Simply Anu

More mail art going out

2011-05-31T17:18:00.001-07:00

5.31.11 mailart2, originally uploaded by achathampally.

This one's for my friend Suzanne in Santa Fe.

Mail art going out!

2011-05-31T17:16:00.001-07:00

5.31.11 mail art1, originally uploaded by achathampally.

This one's for my buddy Kevin in Santa Fe.

Easter baking for church

2011-04-23T16:45:00.001-07:00

I made:
vanilla bean cupcakes with coconut frosting

vegan german chocolate cupcakes

almond biscotti

ricotta cookies

Postre Chaja

2011-04-17T05:37:00.001-07:00

DSC_0003, originally uploaded by achathampally.

for Uruguayan Scrabble night

This cake has 5 components
1. 2 sponge cake layers
2. dulce de leche
3. peach syrup and peaches
4. meringue cookies
5. whipped cream frosting

All of it is homemade :)

Vegan Irish Stew

2011-03-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

Took this to Supper and Scripture and it was loved by all :-)

Vegan Irish Stew

Adapted from http://nicandkier.blogspot.com/

· Olive oil
· 4 cloves garlic - peeled and smashed
· 1 - 10 oz ounce packages cremini mushrooms
· 4 – oz shitake mushrooms
· 2 leeks - rinsed well and sliced into rounds
· 1 large purple onion - chopped
· 4 carrots - peeled and diced large
· 2 parsnips - peeled and diced large
· 1 large turnips - peeled and diced large
· 3 celery ribs - rinsed and roughly chopped
· 4 cups veggie stock
· 1/2 cup beer ( I used Heineken)
· 1/2 cup red or white wine ( I used white)
· 2 T tomato paste
· 1/2 tsp dried thyme
· 1 bay leaf

In a large stew pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add leeks, onion and garlic and saute slowly until caramelized (with brown bits). Add a little more olive oil and add carrots, parsnips, turnips, and celery. Let cook, stirring occasionally for at least 20 minutes or until beginning to turn golden brown. You want these to cook down a bit and caramelize. This is where the great flavor of the stew comes from. Make sure to stir and scrape the brown bits at the bottom of the pot. Add the mushrooms and let them cook down and release their water. Then add the remaining ingredients (stock, beer, wine, tomato paste, thyme and bay leaf). Simmer until vegetables are tender. The parsnips and turnips will take the longest. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

To serve place a big scoop of colcannon (recipe follows) in a bowl and top with stew.

Vegan Colcannon

Adapted from http://vegan.sheknows.com

Serves 4

Ingredients:
· 4 red potatoes, peeled, cut into chunks
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· 4 cups coarsely chopped kale (stems removed)
· 1/2 cup plain soymilk, warm (I used almond milk)
· 2 tablespoons vegan margarine, melted (Earth Balance)
· 2 green onions, chopped (green and white parts)
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

Place potatoes in a medium pot and cover with water. Bring water to a boil, reduce heat to medium low, and cook until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add kale and cook, stirring often, until wilted. Transfer kale to a large mixing bowl.

Add potatoes, soymilk, and margarine to the bowl and mash together. Add green onions and season with salt and pepper. Mash again to combine. Serve hot.

Chocolate Chip Irish Cream Pound Cake

2011-03-17T06:36:00.000-07:00

Brought this to work for St. Patrick's Day and it was a big hit!

Chocolate Chip Irish Cream Pound Cake

This cake is even better on the second day. (Adapted from Cooking Light - April 2007)

Yield: 16 servings (serving size: 1 slice)

1/2 cup semisweet chocolate minichips
1 teaspoon cake flour
2 3/4 cups cake flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
10 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
3/4 cup Irish cream liqueur
Baking spray with flour
2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
Combine chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon flour in a small bowl; toss.
Lightly spoon 2 3/4 cups flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Place cream cheese and butter in a bowl; beat with a mixer at high speed to blend. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla; beat until blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time; beat well after each addition. Beat on high speed 1 minute.

With mixer on low, add flour mixture and liqueur alternately to sugar mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture; beat well after each addition. Fold in chocolate chips.

Pour batter into a 12-cup Bundt pan coated with baking spray. Bake at 325 degrees F for 55 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes on a wire rack; remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack. Sift powdered sugar over cake.

Note: It took longer than 55 min to bake for my oven but start checking at 50 minutes to see how its doing. Use a long wooden skewer or cake tester to make sure its completely baked.

Good Quote

2011-03-12T15:49:00.000-08:00

Think not of the amount to be accomplished,
the difficulties to be overcome, or the end to be attained,
but set earnestly at the little task at your elbow,
letting that be sufficient for the day

- Sir William Osler, physician (1849-1919)

Vegan Peanut Blossoms

2011-03-12T14:12:00.001-08:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Made these for the church coffee hour tomorrow.

