"" Shop This: February 2015

Friday, February 27, 2015

Foodie Friday: Cooking Comforting Classics

Inslee Designs

Will this winter ever end? The one good thing about -20 below wind chills and endless mounds of snow, is that we are cuddling up, layering and laying low in our homes. Thank God it's not bikini season. So, this weekend, I highly recommend taking comfort in one of these winter warmers. 




Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
As a child, my Mother comforted us with Hot Cocoa whenever we were cold.  We were treated to cups of "love" on Winter days after playing in the snow, and Summer evenings after swimming all day. I use to treat my own daughter as well. Mine was good, but it didn't begin with a pan of caramelized sugar and end with 10 ounces of finely chopped chocolate! I want some now.
Sugar Hero


Pork, Smoked Gouda And Mushroom Meat Cupcake
This recipe is really just a very fancy meatloaf. Even those who think they don't care for meatloaf will love this updated classic. Looks yummy!
Deal Peddler

Monte Cristo Sandwiches With Potato Crisps
I am not a sandwich eater, and it probably has been at least a dozen years since I had one. Just too many carbs for me. But this recipe might tempt me. Made with Sourdough Bread, these sammies look sensational!
Gourmet Traveller


Chocolate Pudding with Espresso Whipped Cream
If it's chocolate, I'm comforted. My Mom use to make a simple but delicious chocolate pudding, which I loved eating warm. Ours never even dreamed of being topped with espresso cream! Yum!
Bon Appetit


Smoky Three Cheese Fondue
Yes, Please! Build me a fire and melt some cheese, Now that's a the way to spend a wintry evening. Throw in buttered croissants and plenty of white wine, and I can get very comfortable!
Half Baked Harvest


Apple Tarte Tatin
In my view, a Tarte Tatin so much more appealing than your standard apple pie. I've included this recipe for my friend, Sara, who could be tempted by this recipe.


Chicken Pot Pies with Chanterelles
Boy does this ever remind me of my childhood. The difference is that mine was frozen and came 4 for $1.00. I have elevated my taste buds since then, and this rendition would warm any soul on a cold Winter's day.
Bon Appetit


Hot Buttered Rum
I have not actually had this drink before, but it always sounds so inviting. It's not for everyday, however. Oh! The calories! It is a very interesting recipe. Do click thru to see how to make this chic and comforting cocktail.
Not Without Salt


Penne with Garrotxa, Serrano Ham, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
From Melt: the Art of Macaroni and Cheese. This is the classic that has been really elevated. It is not a difficult recipe, but one that everyone will enjoy.
Huffington Post


Magnolia Bakery's Famous Banana Pudding
If you haven't had the chance to taste this beyond delicious banana pudding, you sure are missing out. But if your Grandma made it, like mine did, it tastes just like that but better. From the iconic bakery in NYC and now in Chicago, I promise you will love it. 
Pop Sugar


Beef Bourguionne Pot Pie
The perfect Sunday Supper! Made with brandy, bourbon, red wine and bacon, this recipe is sure to be off the charts!
Epicurious


Chicken And Waffle Sandwiches
This recipe is for "Mr. Shop This." My poor buddy has been jonesing for chicken and waffles for a long time. Leave it to Jonathan Melendez to create a waffle made of green onion. cheddar and bacon. I bet I will be making these this weekend.
Bon Appetit


Healthy Shrimp and Grits
I will start off by saying that this recipe would NOT be my comfort food of choice. But my family has its roots in the South, and every one of them would just love this dish. It's the perfect breakfast-for-dinner meal which can feel indulgent but doesn’t have to be.
Ashton Keefe


Three Cheese Lasagna
One of the all time most comforting foods, for me. I love to make this dish, though I haven't in a long time. It's ooey and gooey and layered with love. 
Donal Skehan


Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
This sure looks better than Campbell's! What could be more soothing for the flu or a nasty Winter cold? This recipe has a lengthy list of ingredients, but is super easy.
Handle The Heat


Turkey Sloppy Joe
I so remember looking forward to Sloppy Joe day once a month at school. What a treat! As an adult, this elevated version would be more to my liking. It's served in a Pretzel Bread Bowl. How fun. Take note that this recipe calls for "ground turkey." If you are watching your fat intake, use ground turkey breast instead. It will be just as flavorful.
Tablespoon


