The Artist Chef

Simone Massoni's 2012 Typeface Calendar

2012-01-18T07:39:00.017+08:00

There are four different seasons in a year--Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Each season arrives in our lives and bring us something. It comes, and it goes. Same with the people whom you consider friends. Some are seasonal and some will stay all year round. No matter what season, I am happy that I am blessed with friends who are coming in every season of my life. And last fall, in Firenze--I have gained friends who became valuable people in my life. I am grateful to have met Simone who gave me this calendar that I fancied about and reminded me of my great love for typography.

He came up with a desk calendar with twelve classic typefaces that went well with the twelve sexy and posh chicks that he illustrated. I know January is about to end but it's just the start of the year and it's not yet too late for you guys to own this calendar that Simone designed. It's also available online so it would be great if you will purchase this cutie item thru this website.

Place your order now!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/89480202/chicks-types-2012-desk-calendar

I am also thankful to Cosimo Lorenzo Pancini for inviting me to his YELLOW party at KM zero design agency from where I met good people and some became my friends including Simone and his fiancee Ilaria. They are nice couple who are both artist. His fiancee Ilaria is an illustrator and also a good cook. I look forward to the day that we can cook together.

Below I enumerate twelve of my favorite typeface at the moment. It would be fun it you also have your own favorite typeface and you can play around on the design and post it in your blog.

Being an artist myself makes me feel happy being around with the people of the same species. Dealing, interacting and having friendship with the people of the same interests as yours would always remind you of the things that you are passionate about and things that you are good at. Seeing Simone's artwork leaves an inspiration to me-- that I shouldn't forget to do my doodles and continue to explore the world of art and design. I have learned that world of design has no limits so I have to continue to discover a lot of things and sharpen my creativity. And of course my cooking would always be there as well :-)

This is it for now my mates and amici!

big hug,

joanie xxx

2012 Begins at Italia: A diverted path!

2012-01-01T06:43:00.003+08:00

(Taken during winter snow at Aosta Valle, Italia)

Christmas came by so quickly and I did nothing but eat and sleep the past days! The winter weather makes it hard for me to dabble some words and express here in my blog the unique way I spent the yuletide season. Procrastination days aren't over yet but I have to do this post now on the first of January, otherwise I am afraid that I might abandoned this blog for the whole year if I won't do it on the first day of the year. Hehe!

My culinary studies just finished last December then I have to move to Milano for a freelance work. It has been a very very beautiful student life I had in Firenze. To study cooking in Italy is the most wise decision I have made in my life so far. It costed me a million in Philippine peso for everything from school, food, lodging & airfare but the experience I gained is ten times worth than a million pesos! I could've bought an SUV car but riding it wouldn't make me tell priceless stories like what I have gained now. And this blog will be my venue to articulate all those life changing experiences I had.

(Traditional Italian Christmas cake I did in my Firenze Cooking School)

Experience is something money can't buy and something that no one can steal away from you. I can claim that I am a millionaire when it comes to that as compared to my money in my bank account. Experience go hand-in-hand with people. I gained not just experiences but valuable people whom I can forever keep in every corner of my heart. Each of them occupies a space. And to name a few I just have to mention my culinary teacher--Marcella then others like Daniela, Cosimo, Rita, Jurgens and Massimilliano!

(Traditional Italian Christmas Eve Dinner with Massi's Family)

Speaking of Massimilliano, I will now segue my Christmas story with him here in Italy. Being away from my family and to celebrate Christmas the second time without them still brings me some certain sadness. But since I am so used to being by myself, it's not as heavy to me unlike other emotional people. But no matter how you avoid the thought---Christmas is about spending time with your family. I don't have it here in Italy until Massi invited me to spend it in Firenze than being alone in Milano. Voila on the eve of Christmas I went to the city center and witnessed the Milan Christmas rush as I buy gifts for Massi's family. Then at eight in the evening I arrived at Stazione Santa Maria Novella in Firenze once more and Massi picked me up! And I arrived at their house just in time for the Christmas eve dinner. First plate, second plate, third... and dolce were served! Traditional Italian or specifically Calabrian food were done by his Aunt. Then at the midnight part of the evening we gave the gifts to each other and opened it! I like their gifts to me and they liked my gifts as well! Next day was about poker, eating, sleeping, cooking, and walking around Firenze are the things I did with him and his family. Now I could say that I have my Italian family in them whom I can count on, I thank Massi for adopting me :)

(Massi and his mom Cecilia during the gift giving)

(Taken during fall at Boboli Garden in Firenze, Italia)

So now it's 2012 and I am still here in Italy. Supposedly I should be in London for the whole month of December for the holiday and will fly back to Vietnam on the 2nd of January. But fate plays its trick on me and give me something unexpected. Pleasant surprise and it still surprises me as days go by. Last year my goal is about Italy and I successfully did it! This year I don't have a fixed goal, I feel like I am just a free soul going with the flow of life. And it excites me where it will bring me to. I don't know where but I'd be happy to be there. I don't want to make a wish, I just let God make his wishes for me and I know it's better that way. Leave it up to him... Oh but well Oh Lord, I just realised---I still want to buy my dream house! Uhmmm... not a fixed goal, could be next year or when it's possible :p

Parking my fingers now and should end this blog post now...

Buon Anno a tutti!!!

big hug,
joanie xxx

Natale in Italia by Surprise!

2011-12-12T23:01:00.005+08:00

Ciao Amici! Come Va? Me, molto bene...

How time flies and before I knew it, it's Christmas already. My blog have slept for two months and I couldn't believe it. I have never been missing in action this long! I miss blogging. Come to think of it, there are so many stories to write and so many food photos to post. I have been away and busy for millions of reasons and it's 99.9% positive. I should've been in London at this point and getting ready for the English holiday but sometimes fate has something else in store for each and everyone of us. I am deeply surprised that I am still here in Italy and would spend my first Christmas with snow.

I have been enjoying my culinary studies and Florentine life for the past 3 months that made me think that I'd love to spend my Christmas here. It came to the point that I will do everything just to extend my stay. So many options involved and one of those is studying their language. Well in my heart I'd really love to study it. I would like to see myself to be well-verse in having an Italian conversation. I went on different mazes but it didn't work out. So I just concluded that maybe fate has really planned my life to be in London for Christmas according to my itinerary. Then again it's amazing how fate played it's game on me. What a pleasant surprise that I will have a freelance work in Milano. Up to when? I don't know yet. The good thing is--there is a reason now for me to stay longer in Italy. Opportunity just paved its way!

I just wanted to say hi to my blog today. I am quite very sick and staying at home dealing with my cough and slight fever. It's the weather that I am not accustomed to. Winter is approaching and I really hope that my body can adapt to it. I promise to post more as I back track what happened since October and November. The biggest highlight was--my second solo painting exhibition in Florence. I will surely post the photos here.

The picture above of Ribes & Wine cake is now my favorite cake to do. My recent fixation after discovering the small red berry fruit called Ribes.

Ciao , ciao alla prossima! :-)

big hug,
joanie xxx

Genovese Pesto - Saigon & Florence

2011-09-30T22:35:00.007+08:00

My old way of doing pesto in Saigon, Vietnam

Buonasera ragazzi e ragazze!

How time flies that every time I will find time to blog, weeks passed by already and September is ending tomorrow. I have been learning a lot from my cooking school with my dearest teacher Chef Marcella and figo Chef Damiano. One of the remarkable learning I had so far is doing the authentic Genovese pesto. This Italian pasta dish hails from Liguria region and from the province of Genova. I learned that you never cook a pesto which I usually do in my own style and sometimes put bacon on top or chicken. I remember how my Italian boss said it's bastardizing pesto when you add meat. Pesto is pesto in its simplest form and he was right because he is from Genova. So from that learning and new techniques I learned from my Italian teachers, pesto is now one of my favorite staple pasta dishes.

My new way of doing pesto in Florence, Italy

If you notice the picture of my pasta on top which I did when I was still in Saigon, it's quite a bit oily and dark. This one with the linguine pasta is refreshingly green and not oily. How lovely this pasta especially putting my new favorite Pecorino Romano from sheep milk. And the word Pecorino derives from the word Pecora which means sheep. What also excites me doing this pesto sauce is because I have now few Basil pots at my veranda where I usually sits for breakfast and doing skype with my friends.

My pesto ingredients are ready to be blended

My veranda with my Basil pots

I have been out of town lately and I really promise to post separately the pictures of the town I visited. I visited the not so touristy places like Bologna, Lucca, Siena and Fiesole---they are nearby town in Florence. Quaint, beautiful and quiet. But of course I never fail to gaze nor explore the beautiful city of Firenze and one of my favorite spot is the Piazzale Michaelangelo. You will have there the overlooking of Florence with all its landmarks including the river and the cinematic Ponte Vecchio.

Overlooking view of Firenze with Ponte Vecchio

So far I have been around with so many places in Florence like restaurants and pubs with my classmate and new friend Maija. She is from Finland and a very nice girl. I would love to share you guys more of my adventures next time. I have been learning a lot of Italian now and improving just by hearing from my new found Italian friends. And I have some good news next time and I hope I will have some more. Meanwhile, I am excited because I am going out of the country and going back to Spain this time Madrid. I was wishing I can also go back to Barcelona because I really love it but 4 days off school may not be enough. This is it for now...

Ciao Bello and Bella! :-)

big hug,
joanie xxx

Dolce Italia: Gelato & Panacotta

2011-09-17T22:04:00.011+08:00

Fig Gelato (Done at school)

Buongiorno Sabato!

It's a lazy Saturday... after I woke up around 10:30 am. Just finished having my pesto spaghetti for lunch and strawberry milk shake. Well it's been two weeks since I came to Italy and a lot of things are happening aside from school activities which are more important things than anything else. I have met a few Italians so far from a coach surfing meet-up party and then I visited a design agency in Firenze which considerably the biggest in town. I must say I met good Italian people so far and I am looking forward to meet more.

The past weeks I also familiarized myself on walking around the city from my house to different point areas like the city center where all the historical places are situated like the Duomo, Stazione Santa Maria Novella, Santa Croce and Punta Vecchio. I attempted to go to Boboli garden but I failed. Before reaching the area I got tired because there are pandemonium of tourist everywhere and it's friggin' hot. But there was this day that I succeeded to reach the Piazzale Michaleangelo which is on the hill overlooking the entire Florence. And I plan to go back again there today with my friend.

Last week I also met up my friend from Milano to have a whole day of fun in Bologna. I had two gelatos that day plus one giant pizza that we shared. We toured the center of the city where all the universities are situated and then we climbed Torre Asinelli and had a view of Bologna as a red city because of its terracotta color. As much as I wanted to avoid shopping, when there is a sale it's hard to resist---and so I did! Bologna was a fun day indeed :)

Panacotta topped with Peaches (Done at home)

Everything is incredible in Italy. The people, the language, the places and of course the food! I just love going to supermarket and market with my trolley bag to buy some good meat, fruits and vegetables. Everything is fresh and of good quality even the dairies. I just love every single moment I spent purchasing food that I often can't find in Asia. My now favorite market is Mercato Ambrogio which is not far from where I live and it's highly recommended by my chef teacher.

I've been learning a lot from my school. Food encyclopedia of Italy and the whole world is massive information that one person cannot learn in one day or in an instant. That's why I am here for few months to learn as much as I could. And I am proud to say that I have made my first fresh gelato with figs which I made at our school with the help of our chef teacher. Then as I try to exercise my expertise mastering the panacotta, I made one at home. The cream and milk were so good! I topped it with my preserved peaches (which I made in our school last week) to compliment or balance the good taste. I am looking forward to post more stories, arts & design, food photos, exciting information & trivia about Italy and of course recipes!

Ciao for now Bello & Bella!

big hug,
joanie xxx

Goodbye Vietnam, Hello Italy!

2011-09-08T05:48:00.005+08:00

Xin Chao everyone!

Hope it's not the last time to say this greeting after leaving Vietnam last week. Yes you heard it right! After the long saga of waiting my Italian student visa, it arrived 6 days before I left Saigon. I had sleepless nights prior to that because of the uneasy feeling that I may not be granted one. Though, I am confident that they will because UK issued me a new visa, so I assumed another Schengen visa wouldn't be a hassle. But we never know 'til we get the stamp on our passport. And I am glad that they gave me one! It was very tiring packing my stuff from my apartment in 10 boxes and bidding goodbye to everyone.

My last cooking buffet in the cafe where I work as weekend chef was a big success. Unexpected number of guests arrived to avail the buffet menu as I bid farewell to my Vietnam culinary and advertising adventures. I can't thank enough all the people who manifested their heart-felt support in every little thing I do. So that's probably one of the things I would miss in Saigon.

I arrived Milano at Malpensa airport last Sept 3 at 7:30 in the morning. My former Creative Director/friend from Philippines is currently based in Milan and he picked me up in the airport and I stayed at his place for two days. His cousins are very warm and accommodating in the house where I stayed. They even brought me when they went to outskirt of Milan to attend a Sunday mass with a massive Filipino attendees. The name of the church is Caravaggio, named after famous painter Michaelangelo Mersi da Caravaggio who was born in Lombardy, Milan. I surprisingly had fun attending the mass because the homily was very nice and it was hosted by an Italian priest who spoke three languages at that time. He delivered the entire mass 90% Filipino and 5% of English and Italian. That totally amazed me!

After two days I left Milano on Sept 5 to move to Firenze, Italia--where my culinary study will take place. I will tell you next time the beginning of my Florentine life story in the next posts I will be having. In the meantime, I would like to share all of you the first ever successful cake I baked. This successful baked cake is a milestone for me since I am not into baking but I guess the world of culinary is not just about cooking but baking as well.

MATCHA & CARAMEL SPONGE CAKE

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon real vanilla
• 2 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tbsp Matcha powder (diluted in hot water)
• 1 pack Jello caramel
• Milk
• 1 cup cream
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Put the sugar and matcha liquid in a blender or food processor. Add this mixture to the softened butter. Beat with a mixer on medium until fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes. Add the eggs to the sugar and butter one at a time, beating well after adding each one. Add the water and vanilla. In a different bowl, use a whisk to mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add half of the flour mixture to the rest of the ingredients. Mix on low. Then add the rest of the flour mixture.

Now beat at medium speed until the cake batter becomes shiny. The mixture should also turn a white color. Do not skip this step or reduce the mixing time. The longer you mix the batter, the more air bubbles you create. This is what makes sponge cake recipes light and fluffy. This step of the sponge cake recipe should take about 15 minutes.

