Recipes (Main)

Slow Cooker Beer Pulled Pork

Jan 7, 2017 · 11 Comments

Slow Cooker Beer Pulled Pork combines spices and beer in a crock-pot and is slow cooked all day infusing all those aromatic flavours into the pork. Served on a bun, it’s a quick and easy dinner!

Slow Cooker Beer Pulled Pork

There are many flavour combinations when it comes to pulled pork. Decide what you like, try a few different things until you end up with a recipe that you will make again and again.

For this recipe pick a beer with some flavour or bite. A light beer will not offer up much flavourwise. A fruity or sour beer is not recommended. A brown or amber ale is a good choice. We’ve used local beer Village Brewery Blacksmith a few tunes and have been happy with the flavour.

Cook once, eat two or three times

I’m a big fan of cooking once and turning leftovers into a second and third meal. That’s why we lean towards buying a larger roast (say four pounds) ensuring we have enough leftovers for new meals.

A few ways we use leftover pork: sandwiches or wraps for lunch the next day, pulled pork mac and cheese, or pork carnitas. One cook, three meals – BAM!

Pulled Pork Ingredients

Some people toss the roast in the slow cooker with a bottle of barbecue. We say whatever floats your boat! For this recipe, here are the ingredients we used.

Spices: ensure your spices are fresh and not expired for the best flavour.
Salt and Pepper: sea or kosher salt and freshly ground pepper if you have a grinder.
Pork: a boneless pork shoulder or butt is nicely marbled and when slow cooked becomes moist and tender.
Onion: it’s an aromatic flavour enhancer so use any kind of onion or shallots you have on hand.
Lime: fresh is best if available.
Beer: as mentioned, use a beer that has some flavour. This ensures flavour in your pork.
BBQ Sauce: serve on the side and drizzle on top for extra flavour.

The Beer

I’ve touched on this a few times but let’s get down to the nitty gritty. The beer is a big deal as it’s going to infuse the pork with a load of flavour. That’s why picking the right one is so important.

We recommend any of the following choices: brown ale, amber ale, porter or stout, dunkel, warmly spiced ale or a dark lager. Some even like to use Guinness beer.

Avoid bitter beers like IPA’s. If you are not sure what beer to buy, go to a local liquor store and ask for recommendations. Buy a couple singles and give them all a taste then decide which one to put in your pulled pork and drink the rest!

Some people use cider, coke or root beer to flavour the pork. Whichever liquid you decide on remember it’s the long slow cook that helps break down the collagen and connective tissue in the pork.

Here’s a few other fun pork recipes to try:

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker

Roast Turkey Pho

Jan 4, 2017 · 6 Comments

An easy and quick way to use leftover roast turkey or chicken is to make a robust Vietnamese noodle soup called Roast Turkey Pho.

Roast Turkey Pho

Traditional pho is typically made using beef broth, or chicken broth. It’s a hot steaming soup we occasionally crave and order in way more than I care to admit.

Turkey leftovers always make a tasty soup however turning the leftovers into pho is a whole ‘nother ball game.

The Broth

I have made this recipe both by charring the onion and ginger…and not charring it. I found the flavour to be excellent both ways but feel Fred’s version (in the comments) does yield a little more depth so I’ve updated the recipe to reflect his recommendation!

Pho is an anytime soup but most comforting in the Fall and Winter on those days you need a bowl that hugs you back and some comfort food. The most important component to a Pho is the broth. Enjoyed in a restaurant, Pho broth is typically simmered for hours on end resulting in a delicious tasting broth with many levels of flavour.

It’s important you add all the spices to the broth and let it do it’s thing. Equally important is the addition of sugar to balance the fish sauce.

This recipe comes together rather quickly. While the broth is simmering prep your turkey, rice noodles and ingredients. Have in bowls ready to go.

PRO TIPS

Swap roast chicken for roast turkey.
Red Thai chili peppers can be used instead of jalapenos
Serve with sriracha or hot chili oil.
If you don’t have time to make pho broth, you can buy pho broth in the stores now.
For us during the winter it can be hard to come buy fresh herbs. If you can only find one, use it.

A bowl of Pho

When you make this recipe you must get your soup bowl ready and start with the cooked noodles, gingerly placing on the bottom of the bowl. Ladle in your hot broth gently moving around the noodles with chopsticks to ensure they are not sticking together. The next layer is the turkey breast, add a good heaping spoonful. At this point you add whatever toppings you prefer that are available. We eat family style here so it makes sense for each person to customize their pho.

More soup recipes to try:

While I’m not an expert in making pho, I do know what it tastes like in Vietnamese restaurants and have recreated this flavour in this recipe!

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans and please comment below!

Baked Apple Pancake

Dec 31, 2016 · Leave a Comment

The first time we had this baked apple pancake we were hanging out in the Okanogan in B.C. The people we were staying with made breakfast and this was one of the items they served. It was so good I immediately asked for the recipe, wrote it on a recipe card (over 10 years ago people, internet was still blooming) and tucked it away into my little black recipe box.

The little black recipe box made an appearance recently over the holidays, the Baked Apple Pie remade and much to my surprise absolutely adored and inhaled by my two little kids. I added a few of my own touches to the recipe and will be making it again soon using other fruits like pears, plums, summer stone fruit, even grapes.

The really cool thing about this pie is it puffs up while baking and settles back down once it comes out of the oven. Let everyone see it as it comes out of the oven for the ooohs and aaahs. Serve it with a sprinkle of icing sugar and some maple syrup.

Jalapeño Tex Mex Dip

Dec 17, 2016 · 8 Comments

An upgrade on a classic, this Jalapeño Tex Mex Dip is full of flavour and sure to please at your next potluck, holiday celebration or even game day!

$jalapeno tex mex dip$

Jalapeño Tex Mex Dip

Essentially this jalapeño Tex Mex dip is a spin on a very popular seven-layer dip from way back when. I changed it up a bit to bring it into the 21st century, but really it’s just as good as its predecessor!

Seven Layer Dip

Perhaps you’ve heard of the seven-layer dip, found in many homes during gatherings and events back in the day. We gorged ourselves on this dip in the 1980’s and 1990’s, and then it mysteriously disappeared for a while. Simply put, the seven-layer dip is really a North Americanized version of Mexican food or a mash-up of Tex Mex cuisine.

Since it was one of my favourite dips to eat, I snagged the recipe from a friend, and I typed it out. Yes I said typed it out. It was the 1990’s after all, and no Internet!

Now that I have your attention and you are keen to make this dip, here’s a few tips to consider. We’ve make it a few times a year as it’s one of our favourite snacks to have during a movie or game!

PRO TIPS

Make this dip your own! Add or remove items you do not like.
I dislike canned black olives so we always buy and slice Kalamata olives to put in this dip.
Jalapeños can be fresh or pickled. Or if you do not like spicy, substitute diced bell peppers instead.
We use Greek Yogurt in this dip to add some health benefits.

$jalapeno tex mex dip$

Having a potluck or a gathering? Here are a few other dishes to try!

If you made this recipe, tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans

This jalapeño Tex-Mex dip is built on a creamy base and finished with fresh toppings and heat from jalapeños. Serve chilled with tortilla chips.

