Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

There are some flavors that I simply cannot get enough of.  And such are the flavors of one of my absolute favorite sauces: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa.  I began making this bold, tangy, bright and ever-so-scrumptious treat years ago as my go-to accompaniment to fish tacos--perfect for drizzling over crispy or grilled fish and for dipping with tortilla chips.  But, I soon realized that this treasure could be enjoyed on just about anything, from eggs, to steak, to enchiladas, to any way you please.

Tomatillos are used heavily throughout Mexican and Central American Cuisine

I especially savor this recipe because it yields a warm salsa that's somehow more delectable--a byproduct of the roasted vegetables.  Effortless to bring together, there is every reason for this to become a part of your condiment repertoire forever.  Forever. 

Happy Eating!

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Recipe adapted from Tyler Florence

Ingredients:
1 lb. tomatillos, husked and rinsed
1 large white onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves
2 jalapeno peppers
1/2 cup cilantro
1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons ground cumin
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 

Method:
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees F.

Place vegetables on a baking sheet and roast in pre-heated oven for 12-15 minutes.  Remove vegetables from oven and add to blender or food processor, along with salt, cumin, lime juice, vinegar and cilantro.  

Using the pulse function, blend to desired chunky texture.  Check for seasoning, serve and enjoy!
(Cook's Note: If a mild salsa is preferred, halve the jalapeno peppers and remove the ribs and seeds before using.) 
 

The Best Guacamole

If you've never tried your hand at homemade guacamole, today's post will give you just what you need to finally check it off your bucket list--and remove any excuses for doing otherwise.  How can I be so sure?  Because beyond the fulfillment of making it (or anything, really) from scratch, is the realization that it's truly quite easy to create amazing "guac". 

The essentials?  Buttery, ripened avocados. Fresh tomatoes. Onion. Garlic. Jalapeno. Cilantro. Salt. Freshly squeezed lime juice. 

  
Got it?  Then you're ready to make the freshest, most delicious, "they keep asking me to bring the 'guac'", guacamole you've ever tasted.  Within minutes of assembling your ingredients, you will have a creamy, decadent bite that's worthy of your favorite tortilla chips, atop chili or soups, slathered on toast, piled on tacos--or whatever your pleasure! 

Happy Eating!

The Best Guacamole

printable recipe

Ingredients:
3 softened, ripened avocados
2 roma tomatoes, diced with seeds removed
1 jalapeno, minced (remove seeds to reduce heat)
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 onion or medium shallot, finely diced
Juice of 1-2 limes
Kosher salt to taste
Bunch of cilantro, roughly chopped

Method:
Peel avocados, place in a medium bowl and roughly chop or mash.  Add in tomatoes, jalapeno, onion, garlic, lime juice and salt.  Mix to combine and taste for seasoning.  Sprinkle in cilantro and give a final stir to combine.  Enjoy!

 
 
 

Postcard from Puerto Vallarta: Cuisine, Adventure & Paradise

From the first moments of my arrival in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico--blanketed with the warm and balmy weather that served as the perfect haven from the wind and cold storm I had barely escaped back home--until my departure several days later, I was enthralled in a state of perpetual discovery and delight that cemented this tropical paradise as a destination that is brimming with life, luxury, adventure, and its own special charm that is not to be missed.  

Each day brought unique flavor, discovery and the occasional element of surprise, as the people, places, sights and tastes of Puerto Vallarta were uncovered. And every passing moment seemed to build on the beauty, wonder and grandness of the previous, culminating into an epic journey that is best shared as it unfolded: day by day.

Day 1

My stay began with a relaxed afternoon at my home away from home, the Fiesta Americana Hotel, getting comfortably settled into my digs, which included taking in the sweeping views from my balcony, followed by a late lunch on the beach and an amazingly gorgeous sunset.  From there, I indulged in a bit of pampering at the hotel spa before preparing for dinner.  The evening was capped with a stellar six-course menu served in one of the beautiful private dining areas within the hotel.  Those first hours within Puerto Vallarta’s corridors were a welcomed introduction to its relaxing, yet sophisticated, offerings and proved to be the perfect harbinger of all the exquisite tastes, sights and scenes that awaited my discovery.  

Day 2

A relatively early start the next morning gave way to taking in more of the scenic beach, replete with a gorgeous, mountainous backdrop, as well as a breakfast buffet that dished up popular Mexican fare, like my favorite chilaquiles, along with more traditional dishes, providing something for everyone. 

As the afternoon rolled around, I was off to the CasaMagna MarriotPuerto Vallarta Resort & Spa for a delightful lunch and more of the beach scene.  

A decadent dessert served as the perfect sweet ending

I had already begun chatting up the locals the day before for tips and recommendations on where to go to experience the heart of Puerto Vallarta and the overwhelming response was the fabulous Malecon Boardwalk.