Recipe from:
http://healthy-recipe-group.fitsugar.com/Vegan-Peanut-Butter-Blossoms-12909243

Vegan Peanut Butter Blossoms (adapted from Hersheys)

- 1/2 cup Earth Balance
- 3/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxmeal + 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
- 2 tablespoons almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (omit if using salted peanut butter)
- additional sugar for garnish
- vegan chocolate chips (or Hershey's kisses, or other bite-sized chocolate candy)

Preheat oven to 375*F. Prepare flax egg by mixing flaxmeal and water, then put aside to set. In a large bowl, cream Earth Balance with a hand mixer until all clumps are gone. Add white sugar and molasses, and beat until evenly distributed. Pour in almond milk, flax egg and vanilla extract and continue to beat until combined. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda and sea salt. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Form dough into 1" balls and roll in white sugar to coat. Bake for approximately 9 minutes, or until cookies appear very slightly cracked. Working quickly, top each cookie with chocolate, pressing lightly to ensure that chocolate is secure (the surface of the cookies will crack). Transfer to wire racks to cool.

vegan spiced oatmeal chocolate chip

2011-03-10T05:10:00.001-08:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Found the recipe for these awesome cookies here:
http://redheadrecipes.com/?p=11209

You cannot tell these are vegan. They are soft and chewy and very easy to make. You can vary the spices or leave them out. I used the flax substitute to make them vegan. Be sure your chocolate chips are vegan as well. I used ghiradelli chocolate chips. Regular sugar is not vegan so look for organic sugar.

Spiced Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
1 cup whole wheat flour
3/4 cup rolled oats
1 tsp cinnamon
pinch cloves (not pictured)
1 tsp vanilla
1 egg or flax egg (1Tb ground flax+3Tb water, mixed)
3/4 cup chocolate chips
1/3 cup butter/earthbalance (room temp)
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking soda

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Cream together sugars and butter.
Add in the egg (or flax egg) and vanilla
In a separate bowl, mix together your flours + seasonings (everything else but the chocolate chips and oats
Add flour mix to butter mix
Now add in Choc chips and oats
Now form the dough into small balls and bake in the oven on 350 for 8-10 minutes.

bday cake

2010-12-05T03:48:00.001-08:00

DSC_0008, originally uploaded by achathampally.

I do a lot of baking
but I had never gotten around to making
a yellow layer cake with chocolate buttercream frosting
so that is the cake I made for my birthday this year.
It was moist and delicious with lots of chocolaty frosting.
Yay for birthday cakes :)

El & Dip

2010-11-13T18:55:00.001-08:00

DSC_0007, originally uploaded by achathampally.

My cousin is fearless
he shaved off all his hair
apparently this isn't the first time
Elvis doesn't seem to notice

chipotle cheddar corn muffins

2010-11-13T18:51:00.001-08:00

DSC_0012, originally uploaded by achathampally.

from the king arthur baking website
I made these to go with some
black bean ancho chili
which isn't very photogenic
so here are the muffins by themselves :)
they were yummy but I'd cut back on the
sugar a tad.

hermits

2010-11-13T18:48:00.001-08:00

DSC_0009, originally uploaded by achathampally.

people around here
namely my cousin Pradeep and my Pop
both like stuff with nuts and raisins
so I made some hermits today
no one knows why they are called hermits
but one theory is that they benefit from be
squirreled a way for a day or two so the
flavors can blend
only time will tell but they were really good on day one :)

Raspberry Tiramisu

2010-11-13T18:45:00.001-08:00

DSC_0003, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Giada's recipe at foodnetwork.com

Layers of ladyfingers, raspberry jam w/ grand marnier, and marscapone cheese and whipped cream. A very yummy twist on tiramisu :)

raspberry cake

2010-09-28T18:06:00.001-07:00

DSC_0020, originally uploaded by achathampally.

this cake came together in under 20 minutes and baked for 29. Its really easy and delicious - a simple everyday cake :-)

recipe here: www.gourmet.com/recipes/2000s/2009/06/raspberry-buttermilk-cake

El and his peeps

2010-07-17T18:51:00.001-07:00

DSC_0011, originally uploaded by achathampally.

El loves his family :-)

French Fruit Tart

2010-07-14T14:45:00.001-07:00

DSC_0008, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Nothing beats a French fruit tart when berries are in season. With an almond shortbread crust, vanilla pastry cream filling, berries and glaze, its a gorgeous and fun dessert to make.

This recipe was from Dorie Greenspan's Baking From My Home to Yours.

lemon bars

2010-07-14T14:42:00.001-07:00

DSC_0005, originally uploaded by achathampally.

