Next level of Baked

Baked Chicken just got even better.

Similar idea as the previous post, where I layered the Kale then vegetables (same seasoning), except this time I changed three things that provided drastic results.

First the chicken I seasoned differently which was great and before then I pre-soaked it for a bit in lime juice.

Second is the addition of the tomatoes on top. Once baked, the juices from the tomatoes just add an incredible level of flavor to all components in the dish.

Three is the change of Cilantro to Fresh Basil on top with the tomatoes. Again this adds a great component, both in smell and flavor to the rest of the food that simply cannot be denied.

Baked

As the summer leaves and the fall & winter come the spirit of baking seems to fill my head with all sorts of ideas.

This idea came from a couple different things, mainly the idea of layering like lasagna for some reason, stuck with me.

On the bottom I did a layer of Kale followed by a combination of Carrots, Sweet Potato, Russet Potato, Red Onion and Garlic.
The vegetables I seasoned with Spice blend called Za'atar. It consists of Sumac, Toasted Sesame Seeds, Salt, Cumin, Thyme, Oregano and Marjoram.

The chicken was also coated in the same seasoning. On top to garnish I used some Cilantro to, in my opinion provide a light flavor on top.

Tuna Casserole, Improved!!

I know i've posted this before, but this time I have been hit by lightning!

That moment when you take something your parents have been making your whole life and you make it better!

Items I removed: 
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Milk

Items I added:
- Water
- Black Truffle Italian Sea Salt
- Herbs in Duxelles Seasoning (combination of the following powdered items Porcini, Shitake and Bolete mushrooms, shallots, lemon peel, chervil, parsley, tarragon, and chives)

The results were a lighter dish that proved to have a huge flavor punch that lingered for hours in your mouth. I watched a documentary on food and they brought up a good point. We take these amazing ingredients and season them with so many things to the point that sometimes we loose the purpose of those amazing ingredients. They stated, and I totally agree, why not season a tomato dish with Tomato powder? enhance the flavor with that of it's own? This is something that has really grabbed my attention and I am definitely going to be testing this out more.

Port Wine

Portugal ... When it comes to Porto wine, they mean business.

A very impressive collection of old vintages that have been stored. Another amazing Gem to add to the treasure trove we all collect on our travels.

Traveling Lasagna

A Lasagna Garfield would be proud of!

Completely put together an environment out of my own, and still turned out!

Doesn't matter where you go in the world, cooking will always bring back that comfortable ease of home.

Portugese Pasteis de Belem

Pasteis de Belem!

What an amazing pastry, made from egg! I have to send out many thanks to Margarida Garcia, for introducing me to such an incredible delicate pastry, packed with such good taste that you could understand after one bite, that you should stop at TWO!

Throughout Portugal they are known as Pasteis de Belem, however in the small area of Belem they are simply known as Pasteis and there are great restaurants dedicated to the continuous creation of these delightful pastries.

Portugese Ginja

Ginja in Lisbon, Portugal!!!!

After dinner drinks!! Digestivos!! What ever you want to call em, you simply cannot deny em!

Ginja, a Portugese after dinner drinks made from Tart Cherries and served traditionally in a small Espresso sized Chocolate cup!

One of the better after dinner drinks I have tried. Not thick at all, very easy to go down and has a great flavor.