Pour sponge cake batter into two round cake pans that have been greased with shortening well and liberally floured. If they haven't been greased and floured thoroughly, your sponge cake recipe will stick to the cake pans.

Bake Matcha sponge cake in a preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for approximately 25-30 minutes. The sponge cake should pull gently from the sides. It will be golden in color and spongy to the touch. It should spring back when touched. To be sure the sponge cake is done, test the center with a toothpick and see if it comes out clean. Do not open the oven while the sponge cake is baking. Remove the Matcha sponge cake from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before removing the cake from the cake pans. Let the sponge cake cool completely before putting the caramel pudding mixture. Just follow the instruction of jello pack when adding milk in the mixture then add some cream and butter and put it in a piping bag then top the sponge cake.

I dedicate this post to the birthday of our beloved Mother Mary...

Buon Contempleanno Vergine Maria! :-)

big hug,
joanie xxx

Olives & Cherry Tomatoes Fusilli

2011-08-21T13:04:00.007+08:00

Good morning Sunday! What a sunny day to share a lunch, isn't it matey?

How is it going with me lately? I am in a bit of afloat and pending mind. Tomorrow or Tuesday perhaps, I'll be finally receiving the result of my visa for Italy. Oh dear GOD, I still hold on to your promise-- positive result, thy will be done! Non-refundable air ticket- check! Tuition fee full payment- check! Housing reservation payment- check! Outbound air ticket from Milan to London on December-check! But the feeling of twirling and kinda twisted at the moment is how I juggle my mind--just like my dear pasta called Fusilli.

This Fusilli pasta dish is also one of the dishes in my Geisha menu. Again not much people order for it maybe because of the unfamiliarity with the word Fusilli and mixed with my Aubergine Caviar Pate will definitely sound foreign to the local consumers. But then again few Westerners have sat down for this already and they dearly like it. I hope one will stumble on this dish and will get to order it at Geisha Cafe.

OLIVES & CHERRY TOMATOES FUSILLI

Ingredients:

• Aubergine Caviar (see my previous post for the recipe)
• Cherry tomatoes (sliced into halves)
• Green Olives ( sliced)
• Fusilli Pasta (boiled)
• Fresh Basil (chopped)
• Garlic
• Salt & Pepper
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat pan with butter and add a little olive oil. Saute garlic and avoid it turning into brown. Add Cherry Tomatoes then next will be olives. Saute for 3-5 minutes then add the Aubergine Caviar. Mix well along with the boiled Fusilli then have a dash of salt and pepper. If mixture gets dry add a good lug of olive oil then top it with the chopped basil and serve into a plate.

Buon Appetito Amici! :D

big hug,
joanie xxx

Fish in Ginger Teriyaki Sauce & Baked Carrots

2011-08-16T01:05:00.007+08:00

Good day Mates, Happy Tuesday!!!

This fish recipe I have here today is among the sumptuous dishes I have in the menu at Geisha Cafe. This is very much underrated nor unnoticeable by most customers and they don't realize how good the combination of pan seared herbie Dory fish and creamy baked carrots. I always tell the waiters to push for the rarely sold dishes because customers may not know just by reading the title I did in the menu book. This is a bit complicated and delicate to do and has to be done properly to get all the flavors come all in together. Each glorious bite of this dish is composed of a meticulously done cooking procedure.

I just want to romanticize more of this dish by explaining how I did it and how I put all things together in one gorgeous plate like this. I wouldn't be able to give the recipe as I normally do it, but I will narrate it in a manner understandable to all foodies and will be appreciated by people who love to eat.

First of all I have to get a nice Dory fish and marinate it with lemon, herbs, salt & pepper. Put it in a fridge and start doing the carrots. Grate a few pieces of carrots, then put it in a bowl. Add chopped parsley, onions, eggs and cream. Season it with salt and pepper then get a rectangular or square baking dish and cover it with foil then bake it for 40 minutes to one hour. While baking it prepare a pan and drizzle it with a bit of olive oil and pan sear the marinated Dory fish. As you cook the fish ready your sauce by getting a small pan and stir fry ginger and leeks together then add the home made Teriyaki sauce. When everything is cook, plate it all together the way you see it in the visual. I guarantee that this food is so good.

I dedicate this lip-smacking dish to a French chef from Paris, Pierre!

big hug,
joanie xxx

Ablaze the beauty of LONDON!

2011-08-14T01:55:00.015+08:00

This was my first London trip last October. Yes it's almost a year already since then and it's just now that I am alerted to post it. This week, I just received another UK visa and I am off to go to London again and some parts of UK to spend Christmas Holiday this coming December. Amidst all the riots and ablaze buildings, I was reminded that I haven't post the beauty of one of my favorite cities in the world that I finally conquered. The first two photos are the typical London tourist photos that I am pretty much sure that you've seen it a thousand or million times! I do have a lot of photos with Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Picadilly and the London eye. But I feel I'd like to share on my blog some photos I didn't put in my Facebook album. Some photos that is also about London that people should know...

Nice Tour Guide at Sandeman Tour at The Wellington Arch

Saatchi Gallery London

House where I stayed at Morpet Place, Victoria - London

Notting Hill at Portabello Market

Bricklane Gallery at Bricklane Road

Around Windsor Castle

The famous Stonehenge

Middle of nowhere between Stonehenge and Oxford

Double Decker Bus

Inside Old Spitalfields Market

Stumbled on students somewhere in Old Street, North London

Old Tom - Named after Tom Tower and the name of the bell

Inside Oxford University

The inspiration of Harry Potter's scar on the forehead

And the first thing I saw at China Town - London

Some of the photos are one or two hour drive outside London. The Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Oxford University are worth to visit just give yourself more time. Don't squeeze them in one day like what I did. You will miss a lot opportunities. It's like you are shuffling from one place to another just to get a photo. Savor the moment because there's so much beauty that your eyes shoyld see. Anyways, all the loverly people of London and the rest of the world-- I'm so sleepy now and I must hit the sack.

Goodnight LOVE!!! :-)

big hug,
joanie xxx

Strawberry Fields Forever!

2011-08-07T22:29:00.012+08:00

How is it going mates? My arvo is heaps busier compared to all Sundays I had :-)

So today, I miss blogging and I realized it's friggin' August already. How time flies so fast when you're busy and when you are preoccupied about accomplishing a lot of things in a small amount of time. Yes I am a great crammer. I thought I am prepared for all the things I have planned way back January, thinking everything is just like peanuts. I hope so... I have one month to deal with those things anyway. So veering away from those in the meantime, I just have to put here one of my favorite quotes which I tweaked a bit to fit in my favorite fruit and for my post for this evening.

" Life is like a basket of strawberries, you'll never know what you are getting until you taste it. Sometimes it's sour and sometimes sweet."

Since today is a busy day for me, I have a lot of random things to share that I was very happy to be busy about. Like my UK and ITALY visa are still a work in progress given the tight schedule but I am claiming everything will fall into place in no time. Next to that was the arrival of my Dad and sister here in Saigon to bring home some of my stuff. They brought home two giant boxes and 3 luggages. Only one luggage belongs to my Dad and sister and the rest are few of my bags, shoes, clothes and kitchen stuff. I played the role of a city tour guide for a couple of days and what I like the most was our lunch buffet at Hotel Sofitel. So yesterday morning my Dad & sister left Saigon and as for me, back to normal phasing.

Today, I miss The Artist Chef intimate dinner stint that I've been doing for more than two years in Manila. I only stopped when I left for Saigon on 2009. After that I had four special stints for special couples. All of those stints were done by requests. How I miss my sweet & thoughtful customers and the people who featured me. (from all mediums from TV, magazines and internet) There are still a lot of customers who write and book some reservation, I miss doing it and I realized how lucky those one hundred couples whom I spent time with and served sumptuous meals.

And also today I met Lyra (a writer by passion/business consultant at COWAN Design) who interviewed me for a magazine article. As I share her my life I was reminded that I am off to another journey pursuing another dream by obeying the desires of my heart. They are all about ART & FOOD. Those two basic and essential ingredients of my life. Like strawberries, I hope I'll pick more sweet ones in the coming days to come. Meanwhile I want to share you a special recipe that I really really like. This time inspired by Nigella Lawson :p

STRAWBERRY FRENCH TOAST DOUGHNUT

Ingredients:

• Fresh Strawberries
• Sliced Loaf Bread
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vanilla Syrup
• Icing Sugar
• Whip Cream
• Frying Oil
• Salt
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Beat eggs with milk and a pinch of salt. Add in some icing sugar and vanilla syrup and beat it again. Grab some sliced bread and soak it over the mixture. Heat pan with butter and mix with frying oil in medium temperature. Fry the soaked bread and flip until both sides are a bit golden brown. Get a blender or food processor and put some strawberries with icing sugar and pureed it together. Thinly slice few strawberries and place it on top of the bread. Pour or drizzle the pureed strawberries and top it with some whipping cream and serve. A must try this lip-smacking dish!

This post is for my Mom and Adrian's birthday...

Buon Compleanno to both of you!

big hug,
joanie xxx

French Moutarde Chicken

2011-07-25T15:42:00.001+08:00

G'Day mates :-)

I just woke up today and told myself it's a beautiful day isn't it? I don't feel sleepy nor stressed. The past days I was really unwell. Coming from a tiring work in Bangkok and a tiring yet happy about the recent Sunday Off-the-Menu Buffet I did for Geisha Cafe. Little joys in life that I am embracing every time it happens.

Today I double checked my cupboard and realized that I still have plenty of pastas, mustard and jams from France and Italy. Then my mini condiment jars are still filled with my spices. I still have a month and a few days to consume them before I head to Italy. I'm not going to replenish any of those goodies but I plan to do some cooking lesson with this little girl named Alex. She is the daughter of my neighbor Luis. She's such a cute smart little girl that is very enthusiastic about cooking. And our common denominator---we both LOVE Jamie Oliver! To my fascination with this kid, I shared her some of my precious liquorice and the Jamie Oliver button I got when I went to Jamie's Italian Liverpool, England. I wish I knew Jamie when I was her age :)

And last realization today, I haven't posted this mustard chicken I did and it's inspired by the recipe from the 30-minute meals cook book of my beloved James Trevor Oliver! Now I am sharing this to everyone so you can also try how divine this chicken mustard recipe especially when I used this mustard from Paris. Have a try...

FRENCH MOUTARDE CHICKEN

Ingredients:

• Few sprigs of fresh rosemary
• Chicken breasts
• French Moutarde
• baby leeks or 1 large leek
• Cloves of garlic
• White wine
• Cream
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Turn the heat under the frying pan up to medium. Pick and finely chop the leaves from the rosemary sprigs and sprinkle them into the pack of chicken. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of mustard over each breast, then season and put some butter into the frying pan. Massage and rub these flavours all over the meat. Put the chicken breasts in the pan, skin side down. Use a fish slice to press down on the chicken to help it cook. It should take around 18 minutes in total. Quickly trim the leeks and halve lengthways. Wash them under the cold tap, then finely slice them and add to one side of the chicken pan. Crush 4 unpeeled cloves of garlic into the pan of chicken. Flip the chicken breasts skin side up, then press down on them again. Stir the leeks and add a good swig of white wine. Turn the heat off. Transfer the chicken breasts to a board and slice into uneven pieces. Stir 1 heaped teaspoon of whole grain mustard into the sauce, then taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Spoon the sauce on to a platter and put the sliced chicken on top. Drizzle over some extra virgin olive oil and take straight to the table.

Enjoy this with vegetables or potatoes...

big hug,
joanie xxx

Radicchio & Okra Consomme

2011-07-14T00:50:00.000+08:00

It's been raining hard the past days here in Saigon and apparently it's my favorite weather. I would just love to stay in bed then cuddle my pillow and stay lazy as I watch the rain on my window pane. This weather is also the perfect time to make some soup for the hungry tummy. Since I am lessening my intake of carbs, I decided to make my favorite soup concoction on this rainy evening of Bastille day. I marry the slimy texture of okra with the purple radicchio and together I boiled it in beef broth. So the usual tactic, before eating-- I am excited to take photos of my food for my ever dearest blog. I fancied placing my autumn leaves from Paris as part of my food set up. I just remember the day I picked them as I walk around Château de Vincennes in Paris. I just miss France and I want to go back again to probably visit Versailles, Provence and Bordeaux. Soon.

So today, I am happy to have cooked again this consomme dish in commemoration for France independence which they usually call Bastille Day. I also love French dishes so as their taste palette. It's another cuisine that I am opening myself to immerse with in the future. Now, I am a bit sleepy mates and I am taking off another trip to Bangkok tomorrow morning. I hope I can get unfamiliar food trip this time and steal some moments to shop. I promise myself to go back to Bella Napoli.

RADICCHIO & OKRA CONSOMME

Ingredients:

• Onions (minced)
• Radicchio (shredded)
• Okra (sliced)
• Beef Broth
• Salt & Pepper
• Thyme
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat pan in medium temperature with butter and drizzle with some olive oil. Add minced onions and saute until a bit of a golden brown. Add the the radicchio and okra then saute with the onions. Seasoned with salt, pepper & thyme. Add next the beef broth and simmer the mixture for 2-5 minutes and it's done. Serve in a bowl or cup. Bon Appetit!

Happy Bastille Day!!!

big hug,
joanie xxx

Matcha Chewy Cookies + BIG Feastival

2011-07-04T16:12:00.011+08:00

I would say again, how time really flies so fast. It's July already! And today, I am giving myself a chance to welcome the month by posting my sweet recipe for the 4th day of July celebration and to congratulate my dear idol for his recent successful event which is "The Big Feastival" that happened in London from July 1-3! Let me share you some interesting photos from the event that I have spied on.

Amazingly done that's the only thing I can say how Jamie put all things together creatively. I was a silent watcher and observer when Jamie and Danny tweeted about the updates during the big event. It gives me a nostalgic feeling of my childhood as I write this blog. The fun rides, ice cream, story-telling, entertaining numbers and of course cooking demo and a whole lot more are the things that what this event is all about. All these people convene to experience a very unforgettable event that was all made possible by Jamie Oliver! I hope you guys wouldn't wonder why I admire this big man with all my big love and support.

