Edible Chrysanthemum Steamed Snapper

There is only one assurance for the lack of inspiration to put together entirely-new-and-creative dishes: the opportunity to revisit and redo some of my <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/04/garland-chrysanthemum-tong-ho-steamed.html">older recipes</a>, and perhaps give them new life.<br /><br />Today, the tofu (plant or vegetarian protein) in this recipe <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/04/garland-chrysanthemum-tong-ho-steamed.html">Edible Chrysanthemum Greens Steamed Tofu</a> is replaced by snapper fillet. Not only an easy dish to prepare, this dish is also healthy and nutritious. Do not expect strong and robust flavors; but if you are into the light and fresh flavors of steamed fish complemented by the flowery scent of <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/Chrysanthemum">Edible Chrysanthemum (<i>Shungiku</i>)</a>, this is it.<br /><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7473/16240824991_14d0fa446f_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0086ANRGU&asins=B0086ANRGU&linkId=01630cdbcd83bdbc9de9310936562fd2&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b><i>Shungiku </i>Edible Chrysanthemum Greens Steamed Snapper Fillet</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />1 medium-size fresh snapper fillet<br />[<i>Season/marinate the fish</i>] 1tbsp sake/cooking wine+ 1 tsp of organic light soy sauce +1/2 tsp of toasted sesame oil + 1tsp grated ginger, pinch of sea salt and ground white pepper<br />Handfuls of <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/03/garland-chrysanthemum-tong-ho-or.html">Edible Chrysanthemum Greens</a>, rinse to clean<br />1/2 tsp of toasted sesame oil drizzled over the fish before serving<br />1 green onions finely chopped, as garnish <br />Pinch of <a href="https://amzn.to/2M6w9Tz">Japanese <i>Togarashi </i>seven-spice powder</a> to taste <br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Season the fish, set aside for 10 mins. Prepare the wok for steaming. Lay the greens on a wide-area plate. Place the lightly marinated fish on the greens. When wok is ready, steam the fish for about 12 mins (or longer, depending on thickness of fillet) till cooked through. Drizzle sesame oil, garnish with green onions, and pinch of <a href="https://amzn.to/2M6w9Tz">seven-spice powder</a> over the steamed fish, then serve immediately as it is best to enjoy the dish immediately after it is done.<br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Edible+Chrysanthemum+Greens" rel="tag">Edible Chrysanthemum Greens</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/steamed+snapper+fillet" rel="tag">steamed snapper fillet</a></span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Edible Chrysanthemum Steamed Snapper

There is only one assurance for the lack of inspiration to put together entirely-new-and-creative dishes: the opportunity to revisit and red...

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Chickpea-Tuna Veggie Quinoa Bowl

