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	<title>Ling Li Eats &#187; American</title>
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	<description>one girl&#039;s culinary playground</description>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #16: Roast Chicken and Potatoes</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2012/04/roast-chicken-and-potatoes/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2012/04/roast-chicken-and-potatoes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 08 Apr 2012 18:45:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=903</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The monthly subscription business exploded in popularity about a year ago as monthly hand-selected boxes including beauty products (Birchbox being an original), doggy treats, and Paleo snacks came on the scene to tempt consumers. Andrew loves his Bespoke Post subscription &#8211; a monthly shipment of manly #boxofawesome goodness. You can find a comprehensive list of available [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>The <strong>monthly subscription business</strong> exploded in popularity about a year ago as monthly hand-selected boxes including beauty products (<a title="Birchbox" href="http://www.birchbox.com" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> being an original), doggy treats, and Paleo snacks came on the scene to tempt consumers. Andrew loves his <a title="Bespoke Post" href="http://bespokepost.com" target="_blank">Bespoke Post</a> subscription &#8211; a monthly shipment of manly #boxofawesome goodness. You can find a comprehensive list of available subscription boxes at <a href="http://fantabulouslyfrugal.com/shop/subscription-boxes/" target="_blank">Fantabulously Frugal</a>.  The concept is fairly easy &#8211; pay X dollars a month and the company will ship a hand-selected box of goodies straight to your doorstep. It&#8217;s a <strong>great way to sample new products</strong>, and you can purchase the full-size versions on the website if something strikes your fancy.</p>
<p>I of course jumped on the chance to get a free trial box of food through Foodzie. <strong><a title="Foodzie" href="http://www.foodzie.com" target="_blank">Foodzie</a></strong> allows you to discover artisanal treats like crispy seaweed snacks and organic dried pineapple for the monthly subscription price of $29.95 ($19.95 when the service first started). I like Foodzie&#8217;s branding strategy &#8211; <strong>every box is a tasting adventure!</strong> They also help small-batch food makers get their products out there on the market.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2474_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[903]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-904" title="Roast chicken seasoned with black truffle and fresh thyme herb sea salt" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2474_s.jpg" alt="Roast chicken seasoned with black truffle and fresh thyme herb sea salt" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>My box of goodies included sample packets of <strong>Wood&#8217;s Gourmet spices and a recipe card for some roast chicken and potatoes</strong>. Make sure to rub the chicken liberally with the Basil &amp; Lemongrass Herb Sea Salt. I love anything that simplifies the cooking process and still makes me feel like an awesome cook :D. The<strong> tender, juicy</strong> leftover chicken makes perfect sandwiches for lunch the next day.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2446_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[903]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-905" title="Black truffle and fresh thyme herb sea salt" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2446_s.jpg" alt="Black truffle and fresh thyme herb sea salt" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p><em><strong>Ingredients:</strong></em></p>
<p>1 small whole chicken (about 3 – 3 1/2 pounds)<br />
1 tbsp of Woody’s Gourmet Basil &amp; Lemongrass Herb Sea Salt<br />
freshly ground pepper, to taste<br />
3 sprigs of fresh marjoram<br />
1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil<br />
1 lb of small German butterball potatoes<br />
Woody’s Gourmet Fresh Rosemary and Sage Sea Salt, to taste<br />
extra virgin olive oil</p>
<p><em><strong>Instructions:</strong></em></p>
<p>1) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.</p>
<p>2) Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat it dry. Drizzle the olive oil on top and rub it over the chicken.</p>
<p>3) Rub the chicken (inside and out) with the lemongrass sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Stuff the cavity with the sprigs of fresh marjoram.</p>
<p>4) Rinse the potatoes and place them into a baking dish. Toss them with the rosemary sea salt (to taste), a sprinkling of freshly-ground pepper and a generous drizzle of olive oil.</p>
<p>5) Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, place the chicken, breast side down, into the skillet. Cook for a few minutes, letting the skin brown lightly. Flip to the other side, and cook for a few minutes before flipping it again and placing it in the oven to roast.</p>
<p>6) Place the potatoes alongside the chicken. Check the potatoes after about 30 minutes and take them out of the oven when they’re fork-tender. Check the chicken to make sure it is not browning too quickly. Roast the chicken for about 45 minutes to an hour (until the juices run clear). Remove the chicken from the cast iron skillet and set it on a large cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before carving it (this helps keep it moist and juicy).</p>
<p>7) Serve the chicken with the potatoes.</p>
<p>Serves 2.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2476_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[903]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-906" title="Roast chicken with black truffle and fresh thyme herb sea salt" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2476_s.jpg" alt="Roast chicken with black truffle and fresh thyme herb sea salt" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Recipe courtesy of <a href="http://foodzie.com/blog/2011/05/weeknight-roast-chicken-potatoes-may-tasting-panel-winner/" target="_blank">Turntable Kitchen</a></p>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #16: Warm Goat Cheese Salad with Apples and Walnuts</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2012/03/warm-goat-cheese-salad-with-apples-and-walnuts/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2012/03/warm-goat-cheese-salad-with-apples-and-walnuts/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:50:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Salad]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=898</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Salad