Since time flies so fast, I am scheduled to fly again to Bangkok for another business trip. I am going to have another post production for an upcoming TVC project which is very very soon this July. So I am grabbing this opportunity to doodle some words and tell a few stories just before July slips away again. August is just beside the corner then it will be September! I have so many things in mind to accomplish before the first of September comes. And I just hope I will get it all done on time. Meanwhile, let me just share you today another attempt of the chewy cookies I did recently.

MATCHA CHEWY COOKIES

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp Matcha Powder
• 1 cup flour
• 3 Eggs
• 100 grams chopped Almonds
• 1/2 cup Condensed Milk
• 1 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Raisin
• 1 tsp Baking Powder
• 2 tbsp Vanilla Syrup
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Melt butter and beat the eggs then set aside. Get a mixing bowl and put flour, brown sugar, baking powder, vanilla syrup, almonds and raisins. Mix them all together then add the egg and whisk it. Add condensed milk and melted butter after wards. Fold the mixture. Preheat the oven at 150 degrees celsius. Put was paper on the baking tray then scoop in the mixture on top of the baking sheet. Bake for 20 - 30 minutes. reduce the temperature after 15 minutes to 100 degrees celsius. Remove from the oven after baking, cool it down and serve it as chewy as you want it to be.

This is it for now mates. I look forward to post more blog this month of July! :D

big hug,
joanie xxx

Mongolian Scampi for Daddy!

2011-06-28T14:44:00.004+08:00

Hey there mates!

It's been a while again since my last blog. I know it's my fault. Sigh. I've been really busy with a lot of things lately most specially with work and I feel a bit exhausted. I kept telling myself few weeks ago that I owe my blog a Father's day post. So I hope it's never too late to pay tribute and give my hats-off to all the good fathers all over the world.

Every person on this planet has his or her own side of the coin. I take the side of my Dad and I consider myself as a Daddy's girl ever since I was a little girl. There are deeper reasons behind it and I cannot itemize everything here. But I have tons of little anecdotes why I always like to be with my father.

When I was small he always take me to his office at the advertising agency he used to work with during his younger days. Then often bring us to movies and eat out on fancy restaurants or cool fast food place. He also bought us stationery and other stuff we need not just when we were small but also until we grew up. He always brings me to his work related activities before that's why my exposure to advertising world started at an early age. I may not be the ultimate creative person in my industry but in my heart I know that my creativity and being an artist is in my genes. And I owe my father for that.

Now that I am a grown-up lady, I am still in advertising and I still keep my hobby as a painter. Those things that I am busy about on a regular basis, reminds me of my father often. He still helps me whenever I need him big and small help. And time tested everything that during my trying times he can still be there for me.

I thank my Daddy for my existence in this world. I continue to dream a lot of things for myself and for my family as well. Sometimes things are just hard to achieve but I do believe a positive mind can bring me to the road where dreams can turn into real. I still have plenty of dreams that haven't been immortalized. One of them is buying my Dad a big billiard table. There is still a lifetime ahead to hopefully fulfill this. In the meantime, here's a hearty recipe for Daddy.

MONGOLIAN SCAMPI

Ingredients:

• Prawns
• Squid
• Shitake Mushrooms
• Red / Green Capsicums (sliced diagonally)
• Bean sprouts
• White Onions (sliced into rings)
• Garlic
• Paprika
• Salt / Pepper
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Peel the prawns and slice the squid into rings and set aside. Heat wok in medium heat then add butter and a bit of olive oil. Add garlic and onion and saute for 2 minutes. Add shitake mushrooms and stir-fry for about a minute. Then add prawns followed by squid and stir-fry again for a few minutes. Then quickly add the capsicums. Stir-fry again for 3o seconds then add paprika, salt and pepper. Then lastly add the beansprouts and stir-fry everything for about a minute or two. Then when it's cooked prepare a small bowl. It's good to eat this dish with your chopsticks and some Thai Jasmine rice.

Hope you like my post Father's Day blog! :-)

big hug,
joan xxx

Shitake Mushroom Bruschettas

2011-06-11T15:43:00.016+08:00

The beautiful month of June has arrived and before I knew it, it's more than ten days had pass and I am just writing my first blog. Recently I had a photo shoot at Geisha (the cafe where I work during weekends) with my recipes on their menu. I did the food styling and the photography out of generosity. Today, I am posting this lovely and colorful Shitake Mushroom Bruschettas to represent how colorful life can be. It's just my way of musing things and giving meaning to the food I concoct.

For the recipe click here to see my recipe contribution at JamieOliver website

Back home, June is considered as the wedding month decades ago. But through the years things have changed. Couples are detaching from the old school mindset of choosing to get married on the month of June. So to speak, December to February is now the popular choice because of the cold weather. April also climbs the chart because of the summer heat and the beach wedding theme. A lot of people are now breaking the traditional rules of the boring and repetitive ways of executing a wedding occasion. Every couple just wants to be different. And in the future I would assume I am not an exception.

Autumn. Probably my most favorite season of the year. I like the turning of leaves into tangerine and the falling from the branch of trees. And look how lovely the Autumn flowers are? Thanks to OnceWed for the photos here. It serves as my daily inspiration on how to see my matrimonial event as simple, exclusive yet colorful in an opaque or subdued tones.

To every woman, wedding day is a fairytale but for me it's not. I don't even want anyone to witness how I exchange my I DO's except for the priest or who ever will conduct the ceremony and that's it. It's the solemnity and exclusivity that matters to me. Many people ask me why? Don't you want us to see you walk down the aisle? I don't know what to say. Maybe because half of my life I had this inferiority with the crowd. I hate to deal with so many people. Even with friends I am most likely happy to deal with just one constant companion. I always like intimate bonding than a group of crap.

This appetizer called bruschetta hails from Italy and it is my all-time favorite appetizer. Have you heard of Torino, Puglia, Positano, Siena, Verona, Amalfi coast, Cinque Terre and Fiesole? These are some off-beaten paths that I am currently eyeing to visit as I go to Italy this September for quite a long period of time. I am excited to bask under the Tuscan Sun and feel the breeze of the wind during Autumn. I would love to have the Italian cuddle once more. More to speak, I miss everything about Firenze. They say our fate is a fair share of what is destined for us which we are not in control of and half is something we have to put our actions. For me fate is like Newton's third law of motion. In every action there is an equal or opposite reaction. So I am taking a big leap and risk whatever my palm is holding right now to seize the moment where life and fate takes me. I always wanted to break my routine and as much as possible I risk eloping from the ordinary life. I believe life is colorful and I hold the responsibility to choose the color palette I want. Whatever is bound for me in Italy, I know my heart will be happy to discover whatever it is.

In the meantime, I still love the world of advertising as I exert my creative juices on a daily basis. In a few days I am off to fly to Bangkok again for a photo shoot.

big hug,
joanie xxx

Happy Birthday Jamie Oliver!

2011-05-27T18:16:00.004+08:00

May 27 has just arrived again. Another day for me to remember the man I consider GOD in my culinary journey. I will forget to blog on the day of my birthday but never on Jamie Oliver's birthday. This is his first birthday that I would greet him after meeting him in person in London last October. For me he is the noblest human being that has ever existed on this planet, without any exaggeration. Being aware about all his campaigns and good deeds in life in helping people by using his ultimate passion and talent about food, makes me admire him more each day. He has already proven himself that he is more than just this fat chef with a drum kit as what Marco Pierre White has brutally said about him couple of years ago. I would vehemently disagree on that. I would just wish he continue to produce good TV shows, delightful cook books and stunning food campaigns. I also wish he will continue to develop good products through his JME online products.

Behind all these countless activities this man is busy about, at the end of the day --he is a good dad and a loving husband. I think he wouldn't ask for more now that he has a gorgeous wife--Jools, 3 lovely daughters and an adorable son. A very good family man. Never became conceited. In this world, good people are blessed because of their good deeds and Jamie is one of those. He is like a pitcher filled with blessings and what he does is to pour it to other people and share it.

So last night I just watched episodes from Jamie's 30-minute meals and Jamie's at Home. While watching, I made a slow roast pork which I marinated in beer and herbs & spices. I wasn't able to finish roasting it so I don't have photo yet. I only took the photo of my roasted tomato soup which smells and tastes really good. This tomato soup will beat all the tomato soup I have tasted. This soup is a lip-smacking one and the sensation of the herbs and spices are vivid but not overpowering the essence of the mashed roasted tomatoes. The after taste is something you will never forget. A recipe i would recommend to everyone.

ROASTED TOMATO CURRY SOUP

Ingredients:

• Tomatoes
• Curry powder
• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Cayenne
• Salt & Pepper
• Milk
• Onions
• Marjoram
• Thyme
• Olive oil
• Butter

Procedure:

Preheat oven to 180 degree celsius 10-15 minutes. Wash tomatoes and put it in a baking tray. Drizzle with some olive oil and dash some salt. Reduce the temperature of oven into 150 degrees celsius the put the tomatoes inside the oven. Heat it for 30-40 minutes. When cooked, peel it and mash but leave some chunky texture. Heat casserole with butter then add onions. Saute for few minutes then add the mashed tomatoes. Season with all the herbs and spices and add a bit of milk and water. Simmer until it thickens. Serve with toasted bread.

I dedicate this post to James Trevor Oliver!

Happy Birthday Jamie!! xoxo

big hug,
joanie xxx

April 30. Happy Birthday Joanie!

2011-05-15T03:15:00.011+08:00

Hello April 30!!!

It's another birthday indeed. The year that was--came so quickly that I didn't realize I am a year older again. I can say that last year was the best year of my life. It has a lot of meaningful anecdotes, significant stories, priceless moments, dreams turned into reality and a breaking milestone.

So as usual my birthday is the day of my life that I really yearn for a cake. I prepared myself to do my own cake with the fear that no one will give me one. So prior this day I've been struggling which cake to make. Whether an Australian Pavlova or the Italian Tiramisu. And guess what? I know you figured out the answer even before you read this. Pavlova made it! I was able to bake this meringue dessert from the people down under. It was a success despite the mishaps. I promise to do it again next time to perfect it, Baking it the first time is not as perfect as it supposed to be.

So came the day of my birthday I just intended to cook little food plus my Pavlova and invited friends who are in town at that day because most people are out of town because of the 4-day weekend. I had 4 guests and they all brought me presents. I was really touched. Yeng Reyes brought in an additional cake, JP & Marge brought me a bouquet of flowers and Xie Hao never fails to give me something for my beauty regimen. After dinner, Xie Hao and I went to Park Hyatt for one round of drinks and what a surprise when a guy who is a traveling business man approached us. Xie was teasing me that he was smitten by my petite beauty that he kept on giving adorable compliments. He offered me and Xie free drinks. We had an interesting conversation with this generous and gentleman American. He would catch us again some other time when he is back in Saigon. Nice to meet a stranger who could possibly be a good friend. To conclude things, it was a quiet April 30 birthday.

A week later which was on the 7th of May, I selected a very few friends from office and Filipino friends whom I can share the celebration of my birthday. It was held at GEISHA, the cafe where I work as a weekend chef. I themed it as a royal birthday celebration and I asked my female guests to wear some hats to join the fever of the royal wedding. My good friend Mariano Agostini rendered his adorable trumpet performance; again it was a stunning performance! This guy never fails to amaze me with the music from his trumpet. I owe him a lot when he performed during my painting exhibition and now another debt for me. But I was happy to give him a little gift I brought from my Liverpool, England trip--the Beatles "Pennylane"collectible guitar pick. My Filipino friends also performed few songs with their guitars and my guests had to forgive me as I jam with the musicians. JP Albito rendered Beatles "You've got to hide your love away" and Paolo Garcia did "In my Life" aside from his Dave Matthew's songs. On the other hand I was surprised that my Aussie friend Adrian Ammendola really graced my birthday party despite knowing that he confirmed he's coming. Honestly I'm touched because he has been dormant for quite a long time and I have already concluded he has forgotten about me. What a neglectful friend he has been. But it's good to be in touch and to hangout with him lately. And I must admit that I enjoy every bits and pieces of his company and our bonding moments! Anyhow, what a birthday night about food, music and good friends I had on the 7th of May!

So to recap everything, I am dearly happy that almost everyone remembered my birthday even the unexpected people still remembered to send me their greetings. And I also need to thank my Canadian friend Kyrke Gaudreau for the surprise greeting. He owes me a Skype-date again, wherever he is in Senegal! And lastly, there's one person I really have to thank BIG TIME ---Jurgens Masciulli! He never fails to remember me not just on my birthday but every possible way through his sweet emails and impromptu calls that warms my heart. I will see him very soon on September!

Last year was really a very happy year in so many ways. Maybe you can read in my year-end post last January where I cited the reasons how beautiful the year was. It will be another year coming and I do believe that this is my prime. I haven't really found what I am exactly looking for. Things are coming my way but I have to choose which one is the right one. But for now, the only thing that I know is right---is my upcoming culinary study in Italy this September. I don't have plans in my life right now except for that. If I succeed or not, I know the experience I will have in Italy will enrich me as a passionate cook.

Anyways, I still believe that whatever I am giggling about, if it's meant to be... a sign will just fall from the sky. In the meantime, whoever joins me with my journey it will be great if another pair of running shoes will go with my adventures in life.

This is it... THIS IS MY PRIME! :-)

big hug,
joanie xxx

Broccoli coated with Cream & Cheese

2011-04-18T16:54:00.005+08:00

Hello April :-) You are my favorite month of the year. I wanted to say Hi to you on your first day in 2011 but I realized the month is past half already. I was tremendously exhausted and busy with work the past weeks. Flying back and forth to Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh then to Manila for a TV Commercial and a print shoot is such a tiring thing to do when you only have limited time. Despite that I still managed to steal a few moments of free time to do a little shopping, site seeing and eating of course! But aside from that, the fun part about my job is meeting new talents (model) it's been a while since I had my way of doing photoshoot Manila style. Finally I had it again. The prize... I was able to mingle and have photos with my talents. One is an Italian model and the other is a Filipino born in LA. It was nice knowing Gio Salvador and Paolo Valera.

For the other story of my Bangkok trip, I was able to do a short trip to the old city of Thailand which is Ayuttaya, a two hour ride by bus and maybe less than an hour by taxi or van. I took the bus and it's such a waste of time. But riding taxi was never my option because it quite expensive. I didn't appreciate the place that much because I have already seen Angkor Wat which really amazed me when I saw it last year. Anyway, it's a good thing that I was able to see the place and will never return again. On the other hand, I also have a little free time in my country to show my colleague a little portion of the city where I grew up--Manila!

