I had 10 people over for dinner last week. (3 adults and 7 kids). Seeing as there were so many kids, I decided to throw a Mexican Themed meal that would consist of:

• A Tortilla Bar (Tortillas, Yves Ground Round, Salsa, Sour Cream, Chopped Onion, Lettuce, Shredded Cheese, Black Beans)
• Cilantro Lime Rice
• Nachos and Salsa (used Neal Brothers Organic Blue Tortilla Chips)
• Avocado and Corn Salad (click  here   for the recipe)

• Salad in individual Tortilla Bowls
• Guacamole

I set up a buffet so that people could help themselves.

The table looked like this. Notice that on each plate is a Taco Bowl with their salad. This was a brilliant move as I had 10 less dishes to clear (and wash – err – stick in the dishwasher).

How did I make those taco bowls? Well…with the use of this pan that I bought in FEBRUARY 2013 at a Dollar Store in the States. Two questions I have for myself. ..a) Why didn’t I buy half a dozen b) Why did it take me 11 months to take USE this pan?

Can’t wait till my next “themed” meal. They really are a lot of fun to put together

I went on a Ramen Crawl last winter and guess what? My fascination for Ramen continues.

The lastest ramen restaurant I checked out just opened on Dec 29th. It’s called Isshin Ramen and is located at 421 College St.

The menu consists of:  8 different types of ramen (including TWO vegetarian options), 4 appetizers, 3 rice bowls and 3 desserts.

I asked the waitress to assist me in ordering and before I knew it I ordered the “Isshin “Spicy” Black Tan Tan Ramen”– Thick twisty noodles in a miso broth, topped with wok fried ground pork, spicy chives, bok choi, black sesame, pork belly, cha-shu and a home made chilli oil. Once again – I’m no expert but all 3 components really worked for me (the broth, the noodles and the toppings). It was DELICIOUS.

They encourage you to use the mortar and pestle to grind the black sesames and add it halfway through to enhance the experience. I was impressed with this added touch!!

I also had the chance to try “Crunchy Chicken Karaago” – crispy crunchy flavourful bits of chicken, deep fried to perfection and served with a garlic kupe mayo. Ate all three pieces even though I’m not such a huge fan of chicken and I was FULL.

The meal ended off with a Fresh Mango Pudding which is made in house daily with fresh mangoes. It was light and refreshing not to mention a perfect way to end the meal.

I read a review on BlogTo today that highly recommends the Isshin “Red Miso” Ramen. I have no doubt that I will be returning. Cant’ seem to get enough Ramen during the winter.

For More Information:

Isshin Ramen, 421 College St, Toronto, ON 416 367 4013

Twitter: @isshinramen

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ramenisshin

When I saw this restaurant, the first thing that came out of my mouth was “what happend to my favourite furniture store”. You see, Destingo has replaced a furniture store that I use to check out. Not sure if I ever bought anything but I certainly did like this store.

When I told this to our charming waiter..he replied “well now we can become your favourite Italian restaurant”. Cute reply.

Here’s why I would recommend this restaurant:

Destingo offers their patrons SPACE. I love the fact that your table isn’t two inches from the table next to you!! Plus there’s an open kitchen for foodies like me who like to see the chefs in action (when I’m not eating…of course)

There is something about the month of January that just screams “TREAT YOURSELF” and I  have the perfect secret to share with you on how to achieve this – without breaking the bank!!

I recently discovered a new program called Gift Card Offers that is powered by Samba Days. It’s a gift card program that offers an array of gift cards for various highly rated restaurants, spas, services, products for  15 to 38% percent off the face card value. The cards have no blackout periods, do not expire and can carry a balance. (oh how I love these flexible conditions).

The holidays are officially over. Sad but true. I don’t know about you but I tried my best to make the most of the holiday season. In retrospect, I kept pretty busy. Here’s a recap.

1. I saw three movies: American Hustle, Wolf on Wall Street and Dallas Buyers Club. All I can say is – I can’t wait for the Academy Awards to see who is going to win best actor!

2. I went to a fabulous Christmas event at Kortright Centre for Conservation, that was truly magical. They did an amazing job in regards to creating a perfect atmosphere. Sadly it rained buckets that night – but we still managed to enjoy the activities.

3. I went to see Venus in Fur. That’s right – I saw a PLAY. In fact I’ve seen several plays in the last few months: Les Miserables,  The Musical of Musicals (which has been extended till Jan 12) and Puppet it Up. I’m trying to diversify my interests besides just eating in restaurants!! Ps. The Musical of Musicals was BRILLIANT. I left the theatre with a smile on my face and continue to think about how much fun this production was to watch.