Remember this <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2017/08/tuna-chickpeas-lettuce-endive-wraps.html">Chickpea-Tuna Lettuce Endive Wrap</a> ? Besides chicken, eggs, vegetarian <i>tempeh</i> and tofu, <b>Chickpea-Tuna Mix</b> has become one of the latest protein add-ons to my salad bowl meals (<i>a.k.</i>a <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/grain%20bowls">grain bowls</a> or <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/workout%20meals">workout meals</a>). Certainly, this grain bowl can be made vegetarian by omitting the tuna - simply use chickpeas or other legumes as meatless protein mix-in.<br /><br />This Chickpea-Tuna Mix is quick and easy to make - less than 30 minutes, no stove required; it is also a superb make-ahead dish that you can prepare on Sunday, and good for powering up healthy lunches for the week ahead.<br /><br />To prepare a healthy wholesome grain bowl, always start with a base of colorful vegetables and greens, for example a spring mix of green and red leaf lettuces, radicchio and arugula.<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4379/35912388733_1be1282284_z.jpg" /><br /><br />To boost the nutrition and to have a forkful of textures and flavors, add more vegetables and fruits such as cucumbers, tomatoes, red cabbage, steamed asparagus, like this:<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4350/36021886193_b782a51f18_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><a name="more"></a>On top of the base of salad leafy greens, you can also do avocado, apples, cucumber, red cabbage, chickpea-tuna and cooked quinoa.<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4345/35912391533_00c2847272_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00HEZ8A6K&asins=B00HEZ8A6K&linkId=adea9f90ec6d7cd3ae1b9f4f70c7645d&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Chickpea-Tuna Mix</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i><br />1 can 12.5 oz organic chickpeas, lightly rinsed and drained<br />1 can tuna (<a href="https://amzn.to/2AqnNEM">Safe Catch brand</a>, marketed as "<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Lowest Mercury Limit of any Brand</span></i>"). (<span style="color: blue;">Note</span>: leave out the tuna for vegetarians)<br />1/2 small red onion, finely diced<br />Juice from 1/2 lime or lemon<br />1tsp organic dried oregano<br />Ground black pepper<br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Slightly mash up the canned tuna in a bowl, then add all other ingredients and mix it up thoroughly. Serve the chickpea-tuna mash as add-on to salads and store leftovers in airtight container in the fridge (up to 3-5 days for freshness)<br /><br />Look at the different grain or salad bowls that can be created:<br /><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1726/42431345232_96abed103b_z.jpg" /><br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/chickpea+tuna" rel="tag">chickpea tuna</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/salad+grain+bowl" rel="tag">salad grain bowl</a></span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Chickpea-Tuna Veggie Quinoa Bowl

Remember this Chickpea-Tuna Lettuce Endive Wrap  ? Besides chicken, eggs, vegetarian  tempeh  and tofu, Chickpea-Tuna Mix has become one of...

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Seafood in a Bag En-papillote

Foil-packet meals are a lazy cook's best friend. <i>En-papillote</i> (French for "in parchment") may sound fancy but this method of cooking is actually a fuss-free and mess-free way to incorporate (lots of) vegetables with protein in a single dish. Though you can't physically see the ingredients being cooked (unlike "eyeballing" stove-top cooking), the secret sealed chamber traps moisture and flavors to ensure steamy deliciousness -  guaranteed almost every time!<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4401/37146003536_0801809b5c_z.jpg" /><br /><br />There is a <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/parchment-cooking">"parchment cooking" label</a> created in my website just because this cooking method has a special place in my heart. Look at these easy foil-packet recipes such as <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/11/herb-roasted-trout-en-papillote.html"><i>En-Papillote</i> Herb-Roasted Trout</a>, <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2013/10/chicken-and-asparagus-en-papillote.html"><i>En-Papillote</i> Chicken and Asparagus</a>, <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2012/06/salmon-zucchini-carrots-in-parchment-en.html"><i>En-Papillote</i> Salmon, Zucchini and Carrots</a> and these vegetarian-friendly <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2013/08/en-papillote-parchment-steamed.html">Vegetables and Mushrooms Packets</a> and <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/06/capellini-aglio-e-olio-with-zucchini.html">Zucchini, Bell Peppers Angel Hair <i>Aglio e Olio</i></a>. Some are easy side-dishes while others make perfect one-dish meals.<br /><br />Today, this <b>Seafood in a Bag</b> shows the versatility of parchment-cooking yet again. By combining a mixture of fresh seafood - clams, wild local shrimps and sustainable-farmed tilapia fillets with garlic, tomatoes, dried herbs in a foil packet, this irresistibly delicious seafood dish is created in less than 30 minutes.<br /><a name="more"></a><br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4372/36939356100_3bee59b174_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&Operation=GetAdHtml&ID=OneJS&OneJS=1&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B001IZIC8I&asins=B001IZIC8I&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&MarketPlace=US" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Seafood in a Bag/ Seafood </b><i><b>En-papillote</b></i><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />4-5 fresh clams<br />3-4 wild-caught local shrimps, cleaned and deveined<br />1 small-size tilapia fillet, marinated with turmeric and ground black pepper<br />5-6 cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced to halves<br />1 clove garlic, minced<br />1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil<br />Dried herbs<br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Pre-heat oven 400F. Place the seafood on the parchment paper, and top with garlic and tomatoes. Drizzle olive oil over and sprinkle dried herbs. Seal the parchment paper and roast in the oven for 20-25minutes.<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4393/36939356470_cf65502bc3_z.jpg" /><br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/parchment+cooking" rel="tag">parchment cooking</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/seafood+En-papillote" rel="tag">seafood En-papillote</a></span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Seafood in a Bag En-papillote