Being in Manila as a tour guide and a tourist as well is quite a nice feeling actually. I get to appreciate my country and I was able to share some of our cultures and heritage. I brought my colleague to the university where I graduated Fine Arts. It has the feel of Europe and it's the oldest and the only royal and pontifical university in Asia. I'm not sure about the world. Then we had a quick tour at the wall city which is Intramuros and Fort Santiago. Then finally we headed at Barbaras in Casa Manila for lunch.My colleague was serenade by Filipino guitarists and singers!

My conclusion, I had too much food from Bangkok and Manila trip which really made me gain a few pounds. So I'm back to my regular phasing in Ho Chi Minh and currently doing some diet. So my post here says it all. My favorite Broccoli with cream & cheese!

BROCCOLI COATED WITH CREAM & CHEESE

Ingredients:

• Broccoli
• Grated Mozzarella Cheese
• Heavy Cream
• Vinegar
• Garlic
• Salt and Pepper
• Butter

Procedure:

One of the simplest comfort food I had these days. To begin, just boil water with vinegar and salt then add broccoli. Let it boil from 2-3 minutes. Be careful losing the brilliant color green broccoli has. Drain when ready and put it on a plate. Ready a small pan then put in medium heat. Add butter and finely chopped garlic. Add cream then followed by cheese. Let the cheese melts and season it with pepper. Put salt if necessary. Serve and eat!

Happy mid-week mates! :D

big hug,
joanie xxx

Kidney Beans & Mashed Potato Curry ala FIFTEEN London

2011-03-28T19:55:00.002+08:00

My recent trip to Bangkok, Thailand is quite tiring. Given the fact that I came there for work for a specific project doesn't mean I should be entitled not to do other projects in the office (it's supposed to be that way) but I was working morning 'til morning. Like sometimes 8am to 2am or less. I wouldn't complain because the beauty of my job is that, no matter how tiring it is... I can still manage to inject some fun! So having said that, I did explore a bit of Bangkok with the little free time I got and with the help of my best buddy or my closest friend for 15 years and he's my secret-keeper dude---Warren Santiago.

Food and shopping were great in Bangkok although I really don't have enough time to do shopping and city sightseeing. Next week I will come back, but again for work. I hope I'd have more free time and hopefully I can visit Ayuttaya the old capital of Thailand.

Today I am very sick that I didn't go to work and just eat some leftover that I cooked from last week. This was inspired by the special dish that the chef from Fifteen London prepared for me during my visit. I just guessed the ingredients and how he prepared it because I cannot forget the taste so I came up with my version.

KIDNEY BEANS & MASHED POTATO CURRY

Ingredients:

• Kidney Beans
• Potatoes
• Cream
• Coconut Milk
• Curry Powder
• Salt & Pepper
• Prawns
• Paprika
• Onion Leeks
• Chicken stock
• Butter (of course)

Procedure

Boil potatoes until soft and ready for mashing. Mash accordingly with cream and coconut milk. Add butter, curry powder, salt and pepper then fold until smooth and without any lumps. Ready your pan with butter then saute onion leeks followed by prawns. Seasoned it with paprika then saute again until cooked. Add kidney beans and 1/4 cup of chicken stock. Simmer for 2 minutes then add the mashed potato mixture and chicken stock. Add again a pinch of salt and pepper then serve hot. Good for sick person with fever who cannot take heavy food.

Get well to all sickie people like me today...

big hug,
joanie xxx

Apples in Shiraz & Cinnamon Doughnuts

2011-03-15T13:07:00.009+08:00

An apple a day keeps the doctor away! True to that saying, I have made a lot of desserts made of apples---aside from the fact that I am eating them fresh most of the time. I love desserts and I think I was inspired to interpret apples in the form of doughnuts by a fellow blogger Ellie. This is actually my second doughnut attempt and I think I am pretty much alright. The first one was when I did the French Toast Doughnut of Nigella. That doughnut is sinfully good even though it's not the traditional round one but instead a typical French toast bread.

After Women's day celebration, days swiftly passed by and I couldn't notice whether it's weekend or weekdays already. I spend my time at work as an art-based creative during Mondays thru Fridays and as a chef in a small cafe on Saturdays and Sundays. I sometimes feel tired but most of the time I am happy with what I do so I hardly complain. The rewarding part of being busy rather than being idle is... the inner joy that comes from within. There will be a lot of upcoming events in Geisha Cafe where customers reserved the place for a celebration function. I am excited about it. Can't wait to train my cooks in the kitchen to get ready of this big task ahead. In the meantime, let me share this simple yet oozing dessert of mine.

APPLES IN SHIRAZ & CINNAMON DOUGHNUTS

Ingredients:

• Large apples (peeled/seeded/cut like the doughnuts)
• Shiraz wine
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon powder
• Brown sugar
• Flour
• Eggs
• Milk
• Baking powder (tiny portion)
• Confectionery Sugar
• Caster Sugar
• Oil (for frying)
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat pan with butter and fry the doughnut shape apples then add sugar and wine. Let the sugar melts and liquify then add vanilla extract and cinnamon. Simmer the mixture until the liquid thickens and evaporates. Wait for a few more minutes until the apples soften. Let it cool and set aside. Prepare a mixing bowl. Then add flour, eggs & milk then beat them all together. Add few cubes of butter, caster sugar and tiny portion of baking powder. Mix very well like a thick batter mixture. Then prepare a large Teflon pan fill it with oil. Let it heat then ready the cooked apples and batter mixture. Dip one apple at a time in to the batter mixture then fry. When finish frying let it cool on paper tissue to reduce oil. Then serve it on a plate and dash it with some confectionery sugar.

Looking forward doing Tiramisu or Pavlova next time...
Ciao mates!

big hug,
joanie xxx

Egg Soup with Broccoli & Kani

2011-03-08T14:43:00.011+08:00

What do I have for today? It's my second year celebrating women's day here in Vietnam, which I don't usually celebrate back home. Today all the ladies in the office had a free lunch at my favorite Cafe called KITA. Our managing director paid for our pretty pricey and generous meal. Then at night I had dinner at Geisha with bunch of close girl friends. I don't know exactly the origin how our world initiate the celebration of women's day but regardless of history, it's worth celebrating!

The world is evolving and changing very fast along with our women today. More and more female creatures turn to be a successful monster or giant Godzilla in the modern universe. They learned to be tougher and better than most men as they rise from the ranks of corporate ladder, politics, arts, entertainment and business. Women are dominating more male territories so the male species are slowly threatened by the rapid growth of female dominance. I would like to cite myself as an example as a strong and empowered woman. My desire and dreams are driven by my ambition and ability to make things happen according to my own design and not dictated by trends or influence of peers. I am decisive and passionate that's why most men are often intimidated to me. I guess they shouldn't. You know why? At the end of the day the difference between men and women is-- we are softer hearted. I couldn't agree less to that. There's more to learn about women and they are limitless to be discussed in one post. So to wrap this post up, I'd like to leave you guys a light soup recipe that most women would definitely like.

EGG SOUP WITH BROCCOLI & KANI

Ingredients

• Eggs

• Chicken Stock

• Kani strands

• Broccoli

• Milk

• Cornstarch

• Onions

• Salt & Pepper

• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat pan with butter in medium temperature then saute onions. Add kani strands then add salt and pepper. Beat the eggs and set aside. Add the chicken stock to the sauteed onions and kani. Bring to boil then add milk and egg. Dissolve little amount of cornstarch with water then add to the mixture. Lastly add broccoli then boil it again then put off the heat and serve it with any bread. Mine I served it with Pandan sliced loaf bread.

Happy Women's Day! :-)

big hug,

joanie xxx

Cherry Tomatoes in Chicken Curry

2011-02-25T13:06:00.008+08:00

I haven't cooked chicken curry for a while. Just today I remember my friend Danny Mc Cubbin (JamieOliver.com editor) because of the chicken curry he prepared the time I was visiting his office in London. I made a chicken curry last night and I added cherry tomatoes for the little sweet and sour kick. I think this one will do justice to a curry recipe as compared to my previous post, which I deleted. The reason why I deleted it? It's because the photography was really bad. Now with my new DSLR I can do more decent food photos.

A lot of things are happening lately in my life. Aside from my regular job as an art director from Mondays thru Fridays, now I also work as Chef during the weekend in a small cafe called GEISHA. I am also progressing with regards to my future culinary course in Italy. I found my school already and now I'm just doing some house hunting in Firenze and some restaurant internship. Then later on I have to apply for my student's visa in Italy. I will probably get another UK visa so I can visit the JamieOliver online team and some friends I gained in London and Liverpool. Since I will be there on that other side of the planet around yuletide season, I hope my student's visa will be the same as Schengen so I can travel around Europe aside from Italy. I am excited to see snow... I have travelled a lot already but I haven't seen one in my life :)

CHERRY TOMATOES IN CHICKEN CURRY

Ingredients:

• Chicken Breast Fillet
• Curry Paste/Powder
• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt / Pepper
• Sugar
• Cherry Tomatoes
• Coriander
• Sweet Basil Leaves
• Onions and Garlic (Minced)
• Ginger (Grated)
• Coconut Milk
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat pan in medium temperature then add butter and olive oil. Put garlic, onions and ginger then saute all together. Add chicken and fry it until it gets a little brown. Add curry paste or powder along with other spices. Stir-fry the chicken with cherry tomatoes then add salt, pepper and sugar. Add coconut milk with little water. Simmer for 8-10 minutes. Add coriander and basil leaves and simmer for another minutes until the sauce evaporate and thicken. Turn off the heat and serve over Thai Jasmine rice then top it with yoghurt.

Hope all of my mates will like this one...

big hug,
joanie xxx

Ti Voglio Bene - Strawberry Panacotta

2011-02-14T19:01:00.023+08:00

They say when it comes to love, there's no distance nor language is a daunting barrier. But people have to work extra harder to make that phrase possible. Some people want to be with the person they love or like on Valentine's Day but their enemies (which are time and money) always defeat them. It's hard to battle when these two things are your opponents especially when the person you long to see is on the other side of the planet. On the other hand, some people want to express how they extremely feel about the person they love or like but words are inadequate to elaborate their emotions when they struggle and juggle for the right words just to say it. It’s hard again to battle with language barrier but at the end of the day once the essence is captured in the broken English---it will be good enough to melt your heart.

Through the years Valentine’s Day for me is slowly becoming an obsolete thing. I am often affected by the behavior of society. I’ve seen a lot of married couples that both practice infidelity. I do understand that the human needs are endless. Human beings never stop wanting to be taken cared of, to be appreciated, to experience new things or new person and the list goes on. So sometimes I don’t see the point of marriage. But at the end of my own tunnel the famous movie characters like Jonathan Trager, Declan and fictional person John Green with his famous quote, I think still do exist. It’s hard to find them nowadays but you just have to keep looking. Whether I meet someone like them along my journey or not, things will be fine. I may get disillusioned about the concept of marriage but never on falling in love.

Here’s a heart-warming recipe I derived from a famous Italian dessert Panacotta. My version of cooking cream and jelly together. Something I did for Valentine’s Day even though I was in the verge of sleeping last night.

DRUNKEN STRAWBERRY PANACOTTA

Ingredients:

• 2 Cups heavy whipping cream

• 3 tbsp. Vanilla Syrup

• 2 Ounces granulated sugar

• 1 Envelope Knox or other brand unflavored gelatin

• ¼ Cup cold water

• Bunch of Strawerries

• Shiraz Wine

• Brown Sugar

• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Dissolve gelatin in water. Pour the whipping cream into a saucepan. Take 1 vanilla bean, cut it open, and scrape it out into the saucepan. Then add the whole bean. Add sugar and mix. Heat the mixture over moderate heat (do not oil) and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove pan from the heat and remove vanilla bean with tongs and discard. Stir the mixture consistently while gradually dissolving the gelatin/water into the hot whipping cream. Pour the mixture into pudding cups that have been rinsed out with cold water to chill. Put cups in the fridge for 3 - 4 hours until set. Ready your pan with butter and sauté strawberries. Set aside then melt sugar with red wine. Allow it to simmer until it thickens. Add the sautéed strawberries. When ready to serve, turn the panacotta upside down onto serving plates and place topping over each one.

Buon San Valentino!

big hug,

joanie xxx

Aubergine Caviar

2011-01-17T00:48:00.005+08:00

Aubergine is one of my favorite vegetables. The most fascinating purple edible living creature that is way better than Grimace from the American Mickey D's! This vegetable served its useful purposes through a lot of dishes around the world that made this as one of the ingredients. From main dishes, pastas, salads, pies, I am sharing you a dip recipe that uses aubergine as the hero ingredient. I have done this concoction several times and it never fails to amaze people who tasted it. The simple preparation surprisingly creates a magnificent flavor. I sold a lot of containers of this dip when I had it in my first bazaar last 2008 and for the second time around I had it again in my bazaar Christmas of 2010. It was another sold out dish among the food I was selling.

AUBERGINE CAVIAR

Ingredients:

• Aubergines (grilled and peeled)
• Cream Cheese
• White Onions (minced)
• Plain Yoghurt
• Turmeric
• Curry Powder
• Paprika
• Ground Black Pepper
• Salt
• Virgin Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

After grilling and peeling the Aubergine, place them in a huge bowl. Mash it using the potato masher and set aside. In a medium temperature, heat pan with butter then add minced onions. Saute for a few minutes then sprinkle a little amount of turmeric, curry powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Add yogurt then fold it. Allow the yoghurt to acquire the flavor of the spices and onions. Turn the temperature into a low heat then add the mashed eggplant. Add in some olive oil until it generously covers the entire mixture. Turn off the heat then add the cream cheese and mash it. Fold it all together then put it in a jar or ramekin. This dip can be served hot or cold with flat bread, ciabatta, foccacia or even baguette.

This recipe is requested by my dear friend who is all the way from Montreal, Canada. I am sharing this dish so he can try it since he cannot taste my cooking. I hope he enjoys eating this one and I hope the rest of you guys will do.

This post is dedicated to KYRKE :-)

big hug,
joanie xxx

New Year's Eve Turkey for 2011

2011-01-07T14:55:00.008+08:00

Hello mates! Allow me to say Buon anno a tutti!