making has never a specialty of mine. My parents immigrated from a land where vegetables had to be thoroughly washed and well cooked. As a result, raw vegetables were a rare part of my diet growing up. I do fondly remember eating the occasional iceberg lettuce doused with thousand island dressing with my dad, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Salad making has never a specialty of mine. My parents immigrated from a land where vegetables had to be thoroughly washed and well cooked. As a result, <strong>raw vegetables were a rare part of my diet growing up</strong>. I do fondly remember eating the occasional iceberg lettuce doused with thousand island dressing with my dad, who had a penchant for the thick, creamy sweet condiment. This early exposure to thousand island dressing was probably what fueled my love for Big Macs growing up :P</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2464_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[898]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-899" title="Warm Goat Cheese Salad with Apples and Walnuts" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2464_s.jpg" alt="Warm Goat Cheese Salad with Apples and Walnuts" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>The <strong>warm goat cheese salad</strong> I present to you today is a <strong>healthy, light</strong> way to start off your next meal. Use a different type of apple if you find the Granny Smith to be too tart, especially paired with the honey apple cider vinaigrette. I cracked open my own walnuts with a garlic press (I do recommend getting an actual nutcracker though), but you can buy pre-shelled walnuts to make your lives a bit easier.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2452_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[898]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-900" title="Walnuts" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2452_s.jpg" alt="Walnuts" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p><em><strong>Ingredients:</strong></em></p>
<p>1 granny smith apple, sliced<br />
3 oz goat cheese log, sliced into 1/3 inch rounds<br />
3 cup spring mix salad<br />
1/4 cup chopped walnuts</p>
<p><em>Vinaigrette:</em><br />
5-½ tbsp honey<br />
3 tbsp apple cider vinegar<br />
1 pinch salt<br />
1 pinch freshly ground Pepper<br />
5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil<br />
1 dash lemon juice</p>
<p><em><strong>Instructions:</strong></em></p>
<p>1) Preheat oven to 375 F. Place the sliced goat cheese on a baking sheet and bake for 6 minutes until the cheese has melted inside but still retains its shape.</p>
<p>2) For the vinaigrette, whisk together the honey and vinegar till the honey has dissolved. Season with salt and pepper and slowly add the olive oil while stirring. Add a dash of lemon juice. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust accordingly if you want a sweeter dressing.</p>
<p>3) Toss the spring mix greens with the dressing. Add the walnuts and apple slices and mix well.</p>
<p>4) Plate the salad and add the warm slices of goat cheese on top. Enjoy!</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2455_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[898]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-901" title="Ingredients for the vinaigrette dressing" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2455_s.jpg" alt="Ingredients for the vinaigrette dressing" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>Vinaigrette inspired by <a href="http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/salads/warm-goat-cheese-salad-with-grilled-apples-and-almonds/" target="_blank">Tasty Kitchen</a></p>
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		<title>BBQ Beef Brisket</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2012/01/bbq-beef-brisket/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2012/01/bbq-beef-brisket/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:32:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=909</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This is a ridiculously easy way of cooking mouthwateringly tender beef brisket. Beef brisket is a cut of meat from the breast or lower chest of a cow. The brisket muscles support about 60% of the cow&#8217;s body weight, resulting in a lot of connective tissue. Hence, cooking the meat for several hours until the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>This is a <strong>ridiculously easy way of cooking</strong> mouthwateringly tender beef brisket. Beef brisket is a cut of meat from the breast or lower chest of a cow. The brisket muscles support about 60% of the cow&#8217;s body weight, resulting in a lot of connective tissue. Hence, <strong>cooking the meat for several hours</strong> until the connective tissue is properly tenderized is <strong>a must</strong>!</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4024_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[909]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-910" title="BBQ Beef Brisket" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4024_s.jpg" alt="BBQ Beef Brisket" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>All you really need is barbecue sauce and soy sauce for the marinade. I added garlic and lime to give the dish some additional kick. 3 to 4 lbs of beef is a lot of food, so I definitely recommend cooking this for a larger group (this recipe will serve about 6-8 people)! I originally made this for a <strong>winter potluck</strong> with friends, and the slices of beef went fast. Now I&#8217;m proud to include the recipe as part of <a title="Gojee" href="http://www.gojee.com" target="_blank">Gojee</a>&#8216;s Potluck event.</p>
<p><em><strong>Ingredients:</strong></em></p>
<p>3 to 4 lbs beef brisket<br />
3/4 cup barbecue sauce<br />
1/4 cup soy sauce<br />
1 cup of water<br />
4 cloves garlic, minced<br />
1/2 lime</p>
<p><em><strong>Instructions: </strong></em></p>
<p>1) Preheat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit.</p>
<p>2) In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, water, garlic, and juice from the lime.</p>
<p>3) Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil. This first layer of foil is to prevent potential sauce spillage from sticking to your pan and burning during the cooking process. Place the brisket on top of another large piece of aluminum foil. Spread the sauce mixture generously over the meat. Wrap the brisket in the foil and place it in the roasting pan.</p>
<p>4) Bake the brisket for 4-5 hours. As a general rule, bake one hour for every pound of meat. I kept mine in the oven for 5 hours to ensure maximum tenderness.</p>