Foil-packet meals are a lazy cook's best friend. En-papillote (French for "in parchment") may sound fancy but this method of ...

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Sake-Steamed Dungeness Crabs -日本米酒蒸螃蟹

I recalled the first time I saw how dungeness crabs were prepared in the Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, I was left quite puzzled or surprised when I saw them being boiled. The first thought that came to mind was "won't all the seafood flavors and essence be gone in the boiling process"?<br /><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7565/16290328265_4b310afedd_z.jpg" /> <br /><br />Though I am not professionally trained as a chef, I have watched enough Chinese cooking shows to know that many delectable seafood dishes are prepared by simply steaming fresh seafood - <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/09/pickled-chili-steamed-whole-fish.html">Pickled Chili Steamed Whole Fish</a>, <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2009/04/steamed-shrimps-with-garlic-oiloooh-la.html">Steamed Garlic Prawns/Shrimps</a>, <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2013/01/steamed-ginger-scallions-ridgeback.html">Steamed Ginger Green Onions Prawns/Shrimps</a>.<br /><br />Dungeness crab season in California typically starts from November and runs almost six-eight months till about June. When I got hold of fresh live crabs recently, it fell back to my natural instincts to STEAM them!<br /><br />It may lack creativity or may even sound boring to some of you, but I simply enjoy fresh flavors of seafood, this way.<br /><a name="more"></a><br /><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7495/16289493582_f9b679c420_z.jpg" /> <br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0086ANRGU&asins=B0086ANRGU&linkId=01630cdbcd83bdbc9de9310936562fd2&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b><i>Sake</i>-Steamed Dungeness Crabs 日本米酒蒸螃蟹</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />2 fresh dungeness crabs, cleaned and chopped into four sections (I usually request the cleaning service at the seafood station where I buy the live crabs. They will also chop the crabs into four pieces for me upon request)<br />2-3 green onions, roughly chopped<br />5-6 thin slices of ginger, sliced to matchsticks<br />2 tbsp sake<br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Prepare a wok for steaming. Lay the crabs onto a plate and uniformly sprinkle green onions and ginger over. Also splash sake uniformly over the crabs. When wok is ready for steaming, place the plate of crabs into the steamed and steamed for about 15 mins.<br /><br />As with any freshly steamed seafood, the key is to eat them while it's steaming hot. Enjoy!<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/dungeness+crabs" rel="tag">dungeness crabs</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/steamed+crabs" rel="tag">steamed crabs</a></span><br /><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div><b></b>

Sake-Steamed Dungeness Crabs -日本米酒蒸螃蟹

I recalled the first time I saw how dungeness crabs were prepared in the Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, I was left quite puzzled or...

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Shrimps, Avocado, Radish, Mixed Vegetables Salad 烤虾蔬菜沙拉

