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!

Vacay

Lately, I've been on extended vacation--from just about everything, except spending time with family, friends, and food.

My vacation has taken me to Colorado where I visited my parents and celebrated 32 years of being in this fabulous food-filled world...to San Diego where I bridal-showered with my best friend and enjoyed my hometown and the company of my in-laws...and to Vegas where I broke even on the slot machines but hit the gastronomical jackpot.

I'll give you a bit of a preview...an amuse bouche, if you will. There have been burgers...

and bacon milkshakes...

and Happy Hours...

and pastries...

and pizzas...

and giant ribeyes.

So, stay tuned for some tasty tidbits!

Happy Searching,

I Heart Carne Asada

In case you don't know how much I love (and miss) SoCal Mexican food, this post will bring you up to speed. Or I'll just tell you now. Mucho. I miss it mucho.

The best carne asada burrito I've ever had is from El Portal in San Diego. So, thankfully, Ryan and I were able to snag some nostalgia in the form of two giant carne asada burritos during our visit to San Diego over Christmas. Unfortunately, the picture doesn't come close to doing them justice. (I was much more concerned with eating my burrito than photographing it at the time...the trouble with being a hungry girl).

The burritos at El Portal are fabulously balanced with just the right amount of fresh guacamole, pico de gallo and lean meat, all wrapped tightly in a homemade tortilla. El Portal's meat is what really steals the show, though. It's chargrilled, full of flavor, and incredibly tender. Holy smokes, I could eat some right this second.

And did I mention that these burritos are big? HUGE. I mean, as big as your head. Really! Here's some perspective:

This photo went up with much dispute (I'm sorry, Senor Blake) but it's really the only way to show just how gigantic these burritos are. Normally, a burrito this size would have a little bit of meat, a lot of rice, and some salsa and fixings. At El Portal? Almost all meat. Carne asada, you are my numero uno.

Happy Searching,

My Favorite Meal

There really isn't a time when I don't enjoy eating. Just woke up? Starving. Back from a jog? Immediately famished. Sick? A snack usually always makes me feel better. Choosing my favorite meal time may appear to be challenging, but what would normally be a difficult decision is surprisingly easy. My favorite meal is brunch. It's the best of both breakfast and lunch. Genius.

In addition to the word itself (it sounds so bright and elegant and deliciously promising) and the fact that it's usually served on a weekend (relaxation), brunch offers several of my favorite things. Coffee? Yep.
Prefer champagne? (Who doesn't?) Check. Breakfast choices when your sweet tooth is flaring up (like French toast or pancakes)? Yup. Savory indulgences like Eggs Benedict smothered in hollandaise? You betcha.

A few months ago, we went to brunch at Enoteca Vespaio and enjoyed a relaxing morning of coffee, conversation, and brunchy bites.

We were both feeling more savory than sweet, even though I was tempted by the bread basket served with Nutella and marmalade. Ryan ordered the Croque Madame, a classic French version of a ham and cheese sandwich. Gruyere cheese and smoky ham, baked until golden bubbly and then topped with two perfect eggs. Mmmmmm.

I settled on the poached eggs with spinach, roasted tomatoes and brown butter hollandaise and was not disappointed. Fresh spinach, intensely flavored tomatoes, golden yolked-eggs cooked to perfection. The side of carmelized onion homefries alone were worth the price of admission. Yum. And the brown butter hollandaise? I seriously considered licking it off the plate.

Truthfully, Ryan's looked prettier (hence the pic), but mine tasted better. Both were good, but mine was awesome.

The next time we have a hankering for a bistro brunch, we plan to head back. I've already got my eye on the pressed prosciutto, fontina, arugula, and truffled egg panino. Doesn't that sound amazing?

Ahhh, brunch. Where are your favorite spots?

Happy Searching!

The Great BBQ Debate

There are few dilemmas in our household when it comes to BBQ. Thankfully, there are no disagreements about where to get it: the best bbq is at the Salt Lick, unanimously. (It's the one that's been featured on tons of shows on both Food Network and The Travel Channel).

We both know where to go. Our debate surrounds what to order when we get there. The two topics in question?

1. Beef vs. Pork (Ryan vs. Jen)
2. To Side or Not to Side (Jen vs. Ryan)

Pork Baby Backs with Sides

Beef Ribs with Sides

1. Beef vs. Pork (Ryan vs. Jen)
If the Salt Lick had bacon, I'm pretty sure this one would easily go to the pig. But, Ryan had the Beef Ribs for the first time a few Sundays ago and I've never seen a man eat with such conviction. I had the Pork Baby Back Ribs (which were incredible), but Ryan said (and I quote) "These beef ribs are so good, I want to hang the bones up above the mantle."

