheese sandwich. If the ooey-gooey factor alone doesn't win you over, the first flavorful bite sure will!

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Things You\’ll Need

2 slices hearty bread
4 thick-cut slices cooked bacon
2 ripe apricots
5 ounces soft brie
Handful baby greens
2 tablespoons butter

Step 1: Butter the Bread

One of the most important steps of a good grilled cheese is buttering the outside of the bread for a crispy, toasted bite. Spread 1 tablespoon of butter on one side of each slice of bread.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches are all about the layers. Assemble yours by placing apricot slices on top of the non-buttered side of the slice of bread. Continue layering in this order: brie, bacon, baby greens, apricot slices and brie. Top the sandwich with the remaining slice of bread, buttered-side up.

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

If you have one, use a panini press to grill the sandwich. If not, place the sandwich in a hot skillet to cook until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Enjoy your perfectly seasonal, melt-in-your-mouth lunch!

Tip

If using a skillet, place a heavy item on the top of the sandwich to help melt the cheese. Flip it after a couple of minutes and repeat on the other side.

Peanut Butter Banana Protein Shake Recipe

drinks-cocktails

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July 21, 2019

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Peanut Butter Banana Protein Shake Recipe

Delicious protein shakes (and smoothies) are easy to make at home using easy-to-find ingredients. While protein powders are always an option, some find the flavor off-putting. A simple combination of peanut butter and banana makes for a winning flavor, and protein-filled whole foods like rolled oats, nuts or nut milks, and seeds also provide a nutrient boost. Following the shake recipe below yields 21 grams of protein, and you can always customize the shake if more protein is needed.

Peanut Butter and Banana Protein Shake Image Credit: Julia Mueller

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Things You\’ll Need

1 ½ large ripe bananas, peeled and frozen
2 tablespoons peanut butter (see note)
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/3 cup rolled oats
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon, optional
3 to 5 ice cubes

Ingredient Notes

Any type of peanut butter can be used in a shake or smoothie, including crunchy, creamy, sweetened, or unsweetened. If using an unsweetened peanut butter, you may consider adding a small amount of honey to sweeten the shake.

Because there is protein in peanut butter, almond milk, and oats, it's not necessary to add protein powder, but you certainly can if you'd like. Choose a protein powder with few additives and low or no sugar in order to keep this shake clean and healthful.

Consider adding chia seeds or hemp seeds (or hemp powder), or whole raw nuts like almonds, walnuts or pecans to boost the nutrient level of this shake.

Any non-dairy milk, such as coconut milk, cashew milk or soy milk can be used to replace the almond milk. You can also use regular dairy milk.

In addition to peanut butter, you can make protein shakes using almond butter, cashew butter, sunbutter, etc.

A dash of cinnamon and even a tiny amount of pure vanilla extract are optional for enhancing the flavor of a peanut butter and banana protein shake.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Gauge and measure your ingredients depending on the level of protein and sweetness you're looking for. For more protein, add more peanut butter, or a scoop of protein powder. For a sweeter shake, add a small amount of pure maple syrup, honey, fresh figs, or pitted dates.

Assemble shake ingredients Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

Add all of the ingredients for the shake to a high-powered blender. Blend until completely smooth. If necessary add more almond milk to help blend the ingredients. Note: As the shake sits, it will become thicker and creamier because of the oats.

Blend shake ingredients together Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 3: Enjoy!

Before pouring the shake into a glass, you can taste it for flavor. If you'd like, add more peanut butter, banana, almond milk, or a sweetener like honey to taste, and blend again until combined. Pour shake into a tall glass, and enjoy!

Serve and enjoy Image Credit: Julia Mueller

How to Cook Brown Rice in a Microwave Rice Cooker

Veggie Faves

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July 21, 2019

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Things You\’ll Need

Microwave rice cooker
2 1/2 cups brown rice
4 cups water or broth

If you have a microwave rice cooker, don't be afraid to use it for cooking brown rice. Although it takes a bit more liquid, the process is basically the same as preparing white rice, and the brown rice will turn out beautifully. The magic of a microwave rice cooker is that the brown rice will never stick to the pan or scorch,

Step 1

Put 2 1/2 cups of brown rice in the basket of the microwave rice cooker. Add enough water to cover the brown rice, and stir to clean the rice.

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Step 2

Pour the water out of the basket, pouring slowly so the rice stays in the basket. Don't worry about removing every drop of the water.

Step 3

Pour 4 cups of liquid into the basket, and stir it with the rice. The liquid can be water or beef, vegetable or chicken broth.

Step 4

Put the lid on the microwave rice cooker, and tighten the cover by securing the clips. Put the cooker into the microwave. Cook the brown rice for 14 minutes, and don't remove the lid until the end of the cooking time.

Step 5

Check the brown rice to see if it is ready to serve. If it's still a bit firm, put the lid back on, and cook it for an additional 2 to 4 minutes. If necessary, add a bit more liquid. This recipe makes enough brown rice to serve four people.

How to Make Star-Shaped Berry Hand Pies

Sweet Treats

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July 20, 2019

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You can't celebrate Fourth of July without berry pie. Not only are berries the sweetest this time of year, they're also the perfect color to celebrate Independence Day. These star-shaped hand pies are a whole lot easier than their full-sized cousin — and cuter! It's guaranteed to be the star of the party.