This Farmers' Market Salad is made with organic salad vegetables, watermelon radish, sweet peppers - all from the <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2015/03/baby-shiitake-mushrooms-stir-fry.html">farmers' market</a>.<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8760/29218039160_cac6ae16f7.jpg" /><br /><br />Piled below the <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/03/oven-baked-spanish-style-shrimps.html">grilled/roasted shrimps</a>, eggs and avocado is a fresh mix of salad vegetables - organic heirloom red spinach, red dandelions, baby kale and lettuces.<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8282/29507709875_9c9252487f.jpg" /><br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">From the farmers' market</span></i><br /><br />Lately, I enjoy <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/salads">salads</a> that can be partially prepared in advance e.g. radish and sweet peppers are prepared and sliced, set aside; eggs already hard-boiled (part of routine <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2017/08/asparagus-cauliflower-chicken-quinoa.html">meal preparation</a>).<br /><br />Come meal-time, <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/03/oven-baked-spanish-style-shrimps.html">roast/grill the shrimps</a> for a healthy, delicious and nutritious <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/workout%20meals">salad bowl meal</a> e.g. <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2017/08/asparagus-cauliflower-chicken-quinoa.html">Asparagus, Cauliflower, Quinoa Bowl</a>, that can be assembled very quickly.<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8280/29398782752_26158e5066.jpg" /><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B001L5TVGW&asins=B001L5TVGW&linkId=19e4894efa738130e4ffff440eb5821f&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00L3I3226&asins=B00L3I3226&linkId=3WJM7JN23TESNDMD&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Oven-Roasted/Grilled Shrimps, Watermelon Radish, Sweet Pepper Salad 烤虾蔬菜沙拉</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />About 12 wild frozen peeled de-veined shrimps, thawed<br />1 clove garlic, finely minced<br />1tsp dried oregano<br />Salt and ground black pepper<br />2-3 servings fresh organic salad greens<br />1/2 watermelon radish, peeled and thingly sliced<br />1 small round of Hungary sweet pepper, thinly sliced<br />1/4 red onion, thinly sliced<br />1 avocado, sliced<br />2 hard-boiled eggs<br />[<i>Dressing</i>]: 1 garlic finely minced, 3-4tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp organic apple cider vinegar, salt and black pepper<br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Pre-heat oven 400C. Season the shrimps with minced garlic, oregano, a little olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast the shrimps for about 15 minutes till cooked (or see this recipe: <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/03/oven-baked-spanish-style-shrimps.html">Oven-Roasted Shrimps</a>). While shrimps are roasting, start building the bowl up with salad greens at the bottom, some red onions over, drizzle a little dressing. Then the watermelon radish, peppers, more red onions, avocado and egg goes on top and more dressing. When the shrimps are done, top it over the salad.<br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8013/29507381925_abe230a619.jpg" /><br /><br />This is part of the <a href="https://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/workout%20meals">workout and fitness meal series</a>, which is essentially designed around whole-foods, healthy eating, and balanced nutrition. As they say "abs are made in the kitchen".<br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/salad+bowl+meals" rel="tag">salad bowl meals</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/shrimp+salad+bowl" rel="tag">shrimp salad bowl</a> </span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Shrimps, Avocado, Radish, Mixed Vegetables Salad 烤虾蔬菜沙拉

This Farmers' Market Salad is made with organic salad vegetables, watermelon radish, sweet peppers - all from the farmers' market . ...

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Shrimp /Prawn Masala Curry 马萨拉咖喱虾