<p>5) Remove from oven and let rest in the foil for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.</p>
<p>To round out the meal, I <strong>served the slices of brisket with some potatoes</strong> cooked in olive oil and salt/pepper. The brisket is also great for making sandwiches with the next day (if you even have any leftovers!)</p>
<p>Recipe inspired by <a href="http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/beef_brisket/" target="_blank">Simply Recipes</a></p>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #14: Potato Leek Pizza (&amp; Harry Potter World!!)</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2011/08/lj-bistro-14-potato-leek-pizza/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2011/08/lj-bistro-14-potato-leek-pizza/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2011 03:00:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=827</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Hello world! Tried and true, no matter how busy life gets, I will never abandon Ling Li Eats. Wearing many different caps has kept me running around the last few months, but believe me when I say I would never give up the invaluable opportunity to do what I actually enjoy. Priceless :) The potato [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Hello world! Tried and true, no matter how busy life gets, I will never abandon Ling Li Eats.<strong> Wearing many different caps</strong> has kept me running around the last few months, but believe me when I say I would never give up the<strong> invaluable opportunity to do what I actually enjoy</strong>. Priceless :)</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2318_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-828" title="Potato leek pizza whole" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2318_s.jpg" alt="Potato leek pizza whole" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>The <strong>potato leek pizza, <a title="The Pioneer Woman" href="http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/cooking" target="_blank">a la Pioneer Woman</a></strong>, is a tribute to my<strong> favorite food group</strong> on the food pyramid (though to be fair, it&#8217;s pretty much <strong>neck-to-neck with the meats</strong>). Forget the Atkins diet, <strong>carbs</strong> make such excellent comfort food. Add some crumbled dairy on top, some thinly sliced meats aka bacon, a few strands of vegetables, and voila! You have yourself a well balanced meal. I usually go for your standard marinara sauce pizza with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni/mushroom/sausage, so adding <strong>potatoes, leeks, and my goodness, goat cheese?? to my pizza</strong> was a fascinating new concept.</p>
<p>I cheated last time I made pizza from scratch, using Boboli pizza crust as a base. No shortcuts this time. I had serious concerns about the dough being too sticky, but setting the covered dough in a warm area fixed that right up. Watching the <strong>yeast work its magic</strong> on the dough was well, kinda magical!</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2297_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-829" title="Thin slices of red potato" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2297_s.jpg" alt="Thin slices of red potato" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>Thin layers of sliced red potatoes.</p>
<p><em><strong>Ingredients:</strong></em></p>
<p>1/2 recipe for Pizza Crust (see below)<br />
6 slices thick-cut bacon, 1-in pieces<br />
3 Leeks, rinsed well to remove grit and thinly sliced<br />
5 small red or Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced paper thin<br />
1 lb fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thin<br />
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled<br />
Grated Parmesan cheese<br />
Extra virgin olive oil<br />
Salt and pepper</p>
<p><em><strong>Instructions:</strong></em></p>
<p>1) Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. Spread pizza crust in baking pan and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt.</p>
<p>2) Fry the bacon over medium heat until cooked but not crisp. Set aside.</p>
<p>3) Leave some of the bacon fat in which to saute the leeks. Cook the leeks until soft, about 3 minutes. Set aside.</p>
<p>4) Use a sharp knife or mandoline to thinly slice the potatoes. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer over the crust, slightly overlapping the edges. Sprinkle lightly with salt.</p>
<p>5) Lay the mozzarella slices in a single layer on top of the potatoes. Place the leeks on top of the cheese, then arrange the fried bacon pieces over the leeks.</p>
<p>6) Sprinkle more crumbled goat cheese, grated Parmesan, and pepper on top.</p>
<p>7) Bake the pie for 8-11 minutes, until the edges of the crust are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Slice and serve immediately.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>How to make Pizza Crust:</em></span></strong></p>
<p>Yield: 2 pizza crusts</p>
<p><strong><em>Ingredients:</em></strong></p>
<p>1 tsp or 1/2 packet active dry yeast<br />
4 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, more for drizzling</p>
<p><em><strong>Instructions:</strong></em></p>
<p>1) In a mixing bowl, pour the yeast over 1 1/2 cups of warm water, stirring gently.</p>
<p>2) Combine the flour and salt in a separate bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix well.</p>
<p>3) Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough forms a ball. (I used my hands)</p>
<p>4) Drizzle a little olive oil into a clean bowl. Toss the dough into the bowl and turn to coat. Cover the bowl with a moist kitchen towel and set in a warm place for 1-2 hours. You can also cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.</p>
<p>5) Once the dough has risen, divide it in half and stretch the dough to the desired shape, pressing it into an oiled 13&#215;9 pan with your fingers. The thinner the better. The surface of the dough should be lumpy from finger marks so it receives and holds toppings better. The remaining dough be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated up to 3 days before use, or frozen for up to 6 months.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2306_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-830" title="Potato leek pizza - sliced and ready to eat" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2306_s.jpg" alt="Potato leek pizza - sliced and ready to eat" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Mmhmm&#8230;Delicious pizza, fresh out of the oven</strong>. With the pizza loaded with toppings, it was actually easier eating with forks and knives. Excellent flavors with the potato, leek, bacon, goat cheese combination.</p>