We don't even have a mantle (thank goodness) but Ryan says those were hands-down the best ribs he's ever had. I think I prefer the pork ribs since they are a bit leaner; Ryan likes the beef because they are fattier and meatier. Where do you weigh in on the meat debate?

2. To Eat or Not to Eat Sides (Jen vs. Ryan)
Sides are given their name for a reason--they're not the main dish and are often forgettable. (Ryan claims that they just take up valuable stomach real estate.) And, I have to say, traditional bbq sides don't do much for me. But. The Salt Lick has mastered theirs.

The potato salad is unlike anything I've ever tasted, and I think that's why I can't turn it down. In more of a German-style application (vinegar/mustard based) with sesame oil (strange, I know, but trust me) and diced onions. The coleslaw is crisp without having a raw cabbage texture and isn't drowning in dressing--it's fresh, flavorful, and the perfect compliment to a roll topped with brisket. And the beans--oh, the beans. They are probably the plainest of the three sides but their simplicity is what wins me over. Pinto beans in a pinto sauce...I don't know even how they do it. So, what do you think--sides or not?

I'm not sure we'll reach a timely conclusion on these issues, but I'm happy to eat Ryan's serving of potato salad in the meantime.

Happy Searching,

Chilaquiles...Every Time

I know I said in a previous post that I like to branch out and try new things, but I'm beginning to think I led you astray...every time I go to the Old Town Mexican Cafe in San Diego, I get the exact same thing: the chilaquiles with red sauce, my eggs over easy, and a side of corn tortillas.

I've tried to order other dishes, I really have. They have terrific cheese enchiladas and their carne asada is great. But. I've ordered chilaquiles elsewhere and I've never tasted any that are half as good as the ones from Old Town Mex. So that's what I order...every time.

Chilaquiles are basically corn tortillas (or day old tortilla chips) baked in an enchilada-type sauce, then topped with eggs, green onions, and queso fresco (a crumbly Mexican cheese). Served beside a generous spoonful of refried beans (also topped with melted cheese), I cannot resist them.

The combination may sound strange. It may look odd, what with the egg-yolk-river and all. And I understand your hesitation. All I can say is that when you tear off some of that homemade corn tortilla and wrap it around the perfect ratio of eggs, beans, chips, and cheese, you know what delicious is. And you just may not order anything else again.

Happy Searching,

Ode to Taco Shops

Taco shops, oh taco shops

Your greasy grub is the best

Although others try to compete,

Your Mexican food beats the rest!

You're one of my favorite features

Of the Southern California scene

Tex-Mex is not Mexican Food

(and I'm sorry if that sounds mean...)

But Robertos, Albertos, Sombreros,

Juanitas, Los Panchos and more

Serve in-and-out grub with minimal flair

And delicious choices galore!

Carne Asada's a favorite of mine

But Carnitas are tasty as well

Burritos as big as your head, if you want

And their beans are better than swell

We got our fix from Lolita's

And their comida lived up to its name

A Chula Vista childhood fave,

They were on top of their game

Five Super Rolled Tacos

With guac, lettuce, crema and cheese,

And Carne Asada Fries?

You bet! Por favor! Yes, please!

And one California Burrito

Full of French fries, cheese, guacamole

Some Carne Asada to top it all off...

Dios Mio! Delish! Holy Moley!

For now, I'll be dreaming of salsa

And homemade tortillas, too...

Until next time, Taco Shoppies,

I bid you a delicious adieu!

Happy Searching!

Burger Bliss @ Cherry Cricket

Have you ever seen the Food Network show Best Thing I Ever Ate? Being the food lovers that we are, it's one that we view regularly. Chefs reveal their favorite dishes within a certain theme (best breakfast, best barbeque, etc). I actually don't have a lot of absolute favorites (I like to keep my options open). But if I were on the show about burgers, I'd know exactly what I'd pick. The best burger I ever ate? The Little Cricket Burger at Cherry Cricket in Denver, CO.

The Cricket is a Denver mainstay that's been around since 1945. After changing hands (and locations) a few times, it's still serving up fantastic burgers and brewskis in the chic Cherry Creek district.

What makes the burgers so unparalleled is that each ingredient is incredibly delicious. The beef, which has just the right amount of fat and is cooked to order, sits atop a fresh-baked bun that perfectly absorbs the patty's juices. The menu lists over 20 toppings to choose from so you can customize to heart's content. In the mood for a White Cheddar-Grilled Onion-BBQ Sauce combo? Or maybe you feel like Blue Cheese Crumbles & Sauteed Mushrooms? It isn't easy to decide, but you really can't go wrong.