Till I get myself some <i>garam masala</i> - typically a spice mix of turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, cumin; I am going to substitute <i>garam masala</i> with curry powder in this dish.<br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3925/14600378485_ceca97c91f_z.jpg" /><br /><br />This <b>Shrimp Masala</b> is a very easy recipe if you have the basic Indian spices in your kitchen pantry. Curry-in-a-hurry or curry quick-fix as the name suggests, a curry that you can put together in less than 30 minutes (excluding marinade time). You can jolly well skip an hour of marinating time and still, the dish will not fail you.<br /><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5318/14600378545_6b42380700_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0076NOGPY&asins=B0076NOGPY&linkId=ZVINMIFBCJS5ZW7D&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Shrimp/Prawn Masala Curry 马萨拉咖喱虾</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />1/2 onion, roughly chopped<br />2-3 cloves garlic<br />1/4 inch ginger, scrape away the skin<br />2 fresh red chili, roughly chopped<br />1 tsp ground cumin<br />1 tsp ground turmeric<br />2 tsp curry powder (in place of 1 tsp <i>garam masala</i>)<br />1/2 tsp cayenne power<br />1/2 tsp ground coriander <br />1/2 tsp ground black pepper<br />1/2 tsp sugar<br />2 tbsp yogurt plain<br />2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro, used separately<br />1 lb prawns, fresh or frozen, shelled and deveined<br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3835/14413771468_9f3caa43e5_o.jpg" /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Grind everything except the cilantro and prawns in the food processor till paste forms. Pour the mixture in a mixing bowl, stir in 1 tbsp cilantro. Add in prawns to marinate for about 1 hr, set aside in refrigerator (<span style="color: blue;">Note</span>: If you do not intend to leave aside to marinate for an hour, at least allow 15 minutes). Heat 1 tsp of oil in the pot or pan. Add in marinated prawns, and cook for abt 10-12 mins till prawns are just cooked (not overcooked). Garnish with remaining cilantro, serve with rice.<br /><br />This recipe is adapted from the Easy Curries Cookbook (Parragon Inc.)<br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3891/14413796449_c2eb5e79a4_z.jpg" /><br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/prawn+curry" rel="tag">prawn curry</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/shrimp+curry" rel="tag">shrimp curry</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/prawn+masala" rel="tag">prawn masala</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/shrimp+masala" rel="tag">shrimp masala</a> </span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Shrimp /Prawn Masala Curry 马萨拉咖喱虾

Till I get myself some garam masala - typically a spice mix of turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, cumin; I am going to substitute garam masala wi...

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Sardine Ricotta Cheese Spread/ Pâté 沙丁鱼里科塔奶酪酱

When it comes to <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/06/chicken-asparagus-cheese-roll.html">sliced cheese</a>, I usually go for Swiss. How about you? With sliced cheese, the fastest (proper) lunch ever, will be two slices of whole-wheat bread, sandwiching Swiss cheese and organic microgreens.<br /><br />Well. talking about trying something different, I got my hands on a little tub of whole milk ricotta cheese for the first time! From Trader Joes. The ingredient list seems acceptable: whey, acetic acid, salt. Of course, there was something in my mind that I wanted to make.<br /><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1668/26081481474_e08f071523.jpg" /><br /><br />Canned <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/sardines">sardines</a> was mashed into this creamy ricotta cheese to make a protein-packed spread or pâté. A spreadable paste that can be used as easily as...just like lathering creamy peanut butter on bread/toast and crackers. Now, with this homemade sardine-cheese spread, I can have another super-quick sandwich option besides a basic sliced-cheese sandwich.<br /><a name="more"></a><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1590/26660443786_c91f019cfb_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B004KNJWP2&asins=B004KNJWP2&linkId=VHR3GV3L6HJTPTP5&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Sardine Ricotta Cheese Spread/Pâté 沙丁鱼里科塔奶酪酱</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />2 cans of sardines (my favorite is <a href="http://amzn.to/2avMscM">Crown Prince Brisling Sardines</a>, sometimes switching between <a href="http://amzn.to/2avMLEH">King Oscar</a> brand, or Wild Planet)<br />4-6 tbsp (or more, if you want more cheese to sardine ratio) ricotta cheese (Trader Joes)<br />6-8 sprigs of cilantro, finely chopped<br />Fresh ground black pepper<br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: In a deep mixing bowl, mash up the sardines (canned tuna also works!), then add ricotta cheese and mix well. When evenly mixed, add the cilantro, mix again, then add freshly ground black pepper. Use as spread or dips. Store remaining in airtight container 3-5 days in the fridge.<br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/sardine+ricotta+spread" rel="tag">sardine ricotta spread</a> </span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Sardine Ricotta Cheese Spread/ Pâté 沙丁鱼里科塔奶酪酱

When it comes to sliced cheese , I usually go for Swiss. How about you? With sliced cheese, the fastest (proper) lunch ever, will be two sli...