<p>Silly me overestimated the amount of dough necessary per square inch though, resulting in a thicker than desired pizza crust. If that happens to you, I recommend either sticking it back in the oven for a few more minutes or doing what I actually did. I placed a few pizza slices in a frying pan and crisped the bottoms over the stovetop. Yum.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2325_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-831" title="Potato and leek pizza, ready to eat" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2325_s.jpg" alt="Potato and leek pizza, ready to eat" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>To <strong>continue</strong> the story of my <strong>Florida adventure</strong>, which unfortunately already feels like a faint memory of the past, we roadtripped to Orlando that Friday after 2 nights of warm sunny Miami beaches. Amidst the mandatory BCG mingling and organized events, we were still able to scrap together an entire day of doing whatever we wanted. First choice without even the slightest doubt in our minds: <strong>HARRY POTTER WORLD, HERE WE COME!</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2414.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-852" title="We're here! Now getting off the Hogwarts Express" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2414.jpg" alt="We're here! Now getting off the Hogwarts Express" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p><span id="more-827"></span></p>
<p>Now getting off the Hogwarts Express!</p>
<p>This absolutely had to be my most favorite part of the trip. I was giddy with excitement the moment we stepped foot into Islands of Adventure. We started the day off right with a <strong>giant turkey leg for breakfast</strong>, and then it was off to Harry Potter World!</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2441.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-853" title="Town of Hogsmeade" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2441.jpg" alt="Town of Hogsmeade" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Town of Hogsmeade</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2595.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-854" title="Very cool architecture in the HP world" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2595.jpg" alt="Very cool architecture in the HP world" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>Very cool architecture in the Harry Potter world</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2425.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-855" title="Poor car beat up by Whomping Willow" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2425.jpg" alt="Poor car beat up by Whomping Willow" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Poor car beat up by Whomping Willow</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2519.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-856" title="Beauxbatons Academy of Magic girls" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2519.jpg" alt="Beauxbatons Academy of Magic girls" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Beauxbatons Academy of Magic girls</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2608.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-857" title="Ferocious Monster Book of Monsters" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2608.jpg" alt="Ferocious Monster Book of Monsters" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Ferocious Monster Book of Monsters</p>
<p>What an <strong>awesome day</strong>, being able to indulge in what has to be my favorite book series of all time. (And yes, I did make time for the other park attractions). <strong>I left the park happy, filled with frothy Butterbeer in my belly and Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott&#8217;s Every Flavour Beans in hand</strong>.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2531.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-858" title="Yay! Me with my Butterbeer in front of Hogwarts Castle" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2531.jpg" alt="Yay! Me with my Butterbeer in front of Hogwarts Castle" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>Yay! Me with my Butterbeer in front of Hogwarts Castle</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2514.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-859" title="Butterbeer...so good we got seconds" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2514.jpg" alt="Butterbeer...so good we got seconds" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>Butterbeer&#8230;so good we got seconds</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2594.jpg" rel="lightbox[827]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-860" title="U-No-Poo :)" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2594.jpg" alt="U-No-Poo :)" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>U-No-Poo :)</p>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://twitter.com/share?url=http://linglieats.com/2011/08/lj-bistro-14-potato-leek-pizza/&via=linglieats&text=LJ Bistro #14: Potato Leek Pizza (& Harry Potter World!!)&related=:&lang=en&count=horizontal" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div><div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://twitter.com/share?url=http://linglieats.com/2011/08/lj-bistro-14-potato-leek-pizza/&via=linglieats&text=LJ Bistro #14: Potato Leek Pizza (& Harry Potter World!!)&related=:&lang=en&count=horizontal" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #14: Huevos Hyacinth</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2011/07/huevos-hyacinth/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2011/07/huevos-hyacinth/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 Jul 2011 13:50:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mexican]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=823</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Great cookbooks are no longer limited to the commissioned writings of famous chefs or household TV personalities. The democratization of the cookbook (food52&#8242;s crowdsourced cookbook comes to mind) allows more people with a good story and recipe to get their works published. I stumbled upon the Pioneer Woman&#8217;s blog while googling for Photoshop actions one [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Great cookbooks are no longer limited to the commissioned writings of famous chefs or household TV personalities. The democratization of the cookbook (<a href="http://www.food52.com" target="_blank">food52&#8242;s </a><strong>crowdsourced cookbook</strong> comes to mind) allows more people with a good story and recipe to get their works published.</p>