Overnight Oatmeal
Cozy. Hot. Filling. What a delicious way to start the day!  This recipe can also be made with rice and almond milk.
Goop


“Itai” Meatballs
Last weekend in NYC, we had the best snowy day brunch at a restaurant called The Meatball Shop. That little round ball of meat with its' special pesto sauce was, indeed, comforting and filling. I found the recipe on Heather Christo's website. It's Aida Mollenkamp's and looks divine.
Heather Christo


Chocolate French Toast With Panera Bread
This one is for you, Mollie. We were just having a family discussion, and the three of us decided that French Toast is our favorite comfort food. I recently made a version of this without the Panera bread. "Mr Shop This" is still talking about it. Next time, I'll try this.
Sprinkle Bakes

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Thursday, February 26, 2015

Jewelry That Makes A Statement


By Megan Hess

I'm back. Last Friday I escaped the Windy City, and landed in colder, snowier New York City! Who does that? Between a busy schedule, family bonding, and Internet issues, something had to give. I missed you all, and my daily therapy called "Shop This." So, did you all watch the Oscars? For me, the fashion was generally disappointing. All the usual players looked lovely but, I thought, safe. What grabbed my attention the most was the jewelry! Whoa! From Oprah's tassel bracelet to ScarJo's Versace jeweled collar, statements were made in accessories. Here's how to make your own.




HERE: 15 Pieces That Promise To Make A Statement


Vintage Stars
How fun! Now you can be the star with these one of a kind 1980'S jeweled pendant earrings. Perfect for adding a colorful pop to any outfit.
Etsy


Zad Statement Necklace
Colored glass beads and gold metal make a bold statement in turquoise, black or coral. This pretty pick is also very affordable. It's lovely on or off.


Crystal Dandelion Drops
Love to sparkle? These make a neutral statement and would be fun to pair with your LBD or dressed up denim. I know you are going to love the price. 
Bauble Bar


Agate Cuff
Like all of the CC Skye's pieces, this beauty of a bracelet has an elegant edge.
CC Skye


Ben-Amun Crystal Chandelier Earrings
J Lo got my vote for best dress at the Oscars. She looked like a star! Here she is at The Golden Globes wearing massive earrings. You can get the look for much less.
Max and Chloe


The New Beacon Bracelet
From one of my all time favorite jewelry lines, this new cuff has an edgy art deco vibe. I believe it is layered over the new Rise Bracelet.
Lulu Frost


Drama Queen Collar 
Own that nickname! Look the part in this super statement making necklace without the super expensive price tag
Nasty Gal


Naga Double Coin Bracelet
Make some magic. This enamel bracelet features Red Sapphire, Orange Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire and African Ruby Eyes. All in Sterling Silver.
John Hardly


Sun Goddess Collar
A bold brass collar makes a feathery statement.
Free People


John Wind Uptown Girl Charm Bracelet
Nothing makes a smarter statement than your own initials. This updated and very Uptown charmer is just the loveliest and affordable gift! 
Max and Chloe


Erickson Beamon Stratosphere Ring
Faux everything adds up to a real statement maker.
Net-a-Porter



Alexis Bittar Multi Stone Vine Ring
White quartz/sodalite doublet, lapis, and chrysocolla. I haven't heard of some of those gems, but they sure are colorful. This is one accessory that really pops!
Neiman Marcus


Tory Burch Sawyer Watch
You don't see too many watches on a red carpet, but in real life, many of you might consider them a necessity. This one blends form, fashion and function.
Nordstrom


Natasha Sonja Drama Statement Necklace
Talk about drama? If this necklace was real and on The Red Carpet, it would cost at least a million!
Dillards


Viktor and Rolf Velvet Rock
This collaboration with Swarovski couldn't be hotter. The color red always makes a statement on or off the red carpet, but the collection also features jet black.  
Swarovski

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Thursday, February 19, 2015

Foodie Friday: Celebrate Chinese New Year With Recipes & More


Chinese New Year is one of the longest and most celebrated Holidays in the world. As we say goodbye to the Year of The Horse and hello to the Year of The Goat, it's time to amp up your collection of Chinese recipes, beyond chop suey.  