Raspberry Mango Swirl Smoothie Bowl

Dec 8, 2016 · Leave a Comment

The smoothie bowl breakfast trend continues to be the gift that keeps on giving. They are still all over instagram and this trend doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon. The best thing about a smoothie bowl or smoothie in general is almost anything goes. Your favourite fruit, pick a healthy liquid (juice, cold tea, milk), bananas help thicken, vegetables like avocado and spinach, nuts, spices (we put cinnamon in every smoothie), chocolate – yes chocolate! The combinations are endless and you could have a smoothie a day plus get in several servings of much needed fruits and vegetables.

This raspberry mango swirl smoothie bowl combines two simple and easy to make smoothies. Frozen raspberry with orange juice and banana and frozen mango with orange juice and banana. Each have some added ice for thickness and some cinnamon for the antioxidants.

10 Days of Coffee

Dec 5, 2016 · Leave a Comment

For as long as I lived in Vancouver there were dueling Starbucks coffee shops kitty-corner to each other at Robson and Thurlow. Seemed like a clever strategy as they were both equally lined up out the door. At the time I had a part time job working on Robson Street, along with a full time day job elsewhere, who enjoyed endless people watching. The hustle and bustle of Robson Street captivated me as did the draw to these two well established coffee joints. I can not tell a lie, I did enjoy their coffee as there were no other choices near by (don’t hate). Fast forward to 2012, and one of those Starbucks shut down due to a planned rent increase following a 23 year run, and inability to renegotiate their terms.

A resident Calgarian since 2000, I’ve spent the past several years being involved in projects that support local businesses in the food and beverage community. Check out YYC Pizza Week and the Culinary Race to learn more about some of the things keeping me busy. I admit to still buying the odd Starbucks bevy on occasion but if given the choice I will seek out the local coffee shop first. I love the habit and ambience some days more than I love the coffee.

Inspiration comes from everywhere and this is how #10DaysOfCoffee started. While sipping my typical dry, sugar free cappuccino in a coffee shop one day last week, the idea to do visit local coffee shops came to me. I started scribbling coffee shop names as fast as I could write on an envelope, and tweeting looking for suggestions from friends and locals. A list of more than 20 appeared and I decided this may very well end up becoming a 10 Days of Coffee Part I and II. I didn’t have a whole lot of time to prepare a proper plan since December was mere hours away, but we decided to visit a new coffee shop every day for 10 days between December 5 – 10th in Calgary. This post will be updated daily sharing my new coffee adventure.

Important to Note both Phil & Sebastian’s and Lazy Loaf & Kettle donate food to Leftover’s Rescue Food.

Disclaimer: the coffee shops featured in this post have not offered any kind of deal or sponsorship in lieu of promotion. While they are being made aware of this post via social media and in shop conversation, all opinions expressed, money spent, and photos are my own.

We don’t always eat at each location or are able to get the best shots therefore photo credit will be given when photos are borrowed from the coffee shops.

Analog Coffee [Day 1]

We begin our coffee adventure at Fratello Analog Coffee on 17th Avenue. I’ve been to a couple of their locations in Calgary, however the one on 17th worked best for a meet up with friends for a coffee and a chat.

Analog Coffee is owned by the Prefontaine family who have been selling coffee and other hot beverages since 1974. This family run business believes a coffee house should be much more than just a place to get your caffeine fix, it should be the perfect spot to retreat and enjoy a meticulously-prepared beverage. Their goal has always been clear; don’t just drink the coffee, taste the coffee.

Serving up delicious coffee and items provided by the former Corbeaux Bakery, this little coffee shop on 17th Avenue gives you a true coffee experience. A variety of pastries and treats greets you the moment you walk in the door and challenges you to walk away with just a coffee. This is a place to take your mom or get caught up with a friend before or after strolling down 17th Avenue.

Check out Fratello Analog Coffee at any of their six locations in Calgary.

analog-v2 — Cappuccino and breakfast sandwich at Analog on 17th Avenue, Calgary

Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters [Day 2]

From a chance meeting in a digital circuits class in 1996, to graduating as engineers, Phil & Sebastian are set to open their fifth brick-and-mortar cafe on Stephens Avenue this Thursday, December 8th. Not only have they embraced the coffee culture, but they’ve taken it to new levels not yet experienced in Calgary.

Visiting several coffee-producing countries annually to taste samples and decide on what beans to bring home and sell, these two friends and business partners roast the beans in a roaster using software they created themselves (cool right?!). Baristas in each location train for up to 6 months before serving coffee to the public and each Phil & Sebastian’s offers a unique story to tell. Some offer beer and wine, others offer food prepared under the direction of an in house chef utilizing local producers.

This high-end coffee bar is the perfect spot to stop for a morning cup of joe, lunch meeting or enjoy a glass of wine at one of their participating locations in the evening. Phil & Sebastian’s offer coffee classes and tastings, subscriptions, evening events, and an online store. Tastings or classes sounds like the best gift for coffee lovers!

Phil & Sebastian’s Simmons Building location

Lazy Loaf and Kettle [Day 3]

Located in the North West community of Parkdale, Lazy Loaf and Kettle offers both home baked goods, all day breakfasts (3pm), delicious lunches, and a cozy cafe you can settle into enjoy your meal or hot coffee or tea.

The Labonte family started their business in 1989 baking right out of their home for devoted customers. In 1994 they moved into their current location in Parkdale and have grown to over 30 employees. Using Grandma’s recipes handed down through generations and creating some of their own, the Labonte’s have kept the secret to their success simple; hard work and home-grown or local sourced ingredients keep their customers loyal and food fresh.

This little cafe is not easily noticed from the main road, and when you do arrive . You might think this as a little hole in the wall when you drive by (it’s easy to miss), however enter the cafe and you are greeted immediately with it’s warmth and cozy atmosphere.

Our visit today included a Latte with just the right amount of foam, and a perfectly toasted BLT made with house baked bread for lunch.

The Italian Store | Scarpones [Day 4]

In 1958 Alberto and Christina Iamartino family started Great West Italian Importers, a family run business bringing products in from Italy and Europe to sell in Calgary. As the business grew and kids came along they eventually expanded to their current location off of McKnight and Deerfoot in the North East. Eventually the kids and their spouses took over running the business and two divisions: The Italian Store (retail end of the business), and Scarpone’s (the importer of products from all over the world).

The Iamartino family are simple folk with simple goals. They want to bring the best imported goods to Calgary at the best prices. Scarpone’s and The Italian Store support local charities, and they sell their products to many restaurants, and grocery stores in Calgary, and across Canada. But you would never know this because they are a proud family who does not boast about their love for community, charity and giving back. They just do it.

The cafe is always busy with regulars stopping in for lunch, an espresso, home made gelatos or to pick up some groceries. They are open Monday through Saturday, 9-5pm. I managed to sneak in today just before it got busy in the cafe to enjoy my cappuccino and cannoli.