<p>I stumbled upon the <strong><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/" target="_blank">Pioneer Woman&#8217;s blog</a> </strong>while googling for <strong>Photoshop actions</strong> one afternoon, and I&#8217;ve been a devout fan since. Ree Drummond&#8217;s cookbook <strong>&#8220;The Pioneer Woman Cooks&#8221;</strong> was actually my <strong>first cookbook purchase in years</strong>. Worth it? I think so! Nothing like <strong>step-by-step photo tutorials </strong>of how to make some finger-licking, lip-smacking southern comfort cowboy food. Makes me want to take a trip down south to experience the real thing. Her food blog also offers countless recipes and gorgeous food photos to boot.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2279_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[823]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-824" title="Huevos Hyacintch - before baking" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2279_s.jpg" alt="Huevos Hyacintch - before baking" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>So I decided to try my hand at some of the dishes Pioneer Woman would serve to Marlboro Man and the kids. <strong>Nothing too heavy </strong>since I was still trying to get in shape for a Disney trip later in June (which, by the way, was fantastic fun. Didn&#8217;t actually go to any of the Disney parks but had a blast at Harry Potter World. More on that later).</p>
<p>Final choices? <strong>Huevos hyacinth for the appetizer</strong> and potato leek pizza for the main course. Can&#8217;t tear me away from the eggs or carbs :)</p>
<p><em><strong>Ingredients:</strong></em></p>
<p>2 thin slices ham or turkey<br />
2 large eggs<br />
2 tomato slices<br />
Picante sauce (optional)<br />
Butter<br />
Salt<br />
Black pepper<br />
Crumbled goat cheese (or Monterey Jack)</p>
<p><em><strong>Instructions:</strong></em></p>
<p>1) Butter individual ramekins and place a piece of thinly sliced ham or turkey at the bottom. Add a tomato slice on top of the meat.</p>
<p>2) If you&#8217;re feeling spicy, use a couple tablespoons of picante sauce instead. I used both tomato slices and a few drops of Frank&#8217;s hot sauce.</p>
<p>3) Gently crack an egg over the top of each ramekin. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.</p>
<p>4) Top each ramekin with ¼ cup grated cheese. Monterey Jack works nicely, but I used some of the leftover goat cheese from the potato leek pizza.</p>
<p>5) Broil for 2 to 4 minutes, removing when the yellow of the egg is still soft but not overly runny.</p>
<p>Serves two.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2330_s.jpg" rel="lightbox[823]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-825" title="Huevos Hyacintch - after baking" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2330_s.jpg" alt="Huevos Hyacintch - after baking" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>The egg whites came out too runny after 4 minutes, so I stuck the ramekins back under the broiler for a few more minutes. While tasty, I&#8217;m sad to say I <strong>wasn&#8217;t an immediate convert</strong>. There was <strong>too much liquid</strong> in my ramekin, a combination of the hardly-solidified egg white and juice from the tomato slice. Great flavor from the goat cheese and deli meat though. (Goat cheese, my new cheese love&#8230;)</p>
<p>Had much <strong>better results with the potato leek pizza</strong> though..here&#8217;s a <strong>preview </strong>of what&#8217;s to come next post:</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2306_s1.jpg" rel="lightbox[823]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-834" title="Potato leek pizza" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2306_s1.jpg" alt="Potato leek pizza" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p><strong>YUM. </strong>Carbs upon carbs galore. Hallelujah :D</p>
<p>And what of my Disney trip? Let&#8217;s just say there&#8217;s <strong>no place I&#8217;d rather be right now than on the warm Miami sands</strong>, sipping my mojito and enjoying the cool breeze from the water. <strong>Best mojitos I&#8217;ve ever had </strong>by the way. If you ever find yourself in Miami Beach, check out <strong>Ola!</strong> Delicious Cuban food, delicious drinks. Some photos of Miami&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2193.jpg" rel="lightbox[823]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-835" title="Poolside at the Delano" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2193.jpg" alt="Poolside at the Delano" width="480" height="640" /></a></p>
<p>First night &#8211; Laying by the infinity pool at The Delano Hotel.</p>
<p><span id="more-823"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2300.jpg" rel="lightbox[823]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-836" title="Corona and mojitos at the beach" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2300.jpg" alt="Corona and mojitos at the beach" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Staying classy. Canned Coronas and mojitos on the beach.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2288.jpg" rel="lightbox[823]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-837" title="Shooting a model shoot or porno?" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2288.jpg" alt="Shooting a model shoot or porno?" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Are they shooting a commercial or an adult film? (the guys like to imagine the latter)</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2352.jpg" rel="lightbox[823]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-838" title="Adorable kid in the sand" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2352.jpg" alt="Adorable kid in the sand" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>No! Don&#8217;t wanna leave the beach yet :(</p>