With a few hours available to explore before the evening festivities began, I eagerly headed to the highly touted Malecon and immediately understood why the locals regarded it.  Flanked by the ocean, and dotted with restaurants, shops, breathtaking sculpture art, and the buzz of its people, the Malecon seemed to embody the heart of the culture of Puerto Vallarta in an exciting, yet equally relaxed, way.  If I lived there, I could see myself spending untold hours in this hub of beauty, energy, culture and cuisine.  My few hours of exploration were simply not enough, and I left desiring more.

Back at the hotel, it was time to “clean up” in anticipation of the evening’s World Chef’s Welcome Party, the kickoff event of the 19^th annual Festival Gourmet International.  Dressed and ready to indulge in the excitement of the things to come, I took the short walk down to my hotel’s beach, which had been beautifully transformed to welcome the festival’s premier chefs and guests.  From there, an unforgettably special evening unfolded before me.   

Gorgeously dressed tables lined the sand, while live entertainment serenaded the crowd, and a tangible pulse rippled through the air.  And just when I thought it couldn't get any grander, celebrated chefs from throughout Mexico--and beyond--arrived in high style via small sailboats.   Attentions then turned to a Mexican feast that was served buffet style, highlighting each chef's offerings.  The good times lasted into the wee hours of the night, replete with fireworks, celebration, laughter, music, more food, and dancing.  It was a welcome party to trump all others and the perfect ending to another exceptional day.

Festival Co-Founder, Distinguished Chef and Restauranteur, Thierry Blouet

Day 3

The next day began with a relatively early start as I prepared for my day trip to San Sebastian del Oeste, a quaint town on the outskirts of Puerto Vallarta that maintains the feel and character of "Old World Mexico" that seemed to transport me to an earlier, simpler time.   With a lively and well-versed tour guide from Vallarta Adventures leading the way, it was a day spent immersed in history, culture, food and heritage, while meeting local artisans and shop keepers, touring a beautiful church and relishing in my opportunity to make homemade tortillas during our lunch at Los Arrayanes restaurant.


With a full day of activity already under my belt, it would take something as amazing as the evening's Gourmet Safari to keep my mojo flowing--and, oh, how it did!  Another highlight of the Festival Gourmet, the Gourmet Safari was geniusly curated, allowing for a dining experience at several of Puerto Vallarta's acclaimed restaurants--highlighting the owners, chefs and guest chefs who served up amazing cuisine and hospitality.  

A 'food crawl' of luxurious proportions, the evening kicked off with a decadent lobster first course and a table-side serenade at Restaurant Michel.  I had the pleasure of meeting the namesake and owner and chatting about the vision behind his restaurant and his place within the Puerto Vallarta foodscape.  I even snagged a brief introduction to the evening's guest chef as he busily led the charge in the kitchen.  Satisfied and well-perched, I was off to indulge in each subsequent course--taking in a new restaurant, ambiance, culinary savvy and all-around excitement along the way.  Four additional restaurants later, concluding with one absolutely, scrumptious dessert course of Pecan Pie and Ice Cream at Kaiser Maximillan, I felt privileged to have captured unique memories of Puerto Vallarta's gastronomy, fine dining scene and culture in such magnitude. 

And still there was more to explore, experience and relish.

Day 4
 
I awoke to falling rain and wondered how the brief turn in the weather would impact my morning agenda of a local food tour.  Leaving the comfort of the resort, I headed into town to begin an excursion with Vallarta Food Tours that would introduce me to the heart of Puerto Vallarta's food scene.  The walking tour intersected the streets, stands, restaurants and purveyors of the best in authentic, Mexican fare. 

 
Tucked away gems and local favorites marked our exploration, and I indulged in amazing mole, tacos, chocolate, ceviche, coconut, hearty soups, and more along the way, while our jovial tour guide shared the traditions and stories that imparted greater appreciation for each experience and bite.  (And somewhere in the midst of it all, the rain subsided for clear skies!)  I have always counted Mexican cuisine as one of my favorites and as the tour came to an end, I was more convinced than ever.

The day's momentum continued as my food adventure gave way to real-life adventure at Dolphin Discovery Vallarta.  I opted not to swim with the dolphins this time around, but enjoyed watching the action, as well as a special one-on-one session with one of the loveable creatures.  I ended my time with a kiss from a ginormous sea lion to seal the deal.

 
Back at the hotel, it was time to prepare for my final evening within Puerto Vallarta's enchanted borders and one unforgettable dinner that proved to be a most perfect ending.  A dreamy Chef's Table experience in a private dining room was the set-up for my party at Cafe des Artistes, replete with a decadent multi-course menu and personal tour by Owner and Executive Chef, Thierry Blouet. Being guided through the restaurant's art adorned and beautifully styled interiors and exteriors, including a stop by the kitchen to witness a bit of the action, caused my mouth to gasp and my eyes to sparkle more than once.  It was a magnificent evening in every way imaginable and left me seriously wanting more of this jewel of Mexico. 