Cappuccino and Cannoli at The Italian Store

Philosáfy [Day 5]

A new coffee shop emerged on 17th Avenue this past year called Philosáfy Coffee. They offer a signature espresso roast, Socrates, a Colombian, Costa Rican, and Ethiopian blend, which Philosafy describes as offering “notes of toasted almonds, caramelized pear, and milk chocolate.” Sweet treat offerings are available from Little Tucker, Steven Smith Teas, juices from Juice Because and even Kombucha, there is something for all palates.

The artwork on the walls are available to purchase, but the one thing that stood out to us was the shelf full of books. Read one while you are there or take a book home for a couple days to read and return. The space offers floor to ceiling windows letting the sun shine in, gold accents and reclaimed wood. Comfortable and cozy on these cold winter days.

Gravity Espresso & Wine Bar [Day 6]

Right in the heart of Inglewood you will find Gravity Espresso & Wine Bar, owned by Andy Fennell, a former office executive who needed a change in his life. He decided to do something he’d never done before, open a cafe selling coffee and snacks, and actually drink coffee. He learned the art of pulling an espresso from Sebastian of Phil & Sebastian’s and since opening the cafe has never looked back.

This favourite hangout for locals and regulars offers a simple food menu, wine and beer program, and a variety of espresso drinks using Phil & Sebastian coffee. Revolving art work is hung around the cafe and available for purchase. On weekends the cafe livens up with entertainment.

It’s a great place to have a meeting, stop in on the weekends for some live music, and a glass of wine, or meet up with friends for a delicious latte.

gravity — 1. Cappuccino 2. inside of Gravity Cafe [photo credit Gravity]

Bumpy’s Cafe [Day 7]

There were several great recommendations on where to go find the best coffee in Calgary. It’s wonderful to see such an exciting coffee scene and culture in Calgary that goes beyond Tim Horton’s. Bumpy’s Cafe was one of these recommendations and brings us to Day 7.

This hip, funky and very colourful little cafe is located on 8th Avenue at around 10th, or next to Beer Revolution for those directionally challenged such as myself. Cozy and quaint, they offer a variety of hot beverages and home made food items to tantalize your taste buds.

Bumpy’s serves JJ Bean Coffee (from Vancouver) and even offer their own signature Atomic Blend Coffee roasted in small batches by JJ Bean. Super friend Clare took my order, and her large and friendly personality definitely lit up the cafe.

A fun spot to try and get your coffee fix.

Monogram Coffee [Day 8]

Jeremy Ho, Ben Put and Justin Eyford are the master minds behind Monogram Coffee. With a combined 20+ years of experience in the coffee industry plus prior experience with Phil & Sebastian this trio is quickly gaining respect and notoriety in the Calgary coffee scene. While it’s great they are a global award-winning team with 20+ yrs combined experience, it doesn’t impress me. What impresses me is their passion and dedication to their craft, their rustic coffee shops, great service (based on one visit), and stellar coffee offering.

I enjoyed my coffee date today with a friend in the Altadore location. We both traveled from our homes in the far North to check out this location out of the core. It was very warm, inviting and we were not disappointed. The coffee mugs were cozy and the cafe busy. I could easily be drawn back to this location the next time I am in the South. We admittedly did not snack on anything today as there was no table available to us when we arrived, but rather delighted in our mugs of deliciousness shared over great conversation.

Cafe Blanca [Day 9]

Several of the shops I have visited are not necessarily new to me, but rather ones I have visited in the past, and thoroughly enjoyed for a variety of reasons. Cafe Blanca is one of them. I’ve had their coffee on several occasions so during this visit I opted for a chai latte.

Located in downtown Calgary close to Sien Lok Park, Cafe Blanca is a quaint little spot to get your coffee fix, perhaps grab a light snack and stroll on over to the river front to enjoy the park and view.

Described by owner Derek Ho as a playground for creative professionals, harbouring creative talent, conceptual thinking and collaboration, it’s a cafe offering a stage for musical performances, piano encouraging musical creation, and an area for exhibitions or private events.

The Roasterie [Day 10]

Follow the aroma of roasting coffee beans to this quaint little Kensington coffee shop located right around the corner from Midtown Kitchen & Bar.

Open since 1985, The Roasterie roasts their own beans daily right in the shop. Stop in and watch the process, order a coffee, pick up some beans and take in the collection of antique coffee grinders and items covering the walls. There is even local art work available to purchase.

With only a few seats available, seating is limited at peak times so getting your cuppa joe to go might be the best choice. The coffee is delicious and definitely worth the trek.

While researching local coffee shops in Calgary we learned there are way more than 10 great coffee shops to support. Unfortunately this time we could only pick 10 to visit. That’s why we will be back in the new year to visit 10 new local coffee shops in Calgary for Part II and potentially later on a Part III!

Thank you to those coffee shops who have acknowledged our support and shout outs. It shows you pay attention and you care about what the community is saying.

I challenge you to find a friend and visit a local coffee shop in your hood. Happy Holidays!

Holiday Entertaining: Party Hosting Tips

Nov 21, 2016 · Leave a Comment

If you’ve never hosted a party before, or love to host them but need some tips, here are a few Holiday Entertaining Party Hosting tips to get you started and reduce some of the stress this holiday season.

When we party plan, we subscribe to the KISS theory, aka Keep It Simple Stupid. I’ve been entertaining and hosting gatherings for years. In the 90s I lived in a bachelor suite in Vancouver’s West End. One time I decided I wanted to have friends over for Thanksgiving dinner. There were 6 of us having a full on turkey dinner in my studio bachelor suite. Let’s just say the bathtub has a whole new meaning to me after that evening (think storage for dirty dishes). I used to fly home for Christmas every year, and get together with friends. One time I made sushi rolls using my dads smoked salmon – a dish I’d never attempted before. From hosting Mexican themed food nights to monthly Mom’s wine nights, I’ve done my share of entertaining.

It’s these moments that hold special memories in my heart and remind me of the journey I’ve been on..

Season the Air

Nothing spells the holidays like a simmering pot of magic on your stove. If you are making making mulled wine or cider even better. Cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cranberries, rosemary, sage, citrus all add delicious elements to the air masking the smells of any lurking odors.

Create a Cocktail – Cocktails are pretty popular these days and I admittedly have jumped on the cocktail train myself. Creating a special cocktail for your party is as simple as mixing together juice and some prosecco with fresh fruit. Google cocktails for some inspiration or ask a bartender for advice on making your own drink.

Have available a mocktail version of your cocktail, sparkling water or fruit/herb flavoured waters for those wanting other options
A couple bottles of easy drinking red and white, plus some craft beers, round out your beverage offering

Advance Planning is Key – Is this a sit down dinner, a potluck, or an appetizer and cocktail gathering? Make all those decisions in advance including what your menu will be. Make a list of everything you need to do starting with a menu and shopping list. Do all your shopping and prep work days before. Offer some small bites (appetizers) when guests arrive to curb any hunger pains. If you are feeling adventurous and have some extra cash try preparing a Charcuterie Board. A welcome cocktail, mocktail or glass of prosecco ready to hand your guests as they arrive helps set the tone.