Year 2010 was the best year of my life so far. It's just hard to say goodbye to the year that was very amazing, fantastic, superb and euphoric! No sufficient adjectives to describe what I have learned and experienced the past months. The turn of events and scenarios tremendously accelerated as the year ends. And to give the exclamation mark for this year---it was about the magical moment of meeting the one and only person I admired the most and he's none other than Mr. Jamie Oliver! Since he's my inspiration about my great passion in cooking, I have finally tried doing turkey for the first time. Definitely I followed the Jamie's variety of turkey recipes he had in his cookbooks and website. I also did his roasted vegetables recipe although I didn't copy his gravy but came out with my own version. And thank God I can say it's also a gravy that is to die for!

To recap what happened in 2010, I remember it started with my barbecue cooking for Australia day on January then followed by my very adventurous jungle trekking. Came February I visited the world's famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia and experienced the Vietnamese holiday during their Lunar New Year. The next month was March, which is the most challenging part of my life because I have to undergo an operation. It was a successful operation and my father came here in Saigon to take care of me. After March came April-- my most favorite month of the year because it's my birthday. It was a different birthday because I spent it on the beach with my friends and did parasailing for the first time. Then the middle part of the year arrived between the months of May and June where in I was able to get my UK visa. Third quarter is another travel experience for me when I visited Singapore for the first time to catch up with some friends and rode the Singapore Flyer. July swiftly ended and before I knew it--it's already August.

August was the time of the year where I had to go home to Manila and fixed a lot stuff as I received my Schengen visa for my Europe trip. The arrival of September means excitement because of my first solo painting exhibition. But at the same time itwas the toughest month because of my new job and then I have to take off for a month long vacation by October. The most difficult situation I had was to bargain my unpaid vacation leave to my boss. In the end I victoriously win and went for the October UK-Europe trip.

The most special month for last year was October. I travelled to UK and European countries then experienced a lot of new things, met a lot of amazing people and of course as I always repeat---I met my one and only idol Jamie Oliver! November was just about rejuvenising and reminiscing the best 25 days of my life in UK and Europe. Certainly December is for Christmas and it was my first here in Saigon and just spent it on the Beach and got a bit of a tan.

That's pretty much for the year that swiftly went away. I already said my farewell to 2010 and toasted for the new year with a few good friends in Saigon with my lips-smacking turkey for New Year's eve dinner night!

Here's to an exciting 2011 that ROCKS! :-)

big hug,
joanie xxx

Baked Ratatouille

2010-12-29T16:06:00.017+08:00

Before I came to UK and Europe I was so busy that I didn't blog about the food that I've been cooking. Though being busy on a lot things didn't hinder me to still cook the dishes I want to concoct. Cooking is one thing I won't get tired doing no matter how busy and tired I am after a whole day of work in the office. So having said that, I want to post the very first dish I baked in my newly acquired oven which was given to me by the owner of my apartment. They decided to buy one for me instead of me buying it because of the fact that I am renting a fully furnished apartment, so I think the owner just did the right gesture.

Inspired by the French cuisine since I visited Paris last October, I finally decided to make Ratatouille for the first time when I came home from my trip. And not to mess with the recipe, I baked it! Going back a few years ago, people became more familiar with the dish when an American animated film made it as a title. The film is about Remy a rat who wants to be a chef and be in the heat of the kitchen. Sounds gross but it appeared a little cute. Then people from around the world were surprised to find out that it's a famous vegetable dish from France. Ratatouille came from the Occitan word "ratatolha" of the Occitan cuisine. While touiller means "to toss food" This dish originated from Provence and Nice and spreading its different version around France and the entire globe.

There are different versions of doing this dish, I adapted the version of Julia Child which insisted the layering style. Ratatouille can be eaten with breads or filling for crepes. A really nice and interesting food for the vegetarian or vegan people. The vegan can eliminate the use of butter to eat this dish. So let me begin sharing this Ratatouille Nicoise & Provencal recipe...

BAKED RATATOUILLE

Ingredients:

• Aubergine
• Zucchini
• Butternut Squash
• Plump Tomatoes
• Red & Yellow Capsicums
• Thyme/ Marjoram/
• Paprika/ Pepper/ Salt
• Garlic
• Fresh Basil
• Mozzarella Cheese
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Cut the vegetables according to shape like the aubergine, zucchini and tomatoes. For the Butternut Squash and Capsicum, cut it diagonally. After cutting all your vegetables, prepare a large bowl. Put all the vegetables together then start adding the crushed Garlic, Thyme, Marjoram, Paprika, Pepper, Salt and Olive Oil. Toss them together then prepare an oval or circular ceramic baking tray. Add some butter on the tray then start arranging all the vegetables together in layers as Julia Child did in her cookbooks. Then pour in the remaining sauce it created in the bowl while tossing it. Top it with some butter, grated mozzarella cheese and fresh basil. Bake it on 350F from 40 minutes to 1 hour depending on the volume of you are cooking.

This is for all the people who are

Vegans & Vegetarians!

Bon appétit à tous mes!

big hug,
joanie xxx

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T03:05:00.010+08:00

First of all I would like to wish all you lovely people a happy holiday and may all you and your family have a blessed Christmas. I guess everyone knows that this is the best occasion of the year to do some festive cooking. As for me, every year of my life I try to be the queen of the kitchen in my family Christmas dinner but this year it will be a different one because I won't be home for Christmas. I'll spend it here in Vietnam. Being here in the most important event of the year is quite sad. I hardly feel the spirit of the yuletide season.. so I just decided to go to the beach with my dear friend Doris. For a change, it's my first Christmas to be away from my family and friends but it's also my first time to be on the beach on Christmas day. There's always a first time for everything, I guess.

So having the knowledge that I will not be cooking for Christmas eve, I decided to cook a Christmas lunch last Sunday for my friends here in Saigon before they head back to Manila. I prepared my special Roasted pork which I marinated with beer, mustard, herbs and spices. I place some olives, onions and tomatoes along with the sauce before roasting it in the oven. I just want to say that this is something I am surprised about with the amazing & flavourful result.

Joining the lunch table are my special Chicken Kebabs, Cucumber & Youghurt sauce, Corn & Leeks Fried Rice, Jamie Oliver's Potato Dauphinoise & Ginger Beer plus of course my special dessert Matcha jelly topped with Butterscotch Pudding. This is my little feast before Christmas day. I promise to cook some festive meal as I welcome the new year next week!

Merry KISSMAS Mates!

big hug,
joanie xxx

Drunken Sweet & Sour Fish with Peaches

2010-11-23T19:30:00.010+08:00

Anyone can argue with either pork or fish for this recipe I did after watching one episode of Master Chef America. The Mandarin orange challenge for the contestants is to make it as the hero ingredient of the dish. The Chinese guy outshone everyone with his Mandarin Chicken. The next day I decided to check out my fridge and do something oriental because I was extremely craving for Sweet & Sour. I am not a fish person but since I have one pack of Dory with me, I started to challenge myself by doing something fishy.

So I checked out the rest of my ingredients but I find it interesting to put some chardonnay and peaches on this dish as substitute for pineapples. Surprisingly I was very happy with the result of this dish. It's not your typical sweet & sour recipe but it's oriental when your tongue starts to savor the food.

DRUNKEN SWEET & SOUR FISH WITH PEACHES

Ingredients:

• Dory Fish (cut into cubes)

• Japanese Breading (usually used for tempura)

• Egg yolks

• Cane Vinegar

• Fresh Peaches (Diced)

• Chardonnay

• Onions

• Onion Leaves

• Green Capsicum

• Vegetable Oil

• Salt & Pepper

• Brown Sugar

Procedure:

Beat egg yolks then place in a small bowl. Prepare the tempura breading in another bowl. Get the Dory fish and rub it with some salt. Soak one by one in the bowl with egg yolks then roll it on the breading. Heat pan in medium temperature then fry the cube Dory fish. Set aside after frying everything.

Heat pan with vegetable oil then fry the peaches. Wait until it caramelized a little then add quickly the capsicum and onions. Stir fry as quick as you can then add vinegar and chardonnay. Add a little brown sugar and salt to the mixture then put the pan in low heat. The sauce will thicken afterwards then you can add in the onion leaves and close the flame. Pour it on top of the fried fish then serve hot. Could either go with a plain rice or very nice Chinese fried rice.

Satisfy your oriental cravings :-)

big hug,

joanie xxx

My Authentic Ilocano Pinakbet

2010-11-15T01:26:00.014+08:00

I was born with an Ilocana mother who hails from Northern part of Ilocos called Dingras and that's the reason why it enables me to cook most of the dishes from this region. Although I often hype my flagship claim to be a true blooded Kapangpangan (from Pampanga province) than its feud province Ilocos. The reason behind it is simply because Pampanga is the culinary capital of the Philippines and I am proud that it's where my father come from. Everyone believes that people who hail from that province are mostly natural cooks. I can attest to that because most of my aunts are really good especially my GrandMother from the father side where I learned my basic of cooking skills.

But Ilocano cuisine is something that I also grew up with and my GrandMother from my mother side cooks the perfect Pinakbet! I remember I was only five years old when I first and last came to Dingras. Even though I was a little child during that time I had a vivid memory about the things I saw and experienced. I saw the backyard of my GrandMa filled with all the planted vegetables that are mainly the key ingredients to cook a Pinakbet. I am just happy to do this dish based on what are the available ingredients here in Vietnam.

hugs,
joanie xxx

Back from UK & Europe Trip

2010-11-04T14:25:00.020+08:00

(Around London during Sandeman Tour)

Hey LOVE! (How English people do it like when Aussies say mate!)

I am back in Saigon and back to blogging at long last. It's been two months that I was away. September was the busiest month of my life-- I struggled and fought so much about my trip so my boss will allow me for an almost month-long vacation to UK and Europe. Pretty much I succeeded in fighting for my ultimate goal to fly by October.

October first came and I departed Ho Chi Minh City and landed at Heathrow International Airport on October 2. Above is the first photo I took from the most expensive city in the world--LONDON! I stayed there for a few days and fulfilled all my fantastic experiences about my Jamie Oliver journey. I had tours in his offices, stock room, studio and private test kitchen. What amazed me the most was the moment I met my one big LOVE... JAMIE, live flesh and blood! More of the detailed story when I finish writing my journey meeting the man and it will be published at his website in the news segment. Thanks to Danny Mc Cubbin his editor for requesting me to narrate my one-of-kind story. Later on I flew to Liverpool for the BEATLES tour where I met Michael Mc Cartney. Then later on I had my special dinner at Jamie's Italian restaurant in Paradise Street, Liverpool. That's pretty much about England for now.

After the Big Ben and Strawberry Fields, I headed to Brussels and enjoyed the Pissing Boy, waffles, beers, fries and chocolates. The next day I also went on a short trip to Bruges with my former colleague and my Belgian friend. Bruges is a UNESCO world heritage that is surrounded by some nice canals that are cleaner than Venice and more quaint. Belgium is quite fast for 3 days or less. But I was I was excited to go to Paris after Belgium. Paris is an expensive city as well as London but I did enjoy it most of the time by eating all the food I love while gazing at the amazing sights the city has to offer. One of them is the location of my hostel in Caulin Court somewhere in Montemarte where the Moulin Rouge can be found. Around that area you can also find the location of Amelie the movie and the magnificent view of the city from La Basilique du Sacre Coeur. The metro was the only thorn in my itinerary at Paris because they had strikes most of the time so I failed to go to Versailles and decided to go to LOUVRE instead. It's all worth it though. Paris is Paris and I love it!

Now I have to be more excited heading to Barcelona! This is my favorite city in the world where we can find the Sagrada Familia church designed by Gaudi. I was lucky to have my BNB just beside this incredible architectural landmark. My city exploration started when I went to an old castle called Castel de Montjuic and then I visited Fundacion Miro the museum where all the paintings of my favorite painter Joan Miro were archived. I also had an outskirt trip to Montserrat where I met an amazing man who happened to be an English-Scottish but born and raised in Montreal, Canada. I spent the whole day with this person in Montserrat 'til we went back to Barcelona for dinner. We also had an amazing conversation at my BNB that night that I would say we never ran out of story despite talking to each other the whole day. Too bad I have to leave early for my Milan flight the next day. We could've spent more time together. But now I can say I have gained an interesting friend in him.

My last leg was Italy and it's quite tiring because I went to bunch of cities namely: Milan, Venice, Pisa, Florence and Rome. They are all old and quaint but has its own beauty and charm for you to distinguish one from the other. Although Rome is different because it's quite big and busy city compared to the rest. But the city that I really liked the most is Florence or Firenze in Italian. I'd probably go back next year for several reasons. I found a good university for me to pursue my culinary dream. Florence is also the most romantic and cinematic city that I have ever been. Everything I saw and experienced there were just like scenes from the movie. I met one amazing Italian whom I will consider the person who touched my life and made me realized the possibilities of life. I learned to let go of the residues of my past which I have been holding on for two years. I am glad those stuffs are no longer in my baggage. What a relief. Only one incident can change the landscape of a person's life. That's one good thing about travelling by yourself, you will learn a lot and see the world in a brand new perspective. I am telling myself now that the world is really huge!

I am having a hard time now choosing from the 5,000++ photos I took, so for now I just chose the first and last photos I took from my trip. It's also very hard to summarize everything that happened to me during the 24 days I was away. I was brave enough to conquer the other side of the planet all by myself. Learning to navigate myself from top to bottom is one big achievement for me. I am so proud and happy about the trip I had and definitely I will be back in Europe and UK soon.

During the trip, my eyes were bloated by the beautiful sceneries by each city but what amazed me more are the people I met along the way which filled my heart with overflowing joy. I can't remember all of them because they are quite a lot and I am thankful because each of them helped me in one way or another. And to those people I remember for sure they touched my life in the most special way. They are amazing people. I think in my post per city I would be able to mention each of them. But the biggest achievement I had during this trip is meeting JAMIE OLIVER! that up to these days I cannot fathom that it really happened. Shall I say mission accomplished? Indeed! Now I have new set of dreams about Jamie and there's no greater joy to replace that moment I met him.

(At Rome Termini going to Fiumicino Airport)

To all my readers I am happy to share this to all of you. And to those who don't like reading my blog and the details I share, you are not obliged to do so. Life is short and lets just embrace the things that we like and happy about.

hugs,

joanie xxx

Frozen Peach Torte Cake

2010-08-30T18:08:00.007+08:00

G'day mates!

It's been a while since I had my last post. There are so many things that happened lately. I owe my blog a lot of postings--my Singapore & Manila trip to be specific. Since I would like to get rid of the Frozen Peach Torte recipe out of the way, I will blog the reason why I made this cake.

