First Year Anniversary

This is an exciting week. Not only is this National Bike to Work Week, but this week also marks the first anniversary of this blog! I just can’t believe my baby is a year old. I feel like it was just yesterday when I blogged about my first encounter with kohlrabi and I took those pictures where you had no choice but to believe me that the poor vegetable was actually there. The dish tasted great, but I couldn’t take a good picture of it if my life depended on it. I didn’t have any kind of calorie calculation, and I did not attach the recipe itself either. I found my titles funny, but only after one has read through the article. I was truly discovering and forging my style as the weeks and months went by and I’m thankful you were willing to wait while I figured things out. That kohlrabi really was the beginning of an ongoing adventure that constantly morphs and gives me room for more and more self-growth.

Should have blogged about them but didn't: 100% whole wheat rolls

Should have blogged about it but didn't: 100% Whole wheat strawberry Dutch baby

Although I have miles to go, I think I’ve gotten better at taking pictures that really portray what the food is all about. I’ve also improved my way of describing the recipes so that they are easy to follow if you choose to. For some of the recipes that was easy, because they were reproduced or adapted from good cookbooks, sites, or blogs, and of course, proper credit was given. Some of my favorites are the beef chili and goulash from America’s Test Kitchen. They may take some simmering time, but boy, it’s so worth the wait! I made my first, second, and countless batches of blondies inspired by Smitten Kitchen’s. And while I was on a roll, I managed to make a healthy version of one of my childhood’s favorite dishes, chicken cordon bleu, thanks to Rocco Dispirito’s amazing recipe.  And of course, from my favorite cookbook I made a raspberry ricotta cheesecake. Thank you Ellie Krieger for teaching me how to make such a luscious cheesecake, and to feel great after eating it! 

Should have blogged about them but didn't: Cheese and mixed berry crepes

Should have blogged about it but didn't: Baked omelet with red onion, tomatoes and radishes

 

The majority of the recipes I’ve shared though, are my own, so I really had to work on how to best describe them in terms of nutrition and preparation. For most of them, I take advantage of the fresh and local produce, as well as the good deals at my local supermarket. That’s how I ended up making roasted chicken with carrots, potatoes and turnips, spiced butternut squash soup, potato leek soup, meatballs, and roasted Brussels sprouts with leeks, peppers and carrots. Many of my recipes have been inspired by my Puerto Rican heritage, because Ricans know how to eat. My Puerto Rican fried chicken is crispy-yet moist, and finger-licking good. So are my Boricua-style stuffed sweet potatoes, a healthy take on Puerto Rican rellenos de papa. My plantain soup kicks ass (if I can say so myself) and my many Puerto Rican-style ice creams and froyos are a delight, though simple and humble in nature. And it’s not a Rican party until a flan makes an entrance, and my Flan de mango sure hits the spot.  

Should have blogged about it but didn't: Ham, artisan cheddar and caramelized onion and yellow pepper pressed sandwich

Should have blogged about them but didn't: 1/4 pounder burgers, topped with roasted peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, bacon, and spinach on buns with a cream cheese and Greek yogurt spread

There’s much more to be learned and done, but the future seems promising. I have a few projects that will start unfolding during the next few weeks and months. Please, keep on reading, commenting and making suggestions so I can make this blog better! I sincerely thank you all for your feedback through the comments section, on Instagram, on Facebook, on Twitter, and even in person. You keep me going. And just like with my weight loss, consistency, hard work and patience will pay off.

Should have blogged about them but didn't: Roasted turkey "chops" with roasted plantains

Should have blogged about them but didn't: Roasted pork chops with bacon corn bread

Thanks again!!!!

Should have blogged about it but didn't: Guanabana ice cream