This time, I went with a Bacon-Smoked Cheddar-Green Chile Strip version and threw on an onion ring for good measure. The result? Absolute burger bliss. Alongside a basket of fries and an icy cold Coors, I experienced burger euphoria.

If you're ever in Denver, it's a must. And if you're not? Well, it just may be worth the trip.

Happy Searching!


p.s. Hats off to Mama & Papa B for introducing me to this little piece of heaven--they're Denver natives and have been dining at the Cricket for years. Muah!

Madam Mam's is Thai-riffic

Do you ever go to a restaurant and order the exact same thing every time? Being the lovers of food that we are, Ryan and I make it a point to expand our gastronomical horizons and sample different dishes. But. I love me some curry. And I just can't seem to make it past the Panang...

Thai cuisine--I know--is much more than just curry. I mean no disrespect to the culture or culinary world by seeming so narrow-minded. But this is one of those instances where I find a good thing and stick with it. Panang Curry is my Thai version of "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". I order it every single time.

Sure, I'm willing to try other things (usually off of Ryan's plate, since I always order the same thing). It's just that I love the contrast of the spicy red curry, the cool coconut milk, and the sweet Thai basil, all swimming together in a luxurious broth.

Madam Mam's is just the place for my Thai fix. It's a perfect example of why you shouldn't judge a book by its cover; at first glance, it appears to be a bit rundown. The plywood signs adorning the restaurant have been painted bubblegum pink with red letters.

So when we entered and found these bright, whimsical umbrellas hanging from the ceiling,

our reservations were beginning to fade away. Enter some delicious Panang Curry and they were gone completely!

Ryan ordered some sizzling pork soup that arrived in a giant bowl and had equally big flavor. We also shared an order of Chicken Satay which was awesome--grilled perfectly and served with a savory peanut dipping sauce.

If you're ever in South Austin and feeling like it's time for some Thai, don't let the signage scare you... Madam Mam's is the place to go!

Happy Searching,

Cupcake Summer

Today is the last day of school and after my first unofficial year as a teacher (a teacher without a class), I have learned a few things. 

1. Kids are hilarious...I laugh at something crazy they've said everyday. 
2. Teachers are just as excited for summer vacation as students. 
And my favorite revelation? 
3. Nice teachers get treats at the end of the year.

One of the second grade girls I worked with (and her family) surprised me with half a dozen Delish cupcakes that were so gorgeous I actually gasped when I saw them. They were stunningly beautiful--delicately dusted with this edible fairy-dust-glitter and dotted with dragées (those little candied silver beads).

Each lovely cupcake was different...I got to sample Ginger Carrot, Espresso Cream, and Banana Chocolate among Strawberry, Chocolate, and Vanilla (not all in one sitting, of course).   

So, my final reflection of the year is this: I love my job. Despite the fact that teaching is incredibly hard work (and it is--seriously), I get to laugh everyday with 7-year-old cuties who...every now and then...bring me cupcakes. How lucky am I?!?

Happy Summer! And...

Happy Searching!

The Mother of All Weekends, Part 3

After two full days of delicious adventures (documented here and here), Mama B and I tackled our third day like it was our first.

We started our day off with a Starbucks (Mama=Grande Cinnamon Dolce, Me=Double Tall Nonfat Latte) and then hit the road for some snacks and shopping.

One thing Mama B really wanted to try while she was in Austin was a kolache. Originating from Central Europe, kolaches are pastries with sweet or savory fillings. The pastry itself is similar to a Hawaiian sweet bread--super yummy. The fillings are usually fruit (blueberry, apple, etc) or some kind of sausage (like a homemade pig in the blanket).

We found a place on our way to the San Marcos Outlet Mall that had a good mix of both. Dos Gatos is a cute little place run by two brothers right off the Texas State campus. They served up blueberry cream cheese, sausage cheddar, and polish sausage sauerkraut kolaches that were fresh and scrumptious.

An afternoon of shopping had us famished and we were ready for some nourishment. Lockhart, TX is a stone's throw from the outlets and known to be the The Barbecue Capital of Texas. Four big BBQ giants reside in this town and share a rivalry similar to the Geno's vs. Pat's cheesesteak battle in Philly.

After much consideration, we decided on Smitty's. They believe their barbecue is so good you don't need sauce or silverware, so we followed suit and ate our brisket, pork chop, and ribs primitively. Overall very tasty, but the brisket did need a bit of sauce (which we discovered was available behind the counter--just ask sheepishly and they'll provide some). I'm definitely open to giving the other joints a shot, but Smitty's was pretty good.

The best barbecue chaser? A hot fudge malt from Sonic (times two!). The hot fudge adds a richness that plain ol' chocolate sauce doesn't offer. If you've never tried it in a malt or shake, give it a go--you won't be disappointed!