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Pesto Salmon 青酱三文鱼/鲑鱼

With salmon in season, I have been making roasted salmon quite regularly. It is an easy and healthy meal to put together - roast the salmon and steam some vegetables.<br /><br />I usually marinate the salmon with spices - curry powder, ground turmeric, ground coriander, cumin, and black pepper. But since there is <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/08/basil-walnut-pesto.html">homemade pesto</a> available, why not use it as the marinade?<br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3851/14725007610_21dd064022_z.jpg" /><br /><br />Today, we will have <b>Pesto Salmon</b>, packed with Omega-3s as found in the fish itself and the <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/08/basil-walnut-pesto.html">walnuts </a>in the <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/08/basil-walnut-pesto.html">pesto</a>. Such a fuss-free recipe is a perfect weekday savior, as 30 minutes or less is what it takes for this healthy and delicious dish. It is also a good way to give salmon a quick make-over when the regular <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2012/06/salmon-zucchini-carrots-in-parchment-en.html">grilled/oven-roasted salmon</a> occasionally becomes boring.<br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3919/14725032579_09ef13e8c4_z.jpg" /> <br /><br /><a name="more"></a>I usually like to prepare another easy vegetable side such as steamed/roasted broccoli, roasted zucchini and bell peppers, to pair with the main protein entree.<br /><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5593/14725123047_212fe9ae68_z.jpg" />  <br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B001L5TVGW&asins=B001L5TVGW&linkId=5NT35KF2GSUQ52TY&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Pesto Salmon 青酱三文鱼/鲑鱼</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>: <br />1-2 tbsp homemade pesto<br />1/2 lb fresh, wild-caught Sockeye salmon fillet<br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Slather pesto marinade on the salmon fillet and coat the fillet evenly with marinade. Preheat oven 375F.  Roast/bake for about 25mins till salmon is cooked through.<br /><br />For this recipe, I also like to cook a bigger portion so that I can flake the leftover cooked salmon fillets, and add them to <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2016/03/kimchi-fried-rice-with-cheese.html">fried rice</a>, or <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2012/03/salmon-asparagus-quiche-frittata-loaf.html">salmon frittata</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3861/14911321832_5b28fc011d_z.jpg" />   <br /><br />Check these other <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/09/pesto-cucumber-bites.html">pesto</a> <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/09/pesto-pita-bites.html">dishes </a>such as <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2016/05/pesto-chicken.html">Pesto Chicken</a>, <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/09/pesto-pita-bites.html">Pesto Pita Bites</a>, <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/09/pesto-cucumber-bites.html">Pesto Cucumber Bites</a>.<br /><div><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5593/14911321882_7db7a86b76_z.jpg" /></div><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/pesto+salmon" rel="tag">pesto salmon</a></span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Pesto Salmon 青酱三文鱼/鲑鱼

With salmon in season, I have been making roasted salmon quite regularly. It is an easy and healthy meal to put together - roast the salmon ...

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Pan-Fried Japanese Sardines 煎沙丁鱼