These lemon bars taught me a valuable lesson. I've always disliked lemon bars and now I realize that's because I've only had store bought ones.

When my cousin Pradeep requested I make lemon bars, I sort of sighed to myself but agreed because I love him and he is an awesome cousin :-) Boy was I surprised when I tasted these! They are amazing and wonderful. Pradeep really did me a favor. Now I know that homemade lemon bars are awesome.

This recipe comes from the King Arthur Flour Cookie Companion Cookbook. I found the recipe online here:
http://www.justlikethenumber.com/page_six/2010/01/king-arthur-flour-lemon-squares.html

sweet potato and black bean salad

2010-07-14T14:34:00.001-07:00

DSC_0003, originally uploaded by achathampally.

I made this recipe and it was inhaled by my family. Its so great to have people to cook for. This simple salad is easy, delicious and very healthy.

Recipe here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/30/dining/301mrex.html

sweet baby dog

2010-06-12T15:59:00.001-07:00

DSC_0007, originally uploaded by achathampally.

lying in the sun

hilarious bollywood postcard

2010-05-14T10:44:00.001-07:00

bolly1, originally uploaded by achathampally.

What else can I say?

Swedish Visiting Cake

2010-04-25T07:15:00.001-07:00

DSC_0006, originally uploaded by achathampally.

From Dorie Greenspan's
Baking From My Home to Yours

Very easy to make and tastes of vanilla, almonds and lemon. Its supposed to be made in a cast iron skillet but I made it in a springform pan. Middle is a little thin but otherwise looks and tastes good - like a chewy almond cookie.

dinner last night

2010-04-18T08:29:00.001-07:00

cauliflower soup, originally uploaded by achathampally.

was cauliflower soup and cheddar jalapeno bread.
perfect for the cold damp weather

belated easter dinner

2010-04-17T09:37:00.001-07:00

DSC_0005, originally uploaded by achathampally.

had a lovely easter dinner at my friend Sue's
she pulled out all the stops!
we had:
limoncello champagne cocktails
carrot soup
salad with asparagus and gorgonzola dressing
ham and homemade herb rolls

the best part was this homemade coconut cake with fresh coconut!

(recipes from Cooking Light)

Early morning in the arroyo with El

2010-03-27T07:50:00.001-07:00

DSC_0010, originally uploaded by achathampally.

El at Sue's

2010-03-12T11:59:00.001-08:00

el at Sue's, originally uploaded by achathampally.

I love my beautiful little El
here he is hanging out on the sofa at Sue's

Roasted Poblano Soup

2010-03-06T19:03:00.001-08:00

DSC_0003, originally uploaded by achathampally.

from Love Soup by Anna Thomas
my first foray into cooking with poblanos
this is a delicious and unusual soup
yes, I let the pine nuts get a little toasty :)

homemade pizza

2010-03-06T19:01:00.001-08:00

DSC_0002, originally uploaded by achathampally.

is fun and easy to make
this one has mushrooms, peppers and onions
over an alfredo sauce

Variety

2010-03-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

I gave up eating meat for lent but really I stopped eating it before then - around mid-January. My natural propensity is to eat vegetarian. What I've discovered is that my diet is much more varied, interesting and nutritious. Just off the top of my head, here is a list of stuff I've made recently:

lentil soup with soy chorizo
mac and cheese
minestrone (first fennel adventure)
stirfry with tofu and broccoli
roased beet salad
lentil salad with veggies and feta
hummus veggie pitas
veggie frittata
spinach and gruyere strata
pasta alfredo with broccoli and mushrooms
pizza with mushrooms, peppers and onions
black bean chili over baked sweet potato
black beans and rice
dal and rice
tomato chickpea soup
grilled cheese with kalamata olive pesto
smoothies with yogurt, soymilk and fresh berries
baked potato soup

No Impact Experiment

2010-03-03T14:40:00.001-08:00

No Impact Experiment Guide -

What I want to tell you today is...

2010-02-22T05:21:00.000-08:00

"Meditation is connecting to God's frequency - the original source of energy and love in the universe. By quieting your mind every day, you build an invisible bridge which connects God's vibration with your soul. This conscious dedication to increasing your inner well-being will fill you with peace and unspeakable joy. It is available to everyone."

- from "A Celebration of Wellness" by James Levin

Spinach and Gruyere Strata

2010-02-21T06:18:00.001-08:00

DSC_0002, originally uploaded by achathampally.

This strata is easy any yummy
as you assemble it the night before
and let it sit in the fridge overnight
just put in the oven the next day
I had it for brunch

based on the recipe from SmittenKitchen
but I halved the recipe and kept the spinach
amount the same.

how to wrap a cat

2010-02-13T05:21:00.001-08:00

Oh, I miss having a kitty!

new chucks!