Set the Mood – Dim lights and candles can create the perfect ambience. Ensure your candles are not over scented. Put on some tunes. I love to play a little Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald or Spanish Guitar (Ottmar Liebert or Oscar Lopez) during our evening. It’s always been my favourite dinner music. If you love Christmas tunes, put on some light holiday sounds.

Do a basic clean, put out fresh linens, wipe down the bathroom. I toss last minute dirty dishes in the dishwasher in no specific order to get them out of the way
Simple decorations are lovely. Have a pine or spruce tree out front? Clip a few branches, shake really well, and leave on tables. Pick up some fresh cranberries to add to the base of your candles. Put ornaments in bowls or unique vases around the house or use tree beads.

Really Dessert? – Already doing some holiday baking? Make extras and put out cookies and bars for dessert like this easy to make 5 Minute Fudge Wreath. It’s seriously a show stopper. Or prepare a butter tart station, an idea I got from Anna Olson, and will be making the first weekend in December myself (blog post to follow).

Don’t sweat the small stuff and enjoy yourself and be sure to jingle while you mingle at your next gathering.

Beef Stew with Bacon

Nov 17, 2016 · Leave a Comment

A long time ago my mom used to cook the shit out of pork and beef roasts. Truth be known I was in a recent session with Vikram Vij and he also advised his mom would cook the shit out of things to, so I blame him for my potty mouth. The only way I could choke down her roasts was to smother them in HP Sauce – more truths. This continued mistreatment of roasts while I was a child led me to have trust relationships with roast beef. I do enjoy beef, like I really really enjoy steak, satay, stir-fry. We also enjoy roasts on a regular basis as a family, however I still am not a huge fan of roast beef. But I will eat it.

This leads us to stew, another cut I have a strange relationship with. Possibly for the same reasons – it was made regularly and slightly over cooked. My family enjoys stew so it’s made flavourful and moist in this house. Mostly.

In my quest to love stew, I added some sauteed mushrooms, chopped chives and broken chunks of double cream brie. And a few hot pepper flakes. Go big or go home right? Guess what? I LOVED it! We get a flavour punch from adding leftover frozen beef broth from our last Teriyaki Beef Fondue. What you’ve never had a beef broth fondue? You really should. Regular beef broth is also dandy in a handy. Finally some leftover parsnips resembling potatoes went into the stew and nobody was the wiser (winning).

I finished the stew with a few sprinkles of hot pepper flakes cause I like the heat!

Get your Holiday Spirit on at Christmas in November

Nov 14, 2016 · Leave a Comment

For 27 years the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge has been romancing guests with the magic of Christmas in November. This annual culinary event features Canadian Celebrity Chefs as well as known local Chefs who love to share their passion for cooking with attendees. With three packages to choose from, you pick the one that works best for you and sign up for sessions including food, cocktails and decor. Almost every Chef or Presenter you meet is gracious and approachable. You may even find yourself seated with some of them at your dining room table. Seriously a food lovers dream.

Beyond these sessions are decadent buffet style and plated meals, festive activities, delicious beverages, entertainment and even design sessions to help get you in the holiday spirit. I explore the Eat, Drink and be Merry side of Christmas in November on the Canada.com Website.

Returning to Christmas in November this year was the Decor Whistler Cabin with Cory Christopher, a cabin decorated with festive flair to inspire creativity in your own home this holiday season. So much fun right?!

With so many men now attending the event, the organizers created The Man Cabin. I admit, I was a little excited about exploring this cabin that included Alberta Pork and a Spirits tasting with Charton Hobbs. Yes my friends, Ladies were Welcome. They even had cigars available for purchase if you were so inclined.

With so many great things happening during your stay, it’s hard not to get caught up in the Christmas spirit.

I was asked to cover the event as Gastropost [National Post] Ambassador again this year, and brought my friend Merry along to join me. While there I learned how to cook the shit out of Indian food with Vikram Vij, make Asian salmon tartare with Chef Jan Hansen, try melt in your mouth ricotta gnocchi with Chef Mark McEwan, make turkey confit canapes with Chef Liana Robberecht, whip up a Black Forest Roulade with Chefs Anna and Michael Olson, get my pork on at the Man Cabin with Michael Olson and Alberta Pork PLUS learn how to make memories at the cottage with Nik Manojlovich. These were just a few of my favourite things.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge has announced Chef Chuck Hughes as the 2017 headliner for Christmas in November and is already taking reservations for next year.

If you love food, cookbooks and the Food Network, definitely put this on your bucket list.

Our favourite Advent Calendars for 2016

Nov 9, 2016 · Leave a Comment

What better way to get into the holiday spirit this season then to enjoy an Advent Calendar. When we were kids there was chocolate and chocolate. Nowadays the options are endless.

My husband has been spoiled with the Phillips Snowcase Advent Calendar for the last couple of years. He really enjoys craft beer, is a confessed sucker for a cool label, and gets excited about trying new local brews. Phillips unfortunately did not create a Snowcase this year, but not to worry – the Craft Beer Advent Calendar is equally impressive and sure to please.

The kids have enjoyed both the Purdy’s Chocolate Advent Calendars, and Lego Calendars. Admittedly I get all excited to see what the daily piece of Lego will be proving the big kid still exists in us to!

For those that do not have time to DIY, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites to help count down the 24 days of Christmas.

Craft Beer Advent Calendar

Beer, Beer, Beer Beer – remember this song?! This bevy of brews will cost you $150 pending location.

Cococo Chocolatiers

Twelve days of chocolate all packaged beautifully in a box. This gift box is $22 and offers twelve remarkable chocolate creations including an exciting selection of Mango Peppercorn, Honey Anise, award-winning Sea Salt Caramels and Earl Grey Tea.

Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics

One of my favourite stores since the 1990’s, Lush now offers an Advent Calendar – squeee! This twelve day calendar is a Lush Lovers Dream. Available online. $99

Sage Natural Wellness

Twelve days of giving, twelve days of wellness. From Peppermint Halo to Liquid Sunshine, there’s a little something for everyone. $89

Lego Advent Calendars

These calendars sell fast people, so get out there and get yours now! Available for a limited time in Lego Star Wars, Lego City, and Lego Friends. We’ve found them at Chapters, the Lego Store. and picked up ours this year at the Discovery Hut in Chinook Mall. $40-$50

Purdy’s Chocolates

A favourite in our house is the Purdy’s Advent Chocolate Calendars $20

David’s Tea

Tea loves unite for this extraordinary 24 days of tea. $40

KWM 2016 Whisky Advent Calendar

I heard about this advent calendar last year and since I’m all about the whiskey and scotch, thought it was the best thing next to sliced bread. You can buy your 25 days of whiskey at Kensington Wine Market for $399

Baby’s First Knit Advent Calendar from Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn has some gorgeous non edible advent calendars available. If you can’t locate them in the store you can order online. Price range $69 – $190.

Advent Calendar with Divine Milk Chocolate from Ten Thousand Villages

This Fair Trade milk chocolate advent calendar is made with the finest Fair Trade cocoa beans from Kuapa Kokoo, a farmer’s co-operative in Ghana. $10, available in stores only.