4. I hosted a wine/cheese party (or two). My love for Canadian Cheese continues. I served Celtic Blue Cheese (from Glengarry Fine Cheese), Smoked Cheddar (from Cow’s Creamery) and Louis d’Or (Fromagerie Presbytere). YUM!!

5. I went to the Richmond Hill Wave Pool for my first time. What took me so long? What a fun activity.

6. I made a new soup  with three ingredients: celeriac, celery and an onion. I did not use a recipe. Just winged it.

7. I finally used this organic pancake mix by Grainstorm, which I had been hoarding in my cupboard for a “special occasion”. It’s AMAZING.  Lesson Learned: Buy this product more often and use it regularly – not just on a special occasion.

8. I went to Hockley Valley to ski – err – spa.

9. I celebrated the Winter Solstice in Kensington Market on Sat. Dec 21st. It’s my third year attending this event and the third year that I wasn’t dressed warm enough! When will I learn?

10. I started to read – Open: An Autobiography: Andre Agassi. Can’t remember the last time I read a book (isn’t that sad?). This book has captured my attention…quickly.

It’s been a wonderful two weeks. It did not include palm trees or white sandy beaches – but I was happy – and busy!!

How was your vacation?

I’m not sure how many events I have attended this year but let’s just say I go to A LOT of events. I’m not complaining. Infact, I’m grateful to the many people who have reached out to me over the last few years. Here’s a recap of some of my fav events of 2013.

1. Back in April I was invited to a pretty exclusive event at Tim Hortons. The event introduced their thick cut hickory smoked bacon and included a sensory expert who discussed the physiology  of taste. We also had the opportunity to taste dozens of delicious (um, really delicious) items that included bacon. I was in heaven. Period.

2. I LOVED the Poutine Festival that was put on by Joylister.  I mean it – LOVED. Can’t wait to attend their Grilled Cheese Event in 2014.

3. The White Cashmere Collection Fashion Show was also pretty spectacular. It’s not everyday that I go to a fashion show like this one. The show feature 20 top Canadian designers that created stunning garments and accessories crafted entirely with pure, soft and luxurious Cashmere Bathroom Tissue.

4. Seeing as I take a TON of photos, I was delighted to have been invited to the HP Original You event. This printer is meant for me. Now I can print photos directly from my iPhone in the comfort of my own home. Not to mention, create postcards, cards and MORE!

 

5. The bloggers event at Summer Fresh was informative and tasty too. We toured the plant (which was fascinating) and had the chance to try some of their newly launched products.  What a well done event in many respects. They thought of everything.

6. Metro launched their Metro App at TIFF and guess who was invited? Not only was I treated to a screening but I also had the chance to attend a terrific party on the ROOFTOP of the Thompson Hotel. What a treat.

7. The Montreal Tourism event which included  Schwartz’ssmoked meat…was nothing but brilliant. I really need to visit this spectacular city more often.

8. The Food Media Day at NKPR IT Lounge during TIFF was so much FUN.  This event included tasty treats from: Barilla Pasta,  Mideastro Restaurant, Cold Stone Creamery, SKYY Vodka, BottleGreen and AQUAHYDRATE.

 

9. Meeting Jessica Alba was pretty cool too. I was super impressed to learn about her commitment to the environmental and her product line called Honest.

10. THE BEST EVENT OF 2013: Receiving an invite to attend Media Day for the International Air Show AND getting the opportunity to FLY in one of the planes. #FREAKIN’COOL

2013 was a great year for momwhoruns and I have a feeling 2014 will be another amazing year.

Happy New Years! Wishing everyone a spectacular 2014.

Vicky …..otherwise known as momwhoruns

Von Doughnuts has recently opened on the Danforth (713 to be exact) and of course I had to go visit after my workout! Life is all about “balance” – right?

There are two types of doughnuts: Raised and Cake.  Plus there are a few varieties that are spiked, and some that are savoury. All I can say is “BRING IT ON”.

Here are some examples of their flavours:

Peanut Butter Jelly Time, The Sappy Pig, Chica Cherry Cola, Drunken Night, Curry Coconut etc. I counted 22 flavours on their printed menu but not all of them are available at the counter. I can see myself checking them out in future on Facebook so I can make sure that the flavour I want is available!

This morning, I tried a few! (does this surprise you?). Top Left: Dill-Dough, Bottom Left: Caramel Salt N Pepa, Top Right: Porky Monkey , Bottom Right: Cap ‘N Jack. Clearly someone has a sense of humour when naming these doughnuts.

Verdict: I love the flavour profiles and I love the fact that there’s two different types of doughnuts (cake and raised). My favourite was the Caramel Salt N Peppa. They were all excellent though and I look forward to trying more in the future. This is definitely a place that would be ideal for a tweet up so we could share a whole bunch of flavours. What do you think?