The problem about shopping in the Asian supermarket be it Indian, Japanese, Korean is the possibility of not being able to decipher (or read) what is on the package unless you are proficient in multi-languages, meaning able to read Japanese or Korean, for example.<br /><br />I can't, and find myself borrowing help from the translated-to-English package label/sticker typically stuck on one corner of the package; however that translation description can never be as exact as what is on the original "foreign-language" package.<br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3849/14499419706_a9966da538_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B000EEWZEG&asins=B000EEWZEG&linkId=5cb608c40d9317e8b4d6dbe022dbdd85&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe>I may have made a blunder recently. The <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/sardines">sardines</a> I bought from the Japanese supermarket were not what I expected it to be. They were overly salty. The package may have said "salted sardines" but I did not know. At the point of purchase, I went along with gut feeling that they are standard sardines, albeit the frozen version. Both being imported frozen fish products, I prefer <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/croaker">yellow croaker</a> (imported from Korea) to this <a href="http://www.suisan.n-nourin.jp/oh/osakana/EN/cook/dietetics/kengyo/iwasi.html">sardine</a> variety from Japan).<br /><br />If not fresh (the best!), there is always frozen or canned sardines e.g. <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/05/baked-sardines-minimalist-recipe-garlic.html">Brisling Sardines</a> to depend on for <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/search/label/sardines">easy sardine recipes</a> such as <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/10/oven-cooked-sardines-tomatoes-pasta.html">Oven-Cooked Sardines</a> and <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2012/03/sardines-onions-tomato-curry.html">Onion-Tomato Sardines</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3851/14499419806_b4c3ee8b80_o.jpg" /><br /><br /><b></b><br /><a name="more"></a><b>Pan-Fried Japanese Sardines</b> (<a href="http://www.suisan.n-nourin.jp/oh/osakana/EN/cook/dietetics/kengyo/iwasi.html"><i>Ma Iwashi</i></a>)<br />Sear each side of frozen dried sardines for about 5 minutes. To cut the saltiness, squeeze lemon over the fish or serve a vinegar dip by the side. <br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3861/14499419636_14c8e94d01_z.jpg" /><br /><br />Cooking and preparation tips to reduce "fishy" smell/taste: Cut a slit on the fish belly, and remove the guts. Also remove the head of the fish. After removing the head and guts, quickly rinse the fish in cold salted water, especially in the belly/gut area.<br /><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14336078937_7bdf06545e_z.jpg" /><br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/pan+fried+sardines" rel="tag">pan-fried sardines</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/sardines" rel="tag">sardines</a> </span><br /><script src="https://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Pan-Fried Japanese Sardines 煎沙丁鱼

The problem about shopping in the Asian supermarket be it Indian, Japanese, Korean is the possibility of not being able to decipher (or read...

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White Wine Mussels with Kale and Pasta

<iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0076NOGPY&asins=B0076NOGPY&linkId=ZVINMIFBCJS5ZW7D&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe>Seen it once, passed on it. Seen it again, in the bag.<br /><br />Well, I do have qualms about frozen shellfish products. Personally, I like my <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/06/pasta-with-steamed-clams-vongole-aglio.html">shellfish</a> such as <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2011/07/steamed-clams-capellini-with-arugula.html">clams</a> or mussels - fresh. Bought when fresh, then cooked and consumed fresh. <br /><br />Still I gave in, as this Trader Joes product at $3.99 came as value to me, and the ingredients are reasonably decent. Most importantly, a <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2014/03/sausage-peas-fried-rice.html">frozen product</a> like this keeps well for "emergency" home-cooking.<br /><br />Let's say I am in a rush to have even 30 minutes in the kitchen. Then a 15-minute dish like this might do the trick.<br /><br />Fresh clams or mussels cooks fast, you may say, you do not even need 15 minutes. But again, how can fresh clams or mussels be available if you do not even step out of the house to buy some? With fresh shellfish especially, you already need to be planning ahead. Plan to cook them....and cook them on the same day! So if you do not plan ahead, this frozen mussel item is the next best alternative.<br /><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/728/20421065313_26de6c0f81_z.jpg" /><br /><br />Instead of enjoying it as an appetizer, I find that this works well with pasta as a meal which is even better for me. If I have no time to cook, how can I even think of preparing an appetizer. A one-dish meal is more appropriate.<br /><a name="more"></a><br /><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5637/21042126465_e008d548b6_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00FUF5K8W&asins=B00FUF5K8W&linkId=IITWXTBNMC4Y4CIP&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Pasta and Kale with White Wine </b><b>Mussels</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />2-3 cloves garlic<br />3-4 small or medium organic tomatoes<br />Organic kale<br />Cooked pasta<br />1 package Trader Joes Mussels in White Wine Sauce, prepare accordingly to package instructions <br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Boil pasta, set aside. Cook some vegetables (saute garlic, tomatoes, till tomatoes cooked down and saute some kale into it). Toss in pasta with vegetables and when mussels are ready, serve with pasta (Note: I have shucked the mussels after they were cooked and toss the mussel meat with the pasta and vegetables so it is easier to enjoy as a one-dish).<br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/white+wine+mussels" rel="tag">white wine mussels</a></span><br /><script src="http://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

