Gimme A Gimlet!

I first discovered my love for gimlets after Mad Men's Betty Francis (then Draper) cooly ordered one several seasons ago. Intrigued, I ordered a vodka version the next time we happy-houred and it turned out to be right up my alley: tart, a little sweet, and almost too strong.

Well, I've fallen in love again. Alongside a dinner of Crab BLT Sandwiches (similar to the ones here), these Cucumber-Mint Gimlets are cooler than white shades in the summer. In addition to the refreshing cucumber and mint, this drink gets zing from lemon juice and sweetness from agave (instead of sugar, which is called for in the recipe). Although I usually prefer vodka, gin's unique juniper essence perfectly balances the sharp citrus and the mellow cucumber.

I think this may be my signature summer drink. What's yours?

Happy Searching,

Banh Mi!

It's time to ketchup, mustard! Seriously, this hiatus has gone on too long. So, in no particular order, get ready for a marathon of updates. Because there haven't been any posts since January, but there have been many delicious meals.

Of late? I tried my hand at some Banh Mi (which autocorrects to "Bang Mi"...glad I caught it. That would be awfully misleading).

My inspiration was a relatively new place on South First called Elizabeth Street Cafe. They offer French Vietnamese Cuisine and although we haven't been, I stumbled upon a recipe for the pork sandie around the same time I heard about the restaurant and thought I'd try it out.

I made a few adjustments (used thinly cut pork chops instead of tenderloin--cheaper, required less pounding, nearly as lean), but otherwise pretty much followed the recipe. There are quite a few steps (like pickling the radishes and carrots) that may seem complicated, but are totally worth it.

I'll be curious to see how ours rivals Elizabeth's...I'll have to document when we go and let you know. Any good sandwich discoveries lately?

Happy Searching!

Dreaming of Carne Asada Fries

So, my resolution to write more has been off to a slow start. Can you believe it's nearly February?!? January has been full of busy days and yummy meals. We are slimming down our diets (with hopes of slimming down ourselves) following a "health hiatus" that ensued over the holidays.

One of the many holiday indulgences was from our old SD fave, El Portal (previously featured here around this same time last year). Their El Portal fries (which are delicious by themselves) are covered in crispy carne asada, creamy guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese. After adding our own sprinkle of cilantro and hot sauce, these fries were a dream come true...

Oh, El Portal Fries, I think of you when I'm on the treadmill...you are both by punishment and my reward. Any guilty pleasures you miss when you're on a health kick? :)

Happy Searching!