2010-02-11T19:18:00.001-08:00

DSC_0005, originally uploaded by achathampally.

hey I got my new chucks
first pair of high-tops ever
featuring The Clash
I love the skulls on the outsides
should I stay or should I go?

highlights

2010-02-08T13:06:00.000-08:00

my pastor has an great list of his highlights from the first week in feb:
highlights from first week of feb 2010

He has inspired me to create my own list

1. celebrating Elvis' first birthday with friends Sue and Joann and dog pals Pepe and Buddy. Elvis has been my shining star these past 6 mos of growth and change.

2. walking in the snowy arroyo with Elvis off-leash early in the morning when no one else is around. Enjoying the exercise, the silence, the crunch of the snow, the cold, clean air and the solitude of just me and my little pup.

3. exchanging recipes with my dear friend Suzanne. She is fellow foodie and together we egg each other on to new culinary heights. I've been sending her stir-fry recipes and she has been sending me new baking ideas like a salvadorean quesadilla (which bears no resemblance to a mexican quesadilla and is actually a cake).

4. Reading good books. At the moment: Sweeping Changes: Discovering the Joy of Zen in Everyday Tasks by Gary Thorp

5. Shopping fun with Sue and Joann. It is so fun and easy to be with them. We hit a gazillion stores all in a row and then stopped to have lunch at El Tesoro. The spinach and goat cheese sandwich is yummy.

6. Taking the time for meditation and prayer.

El's bday

2010-02-07T19:58:00.001-08:00

el-bday6, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Today was Elvis' 1st bday
there was cake and presents
and lots of running amuck
basically a great time :-)

Havrekaker

2010-02-02T19:02:00.001-08:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Norwegian oatmeal cookies
these are zen cookies
they don't look flashy or fancy
but are really good in quiet, solid way
you taste sweet butter, vanilla, sugar
and the earthiness of the oats
less is more

recipe from:http://www.ourgrandmotherskitchens.com/?p=5992

Hemp Leaf Binding

2010-01-30T18:08:00.001-08:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

I love Japanese Stab Bindings
I just taught myself this one
its called "hemp leaf"
its pretty and easy to do
going to my SIL Barb
who cheered me up immensely
by sending me "my life in france"

Spinach Turnover

2010-01-30T12:38:00.001-08:00

DSC_0002, originally uploaded by achathampally.

I've been watching old French Chef episodes on dvd.
When I saw the "spinach twins" episode, I knew I had
to tackle the recipe.

The components are:
spinach filling
optional: sauteed mushrooms, shredded gruyere
pate brisee (french pastry dough)
sauce soubise au gruyere

It didn't take me as long as I thought it would
approximately a couple of hours

the finished turnover is really deliciousl
I'll definitely make it again.

btw, I copied down the recipe by hand - 7 pages!

mail art from Australia

2010-01-29T05:38:00.001-08:00

mailart1, originally uploaded by achathampally.

received this great piece of
mail art from Bianca
in Newcastle NSW, Australia
I love that the name of the dark purple
paint chip is "Dr. Who"
the stamp shows
Russell Falls in Tasmania

gingerbread biscotti

2010-01-24T09:21:00.001-08:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

with white chocolate chunks
and almonds
smells like Christmas all over again
reading "my life in France"
its so good and makes me long for adventure

elbowmac book

2010-01-23T19:57:00.001-08:00

elbowmac book, originally uploaded by achathampally.

made this cool book
out of a elbow macaroni box
I like the window in the front
stitched with long stitch

3 really good documentaries

2010-01-18T19:43:00.000-08:00

that I've recently seen:

Cowboy del Amor
King of Kong
Who the #$&% is Jackson Pollock

If you know me, you know I LOVE documentaries because truth is definitely stranger than fiction. I highly recommend these three stories. Check them out on Netflix.

vanilla almond biscotti

2010-01-17T18:56:00.001-08:00

vanilla almond biscotti, originally uploaded by achathampally.

my first biscotti attempt
hot out of the oven
easy and good :)

jes and dogs

2010-01-17T18:55:00.001-08:00

jes and dogs, originally uploaded by achathampally.

my buddy Jes
came over with her dog Mungo
we all went to the dog park
and had a rip-roaring good time

Get Back Up

2010-01-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

Yes

2010-01-14T08:19:00.000-08:00

Yes

It could happen any time, tornado,
earthquake, Armageddon. It could happen.
Or sunshine, love, salvation.

It could you know. That's why we wake
and look out--no guarantees
in this life.

But some bonuses, like morning,
like right now, like noon,
like evening.