Sock Lovers Advent Calendar

I saw my friend Fareen post on instagram she got her husband a Sock Lovers Advent Calendar this year. I was so intrigued! Even more so when I learned Sock Box is a local (Calgary) company. Don’t worry though, you can order online.

Chicken Noodle Stir-Fry

Nov 5, 2016 · 1 Comment

Our Chicken Noodle Stir-Fry is full of tasty vegetables, marinated chicken, egg noodles and a whole lot of flavour!

Stir-fries can be many things. An easy clean out your fridge dinner, a healthy meal after an all you can eat holiday, a quick dinner on a busy evening or as simple or complicated as you choose to make it. This Chicken Noodle Stir-Fry is a quick dinner on a busy night in our house. You could make this meal every day of the week changing up your proteins, veggies, carbs and flavour add ins and never have the same meal. I definitely need to stir fry more.

I tend to learn towards chow mein noodles or rice when I stir fry, however this time while browsing the International aisle in the grocery store, egg noodles called my name. So I called back and they came home with me. Get the whole family involved in chopping and dinner is ready in no time at all.

Here’s how we did it.

Smoked Salmon on Pumpernickel Rye

Nov 2, 2016 · 11 Comments

Smoked Salmon on Pumpernickel Rye comes together quickly and is easy to prepare in advance or when you arrive at your gathering when you have your ingredients prepped and ready to go.

Smoked Salmon on Pumpernickel Rye

Coming from the Pacific West Coast, I’ve eaten my fair share of smoked salmon. Even freshly smoked then canned via my momma.

As a child my dad would catch river salmon and smoke it regularly. I crave it, so I decided to make my own smoked salmon. When I moved to Vancouver I had a hard time eating smoked salmon that was not his. Eventually lox and cream cheese on bagels won me over and I let go of that craving. But it still resides in my thoughts as a taste I will never forget.

German Food

Did you know this recipe’s origins are German? We were asked to bring an appetizer to a recent family gathering or celebration of cultures. Since we have a Spanish student living with us, I wanted to hi-light some Spanish food. But he’s 16 and we couldn’t get it together in time.

I reached out to another former student from Germany, one who has become a second daughter to us. I am partially German with relatives living in Germany so I was intrigued to see what she would suggest. She sent me pictures of lox on Pumpernickel German Rye Bread and advised it’s very popular in Germany. I clearly had no idea! This was a dish I could get behind and off I went to find pumpernickel rye and lox.

Pumpernickel Rye Bread

Pumpernickel German Rye Bread is a heavy, dense and simply flavoured bread. Lox is sold everywhere here but as a touristy item. Fortunately thanks to twitter I located some that was both a decent price and delicious. The bread came from the European deli.

Bagels and Lox

What I put together really didn’t look much like the photos she sent me but more based on my memory of lox on bagels with cream cheese. And the best part of it all, our Spanish student helped me assemble these German appetizers and did his share of eating them. I expected nothing less from a growing teenager.

Here’s a few other appetizer recipes we adore!

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker

This simple smoked salmon bite layers pumpernickel rye with cream cheese, capers, and dill. It works equally well as an appetizer or light lunch.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings

Oct 29, 2016 · 8 Comments

Mix, marinate if time allows, turn on your crockpot and let these Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings cook while you prepare the rest of your meal!

Why the Slow Cooker?

When I fry the wings I tend to do it outside on the burner of our BBQ to avoid grease splatter all over my kitchen. I’m avoiding purchasing a deep fryer as it’s another appliance I do not have room for! Can any one else relate?

As a chicken wing lover I do prefer my wings to be crispy vs fatty. These slow cooker wings are finished in the oven at high heat ensuring a crispy finish.

Other Ways to Use Chicken Wings

Besides eating them of course?!

We use chicken wings to help make our gravy when roasting a turkey. Roasting the raw wings with aromatic herbs and vegetables provides a depth of flavour to the gravy. Another use is to toss them into soup, like chicken noodle soup.

Since these wings slow cook in the crockpot, they end up incredibly moist and practically fall off the bone. Putting them under the broiler for a few minutes makes them crispy on the outside yet they remain moist on the inside.

Looking for other chicken recipes?

Thinking about buying your own slow cooker?! Check out 10 Best Slow Cookers of 2019, According to Appliance Experts.

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans.

Chicken wings simmer in a soy-ginger-brown sugar mixture in the slow cooker, then are broiled briefly to heighten flavour and texture.

Crockpot Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

Oct 27, 2016 · 5 Comments

Crockpot Cinnamon Hot Chocolate is a comforting, hot, welcoming mug of deliciousness ready for you to enjoy when you come home. Whether you are enjoying some outdoor winter sports like skating or sledding, out walking the dog or running errands, this hot cocoa will be ready to greet you when you walk in the door!

Crockpot Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

One of my favourite childhood food memories involves hot chocolate and skating on a frozen lake while my dad ice fished in Northern British Columbia. I wasn’t a good skater back then and admittedly I’m still not a good skater but I always make time to create and enjoy the best cup of hot cocoa when out with the family while they skate!

Ingredients

Milk: I try to use whole milk when making hot chocolate as it offers a creamier drink, however 2% will also work
Chocolate: Chips, chunks or even bars broken up will work. Sometimes I prefer milk chocolate and sometimes its all dark chocolate.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is stronger than using sticks but either will do. If using ground add, taste, add taste until you are happy with the taste!
Maple Syrup: Is my sweetener of choice! Honey will work or sugar.
Cocoa Powder: For that extra velvety chocolate experience!
Vanilla: Flavour enhancer
Sea Salt: For a fuller chocolate flavour!

Whisk together ingredients in a bowl and pour into your crockpot, or toss all in the pot and mix – saving an extra dish!

Something to look forward to

We spend a lot of time outdoors in the winter, sledding, skating, playing in the snow. The promise of warm hot cocoa topped with marshmallows is never far from our minds. While it’s easier most days to grab a premade mix, taking a few extra minutes to make hot chocolate from scratch is well worth the time and effort!

If you love chocolate as much as we do, give these recipes a try!

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans. Please share your comments below if you make our Crockpot Cinnamon Hot Chocolate.

Googly Eye Halloween Treats

Oct 21, 2016 · 3 Comments

Add some fun to lunches with these Googly Eye Halloween Treats! All it takes is some candy eyes, white tape and a little imagination to brighten someone’s day!

Halloween Treats

When the kids were little we used to love making things with googly eyes. This included candy eyes and baking plus crafts. We did a lot of crafts back in those days.

One day we progressed from adding candy eyes to baked items – to sticking them on to fruit and juice boxes!

Googly Eyes

We love to have fun with our food and what’s more fun than putting edible Googly Eyes on snacks and sending them to school with your big or little kids lunches? We’ve added them to snack mixes, sandwiches and anything that is edible and fun!

Where do you find Candy Googly Eyes?

We buy our candy eyes Michael’s Craft Stores, Bulk Barn and have even found them in the local grocery stores.

If you have enough time, you can buy them on Amazon.

Making these treats

Once you have your googly eyes, and some white tape, you are ready to start creating!

1. Remove straws from juice boxes. Poke a hole in a strip of white tape and place tape over drink spout for straw matching up the holes. Wrap juice boxes up in white duct tape, white electrical tape or medicine tape. Add googly eyes and secure with a mummy bandage (piece of tape). Tape straw to back of box.

