Posts for September 28th 2012

party planning

Beer of the Day: Radeberger Pilsner

Since we couldn't make it to Oktoberfest this Fall, it seemed fitting to sip on a German-brewed beer in hopes of its transportative properties.

Since we couldn't make it to Oktoberfest this Fall, it seemed fitting to sip on a German-brewed beer in hopes of its transportative properties. With that in mind, we bring you a classic Teutonic tipple: Radeberger Pilsner ($8 for 6). Founded in 1872, Radeberger is purportedly the first German brewery (still in business) to produce pilsner exclusively and has earned an impressive assortment of fans since then, including King Frederick Augustus III of Saxony and Chancellor Otto von Bismarck.

Keep reading to find out if this German import is up to snuff.

Cooking Basics

7 Quick Apple Snacks

If you crave crisp apples for an afternoon snack, why not kick it up a notch and nosh on these quick apple snacks, which take mere minutes to prepare.
Quick Apple Snack Recipes

If you crave crisp apples for an afternoon snack, why not kick it up a notch and nosh on these quick apple snacks, which take mere minutes to prepare. We've included classic pairings, like cheddar cheese, and some that are a bit more novel like Biscoff spread. Take a look, and happy munching!

Vegan

Make Your Own: Sesame Tahini

While everyone I know seems to be on an almond butter kick, one of my favorite peanut butter alternatives is tahini.

While everyone I know seems to be on an almond butter kick, one of my favorite peanut butter alternatives is tahini. Spread on toast, dipped in apples, and used in my favorite vegan alfredo sauce, tahini has many versatile applications beyond homemade hummus.

Making it couldn't be easier. The trick is toasting the seeds prior to processing, which bolsters the seeds' natural nuttiness, lending a complex, toasted flavor that's reminiscent of browned butter. Just be sure to diligently set your kitchen timer and check the seeds often, because they burn fast! Now that I have all this leftover tahini, I'm thinking it calls for a batch of tahini cookies . . .

From Anna Monette Roberts, YumSugar

Homemade Tahini

Homemade Tahini Recipe

Ingredients

8 ounces (about 1 cup) sesame seeds
1/4 cup olive oil, more if needed
Salt, to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread sesame seeds on a parchment-paper-lined cookie sheet, and bake for 6 minutes. Mix and respread sesame seeds, and return to oven for 6 to 8 minutes more, or until sesame seeds are fragrant and golden brown. Immediately transfer toasted seeds to a separate bowl to prevent carryover cooking.
  2. Add sesame seeds to the bowl of a food processor and grind for 1 minute, or until seeds have broken down. While processor is on, drizzle in olive oil, and continue to grind for 1 or 2 minutes more, or until a smooth paste forms. If mixture is too dry, then add more olive oil, 1 teaspoon at a time. Season to taste. Transfer tahini to a mason jar, and store in the fridge for up to one month.

Makes one 10-ounce jar.

Food News

A Whole Latte Coffee Art

While lattes are undeniably delightful, sometimes the best part of this classic beverage isn't the roasted flavor, but rather the art.

While lattes are undeniably delightful, sometimes the best part of this classic beverage isn't the roasted flavor, but rather the art. Those who enjoy this warm, frothy drink in neighborhood coffee shops may be delighted to find clever designs like hearts, playful animals, and even popular cartoon characters gracing their cup. We found a whole latte love added to these drinks, demonstrating a true passion for espresso-making. Click through to see a whole host of impressive (and often mind-boggling) favorites.

Sources: Flickr user WordRidden, Instagram user happiness_pum, Flickr user Keng Susumpow, and Flickr user SweetOnVeg

savory sights

Savory Sight: "Meaty" Veggie Pasta

This substantial meat-free pasta dish from Grace Dickinson is sure to delight vegetarians and omnivores alike.

This substantial meat-free pasta dish from Grace Dickinson is sure to delight vegetarians and omnivores alike.

You can't go wrong with tomato, basil and mozzarella. Combine it with whole wheat pasta and some vegetarian "meatiness" for a satisfying meal.

To read more, and for the full recipe, check out her blog, and be sure to upload your latest food-related obsessions with us in the YumSugar Community. If you're on Instagram, then join us by tagging your pictures with the hashtag #savorysight.