<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://twitter.com/share?url=http://linglieats.com/2011/07/huevos-hyacinth/&via=linglieats&text=LJ Bistro #14: Huevos Hyacinth&related=:&lang=en&count=horizontal" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div><div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://twitter.com/share?url=http://linglieats.com/2011/07/huevos-hyacinth/&via=linglieats&text=LJ Bistro #14: Huevos Hyacinth&related=:&lang=en&count=horizontal" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #12: Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Sriracha Mayo</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2011/04/bacon-wrapped-scallops-with-sriracha-mayo/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2011/04/bacon-wrapped-scallops-with-sriracha-mayo/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 27 Apr 2011 03:24:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=774</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I find the smell of bacon absolutely irresistible. I love watching the thin strips sizzle on the griddle, bathing in its own fat, the meat slowly curling up as it browns to a crispy perfection. Shark Tank featured an entrepreneur with a prototype of a pig-shaped alarm clock that wakes you up in the morning [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2183.jpg" rel="lightbox[774]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-775" title="Spicy bacon wrapped scallops" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2183.jpg" alt="Spicy bacon wrapped scallops" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>I find the <strong>smell of bacon absolutely irresistible</strong>. I love watching the thin strips <strong>sizzle</strong> on the griddle,<strong> bathing in its own fat</strong>, the meat slowly curling up as it browns to a <strong>crispy perfection</strong>. <a title="Shark Tank Info" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shark_Tank_(TV_series)" target="_blank">Shark Tank</a> featured an entrepreneur with a prototype of <strong>a pig-shaped alarm clock that wakes you up in the morning with freshly cooked bacon</strong>. I want. Now. (The idea, unfortunately, could not find an investor on the show. Potential fire hazard&#8230; plus I guess I would prefer to have the smell of bacon drifting in from the kitchen rather than from the adjacent nightstand).</p>
<p>Bacon is a great enhancement to any dish (bacon bits in salad? YUMM), and it was just one of those fatty, lazy weekends.<strong> Bacon wrapped around scallops</strong> is amazingly good, and make for <strong>great appetizers </strong>at parties. Of course, I was cooking for two, so the leftovers just made for a great snack the next morning. The<strong> spicy mayo dip</strong> provides a great kick to the dish, and you should definitely adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your spiciness tolerance.</p>
<p><em><strong>Ingredients:</strong></em></p>
<p>8 sea scallops<br />
8 slices bacon<br />
1/3 cup teriyaki sauce<br />
Olive oil<br />
8 toothpicks</p>
<p><em>Spicy Mayo Dip:</em><br />
1/2 cup mayonnaise<br />
1 1/2 tbsp Sriracha Hot Chili<br />
1/2 lime, juiced<br />
1 tbsp chopped cilantro</p>
<p><em><strong>Instructions:</strong></em></p>
<p>1) Marinate the scallops in the teriyaki sauce for 20 minutes.</p>
<p>2) Wrap each scallop in a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Place the scallops on a lined baking sheet. Cook under the broiler for 10-15 minutes until bacon is thoroughly cooked.</p>
<p>3) Combine the ingredients for the Spicy Mayo dip. Stir well. Enjoy with the bacon wrapped scallop!</p>
<p>Inspired by <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/bacon-wrapped-scallops-with-spicy-mayo-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Tyler Florence&#8217;s recipe</a></p>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #8: Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies Recipe</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2011/03/earl-grey-shortbread-cookies-recipe/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2011/03/earl-grey-shortbread-cookies-recipe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Mar 2011 04:32:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=688</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Soft, warm shortbread cookies fresh from the oven are amazing. And they can only taste better with some ground Earl Grey tea leaves added to the mix. We were concerned that 2 tablespoons of tea leaves would overpower the cookie, but it turned out to be the perfect amount. The ground leaves also added mini [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1972.jpg" rel="lightbox[688]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-689" title="Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1972.jpg" alt="Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Soft, warm <strong>shortbread cookies</strong> fresh from the oven are amazing. And they can only taste better with some ground<strong> Earl Grey tea leaves</strong> added to the mix. We were concerned that 2 tablespoons of tea leaves would overpower the cookie, but it turned out to be the perfect amount. The ground leaves also added mini dark<strong> flecks</strong> and a slightly gritty<strong> texture</strong>, something which I thoroughly enjoyed.</p>
<p><strong><em>Ingredients:</em></strong></p>
<p>2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
2 tbsp loose Earl Grey tea leaves<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
3/4 cup confectioners&#8217; sugar<br />
1 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature</p>
<p><strong><em>Instructions:</em></strong></p>
<p>1) Mix the flour, tea leaves, and salt in a large bowl.</p>
<p>2) Add the confectioners&#8217; sugar, vanilla extract, and butter. Mix until a dough is formed.</p>
<p>3) 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 shape the log into a long rectangular cube. Chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes.</p>
<p>4) Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Slice the log of dough into 1/3-inch thick disks. Place on lined baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake until the edges are just brown, about 12 minutes. Let cool on sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to plates and cool to room temperature.</p>
<p>While warm, try the shortbread cookies with some <strong>vanilla ice cream</strong>! Whoever popularized the combination of hot, freshly baked cookies and scoops of cold vanilla ice cream is genius. The cookies were also a hit with the coworkers, a perfect little snack for everyone around the Holiday season. <strong>English Breakfast cookies next</strong>?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/claire-robinson/earl-grey-shortbread-cookies-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Inspired</a></p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1982.jpg" rel="lightbox[688]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-690" title="AJ &amp; LL cookies!" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1982.jpg" alt="AJ &amp; LL cookies!" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>Yes we&#8217;re dorky &lt;3</p>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #8: Seafood Lasagna Recipe</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2011/03/seafood-lasagna-recipe/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2011/03/seafood-lasagna-recipe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Mar 2011 03:17:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=680</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I wanted something savory yet light for LJ Bistro #8&#8242;s main entree. Something creamy but also a dish that wouldn&#8217;t make me feel too guilty when I was stuck bringing in leftovers the next two days. What I wanted was lasagna; cheesy, melted layers of ground beef and pasta sheets soaking in tomato-y marinara sauce. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1913.jpg" rel="lightbox[680]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-683" title="Layers of cheesy seafood-y goodness" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1913.jpg" alt="Layers of cheesy seafood-y goodness" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>I wanted something savory yet light for <strong>LJ Bistro #8&#8242;s main entree</strong>. Something creamy but also a dish that wouldn&#8217;t make me feel too guilty when I was stuck bringing in leftovers the next two days. What I wanted was lasagna; cheesy, melted layers of ground beef and pasta sheets soaking in tomato-y marinara sauce. What I compromised in my mind as a healthier, more creative alternative? <strong>Baked seafood lasagna, with salmon, shrimp, and imitation crab meat replacing cow as the true stars of the dish</strong>. (I wanted lobster meat, but alas, I couldn&#8217;t find frozen lobster meat at the supermarket. Nor did I have the time to steam several lobsters and extract the meat.)</p>
<p><strong>Ok, so this wasn&#8217;t exactly healthier or guilty-fre</strong>e, especially since Alfredo sauce replaced the marinara and there was still plenty of cheesy layered goodness. I worked with what I had, layering the meat and pasta sheets in a round glass pan and adjusting my portions accordingly. However, I would opt for the 9&#215;13 3 inch deep pan to <strong>prevent a bubbly overflow</strong>.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1932.jpg" rel="lightbox[680]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-684" title="Hot and piping out of the oven!" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1932.jpg" alt="Hot and piping out of the oven!" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p><strong><em>Ingredients:</em></strong></p>
<p>1 lb salmon<br />
1/2 lb imitation crab meat<br />
1/2 lb shrimp, deveined<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese<br />
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese<br />
1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese<br />
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese<br />
1 medium onion, minced<br />
1 tbsp garlic, minced<br />
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper<br />
2 (16 ounce) jars Alfredo pasta sauce<br />
16 no-boil lasagna noodles<br />
1 (10 ounce) package baby spinach leaves<br />
Olive oil</p>
<p><strong><em>Instructions:</em></strong></p>
<p>1) Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.</p>
<p>2) In a large bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, eggs, half of the Cheddar, half of the Mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix in the minced onion, garlic, and pepper.</p>
<p>3) Heat some olive oil in a pan and cook the salmon so it is medium-rare, about two minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.</p>
<p>4) Heat more olive oil in the pan and cook the shrimp and imitation crab meat for about three minutes. Cut the salmon, shrimp, and crab meat into bite size chunks.</p>
<p>5) Spread 1 1/2 cups of Alfredo sauce in the bottom of the baking pan. Top with a layer of lasagna noodles. Arrange 1/3 of the cooked salmon, shrimp, and crab meat over the noodles. Cover with 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture, 1/3 of the spinach, and another layer of Alfredo sauce.</p>
<p>6) Repeat the layering two more times, ending with the cheese sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar, Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently shake the pan to make sure everything settles in.</p>
<p>7) Bake, covered loosely with aluminum foil, for 45 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is browned. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.</p>
<p><span id="more-680"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1941.jpg" rel="lightbox[680]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-685" title="The layers unearthed" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1941.jpg" alt="The layers unearthed" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>I think I&#8217;ve emphasized this in the past, but you really can&#8217;t go too wrong with fatty foods. The cheesy seafood concoction did not fail to please. My only complaint? Either <strong>go lighter on the minced onions next time or caramelize them first</strong>. The semi-cooked onion taste overpowered some of the more delicate flavors of the dish (even after baking for 55 minutes) You should also<strong> avoid leaving any spinach leaves </strong>uncovered with the cheese sauce &#8211; it will dry up and burn in the oven. Enjoy! :)</p>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #8: Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2011/02/red-lobster-cheddar-bay-biscuits-recipe/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2011/02/red-lobster-cheddar-bay-biscuits-recipe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Feb 2011 19:14:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=673</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In case the butter alone in biscuits wasn&#8217;t enough to tempt your natural human instinct for fat, try this recipe that also incorporates cheddar cheese into the warm fluffy buttermilk biscuits. Created to imitate the complimentary Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits, this homemade version tastes less buttery but just as delicious (and less butter = [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1964.jpg" rel="lightbox[673]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-674" title="Red Lobster Cheesy Biscuits" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1964.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>In case the butter alone in biscuits wasn&#8217;t enough to tempt your natural human instinct for fat, try this recipe that also incorporates cheddar cheese into the <strong>warm fluffy buttermilk biscuits</strong>. Created to imitate the complimentary <strong>Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits</strong>, this homemade version tastes less buttery but just as delicious (and less butter = more heart healthy!)</p>
<p>I <strong>served the biscuits alongside a nice thick slab of cheesy layered seafood lasagna</strong>. Recipe coming next!</p>
<p><strong><em>Ingredients:</em></strong></p>
