Nov 302011
 

There may not seem to be much rhyme or reason to the video selection these days, but there’s a good reason for that. As I’ve alluded to in previous posts, for the next couple months I’ll be basically cooking only recipes that appear in the cookbook.

When I have a chance to turn on the video recorder, I will, and this crouton how-to is an example. During normal times I’d probably not wake up inspired to film croutons, but hey, it’s better than another talking plate clip from YouTube.

In addition to what may be a useful recipe for some number of you, you’ll get my first and last Beyonce tribute. Sources deep within the music industry tipped me off she was planning a parody of my chicken wing video, so I wanted to strike the first blow.

Speaking of blow, virtually all salad dressing historians claim Caesar salad was invented in 1924 by Cesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico. It doesn’t appear on any written menus or cookbooks until decades later, and when it does, it’s called the “Caesar.”

What happened? I realize the inventors name, Cesar, is Spanish for the Latin, Caesar, but so what? The salad was invented by a Cesar, not Caesar. It’s not like it was changed to make it easier to say, or to Americanize it. Anyone have any ideas?

While you’re pondering that one, why not head over to my American Foods site where I’ve posted my version of Caesar salad dressing, and the same recipe that will go into the book. Any thoughts or corrections would be greatly appreciated. Enjoy!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZM9xUiX4tw]

Crouton Ingredients:
4 cloves garlic, minced very fine
1/2 cup olive oil
1 (8-ounce) loaf French baguette or similar style bread (for best results, use day old bread)
3/4 cup finely grated “real” Parmesan cheese (sold as Parmigiano-Reggiano)
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
pinch of cayenne

Jun 152010
 

Latin Dating offers many opportunities to experience the passion and romance often associated with this culture. Getting started can be especially challenging and here are some useful tips that will make your romantic ventures into the latin community easier and more enjoyable.

If you are interested in forming a relationship with a man or woman of Latin descent, you can take advantage of the facilities offered with an online community which is dedicated to helping singles meet Latinos in a comfortable online atmosphere, such like program of Amolatinasagency. This offers the chance to meet your perfect match or simply find friendship. A community such as this is an excellent place to begin relationships, whether your interest is in marriage, companionship, or lasting friendship.

Naturally, these Latin communities also provide opportunities for you to set up the perfect romantic dating experience. Initially, one that both you and your date can enjoy without strings attached.

Latin online dating sites will normally include a number of features to help clients get to know other clients fairly well. For instance, you might expect to find presented in these sites:

Online profiles and photographs of Latin singles

Online chat rooms and an instant messenger that will allow communication in real time

An online private email box that allows participants to send and receive personal messages

An online forum that allows participants to post messages and exchange information

An FAQ section which makes it easier to get started by providing answers to common questions.

Once you’ve made contact, creating romance on your dates is greatly facilitated if you enjoy taking part in one, or more, of the following activities:

DINNER: The perfect choice for Latin dating. You can make this experience as casual or romantic as you want it to be. Make sure that you listen intently to your date, as the way you act during the meal can establish – or ruin – your new relationship. You might even take his or her hand across the dinner table. Make sure there is plenty of eye contact, and be open and honest, yet tactful, when you express yourself.

However, keep in mind that the other person may prefer the relationship to develop slowly and could be wary of early sexual overtures. If you sense discomfort in your date, back off. Good taste in romance means knowing when to draw the line. If you want the relationship to develop further – to become a Latin Lover – your date needs to feel relaxed and comfortable with you.

DANCING: At the heart of all good Latin dating is music – and dancing. Not only does dancing serve to stir the passions, it is also a tremendous icebreaker. It allows you and your date to touch and respond seductively to each other without any sense of commitment. And it’s great fun!

If you’re unfortunate enough to have two left feet, before you despondently buy a dog as a possible lifelong companion, consider:

WALKING: Nature’s everlasting standby for the romantically inclined. Of course, it helps if you have magnificent settings, such as beaches, parks, waterfronts, mountains and valleys. But the real advantage is being able to just hold hands and talk on an evening stroll; perhaps admiring the sunset in silence, or gazing up at the stars. There’s something about simple, natural beauty that evokes positive feelings and a romantic atmosphere, and Latins are by no means immune!

Whatever your dating intentions, keep in mind that traditions are an important part of Latin culture. So it’s usually an advantage to be of the same ethnic background when it comes to understanding family relations – and being accepted by family members.

Nevertheless, the online Latin community is a fine place to start and allows you to explore possibilities you might otherwise not have considered. The facilities offered by these dating sites make it easy for you to set up a truly enjoyable experience, even romance.