White Wine Mussels with Kale and Pasta

Seen it once, passed on it. Seen it again, in the bag. Well, I do have qualms about frozen shellfish products. Personally, I like my shellfi...

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Dijon Mustard Roasted Salmon 法国芥茉烤鱼

The wholegrain <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2013/08/dijon-mustard-honey-chicken-wings.html">Dijon mustard</a> is sitting in the fridge for the longest time, and very comfortably at its own seat. I almost forgotten about it after using it for <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2013/08/dijon-mustard-honey-chicken-wings.html">Dijon mustard honey chicken wings</a>.<br /><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3954/15295222630_2883f11386_z.jpg" /><br /><br />In fact, I am not a big fan of mustard (as condiment, marinade, sauce or dressing) for anything. That is why I never really quite remember the mustard in the fridge. However, it is a good way to quickly add flavor to a base marinade. Instantly, the marinade or seasoning turns sharp and pungent depending on how much mustard you add.  <br /><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2946/15458832906_54d5fd079d_z.jpg" /><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2947/15458834666_0e647e5ae9.jpg " /><br /><br /><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=ss_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=anestofo-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B001L5TVGW&asins=B001L5TVGW&linkId=XNOWZON2RRZIBD7S&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 120px;"></iframe><b>Dijon Mustard Roasted Salmon 法国芥茉烤鱼</b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br />1 lb wild salmon, cut into 4 pieces (each piece about 1.5-2 inch width)<br />1 tbsp <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2013/08/dijon-mustard-honey-chicken-wings.html">Dijon mustard</a> (Trader Joes wholegrain Dijon mustard)<br />1 tbsp of organic plain yogurt<br />2-3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil<br />Juice from half a lemon<br />Pinch of salt and black pepper<br /><br /><i>Directions</i>: Preheat oven to 375F. Mix the marinade ingredient (all the above except the fish) in a bowl. Brush some olive oil on a lined baking tray, then place the salmon pieces, skin-side down on the lined baking tray. Slather equal amounts of marinade on the salmon, then spread evenly across each piece. Bake for about 20-25 minutes till salmon is just cooked.<br /><br />Serve with <a href="http://teczcape.blogspot.com/2015/12/spiced-roasted-spaghetti-squash.html">roasted spaghetti squash</a>, and sauteed organic baby spinach on the side.<br /><img src=" https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3944/15481569242_dc6148f137_z.jpg " /> <br /><br />Sharing with <a href="http://www.21stcenturyhousewife.com/">Hearth and Soul</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;">Tag: </span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Dijon+mustard+salmon" rel="tag">Dijon mustard salmon</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/mustard+roast+salmon" rel="tag">mustard roast salmon</a> </span><br /><script src="http://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php/en_US" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">FB.init("ea808497442c6dbff6ecc79cee2b6ebd"); </script><fb:fan connections="0" logobar="0" profile_id="225194391877" stream="0" width="300"></fb:fan><br /><div style="font-size: 8px; padding-left: 2px;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/An-Escape-to-Food/225194391877">An Escape to Food</a> on Facebook</div>

Dijon Mustard Roasted Salmon 法国芥茉烤鱼

The wholegrain Dijon mustard is sitting in the fridge for the longest time, and very comfortably at its own seat. I almost forgotten about ...

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