  

Day 5

The morning greeted me with bright sunshine, and I drank in yet another glorious view from my balcony, ending my time in Puerto Vallarta almost exactly as it had begun days before.  Memories of my many splendored discoveries flooded my thoughts and left me anticipating my return to this beautiful oasis.  And with that, I was off to take on the friendly skies and return home from this most extraordinary of travel journeys.

In the days ahead, I'll also share my picks for the best of Puerto Vallarta for when you decide to visit.  Until then...

Happy Eating & Traveling!

Pico de Gallo & Chile Spiced Tortilla Chips

So it's game day and you're in snack mode and about to reach for the chips and dip yet again.  But before you consider another round of chips and dip as usual, switch gears and bring some of your game day/tailgating/snacking/entertaining focus to chips and dips--as they should be.

I'm a chips and salsa aficionado (if ever there was such a thing), and this pico is everything I love: bright and fresh ingredients, with the perfect accent of kick and punch from the jalapeno and lime juice.  Beyond a chip companion, this pico is just as delicious atop chili or as a side salad.

Now for the tortilla chips.  First off, they are baked--not fried--and come out of the oven golden and crisp, as every tortilla chip should.  Finished with a smoky, chile salt blend, it's another level in indulgent snacking. 

 
So let the games--and good eats--begin!

Happy Eating!

Pico de Gallo & Chile Spiced Tortilla Chips

Pico de Gallo
Ingredients:
4-5 Roma tomatoes, chopped
1/4 red onion, diced
1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
1 bunch of cilantro, chopped
The juice of 1 lime
Salt, to taste 

Method:
Add the ingredients to a bowl, toss to combine and enjoy!

Chile Spiced Tortilla Chips
Ingredients:
Corn tortillas, cut into quarters
Non-stick cooking spray
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon chile powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Method:
Preheat the oven to 350 F.

Combine salt, chile powder, cumin and cayenne pepper in a bowl.  Set aside.

Arrange cut tortillas on a foil lined baking sheet.  Spray with cooking spray and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove baked tortilla chips from the oven and immediately finish with a sprinkling of the chile salt.  Enjoy!
 
     

Postcard from Riviera Maya: A Mexican Fiesta + Churros

For me, any vacation that involves sand, ocean and abundant sunshine is like a taste of heaven on earth. And enjoying it amidst a girls' getaway makes it even more special.  That was the scene when I traveled to the Riviera Maya a couple of years ago.  My friend and I had one supreme agenda: R&R.  Hers translated to rest and recreation (horseback riding on the beach, a local tour, roller blading and such); mine stayed true to the more traditional rest and relaxation regimen, heavy with beach, beach and more beach, although I did enjoy a bike ride around the stunning resort grounds, a tour of the main dining kitchen, a casual cooking lesson, a dance lesson here and there, and the nightly (almost karaoke) live band. :)  

And of course, there was the food.  The resort boasted several restaurants specializing in varied cuisines from French to Thai to Italian to American--and their signature Mexican.  As resort food goes, it was pretty good.  

A fun lesson on making guacamole

On our last evening there, however, we were delighted with an authentic Mexican fiesta, replete with gorgeous dancers and Mariachi for entertainment, and a feast to remember.  I enjoyed every minute of the lively celebration and the beautifully displayed foodscape, especially the lavish dessert bar that featured, among other delicacies, churros.  Well, you don't have to guess if I indulged.

While I'm not in Mexico today, this recipe for churros, along with my memories, brings Mexico home to me.  If you love sweet, cinnamon-y, fried pastry dough (who doesn't?!), then you'll want to make these.  And for extra yumminess, pair them with decadent hot chocolate for sipping or melted chocolate for dipping.  So. Good.

Churros!

Happy Eating!

Churros

Ingredients: 

1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1/3 cup water
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon grated orange peel
Pinch of salt
1 egg
Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Method:

Combine sugar and ground nutmeg. Spread on plate.

Combine flour, water, butter, orange peel and salt in medium saucepan. Stir constantly over low heat until dough forms ball and leaves film on bottom of pan, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Transfer to processor. Blend in egg.

Heat oil in deep skillet to 350°F. Spoon batter into pastry bag fitted with 1/4-inch star tip. Working in batches, pipe batter onto oil in about 4-inch-long ribbons. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally, about 3 minutes. Transfer to paper towels and drain. Turn churros in sugar mixture and serve.

Recipe Courtesy of Epicurious.com