2. Using a tube of white icing as your glue, glue two eyes to pears, apples, bananas or oranges. Completely edible minus the peels.

3. Make your favourite rice krispie recipe and spread all over a rimmed baking sheet. Chill until firm. Cut into rectangle shapes. Buy your favourite coloured chocolate candy melts and melt the chocolate in the microwave low and slow. Dip one end of your rectangle rice krispie into the chocolate. Add 2 googly eyes to the chocolate part and lay on baking sheet. Chill to set.

4. Add googly eyes to granola bars, cookies, brownies and squares, chocolate bark, caramel popcorn, cupcakes even vegetables like carrots~! It’s easy just pick up a tube of icing to glue them onto items!

Deb Matejicka from The Weather Network joined us in the kitchen recently to talk all things googly eyes and fun treats for kids at Halloween!

Here’s the Youtube link with Deb Matejicka.

Looking for fun Halloween Treat ideas, check out these links below!

What are your favourite Halloween Treats?!

Ford Sustainability: A Glimpse into the Future with #FarmToCar

Oct 19, 2016 · Leave a Comment

Did you ever think it possible to eat a vehicle?! We recently had the chance to attend a Ford Sustainability Dinner at the Calgary Zoo and learn more about this exciting innovation.

For one night Ford and the Calgary Zoo teamed up to showcase some of the different food items Ford uses in the production of it’s vehicles. Sounds kinda cool right? I was admittedly very excited to attend this event as we own Ford trucks and secondly the Calgary Zoo itself is a leader in wildlife conservation trying inspire action to sustain wildlife and wild places. They boast a culinary garden on the Zoo grounds allowing them to utilize home grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and more (ie: bamboo). Several of these home grown items were incorporated into our meal.

A pioneer of our time, Henry Ford was always a step ahead of every one else. On August 13, 1941, he unveiled the first Ford “Soybean Car” at Dearborn Days in Dearborn, Michigan. He had already invested money in a soybean farm, a soy processing plant, and soy crop research. Ford had amazing foresight to know that one day, his customers would be looking to Ford to be the leader in sustainability in the world of car production. He even wore a soy made suit.

As the story goes, auto production was suspended during World War I, and Ford’s technology advancements became lost, as all energy was put into war recovery efforts. In 2000 Ford started to replace petroleum-based plastics with plant-based materials and the Sustainability process was reborn. Today, the automaker uses eight sustainable-based materials in its vehicles including soy foam, castor oil, wheat straw, kenaf fiber, cellulose, wood, coconut fiber and rice hulls.

After an initial margarita cocktail with cotton candy and a few light bites, Ford representatives gave us a presentation about their sustainability practices. Every meal presented by the Calgary Zoo included a sustainable material used in making ford vehicles (such as soybeans and coconut) and explained in detail by a Ford Scientist.

Table Setting at The Calgary Zoo Ford Event

We were led into the Enmax Conservatory at the Calgary Zoo to begin our dinner. The Conservatory is a gorgeous place to hang out at anytime, but it was simply spectacular on this evening. The table for dinner was simply stunning and we were in awe while taking photos of the table before we took our seats. Our four Course Meal included a palate cleanser and each one was introduced by the Chefs as it was served to us. Following the introduction, the Ford Scientist explained the item on the plate that was being used in Ford automobiles.

One of their more recent partnerships and collaborations is with Jose Cuervo, a family-owned and operated business since 1795. They have teamed up to make car parts from Agave. The growth cycle of the agave plant is a minimum seven-year process. Once harvested, the heart of the plant is roasted, before grinding and extracting its juices for distillation. Jose Cuervo uses a portion of the remaining agave fibers as compost for its farms, and local artisans make crafts and agave paper from the remnants.

First & Third Course — First & Second Course

A few photos of our meal include our first course; Dandelion greens, apple wedges, roasted beets, mulled red wine and sugar cane gastrique, pumpkin seed brittle. Presented in bamboo grown on the grounds of the Calgary Zoo. Did you know sugar can be used to make pop bottles and other plastics?

Second Course above (and one of my favourites): Miso glazed sous vide ling cod, grapefruit segments, coconut yam puree, wilted frisee, accompanied by Ford soy custard with soy foam. The soy foam custard was inspired by soy Ford uses in its seat foam.

The evening was full of great food, company and lots of learning about Ford’s forward thinking. I left feeling inspired and confident the world I leave to my children might not be so bad after all with companies like Ford and Jose Cuervo.

I was invited to attend this Media Dinner as a guest, as always all comments about my experience remain my own.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Companyis a global automotive and mobility company based in Dearborn, Michigan. With about 203,000 employees and 67 plants worldwide, the company’s core business includes designing, manufacturing, marketing and servicing a full line of Ford cars, trucks and SUVs, as well as Lincoln luxury vehicles. To expand its business model, Ford is aggressively pursuing emerging opportunities with investments in electrification, autonomy and mobility. Ford provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products and services, please visitwww.corporate.ford.com.

Smokey BBQ Beef on a Bun

Sep 21, 2016 · Leave a Comment

Smokey BBQ Beef on a Bun makes us think of summer. The smells of barbecue smoking or slow-cooking on your grill, the excitement of summer salads, grilled vegetables and corn, and the anticipation of a smoked beef roast makes our mouths drool every time.

Smokey BBQ Beef on a Bun

We’ve been perfecting our smokey BBQ beef on a bun recipe since around 2003, when I had something similar for the first time at a work Calgary Stampede barbecue. The next year I was more involved with planning the annual event, allowing me to discover first hand how they smoked and grilled the beef.

I’ve always said inspiration comes from everywhere!

More of the back story

It was 2003 and I started a new job with a company in the South of Calgary. This rather large company would throw an employee and friends Stampede Barbecue every July. I was in charge of organizing this shindig and ensuring there was enough food and beverages to go around for hundreds of people.

The company had a commercial BBQ and every year they barbecued these beef roasts after marinating them all night. I watched, I learned, I oversaw the cooking and this is where my inspiration to make my own beef on a bun came from.

Meat slicer

Right away we invested in a meat slicer and although we might only use it a couple times a year, it’s an investment that keeps giving. Smoking the beef as you are cooking it low and slow helps create a delicious bark and givings the roast it’s deep dark brown look.

End of summer BBQ

This roast serves quite a crowd. We recently had our end of Summer BBQ with 33 adults and kids. We cooked up extra hot dogs for the kids and even after several of the men went back for thirds, but we still ended up with close to half of our roast leftover. Which was great for leftover dishes in the days to follow.

We always pair our beef on a bun with a variety of barbecue fare: corn on the cob or Corn Ribs, Baked Beans, Simple Herb Potato Salad, Watermelon Herb and Cucumber Salad, Italian Pasta Salad, Crispy Summer Molasses Coleslaw, and a bevy of vegetables with dips.