<p>2 1/2 cups Bisquick (I used Jiffy buttermilk) baking mix<br />
3/4 cup cold whole milk<br />
4 tbsp cold butter (1/2 stick)<br />
1/4 tsp garlic powder<br />
1 cup grated cheddar cheese</p>
<p><em>Spreading sauce:</em><br />
2 tbsp butter, melted<br />
1/4 tsp dried parsley<br />
1/2 tsp garlic powder<br />
pinch salt</p>
<p><strong><em>Instructions:</em></strong></p>
<p>1) Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine Bisquick with cold butter in a medium bowl using a large fork, leaving small chunks of butter after mixing.</p>
<p>2) Add cheddar cheese, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic to the Bisquick and mix.</p>
<p>3) Shape the dough into approximately 1/4-cup portions and drop them onto an ungreased cookie sheet. I actually used a measuring cup to shape my biscuits. Be sure to leave enough space between the biscuits so they can expand!</p>
<p>4) Bake for 15-17 minutes or until the tops of the biscuits begin to turn light brown.</p>
<p>5) When you take the biscuits out of the oven, combine the ingredients for the &#8220;spreading sauce&#8221;. Brush this garlic butter over the tops of all the biscuits.</p>
<p>Makes one dozen biscuits. &lt;&lt; <a href="http://www.bigoven.com/recipe/161727/red-lobster-cheddar-bay-biscuits" target="_blank">Inspired By</a> &gt;&gt;</p>
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		<title>LJ Bistro #7: Grilled Steak with Duck Fat Garlic Sauce Recipe</title>
		<link>http://linglieats.com/2010/12/grilled-steak-with-duck-fat-garlic-sauce-recipe/</link>
		<comments>http://linglieats.com/2010/12/grilled-steak-with-duck-fat-garlic-sauce-recipe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:52:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ling</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[American]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LJ Bistro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://linglieats.com/?p=660</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What made this simple salt and pepper steak taste so damn good was the substitution of duck fat for butter. Yes, you heard me right. Duck fat. I grilled the sirloin over the stovetop in duck fat and then shamelessly drenched the meat in rich, buttery duck fat garlic sauce. Absolutely fantastic. Of course, one [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>What made this <strong>simple salt and pepper</strong> steak taste so damn good was the substitution of duck fat for butter. Yes, you heard me right. <strong>Duck fat</strong>. I grilled the sirloin over the stovetop in duck fat and then shamelessly drenched the meat in <strong>rich, buttery duck fat garlic sauce</strong>. Absolutely fantastic. Of course, one can&#8217;t just buy a jar of duck fat from the supermarket. We had cooked duck breast a few nights earlier and I couldn&#8217;t bear to throw away the two slabs of pale, smooth fat we pulled off the breasts. I found an awesome guide at <a href="http://www.sugarlaws.com/how-to-render-duck-fat" target="_blank">Sugar Laws</a> on how to <strong>properly render duck fat</strong>, complete with photos. After about an hour of simmering my duck fat in water and skimming off the rendered fat, I had the <strong>clear, golden liquid</strong> as promised.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1890.jpg" rel="lightbox[660]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-667" title="Rendered duck fat" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1890.jpg" alt="Rendered duck fat" width="480" height="640" /></a><br />
Rendered duck fat with the dried up fat on top.</p>
<p><strong><em>Ingredients:</em></strong></p>
<p>1 piece sirloin steak<br />
1/4 cup duck fat (or regular butter)<br />
2 cloves garlic, minced<br />
Salt and pepper to taste</p>
<p><strong><em>Instructions:</em></strong></p>
<p>1) Pat dry the steak and rub both sides with a little bit of duck fat. Season both sides with salt and pepper and let the meat sit at room temperature for half an hour.</p>
<p>2) Heat some of the duck fat in a medium sized pan. Once the oil is sizzling hot, place the steak into the pan and grill about 3-4 minutes per side depending on how thick the meat is. Mine was fairly thin and I wanted a medium rare steak, so about 3 minutes per side worked for me.</p>
<p>3) Once the steak is cooked, transfer to a plate and allow the meat to rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to be reabsorbed into the meat.</p>
<p>4) Heat in the pan the remaining duck fat with the minced garlic. Brush the top of the steak liberally with the &#8220;garlic duck butter&#8221; and serve immediately.</p>
<p><a href="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1877.jpg" rel="lightbox[660]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-661" title="Grilled steak with garlic duck fat" src="http://linglieats.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1877.jpg" alt="Grilled steak with garlic duck fat" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p>I couldn&#8217;t get enough of the <strong>rich, savory slices of red meat</strong>. Neither could my lunch box the next two days.</p>
<p>Since I had two large pieces of steak at my disposal (which then became my leftovers for lunch the following 2 days), I wanted to try the free sample bottle of <strong>Lea &amp; Perrins Worcestershire sauce, courtesy of the Foodbuzz Tastemakers Program</strong>. I followed the <strong>Steak Marinade</strong> recipe on the bottle wrapper, which is replicated below. I must say though, this version couldn&#8217;t compete at all against the duck fat garlic version. The marinade was <strong>a bit overwhelming and too sour from the balsamic vinegar</strong>, and it tasted better when microwaved the next day. On a positive note, the meat was <strong>very tender</strong> as a result of the marinade, which broke down some of the tougher fibers and connective tissues.</p>
<p><span id="more-660"></span></p>
<p><strong><em>Ingredients:</em></strong></p>
<p>1/2 cup Lea &amp; Perrins Worcestershire Sauce<br />
3 tbsp olive or vegetable oil<br />
3 tbsp Heinz Balsamic Vinegar<br />
1/4 tsp salt</p>
<p><strong><em>Instructions:</em></strong></p>
<p>1) Combine ingredients and refrigerate in large, shallow non-aluminum baking dish or plastic bag, pour marinade over steak; turn to coat.</p>
<p>2) Marinate in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Remove steak; discard marinade.</p>
<p>3) Grill or broil to desired doneness, brushing frequently with extra Lea &amp; Perrins sauce.</p>
<p>You really don&#8217;t need an expensive piece of meat to achieve mouthwatering results.</p>
<p><strong>And no, I really don&#8217;t eat like this every day. :)</strong></p>
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