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Things You\’ll Need

For the dough:
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
1 stick cold unsalted butter
1/2 cup cold vegetable shortening
For the filling:
6 ounces blueberries
6 ounces raspberries
16 ounces strawberries
1/3 cup sugar
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a food processor, pulse flour, salt and sugar. Add butter and shortening and pulse until the mixture resembles small peas. Add the ice water and pulse until evenly moistened. Turn the dough out onto a work surface and gather into a ball. Divide dough half and form two disks. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. Note: If you don't have a food processor, a manual dough blender works just as well.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is chilling, combine berries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest and salt in a medium bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Cut out the Crusts

Preheat oven to 375F. Remove 1 dough disk from refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough until about 1/8" thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out star shapes. Place stars onto a parchment lined baking sheet. Repeat process until you have used all the dough. You want an even number of stars as half will be the pie tops and half, bottoms.

Step 4: Assemble the Pies

Remove filling from refrigerator. Place a scoop of filling in the center of each pie bottom. Cover with reserved pie tops and seal by pressing edges together with a fork. In a small bowl whisk egg. Brush sealed pies with egg.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake until berries bubble and crust is lightly browned on top, about 25 minutes. Serve with vanilla ice cream and enjoy!

Tip

Tip: These hand pies are great on the go. Bake a batch to snack on during the parade or fireworks show!

How to Make a Peach Bellini

drinks-cocktails

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July 20, 2019

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When the weather is hot, is there anything better than a refreshing cocktail? Not if you ask me. A cocktail that can be made at home with a couple of simple ingredients is even better!

Peaches are at their peak in the summer, and they make for a refreshing drink when blended together and topped off with some bubbly champagne or sparkling water! With this recipe, you can enjoy a special cocktail on any night of the week or even with your Sunday Brunch.

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Things You\’ll Need

2 large peaches, peeled, sliced and pitted
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 Tablespoons sugar
Champagne or Prosecco for a traditional bellini cocktail
Sparkling water for non-alcoholic bellinis

Step 1: Puree peaches.

Puree peach slices in the food processor with sugar and lemon juice.

Step 2: Strain Peach Puree.

Strain the peach puree through a fine mesh strainer and discard pulp. You should be left with about 1/2 cup of juice.

Step 3: Divide peach puree into glasses.

Pour half of the strained peach puree into each glass.

Step 4: Pour champagne into each glass.

Pour champagne into each glass until full. Garnish with a fresh peach slice.

Tip

For a non-alcoholic version, simply swap the champagne for sparkling water!

Creamed Spinach Recipe

Main Dishes

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July 20, 2019

0

Classic creamed spinach is a marvelous dish for serving alongside your favorite entrees. The creamy, flavorful dish only requires a handful of basic ingredients to make and no more than 30 minutes to prepare. Bonus points: You can make a huge batch for the holidays or for larger gatherings when entertaining guests. The creamed spinach saves very well in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead option for those who like to do some meal prep.

How to Make Creamed Spinach Image Credit: Julia Mueller

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Things You\’ll Need

2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
5 ounces fresh baby spinach

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Chop the onion and add olive oil to a stock pot.

Chop the onion Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Heat the oil over medium and add the onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally until onion begins to brown, about 8 minutes.

Saute the onion over medium heat Image Credit: Julia Mueller

While the onion is sautéing, chop the garlic.

Chop three cloves of garlic. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Add the garlic and continue sautéing until fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the garlic and saute. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the flour, nutmeg and sea salt to the stock pot. Stir well to combine.

Stir in the flour, nutmeg and sea salt Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Slowly add the heavy whipping cream, stirring constantly.

Add the heavy cream. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Stir mixture well and continue cooking until thick, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Stir until thick sauce forms. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir well.

Stir in the Parmesan cheese Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 3: Add the Fresh Spinach

Add the baby spinach, stir well and cover for one minute.

Add the fresh spinach to the pot. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Remove cover and stir well. Replace the cover and continue cooking, stirring and covering until spinach has wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Continue cooking until spinach has wilted. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Taste the creamed spinach for flavor and add more sea salt or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Taste creamed spinach for flavor. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Serve creamed spinach alongside your entree of choice and enjoy!

Serve creamed spinach and enjoy Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Tip

You can replace the Parmesan cheese with grated mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda.

To lighten up the creamed spinach, use 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup whole milk or half & half.

How to Roast Garlic in a Clay Roaster

Veggie Faves

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July 19, 2019

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Things You\’ll Need

Clay roaster
Water
Whole garlic heads
Olive oil
Knife

Roasting garlic mellows its pungency and imparts a slightly sweet taste. Rather than using aluminum foil, opt for a more traditional clay roaster to cook several heads of garlic at once. Spread roasted garlic on bread instead of butter or add it to your favorite recipes to replace chopped fresh garlic.

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Step 1

Submerge the base and lid of the clay roaster in water for 15 to 20 minutes before use.

Step 2

Trim the tops off of the garlic heads to expose the tips. Leave the peel on the garlic.

Step 3

Place the garlic heads into the roaster and drizzle with olive oil.

Step 4

Set the lid on top of the roaster and place in a cold oven.

Step 5

Cook the garlic in the roaster for 60 to 70 minutes at 350 F until the heads feel soft and smell fragrant. Use the roasted garlic in your favorite recipes by separating the cloves and squeezing the roasted garlic out of the peel surrounding each clove.

Tip

Store extra heads of roasted garlic in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Warning

Never put your clay roaster in the dishwasher or use soap to clean it. Pour boiling water over it while scrubbing to remove food bits.