PRO TIPS

Beef is expensive. A good rule of thumb is 1/2 lb of meat per person. Lately we buy a six or seven lb roast and it feeds ten with leftovers.
User leftovers in pot pie, quesadillas, tacos or soup
Leftovers can be frozen.
Marinate the day before allowing flavours to blend.
We pull the roast off at about 135 F, which is medium rare.

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker and please comment below!

Baked Beans

Sep 15, 2016 · 7 Comments

We’ve combined pineapple, bacon and maple syrup to make these Baked Beans extraordinary and a hit at your next campfire cookout or back yard BBQ.

Baked Beans

As they cook, beans absorb flavour so adding aromatics and flavour enhancers to your sauce will surely make your beans one tasty bite.

We make a batch of these beans over the campfire when we meet up with friends for our annual camp out. Like many dishes they tend to taste better the next day served with eggs for breakfast, beside hot dogs for lunch or next to a burger or beef on a bun for dinner.

A Baked Beans Experience like no other

Since my mom wasn’t a good cook, my first real experience with baked beans was from an old boyfriend’s mom, while we were camping for the weekend at their summer cabin. His mom cooked up a big batch of home made beans for our farewell barbecue (we were moving to Vancouver and the boys off to College).

I am pretty sure I still have her recipe since she wrote it out for me all those years ago. Best first baked bean experience ever.

You can add many flavours to your beans, cook them from dried, slow cook them and even these days Instant Pot your beans. We’ve found this recipe is easy to assemble and very popular with our camping families.

This recipe makes enough for a potluck or crowd. Half the recipe if you are making it for 6 or less people. Leftovers taste great the next day.

If you like these baked beans, you might enjoy:

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker

Armenian Roasted Vegetables

Sep 12, 2016 · 1 Comment

A sucker for roasted vegetables, I couldn’t wait to make this recipe by Olia Hercules and her Mamushka cookbook. Fall and winter has us roasting vegetables regularly. I’ve roasted cabbage before and loved it so the combination of these Armenian Roasted Vegetables was quite intriguing to me.

Ensure you cut your vegetables thick as illustrated in the recipe. I’ve noticed while making recipes from this cookbook they use a lot of dill and yogurt in Eastern European Cooking. Our student from Spain has advised the same. Things I would have never known had I never joined the cookbook club. My mom used to cook with dill she grew in her garden. Dilled baby potatoes are one recipe that stands out from childhood. It’s an herb I adore. Serve these veggies along side a roasted chicken, pork loin or beef roast.

Olia also suggests to change things up, try adding some feta before serving.

Apple Sponge

Sep 9, 2016 · 1 Comment

There are only so many days in a month and when you have over half a cookbook flagged with recipes to try, the struggle becomes real. Plus kids, activities, events to attend, life in general! But I’m determined and so I made my way through a good handful of recipes from Olia Hercule’s cookbook Mamushka.

The monthly cookbook club I belong to allows you to try any recipe you want and share it to Instagram. There are no other requirements besides check out what others in the club are making. I have found through this process this year there are several recipes I would make again. This being one of them.

This Apple Sponge contains no rising agent. You create height by beating air into the eggs. The cake was moist and using Fall apples harvested at their peak makes it the perfect Autumn dessert. I added salt to the recipe to enhance the flavour but that’s entirely your choice.

Olia’s mom would make this whenever they had a craving for something sweet, calling it biskvit (“a sponge”).

Touring some of Alberta’s Cool Little Towns

Sep 8, 2016 · Leave a Comment

One of the things we love to do is explore little towns. Whether it’s touring across Canada, the US or right here in Alberta we love to hop in the car and go somewhere new for the day. You learn so much about a community when you stop to discover what makes them unique and take the time to talk with the locals. Maybe it’s because we grew up in small little towns that we are drawn back to them so often.

We had the opportunity to experience some great little towns recently as we participated in a Cool Little Towns Tour originating in Calgary and less than an hour away. With four featured tours to choose from, Cool Little Towns encourages you to follow the routes as planned or use them as a guideline to plan your own adventure. With over 250 kilometres of Alberta’s most scenic driving routes to you should set aside the day to enjoy your drive, the beautiful views and great finds in each community. We decided on the Made in Alberta tour, a feast for your senses.

Eau Claire Distillery, Turner Valley — Eau Claire Distillery and the Turner Valley Movie Theatre turned Distillery

It was a Saturday morning with no commitments and we were looking forward to hitting the road. Our first stop was Turner Valley and the award winning Eau Claire Distillery. They offer tastings and a tour of their Artisanal Spirits offering a Farm to Glass experience as they produce their spirits from local Alberta grain. The distillery itself is housed in a circa-1929 Turner Valley Movie Theatre and Dance Hall and if you are hungry, there are light bites available.

After a few samples and purchase or two, we carried on our way and discovered MotoBurrito, an eclectic Mexican food truck featuring burritos, tacos, burgers, fries and more. Sitting on two acres of land next to Motorrad, this 14 foot food truck boasts a fun and colourful seating area with a variety of hot sauces to choose from and purchase. It was lunch time so we grabbed a seat and stayed to eat. While we enjoyed our fries, burgers and burritos we were able to watch a team roasting a pig for a pig roast they were having the next day.

On the road again and just a short drive down the highway, we sailed into Black Diamond. The Stop Coffee House and Gathering Place was on our list of places to visit for an after lunch coffee. This little coffee house boasts a spacious patio situated in front of a rustic outdoor bandstand. They feature Calgary’s Fratello coffee and homestyle café food. A rather large cookie accompanied our coffee, big enough to be shared by all four of us.

One Stop Coffee Shop and Black Diamond Bakery

Our tour continued on by foot weaving our way through the town of Black Diamond. We browsed Cool Hand Luc’s Treasure Shop, bought some treats at Black Diamond Bakery & Coffee Shop and pulled up a stool at Marv’s Classic Soda Shop. All of the little stores along this side of the street were so much fun but Marv’s totally left a lasting impression! Here you can order burgers like Fonzie, Lana Turner, James Dean and more! The kids went crazy with glee as there was so much to look at including cool drinks and nostalgic candy. We shared a couple of sodas and vowed to return for a longer visit. Across the street we got lost in a unique boutique called Bohemia. This cool little store has the best prices and they carry fair-trade, local, cool items from fashion, knickknacks and jewelry.

Marv's Classic Soda Shop — Marv’s Classic Soda Shop

Watching our time we made a quick stop in Longview at the World famous Longview Jerky Shop. From Alberta Beef made jerky, pepperoni and sausages, to a butcher shop with custom orders, there are so many reasons to stop in an visit this cool little shop. Leaving with a few jerky road snacks we headed to our last stop of the day, the Bar U Ranch National Historic Site.

Bar U Ranch was established in 1882 and was one of the foremost ranching operations in Canada. Recognizing that the Bar U Ranch’s long history provided an excellent opportunity to commemorate Canada’s ranching heritage, Parks Canada acquired 148.43 hectares (367 acres), including the ranch’s headquarters area, in 1991. Artists, princes and outlaws have all called the Bar U Ranch home at various times in its colourful history. Famed western artist Charley Russell, H.R.H. Edward Prince of Wales, and Harry Longabaugh (better known as the Sundance Kid) were among the famous and infamous characters who graced the ranch’s vast expanse at various times.