Poem: "Yes" by William Stafford, from The Way It Is: New and Selected Poems

field notes

2010-01-12T18:10:00.001-08:00

fieldnotes, originally uploaded by achathampally.

yay!
I taught myself the tortoise shell pattern
from the japanese stab binding section of
books without paste or glue
by Keith A. Smith

this little book measures 4x6
has a rubber stamped cover
and is bound with baker's twine

the sketchbook

2010-01-12T09:09:00.000-08:00

Issue 3: The Sketchbook from Underground Art School on Vimeo.

el after a bath

2010-01-10T08:27:00.001-08:00

el after a bath, originally uploaded by achathampally.

after all that hiking at Atalaya yesterday
El smelled like a big taco chip
he got his bath and a brush today
and is back to smelling sweet

coconut macaroons

2010-01-09T06:39:00.001-08:00

macaroons, originally uploaded by achathampally.

I love macaroons
but didn't know how easy they were to make
these are moist and delicious and not too sweet

Coconut Macaroons

• 5 cups (20 ounces) sweetened shredded coconut
• 6 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup (3 1/2 ounces) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Pulse the coconut in a food processor until fine, 1 to 4 pulses. [Some brands of coconut are finely shredded, pulse it just once or twice.] Process the egg whites, sugar, salt, and almond extract together in the food processor until light and foamy, about 15 seconds. Stir the egg mixture into the chopped coconut until combined. Wrap the bowl in plastic wrap and refrigerate until the mixture is thick, about 30 minutes.

Adjust the oven racks to the upper-middle and lower-middle positions and heat the oven to 375 degrees. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and grease the paper. Using wet hands, roll 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time into balls and lay them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 1 inch apart.

Bake the macaroons until light golden brown, 13 to 15 minutes, switching and rotating the baking sheets halfway through baking. Let the macaroons cool completely on the baking sheets, before serving, about 1 hour.

For Chocolate-Dipped Macaroons

After the macaroons have cooled completely, melt 6 ounces of semisweet chocolate in the microwave, stirring often, 1 to 3 minutes. Dip each macaroon into the melted chocolate to coat, letting the excess drip back into the bowl, then lay it on a clean sheet of parchment paper. Let cool at room temperature until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.

Makes about 24 cookies.

Recipe from The America’s Test Kitchen Family Baking Book

zentangle envelope

2010-01-06T05:38:00.001-08:00

zentangle envelope, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Did a zentangle on a business size envelope
with room for the address in the oval
I love making zentangles as it is a
meditative practice

For more info go to
http://www.zentangle.com

El & Jes

2010-01-05T16:59:00.001-08:00

El & Jes, originally uploaded by achathampally.

On sundays I like going to visit my buddy Jes
she works at the rubber stamp store downtown and
is always full of fun and good conversation
As you can see, Elvis just loves her :-)

Earl Grey Shortbread

2010-01-03T08:30:00.001-08:00

DSC_0002, originally uploaded by achathampally.

warm out of the oven this morning and
sprinkled with vanilla sugar

Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies
Recipe adapted from Claire Robinson (food network)

Serves:
2 dozen

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons loose Earl Grey tea leaves (about 7-8 tea bags)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
1 Tb orange zest (2 oranges)

Directions
In a food processor, pulse together the flour, tea, and salt, until the tea is just spotted throughout the flour. Add the confectioners' sugar, vanilla, and butter. Pulse together just until a dough is formed. Place dough on a sheet of plastic wrap, and roll into a log, about 2 1/2-inches in diameter. Tightly twist each end of wrap, and chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Slice the log into 1/4-inch thick disks. Place on foil lined baking sheets, 2 inches apart. Bake until the edges are just brown, about 13 -15 minutes. Sprinkle with vanilla sugar while cookies are still hot. Let cool on sheets on wire racks.

Envelopes

2010-01-02T18:47:00.001-08:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Made a bunch of envelopes out of magazine pages today.

elvis & octopus

2009-12-30T18:01:00.001-08:00

elvis & octopus, originally uploaded by achathampally.

baby dog playing with his octopus today.

pimento cheese potato gratin

2009-12-30T17:52:00.001-08:00

pimento cheese potato gratin, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Made this for a potluck for church on Sunday
saying it came out good is an understatement
recipe follows...
double the recipe to fill a 9x13 dish (that's what I did)

Pimento-cheese potato gratin

serves 6 • time: 10 minutes preparation, 35 minutes cooking

3 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
1 1⁄2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1⁄4-inch thick rounds
3⁄4 cup heavy cream
3 shallots, finely diced (scant 1⁄2 cup)
1⁄4 teaspoon crushed dried red chile flakes
1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
One 9-ounce jar roasted red peppers, diced, with their liquid
8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (about 2 cups)

1 Heat the oven to 375°F, with racks positioned in the middle and the top third of the oven.

2 In a 3- to 4-quart stockpot, bring 2 quarts water and 2 teaspoons of the salt to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook for 10 minutes. Then drain, and set them aside.