I just got back from my Manila trip last week and a lot of changes I have to deal with since I got back. First is my resignation at my old office and it's long overdue. I am now moving to a bigger ad agency, I anticipated the coming of this moment and it gives me a big smile now or perhaps a silly grin? Next will be my upcoming solo painting exhibition very soon. I would definitely post it here first so you guys can see it. Lastly, since I came back here in Saigon I am a bit worried about my Schengen visa whether I will have it or not. I already have my UK visa and once I get the Schengen it signals that my trip to UK-Europe is all set. Today I got the confirmation from the French Consulate here in Ho Chi Minh where I lodged my application 2 weeks ago. I got my visa approved!

The universe is indicating that stars are slowly aligning and I don't know which of the 88 constellations listed in our modern astronomy will form. It may be Cassiopeia of the Northern Sky? Or Big Dipper? Such a serendipity moment if that will happen and now I want to define again that it means fortunate accidents and lucky discoveries. Who knows what life brings? No body knows what lies ahead and we all wish that it would be good and happy.

Veering away from the stars and universe because it has nothing to do with my Peach Torte cake recipe. It was weeks ago when I decided to make a birthday cake, definitely not for my birthday because it's way too late to make one for myself. Although I really wanted to make myself a birthday cake last April with my favorite Matcha Chocolate Crepe Cake but I failed to do so. But August is the best month to make a great cake! I just concocted this one based on my favorite cake Mango Torte. I don't know how it was exactly made but I know some of the key ingredients. I know they have, cream, mangoes, graham crumbs cooked in butter. I replaced the mangoes to peaches and I added cream with vanilla jello pudding. It added a unique taste as compared to the normal Mango Torte. The best thing about the crust of my Peach Torte is the Weet Bix whole grain. This cool breakfast food is 100% made in Australia! What I did was, crushed it into granules and cooked it with butter, sugar and wine. The cake resulted so well especially when it's frozen. The whole thing is too big for me to finish by myself but I did finish it because I don't want some leftovers. I just have to make someone feel very guilty about this cake because he's from the other planet so this cake didn't climb on his list :D

( I really like this healthy brekky food )

FROZEN PEACH TORTE CAKE

Ingredients:

• Thinly sliced peaches
• Nestle Cream
• French Whip Cream
• Jello Vanilla Pudding
• Milk/Vanilla syrup
• Cinnamon
• Wheet Bix Whole Grain (crushed)
• Brown Sugar
• Shiraz (red wine)
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat pan with butter and sugar. Allow sugar and butter to melt then add the Weet Bix granules. Fold it together then add a bit of shiraz. Ready your pyrex glass container and press the the mixture for the crust. Refrigerate it for a while while doing the cream. Mix milk and Jello Vanilla Pudding together until it thickens. Add the Nestle cream and heat them all together in a casserole then add cinnamon and vanilla syrup. Bring out the glass container with the crust the pour the cream mixture on to the crust then arrange the thinly sliced peaches on top. Lastly whip some cream on top and decorate it on your desired area. Then refrigerate it for 4-6 hours. Best served when frozen.

Hope you like this lil labor of love I did :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

The Garlic Pesto Sauce

2010-08-03T11:18:00.006+08:00

First of all regardless of what's happening in the current world... let me greet first my Mom a...

Happy Birthday!

It's gloomy and raining very often here in Saigon because fall has finally arrived. This is the season where we all need some pillow or human cuddle. Aside from the cuddle it's also nice to eat some good food at your wooden table with your bare foot while watching the raindrops on your windowpane. Even before the rainy season came, I did my own preparation by stocking up some jars or pesto basil and ginger peanut oil. These are my two staples inside my fridge that whenever the lazy weather attacks, I just have my 911 jars that will save either my pasta noodles or my meat.

Rainy season is my favorite season of the year that's why my weekends are just preoccupied by DVD, eating & painting. I have several paintings to finish in time for my exhibition end of August so the weather we are having here in Saigon is just perfect for me to devote my time painting. I just alternate the 3 things during the weekend and I realized that I enjoy being a hermit in my own cave. I just have to make sure that the paintings I am cooking up will be good enough to satisfy my guests. I am pretty much excited with my solo exhibit so I am kinda busy with a lot of extra curricular stuffs lately. But I do enjoy what I am doing in spite of the many things that keep bugging my mind before I sleep. So for now, allow me to share my own version of pesto sauce although I just bought my basil leaves from the supermarket and they seem fine I think. I promised my self to grow my own herbs specifically basil but I still haven't find time doing it. My procrastination on that matter is still on.

GARLIC PESTO SAUCE

Ingredients:

• Basil leaves (80% of the leaves)
• Corriander leaves (20% of the leaves)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive Oil
• Pine Nuts
• Salt & Pepper
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Yoghurt
• Butter (of course)

NOTE: I did the manual chopping but if you have a food processor you are very welcome to use it :)

Procedure:

Chop the Basil and Corriander leaves and sprinkle with some apple cider vinegar then set aside. Peel the garlic and mince finely. Heat the pan in medium temperature then roast the pine nuts then remove from pan and chop it finely. Use the same pan under medium heat then melt little butter then add the minced garlic and pine nuts. Add some olive oil then put the Corriander and Basil leaves and stir it then add a little yoghurt. Continue mixing then add some more olive oil if necessary. Have a dash of salt and pepper to taste.

Serve it with either pasta or meat dishes...

hugs,
joanie xxx

Avocado Prawn Medley

2010-07-26T16:17:00.004+08:00

It takes two to Tango!

This is such a lovely dish for me to share this day of mourning because I lost a great friend. He passed away yesterday because of diabetes. Prior to his departure yesterday he had his knee amputated and went on a coma in ICU. He supposed to have his amputation from waist down yesterday lunch but wasn't able to make it. I can't imagine my dear friend with one knee amputated, what more from waist down? Such a terrible pain. He had this illness for several years and he will just often take medicines and insulin to keep him going. What funny about this fat boy friend of mine is--- despite the huge figure he had and the diabetes thing, he still managed to eat sweets like chocolates but definitely sugar-free. His favorite ice cream is the sugar-free of "Better than Ice Cream." I remember a lot of good and funny moments with him. He always possesses this mean humor and outlandish words to joke or humiliate people in a very funny way. Despite that a lot of people in the Philippine advertising industry loved him. He left us a very special mark and each one of us has our own story to tell about the laughter’s we shared with this good friend.

I would definitely miss the man. The harsh words he uttered, the sweet thoughts and the inspiring advice he gave me is what I will always keep in my heart. I felt it was only yesterday that I used to feed him with my food that for sure he can eat the entire casserole of any dish I will cook. He's my companion pigging out and splurging on shopping funky stuffs. How I wish he remained healthy and lived a balance life. Now I realize the value of exercise and eating the right food especially when you have a special illness to take care of.

This dish is a combination of a good result that I can say it takes two to tango. The component of prawn and avocado mix with Japanese mayo is very basic, healthy and easy to prepare. I hope my dear friend would still smell and taste my cooking wherever he is...

This is for you, Harvey Diez +

AVOCADO PRAWN MEDLEY

Ingredients:

• Cube Avocado
• Prawns
• Japanese Mayo
• Salt & pepper
• Cayenne Pepper
• French Bread
• Olive oil or option for Butter (of course)

Procedure:

There is no special ingredient nor procedure in preparing this simple salad or bruschetta topping I want to share to all of you. Start the process by heating pan in medium fire then add little olive oil or butter then stir fry prawns with salt and cayenne pepper. Set aside and cool when cooked. Prepare a bowl and pour in the cube avocados then the prawns. Squeeze in the mayo then add salt & pepper. Chill for several hours then serve. You can either serve it as is or top it with a slice French bread or Baguette.

Bon appetite fat boy Harvs!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Matcha Jelly with Chocolate Worm Pudding

2010-07-18T18:11:00.008+08:00

Just got back from my Singapore trip catching up with good friends. I just remember that I haven't posted this exhilarating dessert recipe I did couple of weeks ago. I just concocted this based on the emotional truth that I was analyzing recently. I love analogies so this is the food that I think would best embody about my thoughts below:

"Bitter endings. Sweet beginnings..."

There are a lot of things that is definite about life and one thing I am sure a lot of people have already experienced-- is getting hurt. They say you should experience defeat first so when you experience victory it is really triumphant. And same with the saying that we have to experience pains before the pleasures. It's also good to climb a mountain to get on the top than just riding a helicopter and go there. In short we should know first the bad side of the coin before looking at the good side so we can appreciate life better.

One thing that I am grateful for about my life is having experienced getting hurt tremendously and was able to bounce back in grand fashion. Fate has been good to me and it has shown me the bad side of the coin before lingering to the good side. Sometimes I often look back at my defeats, pains and how I climb my own mountain--it makes me smile and tell myself there's no sweeter beginning without experiencing a bitter ending.

One has to put period on the bitterness life has given you. You may call it misfortune or bad luck or whatever you call it but by closing a chapter and ending a cycle marks the beginning of one's joyful life. It took a while for me to feel this way but I can smile now and feel light and tell myself for the nth times that I am really ready for the world. It gave me a lot of signs already to finally have my own sweet beginning...

"It's about time, as everyone says!"

MATCHA JELLY with
CHOCOLATE WORM PUDDING

Ingredients:

• Matcha Powder
• Caramel Pudding Cream
• Plain Gelatin
• Milk / Sugar
• Vanilla Syrup
• Lime or Lemon
• Chocolate Chips
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Dilute matcha powder on a hot water then add milk, gelatin powder, sugar, lime and vanilla syrup. Stir constantly until smooth. Place it on a ramekin or small plain glass. Let it cool. Prepare the pan and heat it with medium temperature. Melt butter along with the chocolate chips then add milk and Caramel pudding cream. Let everything melt and stir until it thickens. When the matcha jelly is hard and ready you can put the chocolate mixture. Chill and serve cold.

Hope you like this... Have a good week mates! :D

hugs,
joanie xxx

LEAP YEAR - Dingle, Ireland

2010-07-08T12:43:00.014+08:00

Leap year happens every four years and mainly that's the reason why this movie tickled me to write another blog about life's romance. It's been a while since I was smitten by a light romantic movie and the last one was 500 Days of Summer. That movie got a fresh review from rottentomatoes.com while this movie was declared rotten by the reviewers. For some reason I was really captivated by this film especially the actor and the setting. I just can't wait to share my point-of-view about this movie and how it can correlates to ones life.

The movie is mainly about the Irish legend that a girl can propose to a man on a leap year which is on the 29th of February and he must accept it as the tradition goes. The movie was set in the picturesque Galway Count, Dingle Peninsula to Dublin, Ireland. Movie flicks said that it's a total rip-off of the film "Jab we met" an Indian movie shown on year 2007 which I don't mind.

Meet Ana (Amy Adams - Julie & Julia) from Boston, in a relationship for 4 years and waiting for her boyfriend Jeremy (a cardiologist) to propose to her on their anniversary. Sadly instead of a ring the guy gave her a nice pair of earrings. Since then Ana was distracted by her Dad's story that her Grand Ma proposed to her Grand Pa on a leap year just like the Irish tradition. So she decided to fly to Dublin where her boyfriend was having a convention. On her way to Dublin the storm led the plane to divert its destination to Wales. From there Ana took a boat to Dingle. She was stranded on a restaurant to look for a help on how to go to Dublin.

From the Dingle Peninsula country side, let's meet Declan (Matthew Goode, an English actor) an Irish inn owner where Ana got stranded and He's the only person who could possibly help her. Declan helped her to make an unexpected cross-country trek to pull off the perfect marriage proposal in time. Their journey began as they both begin to fell for each other on their way to Dublin.

I find it really raw and real when a stranger will curiously ask you about your reason to propose to a man. Ana just said, it's romantic. Declan said, I think that's the most stupid thing I've ever heard. And for me it's the most desperate move a woman can do and it's just an excuse to pull a man who is not ready to marry you by asking him to marry you instead. The saga continues and there was this moment when they were climbing the castle on the hill and Declan asked Ana, "If your house is burning, what are you going to take?" Ana just find it a silly question that she didn't reply.

Ana missed her train going to Dublin from Dingle and ended up having an overnight stay at the best Bread & Breakfast house with Declan. They pretended to be a couple due to the disclaimer the owner had in the beginning. It was funny to see them with bits of bubbly romantic feud that its very predictable but I don't really mind. I was struck by this movie that I can't believe that I'm totally sharing the details and I don't know why I couldn't get my mind off it.

The cooking scene they have there is a hell yeah thrilling & giggling scene for me. Maybe I can relate to Declan because I cook also and it's just nice to share one moment of your life cooking with someone you are totally infatuated or just someone you tremendously like. How lovely to pick and analyze carrots from the backyard to the moment of chopping it and cooking the food for dinner. I can imagine that moment could also happen to me and whoah, I'm sure it wouldn't be a cooking disaster but will have a result of a delectable dish!

Meanwhile this is my favorite part where in the tension at the dinner table began and the romantic plot ascended to its maximum level. They were having dinner on table with two other couples and those couples began kissing each other intimately that the B&B owner dictated Declan to kiss his dummy wife. It was an awkward and blurry moment that this man cannot decide whether he'll do it or not. But yes he did give Ana a smack on the cheek. Quite unfair for the couples watching them, the man demanded for a real kiss. Then yes, it did happen like the picture shown below. It was very spontaneous that I couldn't imagine how many butterflies in my stomach were all flying. I giggled and my heart was pulsating than my average heartbeat.

The best thing one can get when you like or love someone is a spontaneous kiss. It maybe awkward after it, but what will constantly replay in your mind is the tender, passionate and intimate gesture that both of you shared on that moment. Moment like this doesn't happen everyday that you are dictated to kiss a stranger and bang the magic will just take you somewhere you have never been. We can intimately kiss a hundred or thousand people in our whole life time but they say you can just brush it away with your toothbrush. But one kiss will definitely be unforgettable that you can't afford to let go of.

Going back to the story, Ana finally got her ticket to go to Dublin and Declan was ready to set her off. Ana on the contrary asked him to accompany her to Dublin. They finally arrived at Ana's destination and they walked around and stopped in a park. Declan revealed his answer to his own question. If my house is about to get burn and I have 60 seconds to get something, I'll get my Grand Ma's ring.