There’s lots to do on the ranch like visiting with the ranch hands, learning to rope a steer, saddle a horse, make bannock, repair a bridle or boil up cowboy coffee on a fire. You can wander the trails and dirt roads, pop into the stables, the post office or even the cookhouse to learn about “home on the range”. Did you know if you carry a valid Canada National Parks Pass you can use it at Bar U Ranch and get in for free?!

Our day touring these cool little towns was a fun way to have an adventure and spend the day with the kids. We found many little gems and already planning our return visit to many of them.

#CoolLittleTowns encourages locals and travellers seeking a cool day trip or staycation to drive within one hour south of Calgary for amazing food, unique art, great boutiques, shop-local experiences, rural beauty and eclectic offerings. Visit Turner Valley, Black Diamond and Longview to enjoy a driving tour like mine.

I am an ambassador of Cool Little Towns and have received perks to participate. However all opinions shared here about what makes these Cool Little Towns so cool are my own.

Yogurt Drop Scones

Sep 4, 2016 · 1 Comment

Since I was small child I have loved cookbooks. Most likely because my mom had cookbooks I could peek at (Joy of Cooking, Five Roses Cookbook) and secondly because I’d been watching PBS Cooking Shows on Saturdays since the 70’s. When I moved away from home and to Vancouver, I would always fly home for Christmas. It was then my mom always had some cookbook or cooking wares item under the tree for me. My suitcase went home full of inspiration and my cookbook collection slowly increasing in size.

This year I joined in on a cookbook of the month club. I have been enjoying discovering new cookbooks through this club and trying new recipes, several I will make again. The cookbook for September is Mamushka, A Cookbook by Olia Hercules. This book shares recipes from Ukraine & Eastern Europe and is a cookbook I would have never found on my own. I’ve enjoyed several recipes from this book and will be sharing a few on the blog.

Olia’s scones recipe is what we would call small pancakes. This recipe makes a small batch so you will need to double it if you are feeding a family of four. Or a teenager. I’ve never played with Kefir before and was thrilled to find it locally for this recipe. These scones/pancakes were simply delicious and with only five ingredients in this recipe, one I will make again.

Olia calls these one of her most favourite recipes of all time, ones he makes for her son often as her mom did for her.

Invivo Wines Night In

Aug 22, 2016 · Leave a Comment

Spending time in the outdoors is a reminder for us to focus on what’s important and shut off the phones for a little while. It’s a chance to spend one on one time with family & friends in a beautiful setting to experience life while enjoying delicious food and wine. I find cooking in the outdoors very inspiring and love to create new recipes!

This is exactly what we did when we went to Waterton Lakes National Park recently with a couple of friends and their families. It’s been 6-7 years since we last visited Waterton and we were very excited to share the experience together. These are a couple of friends I hang out with regularly during our Moms Who Needs Wine Evening Gatherings. There’s usually a dozen of us at any given time and we either get together at someone’s house, partake in wine tastings or visit a restaurant while getting caught up on each others busy lives. Our trip to Waterton included hiking, camping, fishing, good food & company, lots of fresh air and was exactly what we all needed. Plus it was the perfect setting to try a new wine, Invivo Wines Pinot Noir.

Originating in New Zealand, Invivo Wines was founded in 2007 by old school friends that liked New Zealand Wine so much they started a winery to make some. Now if that isn’t a story after my own heart, and one my friends and I have discussed many times! After the trails and tribulations of running a business, Invivo is proud to announce they are available in 17 countries worldwide and have one of Alberta’s fastest growing Sauvignon Blanc brands. The Pinot Noir is an easy drinking wine and one you don’t have to feel intimidated to try.

The Pinot Noir boasts aromas of cherries, black plum, blackberries and spicy herbal notes. A long finish and bright tannins round out this wine giving it a beautiful taste. We enjoyed our first sip with dinner, then the kids went off to play leaving us to sit around the fire and enjoy the rest of the bottle. We even discovered it pairs well with chocolate as we sampled an Epiphanie chocolate, and a dark chocolate with sea salt and spice.

Last year we discovered a wine called Bella by Invivo, a Sauvignon Blanc that left a lasting memory. I reached out to Invivo on Instagram about where to find it in Calgary and they responded right away with a few options. I haven’t looked for it in 2016, but sure hope the Bella is still available! So far my track record with Invivo wines has been fabulous.

As it’s a sweeter and fruity Pinot Noir we opted to pair it with marinated pork tenderloin for dinner. It would pair nicely with duck, salmon, tuna or chicken.

The nicest thing about this wine, was sharing it with friends!

Find Invivo Wines at these select Calgary locations:

4th Spot Kitchen & Bar
80th & Ivy
Calgary Coop Wines and Spirits
Catch Restaurant
Chateau Lake Louise
Cibo
Craft Cellars
Nixx Neighbourhood Pub
Olympia Liquor Store Group
Scopa Neighbourhood Italian
State & Main
Vintage Chophouse & Tavern
Willow Park Wines and Spirits

Samples of Invivo Wines Pinot Noir were provided for a Night In, however all opinions remain my own.

Sweet Red Chili Glazed Chicken with Salad

Aug 12, 2016 · Leave a Comment

Summer days can be hot leaving us with no interest in cooking a big meal. Simple, light and easy meals like our Sweet Red Chili Glazed Chicken with Salad are how we get through summer!

Leftover sweet red chili sauce, grilled local corn and fresh in season asparagus become the canvas for this salad. We whipped up a cilantro dressing which complemented the salad nicely. If you do not like cilantro, use basil instead.

This meal may seem labour intensive but it’s really not. First thing get your lettuce cleaned and corn/asparagus ready for the grill and BBQ them. Grill chicken next. While it’s cooling a bit get your dressing ready. Finally finish off the chicken and assemble. The first time I made this dish I admittedly kept two of the chicken thighs out of the glaze as I thought the kids would like it. Boy was I wrong. They devoured all the glazed chicken and LOVED it!

Here’s how we did it.

Recipes (Main)

Slow Cooker Beer Pulled Pork

Cook once, eat two or three times

Pulled Pork Ingredients

The Beer

Here’s a few other fun pork recipes to try:

Roast Turkey Pho

The Broth

PRO TIPS

A bowl of Pho

More soup recipes to try:

Jalapeño Tex Mex Dip

Seven Layer Dip

PRO TIPS

Having a potluck or a gathering? Here are a few other dishes to try!

Season the Air

Smoked Salmon on Pumpernickel Rye

German Food

Pumpernickel Rye Bread

Bagels and Lox

Here’s a few other appetizer recipes we adore!

Why the Slow Cooker?

Other Ways to Use Chicken Wings

Looking for other chicken recipes?

Crockpot Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

Ingredients

Something to look forward to

If you love chocolate as much as we do, give these recipes a try!

Halloween Treats

Googly Eyes

Where do you find Candy Googly Eyes?

Making these treats

Smokey BBQ Beef on a Bun

More of the back story

Meat slicer

End of summer BBQ

PRO TIPS

Baked Beans

A Baked Beans Experience like no other

If you like these baked beans, you might enjoy:

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