3 Combine the cream, shallots, chile flakes, remaining 1 teaspoon salt, the black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the liquid from the jar of roasted peppers in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook until the chile flakes have begun to stain the cream, about 2 minutes. Add half of the cheese and stir until it melts, about 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat.

4 Layer roughly a third of the potatoes in a 6-cup baking dish, overlapping them slightly so that they fit in an even layer. Scatter half of the roasted peppers on top of the potatoes (cut up any peppers that have remained whole so that they lie flat), and repeat layering potatoes and peppers until all the peppers and potatoes have been used. Pour the cream mixture over the potatoes and peppers, and agitate the dish to distribute the liquid throughout. Cover with aluminum foil and bake on the middle rack for 15 minutes.

5 Uncover the dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and place the dish on the top oven rack. Bake for 8 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and gently browned on top. Serve immediately.

Send Love Today

2009-12-30T08:49:00.000-08:00

I am part of Send Love Today which is a non-profit org that supports people with brain tumors by sending cards and small gifts. If you love sending snail mail like I do, its a nice way to spread some cheer.

If you are interested, go here for more info:
http://sendlovetoday.org/

Watch this!

2009-12-28T15:01:00.000-08:00

snickerdoodles

2009-12-26T15:14:00.001-08:00

snickerdoodles, originally uploaded by achathampally.

ran out of cookies
so whipped up a batch of snickerdoodles

cheese bread

2009-12-25T19:27:00.001-08:00

cheese bread, originally uploaded by achathampally.

for christmas dinner I made this
cheese bread
along with
scallops gratin
spinach salad with goat cheese
and a deadly good crab and artichoke dip

christmas 2009

2009-12-25T06:34:00.001-08:00

christmas2009, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Here's Elvis opening his presents.

I wish you all a blessed Christmas and a happy new year!

Christmas visit

2009-12-23T08:58:00.001-08:00

DSC_0020, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Tim came for a visit over Christmas.
Elvis and I are enjoying the company :)

postcard from Finland

2009-12-12T18:53:00.001-08:00

postcard, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Justina sent me this wonderful Christmas-y postcard from Finland.

This Finnish stamp is so cool. The flag goes outside the normal boundaries of a stamp. Love it.

etegami

2009-12-08T06:13:00.001-08:00

mailart-japan, originally uploaded by achathampally.

received this wonderful etegami from Debbie
2010 is the year of the tiger
what a beautiful card
and the postage stamps are gorgeous too!
its hanging up in my kitchen :)

christmas card 2009

2009-12-05T16:43:00.001-08:00

christmas card 2009, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Here's one of the variations
I'm sending out this year

Merry Christmas everyone!

lion mail art

2009-11-19T19:30:00.001-08:00

mailart2, originally uploaded by achathampally.

received some awesome lion mail art from Sherri in California.

etegami

2009-11-17T18:43:00.001-08:00

etegami1, originally uploaded by achathampally.

I've been interested in etegami ever since I saw Debbie's blog on etegami here:
http://etegamibydosankodebbie.blogspot.com/

Here is one of my first attempts. Etegami consists of a painting (watercolor), some words and a name seal. The objects painted are everyday objects. Learn more at Debbie's awesome site. Her pumpkin inspired me to paint the one I have sitting on the dining room table.

photobooth 11/14/09

2009-11-14T07:17:00.001-08:00

photobooth 11/14/09, originally uploaded by achathampally.

goofing around with mac's photobooth this morning

Artsy Lizard Mail Art

2009-11-12T10:45:00.001-08:00

mailart3 11.12.09, originally uploaded by achathampally.

from Nikki and her doggy Ziggy :)

Awesome Road Trip Mail Art

2009-11-12T10:44:00.001-08:00

mailart2 11.12.09, originally uploaded by achathampally.

From Jes, who is also a fellow dog lover :)

mail art received

2009-11-12T10:43:00.001-08:00

mailart 11.12.09, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Some nice mail art from J.T. Dotson in Albuquerque

mail art

2009-11-11T16:50:00.000-08:00

going to Russia

going to Australia

www.postcrossing.com

Rice Pudding

2009-11-02T03:44:00.000-08:00

Made this Saturday and it was easy and yummy. Adapted from an Alton Brown recipe.
I like rice pudding that is simple and has no eggs. The coconut milk adds a really delicious flavor.