Finally Ana met her Jeremy in the hotel and the guy proposed to her infront of all the people in the hotel while Ana took awhile before she gave her answer. She looked back where Declan was standing and she found the man was gone. But later on Ana found out that the marriage proposal from her boyfriend was just merely based on the house that he purchased. Ana realized something when she was in the moment when their house was about to get burn and she thought of the 60 second thing that Declan asked her. She realized what she needs to get is back there in Ireland. She flew again to Ireland and gave a proposal to Declan in front of a lot of people in the restaurant. Declan didn't say anything and went away. Ana felt humiliated and realized that she just got an Irish "NO."

But the story didn't ended sad. Declan chased her and explained why he walked away and that is to get the ring and after that he proposed to Ana. It's unfathomable why I am so enticed with this movie. The set up and all. I know there's nothing new, even the story plot is just a rip-off but the Ireland factor is the main reason I am so struck with this film. I am going to United Kingdom sometime September to pursue my dream and someone just told me maybe what I am looking for is just there waiting for me. I blushed last night when this guy told me that an English man could steal my heart away or I just have to be in the right place, right time and with the right company. Could he be an Irish or my man is just from the land of my favorite football player with an Irish decent.

I don't know what life brings. But after watching this film it was reinforced in my mind that there are millions of possibilities in your life that could happen and can totally change your fate. Even if you are with someone, doesn't guarantee that he's the one. I must say. Or it doesn't mean if you don't have someone will guarantee that you will never find the one. Life doesn't guarantee anything. Don't make promises... just try and things can happen in the most unexpected way.

This must be the longest blog I have ever written. I am just happy today since I had my pizza and beer last night that led me to finally write my opinion about this current favorite movie of mine. My joys are still in my system. The weather is gloomy but nice to cuddle with. If this movie is a man, I am definitely in love with him.

Ciao compagni! :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Arroz Caldo with Liver on the 4th of July

2010-07-04T14:16:00.009+08:00

The inauguration of the new president of the republic of the Philippines was last June 30 and last June 12 we just celebrated our independence day. Much more reason for me to do some Filipino cooking on my table. To be honest I am not a fan of Filipino dishes so I rarely make them. If I make one, for sure it will no longer taste as the original. Some people say when I do Filipino cuisines, the outcome is very different but not in a negative way. The reason behind it is because I always add a unique twist.

Our Filipino tradition of making Chicken Porridge has originated from the colonization of Spanish way back 1500's. This food is something I did today. Same process how we do our porridge but I did some twist by adding too much ginger to achieve a more brilliantly yellow color. And aside from pepper and salt for seasoning, I added Paprika and Lemongrass powder for some spicy taste. To make my porridge meatier I topped it with Pork Liver Adobo aside from the chicken in the mixture.

My pledge today, on the 4th of July is to do more Filipino cuisines and not be influenced by the food Uncle Sam brought to my country. To be honest Philippines has become a fastfood nation and I completely hate it. People are more unhealthy and more lazy to do some home cooked meals. Well in general most of Filipino foods are also unhealthy like Bagnet, Pork Sisig, Liempo etc. But generally speaking what we are really missing when we settle for fastfood is the real essence of eating sumptuous dishes rather than processed burgers or artificial fries and so on. I think a new Food Revolution has to take over in our eating landscape.

ARROZ CALDO with LIVER

Ingredients:

• Glutinous Rice
• Ginger (Shredded)
• Onion Leaves / Shallots
• Chicken (thigh part is the best)
• Pork or Chicken Liver (cut into small cubes)
• Soy Sauce
• Salt & Pepper
• Paprika & Lemongrass Powder
• Cane Vinegar
• Butter/Olive Oil

Procedure:

Boil chicken and set aside the stock. Peel and shred the chicken then set aside also. Heat a casserole then add butter or olive oil. Saute shallots then add the shredded chicken and ginger. Season it with salt, pepper, parika and lemongrass powder. Add in the glutinous rice and fold it with the mixture. Add in the chicken stock and let it boil for 30 minutes. Stir it constantly 'til it thickens. Maybe you can have a total of one hour boiling it. Depends on the amount of rice you are cooking. While boiling the porridge, prepare a small pan then heat it with butter. Fry the liver cutlets then season it with salt and pepper. Allow it to cook the add a bit of soysauce and vinegar. Allow the sauce to evaporate then wait 'til it cooks. When the porridge is cooked top it with chopped onion leaves and pork or chicken liver then serve.

This is one of the best comfort food a Filipino can share on one Rainy Day afternoon :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Squid & Octopus Barbies!

2010-06-21T12:43:00.011+08:00

I woke up late on a Sunday morning and that was probably around 11 am. Still had my fresh & vivid memory about the draw game between Australia and Ghana. It was nice catching it live in a pub called Tavern near my apartment with my good Aussie friend Mr. Ashley. Two bottles of beer nice conversation and the mathematical hope for the Socceroos to still make it in the finals. Though last night the Kiwi had a draw game against the Italians that made me lose my hope for the Aussies to at least make it in the finals. It seems I am going to cheer for Rory Fallon instead of Tim Cahill :-(

Around 12 noon I just realized it was Father's Day so I gave a heads up to my neighbor friends in Sky Garden. Oji and Eka came to my house with fresh Dory Fish, Mini Tilapia, Pork Chops & Octopus. I brought out my chicken, squid, veggies and griller then we were instantly ready for a Sunday Lunch Barbecues! I began marinading the meat at around 1pm then made some sauces and salad. The 2 liter COKE brought by Ivy was really the icing on the cake!

We began to savor the barbies that were really to die for because it's soft and tender for the pork and chook. Then the squids were not chewy or rubbery at all. That's the good thing about it, you can bite them easily. What a wonderful lunch that made us all bloated and said nothing but burp! burp! burp! LOL! After a while I brought out the Peach Cake Pudding that has been in my fridge for a week. Not bad, still good because it was frozen since then.

We finished all the eating around 4pm. I told them it's time for an English Tea! So I brought out the Harrods Kiwi and Strawberry fruit Tea for everyone to taste. We are all calmed and relaxed after the tea then we decided to watch a dvd that lasted 'til 630 pm and we ended around 7pm. Then shortly after I ran to the salon and got some pedicure. My feet were happy again then headed back home and ate my Bacon and Cheese with Pandesal while watching the Kiwi fight against the Italians.

SQUID & OCTOPUS BARBIES

Ingredients:

• Squid & Octopus
• Lemon
• Salt & Pepper
• Cumin / Paprika
• Curry Powder / Turmeric

• Butter (of course)

This is very simple marination for an ideal Sunday barbecues! Just ready your fresh octopus and squid then squeeze in some lemon. Rub it with salt and pepper then add cumin, paprika, curry powder and turmeric. Ready your griller and put some flame then brush it with butter. Place in your meat on top of the griller and grill one side for like 6 minutes. Flip the other side and grill it for 4 minutes then it's done. Mine, I served it with my ever favorite capsicum fried rice!

Happy Father's Day Mates! :D

hugs,
joanie xxx

Daddy in Ho Chi Minh City!

2010-06-18T17:37:00.012+08:00

Town Hall of Ho Chi Minh City along Nguyen Hue & Le Than Ton

Tuscan Style office inside the Zoo at Nuyen Bien Kiem

Lake and Bench at the Zoo at Nguyen Bien Kiem

Female Statues at The Saigon Opera House

Chinese Temple at the Zoo in Nguyen Bien Kiem

Paintings at Paragon Mall

Nice Shop at Paragon Mall

Acoustic Night at YEN Cafe in District 3

Newly opened Yogen Fruz branch in Phu My Hung

The Famous Fanny Ice Cream in Thon That Tiep

Adidas World Cup Mascot at Parkson's Mall

Notre Dame de Saigon along Le Duan and Nguyen Du

Last March 8 Dad arrived in Ho Chi Minh for one and half months of vacation and obligation at the same time. I was scheduled for my surgery last March 17, so he was the one who was by my side during the operation and my 4 days and 4 nights stay in the hospital. He was with me also during my recuperating period. So when I was feeling okay, I tried to tour Dad to some of the city's hot spots and restos. Most of the time we were together or we were with my good friends here in Saigon. There are almost a thousand pictures Dad brought home after his vacation. Hope he did enjoy his trip to the quaint city of motorbike.

Father's day is almost here, and I guess almost everyone around the globe will celebrate this wonderful occasion. I recently watched the movie "Everybody's Fine" it's the type of movie that will pinch your heart. Seeing Robert De Niro growing old and being away from his kids is something that really happens in real life. And we must admit that we give lesser time to our parents because we are busy with our daily routines. The movie also captured the reality that sometimes kids cover the ugly truth from their parents most specially the imperfections of life. Most of us do not want to disappoint our parents so we keep things from them.

The last scene and dialogue of Robert De Niro in the movie caught my attention. He said something like this: "Your children may not grow the way you want them to be, but what's always important is...everybody's fine." Then the movie ended that one of his daughters is a lesbian and a single mother at the same time, then another daughter is separated but now with a new partner, then a son that claims to be a musical conductor but just a drummer and lastly the son who died as a drug addict and a painter. Life isn't perfect and it will never be. As long as everybody's fine...yeah life goes on and we should find happiness on what we have and deal with it.

See you on Sunday for my Father's day FOOD blog :D

hugs,
joanie xxx

AUS vs GER Higlight: Tim Cahill's Red card

2010-06-15T02:38:00.015+08:00

Socceroos cheer leaders in unison :D

Germany's flaming hot supporters!

The Australian Socceroos

Left to right: 19-Michael Garcia (MF) 1-Mark Schwarzer (GK) 3- Craig Moore (DF) 13-Vince Grella (MF) 11-Scott Chipperfield (DF) 7-Brett Emerton (MF) 4-Tim Cahill (MF) 2-Lucas Neill (DF - Captain) 16-Carl Valeri (MF) 5-Jason Culina (MF) 8-Luke Wilkshire (DF)

Polish-German striker Miroslav Klose

The yellow & red card for Tim Cahill

Italian referee Roberto Rossetti

Cahill was suspended for the game against Ghana

Disapponted fans of the socceroos after the humiliating 4-0 in favor of the Germans!

World Cup: Germany VS Australia 3-0

2010-06-15T01:30:00.005+08:00

Last January 20 I was very excited to join my friends for the FIFA trophy tour here in Vietnam. I couldn't believe that it was six months already since then. Cut to the present time, yesterday night I was wide awake 'til 1:30 in the morning to watch the World Cup which is my most anticipated game between Australia and Germany.

Although everyone knows that Australia is the underdog and Germany is the domineering team, I didn't lose hope. Who knows... a miracle might happen. Australia's wonder boy, Tim Cahill might repeat his magical goals during the finals against Japan. I was ready to watch the game but prior to that I was chatting to my friend who's in Germany with her German football player boyfriend and he predicted a 3-0 game. They we're saying thumbs down to Australia and I was saying BOOH Germany!

So the game started. Slow moving at the start until Germany started to maneuver the game by acquiring their first goal scored by Podolski. Staying calm and I was telling my self, that's fine there's more time left. Then Klose, Muller & Cacau, succeeded the goals. I saw the intensity or the quick foot moves of the Germans. The Roos were left behind and having a hard time catching up. Their ball possessions were lesser and I felt the frustration of Lucas Neill during the ball game. Then the fall of the Australians for me was when Tim Cahill got the Red Card when the score was 2-0. I think that was it. Then the game finished at 4-0. The Hitler's country won!

Some says that some of the ROOS are old, nah. It's not about that. Maybe the composure of the Australians is not that solid yet. Still a long road for them to be really good in football. Game was kinda disappointing because I was hoping for at least a draw game in the beginning. But when I saw how they struggled, I just wish that they would have a score at least. But anyway it's still worth it to still see my team playing for FIFA.

The whole globe is raving for the world cup except for Philippines. But that fact didn't stop me to pursue my enthusiasm watching football and cheering for my team, which is the Australian Socceroos!

Let's wave the Australian flag again against Ghana & Serbia!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Lime & Shitake Cream Spaghetti

2010-06-07T17:05:00.004+08:00

The weekend came so quickly and today is the continuation of the weekend's lazy vibe. I must admit that I just spent my weekend like a couch potato. That's not very ideal. But the weather was so huggable so I didn't resist hugging it while it last. Sunday supposed to be my day to fix my Vespa because it has been sleeping in the basement for more than 3 months already. My poor little Vespa ran out of gas and got flat tires. But the weather led me overslept so the plan was pushed to next weekend.

Although I spent my weekend just sleeping, I didn't completely end it with a 100% of laziness. Of course weekend will never be complete without whipping up a peculiar dish. One of the things that will make me drool over, is creating a cream-based dish with mushroom. It never fails to satisfy my palette in the most seductive way. There is something with the cream and the rubbery texture of mushroom that compliments when you have them together. The chewing and the swirling of your tongue is the most endearing part when savouring this new dish I have. I do hope you like it.

LIME & SHITAKE CREAM SPAGHETTI

Ingredients:

• Minced Garlic & Onions
• Sliced Shitake Mushrooms
• Squeezed Lime
• Sliced Cherry Tomatoes
• Nestle Cream
• Basil and Tuna Pate
• Fresh Milk
• Spaghetti Noodles
• Salt/Pepper/Paprika
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Boil spaghetti noodles then drain and set aide when cooked. Heat a pan in medium temperature with butter and olive oil. Saute minced garlic & onion for 2-5 minutes. Add the sliced Shitake mushrooms and saute for 4-6 minutes. Then add the sliced cherry tomatoes and continue sauteeing for 6-8 minutes. Ready your Basil & Tuna pate (Mashed Basil with Tuna and Liver Pate) then add to the mixture. Squeeze the lime, add nestle cream and milk and stir all together. Season with salt, pepper & paprika. Allow to simmer for 3-5 minutes then add a little olive oil. When ready add the spaghetti noodles then fold and serve.

Sour and creamy pasta with a twist is good during bed weather...

hugs,
joanie xxx

Kidney Beans Kon Karne (KKK)

2010-06-01T15:54:00.007+08:00

It's a good rainy afternoon here in Saigon. After months of tremendous heat, we are already getting some drizzles of liquid on the coal streets of Ho Chi Minh City. The rain signifies the end of summer and marks the beginning of the month of June. Rainy season is coming our way and it's the weather of the year that I like the most. As I glance on a window pane while the drops of rain drip, I feel the warm comfort of the delightful season that I always look forward.