For more info:

Von Doughnuts, 713 Danforth Ave, Toronto ON 416 901 VOND (8663)

Twitter: @vondoughnuts

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vondoughnuts

 

 

 

 

Did you know that Jamie Oliver  recently launched a new line at Sobeys? The line, labeled Compliments presents: Jamie Oliver Discovers Canada, was a year in the making and includes a range of 14 amazing dishes. For example…Herby Lemon Flattened Chicken made with Certified Humane chicken, Scrumptious Seafood Pie and Sweet Cherry Focaccia. Each recipe features the best of Canadian flavours. Not to mention, each product was tested, tasted and approved by Jamie Oliver.

Recently, I had the opportunity to sample each and every one of these dishes at an event! (squeal).

I have to be honest…the frozen section is not an aisle that I normally frequent. But after the opportunity to sample these dishes, I will be frequenting this aisle more often. I simply could not believe how tasty these dishes were. Every single one was a winner!

Top left photo: Lemon Flattened Chicken.  Bottom left photo: an assortment of breads (that I shouldn’t have eaten but I couldn’t resist)
 Top Left : Scrumptious Seafood (a winner), Top Right: Old School Holiday Ham. Bottom Left: Beef Blade Pot Roast. Bottom Right: An Assortment of Tasty Dips

I usually make my own crisp for dessert,  but I would serve Jamie Olivers’ Mixed Berry and Apple crisp in a heart beat. Seriously….THAT GOOD.

Please take a peek at this unique line of products, the next time you visit Sobeys. You will be blown away by the value and the quality.

 

For months, I drove by a window sign that said “Fresh..Coming in the Summer”. I waited and waited and waited. Finally the day arrived (err..it was Fall but that’s OK) and it was open. I was excited to visit as I knew that this location was going to be a hit, for this popular  vegetarian/vegan restaurant. (which now boasts 4 locations).

Heading north of Bloor was a smart strategic move. This is easy for me to say – seeing as I live about a kilometre away!

I love that this particular location is paying attention to the fact that single diners might want the option to sit at a BAR  to eat, and not by themselves at a table. I think I counted THREE bars (by the window…when you first walk in ..and at the back). #ANOTHER #SMART MOVE.

What did we order?

Well I can’t seem to visit Fresh without having these epic quinoa battered onion rings . They come as an appetizer but I wish they came as a main dish!!

We also ordered:  the big salad, the soup of the day with grilled cornbread and hummus, and the picnic burger. Everything was FRESH FRESH FRESH and completely inhaled. Our waiter was also super attentive and helpful too.

For more information:

Fresh on Eglinton…90 Eglinton Ave East, Toronto 416.599.4442 PS take out is available too.

Twitter: @freshoneglinton

Facebook; www.facebook.com/freshsince1999

Instagram: freshrestaurants

Foursquare: Got a message today that if you check in before Dec 31 on Foursquare ,you could become the mayor and win!!

This company really gets social media and gets serving FRESH food. Hope you will get a chance to also visit this location soon.

Disclosure: I was given a gift certificate to visit this location however all opinions in this blog post are my own.

Believe it or not, I occasionally use a few recipes from selected cookbooks that I still own. One such recipe is called “Spiced Bulghur Pilaf with Nuts and Raisins” from a cookbook called Gourmet Vegetarian Feasts by Martha Rose Shulman that was published in 1987!!

This side dish is full of flavour, simple to make and a nice alternative to rice or potatoes. The only issue you might have with this dish – is that you don’t have all the ingredients. I solved this problem with a quick trip to my local bulk store. I ONLY bought 2 tablespoons of what I needed and the one cup of bulghur that was required. Smart move, eh?

Please note: this dish will be that much better if you use fresh ginger and not powdered ginger!

Spiced Bulghur Pilaf with Nuts and Raisins.

INGREDIENTS.

1 cups of bulghar

1 tablespoons of vegetable oil

2 tablespoons slivered almonds

2 tablespoons of cashews

2 tablespoons of pine nuts

5 tablespoons of raisins

1/2 tsp of cumin

1/2 teaspoon cardammon

1 small onion, minced thin

1 clove garlic, minced

1 inch piece of FRESH ginger, grated

3 cups of water

salt to taste

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oil in a saucepan or a frying pan and saute the onions.

2. Heat another frying pan and saute the cashews, pine nuts and almonds till fragrant and slightly brown. 

3. Add the sauteed onions to the nuts and then add the raisins, cumin,cardamon, and ginger,

4. Add the bulghur and stir together. Then add the water. Bring to a boil, add salt to taste and COVER WITH A LID. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and the bulghur is tender.

5. FINAL PRODUCT

 

Happy Cooking!