Rice Pudding

1 cup cooked basmati rice (or other long grain rice)
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup coconut milk (I like Thai Kitchen brand)
1/4 cup sugar (you can use white or brown)
1/4 tsp cardamom
1/3 cup raisins (dark or golden or other dried fruit)
1/2 tsp vanilla
couple threads of saffron

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, combine rice and whole milk. Heat til boiling and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir frequently. Mixture will thicken. Add heavy cream, coconut milk, sugar, cardamom and saffron and cook for about 7-10 minutes until mixture thickens again. Remove from heat and add raisins and vanilla. Transfer to a bowl and put plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin from forming.

Delicious warm, room temp or cold. Feeds about 4 depending on serving size.

halloween 2009

2009-10-30T08:59:00.001-07:00

halloween2009, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Here we are at work today:

Anu: artist
Julie: mermaid
Melissa: devil woman
Crystal: little red riding hood

Acorn squash, Spinach, and Roasted Garlic Soup

2009-10-30T05:16:00.001-07:00

This was very easy, warming and delicious. I roasted the squash and garlic the night before so things went together even faster for an easy weeknight meal. The colors are just beautiful with the golden orange yellow base and green spinach.

Acorn Squash, Spinach, and Roasted Garlic Soup

1 acorn squash
1 head of garlic
2 Tb butter
1 onion, chopped
2 cups of stock
1/3 cup dry sherry
bag of baby spinach
1/3 cup milk
kosher salt to taste
fresh pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 375 F. Cut acorn squash in half (carefully) and scoop out seeds and strings. Brush cut sides with olive oil and put face down on a rimmed baking sheet. Cut of the top third of the garlic and brush with garlic. Place on baking sheet. Roast both about 45 (until very tender) and let stand until cool enough to handle.

In a heavy skillet, melt the butter and saute the onions until lightly browned. Add stock, sherry and spinach and bring to a boil and let boil for about 3-5 minutes.

Scoop out squash flesh into the food processor. Squeeze out the roasted garlic and add that too. Puree until smooth. Add to the large skillet with the stock and spinach and onions. Add the milk and salt and pepper and let heat through.

Enjoy!

doggie social

2009-10-25T05:54:00.001-07:00

elvis 1, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Elvis had a doggie social with Jes and Gracie
we had the best time!
Jes took this pics of Elvis :)

Spinach Pie

2009-10-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

Made this recipe this morning for a picnic later on...

Spinach Pie

1 Tb olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
pinch of kosher salt
1 lb baby spinach, washed and dried
1/2 lb authentic greek feta, rinsed in cool water and crumbled
6 oz ricotta cheese, fresh if you can get it
2.5 oz grated parmesan
3 eggs, beaten lightly
freshly ground pepper
1-2 Tb fresh dill, chopped

In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium low heat. Add onions and the pinch of salt. Saute until golden and starting to caramelize. Take you time with this - about 30 min. Let this cook while you prep the other ingredients. Transfer onions
to a large mixing bowl.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Return skillet to heat and saute spinach in batches til wilted and transfer to another bowl. Add a little oil if needed. I didn't need to. Coarsely chop cooked spinach and squeeze hard to get out as much water as possible.

Lightly oil an 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish. Into the large bowl with the onions, add the feta, ricotta, parmesan, eggs and black pepper. Mix well. Add spinach and dill and mix again. Spoon into baking dish and smooth out evenly and drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Bake for 30 minutes. Raise heat to 350 degrees and bake until lightly firm in the center and golden on top - about 15 more minutes. Good hot or cold.

* based on Sarah's spinach pie from NYTimes website

** I would have shown you a photo but the camera is broken :(

*** additions like garlic, sauteed mushroom or a little red pepper for color would probably be good.

Martha's glitterizing tool

2009-10-22T08:35:00.001-07:00

Latest Martha mag has an article on "glitterizing" your photo. You upload a photo and the tool creates a glitterized version to use. I think it would be fun to use as a base for a painting.

http://www.marthastewart.com/glitter-painting?xsc=eml_msl_2009_10_08

eating alone

2009-10-22T05:40:00.001-07:00

eating alone

eating alone
means
beet rosti with fresh rosemary
hot & crisp, right out of the pan
it is Julia’s coq au vin
for the first time
it is solitude
and simple rice crackers with goat cheese
it is making Argentinian arepas
with spice black beans
and the adventure of rabo encendido
(Cuban oxtails in red wine)
it means an easy recovery from
the panna cotta that didn’t set
sometimes its just
sardines on toast
with a sprinkle of vinegar & black pepper
and your little dog at your feet.

butternut squash

2009-10-21T06:04:00.000-07:00

got a butternut squash at the farmer's market this weekend
and here is what I did:

peel, seed and cut squash in 1/2 inch pieces
(this takes the longest)
toss with olive oil, salt & pepper
roast on a baking sheet in a single layer
for 40 minutes at 350 degrees
meanwhile slice up an onion or two
and caramelize - add some chopped garlic
near the end
toss squash with the onions and garlic
sprinkle some bleu cheese over it
(1/4 cup is good - cheese is strong and the squash
is mild and you want to taste both)
mix and let the cheese get all melty
eat!