HERE: Recipes And Kitchen Tools Guaranteed to Bring Good Luck


The Red Runner
Let's start the celebration with a cocktail, shall we? Raise your glass and say “ganbei”—Chinese for “cheers”.
Party Blu Prints Blog


Chinese Soup Dumplings With Pork And Crab
This is an authentic Xiaolongbao recipe from Top Chef star Lee Anne Wong from her book, Dumplings All Day Wong. The recipe and ingredient list is long, but this recipe promises to be long on taste, too.
 Steamy Kitchen


Sesame Prawn Toast
Though, I've never tried this, it is a well known and popular Dim Sum dish. I think it would be great as an appetizer.
Typhoon Housewares


Hakka-Style Eggplant with Prawn Filling 
What a pretty dish! Anything with prawns in the ingredient list, has my interest.
Gourmet Traveler


Almond Milk Pudding 
This delicate dessert it topped with a crunchy sesame praline. A lovely layer of textures!
SBS


Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings
This recipe gets a helping hand with purchased dumpling wrappers. Make a big batch of these, as your company will love them!
Williams-Sonoma


Steamed Butter Crab With Shanghai Sausage
Recipe of Peter Jin, Chinese Chef of Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai. I have to be honest, this recipe has a list of ingredients that are a bit foreign to me. If you are game, the end result looks so worth the effort.
Taste - Four Seasons Hotels


Spring Rolls
Vegan and easy to make. Who knew? I never thought about making my own.
Fine Dining Lovers


 Meatballs Asian Style
An easy and colorful dish. And who doesn't love a meatball?
The Food Club


Chinese Sugar Egg Puffs
Said to be the easiest and quickest donut puff pastries ever. These donuts are called sai yong in Chinese.They are made from a type of pâte à choux dough, is very sweet, and is meant to be eaten as dessert. Yummy!
Dessert First Girl


Spicy Big Tray Chicken
"It’s not precisely a simple recipe. But it’s an excellent project one." Sounds like the perfect hearty dish to stay home and make on a cold Winter's night.
Cooking - NY Times


Wooden Chopsticks and Rests
Even though I have never mastered the art of chopstick eating, I just love them as a table accessory. These utensils are just gorgeous and made of black walnut. 
Provisions by Food 52


Spicy Asian Wings
An American favorite with an Asian twist. Love the presentation of the Peach and Mango Salsa served in wonton cups! A good dish for a crowd.
Bakers Royal


Chinese Style Potato Salad
Certainly the prettiest potato salad I have ever seen! "Ginger, chili and sesame add fragrance and flavour, while Chinkiang vinegar brings requisite piquancy to the table."
Gourmet Traveller


Five Spice Cookies With Candied Oranges
Citrus fruits are a traditional symbol of luck and wealth. And you would be lucky to try one of these sweet and spicy shortbread cookies
The Kitchn


Shiitake-and-Scallion Lo Mein
What an attractive dish! Silky Chinese Noodles are wrapped in banana leaves. Yum!
Food and Wine


No. 10 And No. 14
Elevate your beverages, soups, sauces and desserts with Chinese Five Spices and a cinnamon and ginger blend. Your guests will thank you!
Provisions by Food 52


Mission Cabbage Salad
Like confetti in a bowl! This is one colorful salad. Your guests will enjoy this Asian take on cole slaw.
Food52


Le Creuset Woks
Add some color to your Chinese cuisine. These are exactly what your Le Creuset collection needs to be complete.
Le Creuset


Mini Moo Shu Pork Pizzas
This is how you serve Chinese to an American crowd. A very fun little appetizer!
Tasty Kitchen


Hawker Stall Chicken Skewers 
Twin sisters and Sweet Mandarin owners, Helen and Lisa Tse, put modern Chinese food on the map with their popular restaurant, in Manchester England. Doesn't everything taste better on a stick? The Satay Dip puts this recipe off the chart. A must try.
Food Republic


Chinese Custard Tart
These sweet custard tarts are the perfect bite after a Cantonese meal.
Taste 

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