A delicious weekend! Looking forward to our next visit, Mama B. One question though: What are we going to eat? ;o)

Happy Searching,

The Mother of All Weekends, Part 2

My previous post recounted the first day of our Mother's Day Weekend Smorgasbord. Here's Day 2 of our devourings:

Sunday morning, I woke Mama B up with some mixed berry scones with homemade orange honey butter, recipe courtesy of Tyler Florence. The scones were pretty good (especially warm) but the butter was the star. Who knew it was so easy to make your own butter?!? Throw some cream into a mixer and 5 minutes later, you've got the best butter you've ever tasted. So easy, so delish!

After our scones settled, we had brunch at the Eastside Cafe. The first time I ate there, I knew I would have to come back with my mom. The Cafe is actually a quaint little house, complete with a huge garden behind it where all of the produce is grown. Everything is fresh, local, and very tasty.

This Shrimp & Goat Cheese Quesadilla was a last minute addition to our order and probably the best dish at the Cafe--perfectly crispy on the outside, gooey and melted on the inside and gone in two minutes!

After our meal, we were ready for a stroll in the garden. Everything from lettuce to squash grew abundantly, providing a lovely setting.

Later that evening (after a nap, I believe), Ryan treated us to Pineapple Margaritas and Fish Tacos. The margs were perfectly frothy, fruity, and refreshing.  Don't you want a gulp?

The tacos: spicy tilapia dressed with a cool sour cream sauce, then topped with crumbled queso fresco inside a warm flour tortilla. Soooo good!  

Needless to say, we went to bed with extremely satisfied tastebuds...but not before planning our meals for the next day. Check back for kolaches and barbeque from Lockhart, the Texas Bar-B-Q Capital!

Happy Searching,

The Mother of All Weekends, Part 1

I was so excited to have my mom in town for Mother's Day. As I began to plan the agenda for the weekend, the first question that had to be answered: What are we going to eat?

Luckily, my mom and I are of the same mind when it comes to food (I wonder how that happened...). We live to eat and plan our days accordingly. We are often discussing what we should do for lunch while we are eating breakfast. It's awesome.

So, I wanted our time together to be filled with yummy things and all in all, it was a delicious weekend.

We spent Saturday at the Lake Austin Spa and enjoyed some incredible food. We shared scallop ceviche, watermelon gazpacho, an avocado chicken panini, and some frozen yogurt...in our bathrobes! It was heavenly (and much too relaxing to be bothered with a camera, so there are no pictures...sorry).

What better to follow up a healthy day at the spa than with some barbeque? We were in Austin, after all, and I knew just the spot: County Line Bar-B-Q. Being the dainty spa girls that we are, we promptly ordered the Meat Sampler Platter and a pitcher of Shiner. Brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs, and smoked turkey? You betcha!

We sat out on the deck, listened to some great live music, and licked every last bit of the barbeque sauce off of our fingers (I threatened to get Mama B a straw to slurp the remaining side of sauce until I realized she would really do it). You can take the girl out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the girl!

Once our savory cravings were satisfied, it was time for a little something sweet. Luckily, I knew where to go for that, too. Central Market is an Austin grocery store with lots of specialty items but more importantly, a gelato bar. I introduced Mama to this gelato during her last visit and we both became hooked on the same flavor: The Donatella. Creamy and studded with crunchy chocolate-covered waffle bits, it's basically Nutella in gelato form. The chocolate hazelnut flavor is insanely good.

Stay tuned for Part 2...scones and quesadillas and margaritas, oh my!

In the meantime...

Happy Searching!

Burger Love

I could never be a vegetarian. Sometimes I feel bad about eating meat because of where it comes from, but I ultimately surrender to my carnivorous ways. This usually occurs when one of two things are nearby: hamburgers or bacon.

Needless to say, I am always in search of a delicious burger. A few weeks ago in Ft. Worth, I found one at Love Shack.

The Shack is owned by Tim Love, a chef who competed in--and won--Iron Chef America. It's a casual but chic hotspot serving up yummy burgers and sides to go with it.

What I really like about Love Shack is all of the thoughtful details that go into every aspect of the restaurant. The burgers are juicy and served with a homemade special sauce (ala In-N-Out). The fries and potato chips are sliced on the premises and perfectly crispy.  The atmosphere is playful, including a patio full of comfy outdoor couches and chalkboard walls in the powder room (you're actually encouraged to post some graffiti!)  

In a world full of flimsy burgers and fast food, Love Shack is a classy burger joint that takes the time to serve it up right. The attention to detail has not gone unnoticed...we'll be stopping by for some Burger Love the next time we're in town!

Happy Searching,

p.s. They also have amazing milkshakes--I had a Vanilla Heath creation that was to die for.