Alcohol Inks

2009-10-18T17:12:00.000-07:00

My friend Jes taught me how to use alcohol inks today.
They are amazing and fun.

Here is a postcard with alcohol ink and octopus embossed over it.

Thanks Jes!

mummy dogs

2009-10-14T14:46:00.001-07:00

mummydogs, originally uploaded by achathampally.

aren't these too cute for halloween?

just wrap hot dogs in crescent rolls cut into 1 inch strips.
bake at 375 F for 12 minutes

Link here:
http://www.instructables.com/id/Mummy-Dogs/

Balloon Fiesta 2009

2009-10-12T05:24:00.001-07:00

Balloon Fiesta 2009 3, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Here I am with Jo goofing around at balloon fiesta
its apropo that Jo is looking at a map as I have
a terrible sense of direction
good thing Elvis is in the front seat with me ;-)

October Skelly postcard

2009-10-12T05:18:00.000-07:00

Made a bunch of postcards last night
I love mixing collage with rubber stamping

I love this

2009-10-11T16:56:00.001-07:00

http://www.swiss-miss.com/2009/10/fail-harder.html

Balloon Fiesta 2009

2009-10-08T15:37:00.001-07:00

DSC_0006, originally uploaded by achathampally.

magic cookie bars

2009-10-05T18:26:00.001-07:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

or whatever they are called
I've eaten them but
never made them before
very easy
very deadly
for my book club tomorrow night
book = independent people
translated from Icelandic !
won the nobel prize

scarf

2009-10-04T04:57:00.001-07:00

DSC_0003, originally uploaded by achathampally.

haven't been knitting in while
so it felt good to make this scarf
it will be a christmas present :)

smoked salmon, goat cheese and dill quiche

2009-10-02T19:26:00.001-07:00

quiche, originally uploaded by achathampally.

made this tonight for tomorrow's bkfast
having Sue and Jo over after we go
to the farmer's market.

recipe here:
http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/smoked_salmon_dill_and_goat_cheese_quiche/

stuff on my desk

2009-10-01T08:14:00.001-07:00

sketch, originally uploaded by achathampally.

quick sketch with tape flags

schmoopy

2009-09-30T18:50:00.001-07:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

power was out tonight
Elvis and I played by candlelight
he is so go with the flow

pet peeves #7856, 7857 and 7858

2009-09-30T09:27:00.000-07:00

- people clipping their nails in public
- dropping silverware in the dishwasher and having it fall under the basket
- accidently stepping on the dog's foot and hearing that awful cry

dawn

2009-09-30T06:12:00.001-07:00

DSC_0003, originally uploaded by achathampally.

the sky this morning
when I took Elvis
for a walk

Elvis seyz

2009-09-29T17:35:00.001-07:00

DSC_0009, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Happy Autumn!

journal page

2009-09-28T19:03:00.001-07:00

journal page1, originally uploaded by achathampally.

today's journal page

potato soup

2009-09-26T12:18:00.001-07:00

DSC_0001, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Its been cold so I've been using the crock pot a lot.
This is a yummy potato soup I made with
crumbled bacon, green onions and shredded cheddar
on top.

Crock Pot Split Pea Soup

2009-09-24T09:29:00.000-07:00

Made this yesterday while I was under the weather. Its easy and very good.

2 cups dry split peas
1 cup chopped cooked bacon or ham (optional)
1 med/large onion chopped
3 stalks of celery chopped
2 carrots chopped
3 cloves of garlic
1/4 tsp pepper
4 cups chicken broth
1 cups water
salt to taste after its cooked

Layer ingredients in crock pot in the order listed. Cook for 8 hrs low or 4 hrs high.

photo booth

2009-09-19T18:49:00.001-07:00

Photo on 2009-09-19 at 19.39, originally uploaded by achathampally.

Got my new IMAC today
with snow leopard
it is amazing!
has this cool feature called photo booth :)

Roasted Beet Salad

2009-09-08T07:18:00.001-07:00

ElvisBall3 9.6, originally uploaded by achathampally.

In between playing with baby dog Elvis, I made THE most delicious salad this weekend.

Roasted Beet Salad
beets
goat cheese
walnuts
vinaigrette

Roast beets in the oven at 400 degrees for 1 hour. Let cool, peel and cut into chunks. Put in a bowl. Toast walnuts and chop coarsely. Sprinkle over beets. Crumble goat cheese over all. Make a classic vinaigrette - I used olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt and pepper. Pour vinaigrette over salad and toss. That's it! Enjoy!