June is also the bridal month and the month of Philippine independence. Just wanted to share to you guys this recipe that I rarely cook. This is a liberating dish that will defeat all the Chili Con Karne you've ever known. It can be served with Nachos or with Crackers. It's also best to match it with pasta or rice then you can bake it to have a perfect dish!

Crackers with Cucumber, Cream Cheese & topped with Cherry Tomatoes. One thing I learned from my mentor Julie Lingan is to how to prepare this bite size pica-pica!

KIDNEY BEANS KON KARNE

Ingredients:

• Australian ground beef
• Red and Green Capsicums
• Diced Tomatoes
• Tomato Sauce
• Kidney Beans
• Garlic and Onions
• Paprika / Cayenne Pepper
• Cumin / Lemon Grass Powder
• Salt & Pepper
• Olive Oil
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat casserole in medium temperature. Add butter and mix it with olive oil. Add garlic and onion then saute 'til golden brown. Add the ground beef and allow it to cook then add next the capsicums and tomatoes. Add all the condiments and mix it together until the spices infused in the beef, tomatoes & capsicums. Add the tomato sauce and simmer it for 8-12 minutes. Add some more Olive oil if you want extra brilliance on your dish. Simmer it again for 5 minutes until it cooks. Then serve it with Nachos, Crackers or Bread. Another serving suggestion is to put it in pasta or rice then top it with mozzarella cheese and bake it.

Sounds delish isn't it? Go try it yourself and enjoy :D

hugs,
joanie xxx

Happy Birthday Jamie Oliver

2010-05-27T12:12:00.001+08:00

James Trevor Oliver. Born 3 years ahead of me on May 27. Today another birthday greeting to the man I call genius and with a golden heart. His enormous passion for food and to help other people with the food they eat are the things that I will always admire about Jamie. I am more than just a fan of him, I am someone who looks up to him in a different way. I support him not just because he was known as this cute guy from famous TV shows in Great Britain. I admire him more than the skin he wears, but the inner being in him. I am here on the other side of the planet just watching his life and how he lives it. From his school dinners, ministry of food to the food revolution campaign, I triumphantly rejoice in every victory he makes.

Aside from his talent and passion for cooking, he is also blessed with three lovely daughters and now his wife Jools is on her way to their fourth child. I am wishing him today on his birthday that he will finally have a little Jamie in few months time. Hopefully. There's so much about Jamie that I really like, like being the drummer to his band called Scarlet Division. That is really something. More than cooking, he can also give us his head-banging drum talent. My everyday life is totally inspired by him. A simple smile when I see him on TV, when I browse his website and when I get news from him really makes my day complete. The best thing that happened to me this year was when he gave me a personal message on my twitter and followed me at the same time. He acknowledged me as his number one fan in the Philippines. He just told me in his message that he read my blog and also told me also to keep it up the good work! He just inspires me everyday that I should never give up my dreams and believe that one day everything will turn into reality--and that includes meeting him in person :-)

Let me just share this simple dessert recipe I prepared for my Idol. This was inspired by his recipe on how to make Strawberry Jam. Instead I made apple jam that was simmered with Shiraz and matched with French Vanilla Ice Cream.

APPLE SHIRAZ JAM

Ingredients:

• Apples (cut into cubes)
• Shiraz Red Wine
• Brown Sugar
• Vanilla
• Cinnamon
• French Vanilla Ice Cream
• Water
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Heat pan with butter, then add the sugar. Allow it to caramelized then add the Shiraz. Once it dissolves, add vanilla, cinnamon and water. Next thing to do is to add the diced apples. Cover pan. Allow it to boil and let the apples simmer until it softens. When the apples are soft for sure the liquid will thicken. When everything is ok, ready a small plate put some scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream then plate it with this very nice apple shiraz jam recipe. For me, I had my cube French Vanilla Ice Cream given to me by my Russian friend Mischuin Zolot.

Jamie, enjoy this one head-banging birthday dessert for you!!!

Happy BIRTHDAY Jamie :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Salmon Omelette-Crepe-Pizza

2010-05-22T18:22:00.008+08:00

Good evening England, France & Italy!

It's raining a bit here in Saigon and I realized that I've been living in this chaotic city of motorbike for a year now. Tonight I did again my recent favorite concoction. It was surprisingly a lip-smacking dish. The common reaction I get when I have this dish tasted among good friends-- they said that the taste is confusing but in a good way. Indescribable taste that you cannot identify so you just keeps slicing a piece of it from time to time. Actually that's the intention. Capturing three of my favorite comfort foods in one dish. Obviously I like English Omelette, French Crepe & Italian Pizza--- so that's the reason why this dish was born. The Mozzarella cheese and toppings of either Salmon or Bacon will surely makes this dish more gorgeous! And don't forget to put in some Tabasco's on top.

SALMON OMELETTE-CREPE-PIZZA

Ingredients:

• Salmon (thinly sliced)
• Eggs
• Milk & Flour
• Mozarella Cheese
• Basil / Marjoram
• Salt & Pepper
• Tabascos
• Butter (of course)

Procedure:

Beat eggs in a big bowl then slowly add the milk and a little of flour. Beat them all together then add salt. Heat your teflon pan in medium temperature then melt butter. Add the beaten mixture of egg/milk/flour. Turn the pan in low heat. Let it cook for 3 minutes then top it with Salmon. Next, add Basil/Marjoram/Pepper then sprinkle it with Mozzorella cheese. Cover the pan and allow it cook for 5-8 minutes under low heat. When the cheese melted, turn the heat in high temperature and remove the cover. Allow the flame heats for 30 seconds then it's ready. Slice it like a pizza then add some tabascos!

Hope you enjoy this confused dish of mine :)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Life's about Herbs & Spices

2010-05-17T12:03:00.012+08:00

Good Monday Morning Mates!

Just woke up with a lovely morning and ate a nice bread and cheese for breakfast. If I would playback yesterday morning when I woke up, there were butterflies in my stomach. Today it's like smelling the breeze of daises and tulips. Life is sometimes boring--I have to say that. But surprisingly I can attest that some days are better than others. And that was my Sunday afternoon. Better than the days I had in months.

So I could probably say that life is bringing its flavors again since yesterday. It was very mild and subtle the past few months. Now I can see the taste coming out. To bring this figurative emotion to literal translation, I moved to my kitchen and checked out my cupboard and see what I got in there. I have different herbs and spices to play around for my quick photoshoot at my veranda.

Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Ground Black Pepper, Peppercorn, Cumin, Turmeric, Curry Powder, Tandoori Powder, Saffron, Cinnamon, Rosemary, Marjoram, Thyme & Basil --- They spiced up my everyday dishes in one way or another. I still have to get more of my herbs and spices like star anise, sage, cardamon, dill, fennel, nutmeg, oregano, tarragon, wasabi and some more that I might forget to mention.

Life is sometimes half full, half empty. Sometimes it's drought & empty but most of the time it's full & overflowing. Some famous proverbs say that in times of emptiness and you are in a deep well, you just have to climb up and tell yourself this too shall pass. On the other hand I read a famous poem from a children's book author Shel Silverstein-- it says, that someone has been to the land of happy and he said that life there is a bore. True. We can't just live a happy and perfect life. Sometimes the beauty of life is seeing the flaws and experiencing difficulties. Life offers a 360 degrees view. Don't just take one angle. Rotate and explore.

Live life from mild to spicy!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Saigon RAIDERS & SAINTS

2010-05-14T17:09:00.007+08:00

One Saturday afternoon I headed to Tu Duc University in the outskirt of Ho Chi Minh city to watch a football game. World cup is about to begin in less than a month. So I am rubbing things up in time for FIFA's big event in South Africa. Let's flip the other side of the planet and zoom in to Asia and take a closer look on what's happening on Saigon Football.

I was invited by my friend Leny to watch a football game because her boyfriend is playing. Her boyfriend is Dominik Schaufler, a German midfield attacker of the Saigon Raiders. I met Saigon Raiders once upon a time last September 2009. I played with them on one of their trainings then eventually I didn't pursue after the bruises I got. It's just hard to play with an all male team. I told myself, I just keep doing Muay Thai instead. I can't master two things at the same time. Meanwhile, It was hot and humid when the Saigon Raiders' shuttle bus we're riding arrived in the venue. The Raiders were fierce and excited while anticipating for their rival team to come. Finally Saigon Saints arrived.

Saigon Saints is perceived to be an all-English football team in Saigon and to prove that I met someone from the team around November of 2009. He is Stuart Clark, an English Geologist who plays as a Midfield striker. Surprisingly Saigon SAINTS also have other nationalities in the team but 80% dominated by English people. One of the Raiders told me that these guys are serious about playing and they train hard to win while their team is playing for the fun of the game.

I witnessed the game, and I can say that yes...Saints are so serious about their game. Raiders didn't win but the game was fun! The score was 2-1 and let's call it an All Saints Day! Good thing Stuart wasn't playing that time because I was cheering for the Raiders. Who knows if I catch one of the Saints games, I'd be cheering for them.

It was nice to see passionate European footy players kick balls on Asian ground. The Saigon expats formed their teams to compete here in Vietnam and around Asia. This idea builds camaraderie and friendship among them? I hope.

FIFA is so near I am not quite sure if the team I am cheering for would bring home the FIFA trophy. Press from the globe said that Aussies and even the Kiwis have a very slim chance of winning the World Cup. I wish Tim Cahill of the Australian Socceroos and Rory Fallon of Kiwi FC a big good luck! No matter what let's wave our flag come June 2010!

Thank God it's Friday, Have great Footy weekend! :D

hugs,
joanie xxx

Devil Prawn Al Ajillo for Noynoy Aquino!

2010-05-10T00:17:00.012+08:00

The color of my day is yellow. It reminds me of Philippine democracy way back 1986. Today the republic of the Philippines will have their national election. There are potential candidates among the list but I will tie a yellow ribbon again on my hair the way I did when I was this little girl. That was the time when the Philippine democracy was restored. I am waving my hair with yellow ribbon for Noynoy Aquino! He is the son of Cory Aquino former president & Ninoy Aquino our national hero. His parents were the people behind our democracy today. In spite of the hideous political accusations against him and tons of people underestimating him for being weak, I am for Noynoy Aquino!

Our country doesn't need an intelligent leader to change our political landscape. We already had that for how many years nothing has changed. I am not saying that Noynoy is not intelligent enough to be our president but he's very low profile and it's up to us to discover and give the chance to this bright man to shine. We need someone who has a genuine heart and has a selfless love for his country. We've suffered enough from corruption; it's time to wake up with a new beginning. And let's begin today.

PILIPINAS, VOTE WISELY!!!

Since Philippines was discovered and colonized by the Spaniards since 1500's, I am sharing this Catalan inspired recipe I did before I headed to Nha Trang last week for my birthday. Brace yourself to a garlic overload dish.

DEVIL PRAWN AL AJILLO

Ingredients:

• Prawns (deveined)
• Butter + Olive Oil
• Paprika/Cayenne Pepper/Black Pepper
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh Chili (seeded & minced)
• Lemon + Salt

Procedure:

Heat pan in a medium temperature. Melt butter then add olive oil. Add garlic and stir it for 2-3 minutes. Add the chili then the prawns and stir it for 3-5 minutes. Add Paprika, Cayenne, Black pepper and salt. Then lastly squeeze some lemon in to it. Mix them well and stir-fry all together for another 2-3 minutes. Serve with nice Ciabatta or Focaccia bread.

Disfrute de esta receta deliciosa picante!!!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Happy Birthday Joanie!

2010-04-30T18:41:00.000+08:00

Hello April 30!!!

It's another birthday. The year that was--came so quickly that it already wiped the twelve months that I once looked forward. I noticed when an individual grows older, maturity really comes with their age. For me, it just came at this point of my life that I stopped looking forward on having a birthday party, a birthday surprise, birthday presents and birthday greetings. I just suddenly felt that if people will remember me I’d be happy. If they don't then it will be ok. That simply means no more expectations this time. I just want something plain and ordinary.

This may sound contradicting of wanting something ordinary but I wouldn't let go of the fact that I want a birthday cake no matter what happens. And I started that promise to myself two years ago. And I'm glad that I am having my birthday cake in 3 consecutive years. Blowing it with eyes closed year after year still excites me! Always wishing that all my wishes will come true one day...

Since I don't expect anything for my birthday, I just slacked and waited for that day to come. Surprisingly I got the chance to pull my leg and went out of town to Nha Trang. It's a 12-hour bus ride from the busy city of Saigon. I celebrated it with good friends and they can't help but give me surprises, which include the birthday cake. I didn't really expect anything but a lot of things during my birthday surprised me---like tried parasailing for the first time; it surprised me to see myself up in the air. I was very stiff and tensed. I was really scared before it went on air. But as I was sailing up in the sky, I was flabbergasted with the fantastic view above the ground. It was a different feeling to see things in a different perspective and a courageous way to conquer my fear. End reward---I was able to fulfill my dream.

I remember last year I came up with bags of good wishes before I headed Saigon. Some did come true. Some are still work in progress. And now, additional dreams are coming my way. I just can't stop setting goals and visions for myself. It always include the things that I am passionate about--My cooking and art. What I have and will always be proud of is a a marriage of two talents. I always keep my fidelity on these two things that I will be forever grateful that my creator has bestowed upon me.

My life in Saigon is a maze-like journey. Few more days I will be approaching my first year anniversary here. How time flies, I really have to say that. And that's another story for me to tell because Saigon is my life now. Up to when it would be? I don't know yet. For now I am just happy to cuddle and embrace him in my life 'til the day that we are still meant for each other.

Oh my Birthday. A really happy one. I was amazed to all the people who greeted me on Facebook. They are a lot for me to thank here. I wasn't expecting anything but just a good birthday but three surprises made me at least happy on my birthday. First, my friends who were my company during Nha Trang trip that made my birthday really fun and exciting. Second, my Aussie friend whom I thought will not remember my birthday but called me and surprisingly he was the only person who called me that day. I could've spent my birthday with him if I was not in Nha Trang. That call compensated everything he owed me. Lastly, to my best friend who greeted and sent me a video he did with a soundtrack "Summer Song" by Chad & Jeremy. That made tears fall over and over again in my eyes. I can't thank him enough for being the person who helped and inspired me to become the woman I am today.

Life is nothing but a journey. I will continue to travel and I will see you again next year to narrate another birthday blog :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Paprika Pomodoro Pasta

2010-04-25T17:00:00.010+08:00

G'day lovely people :)

That was a Saturday less ordinary. It began at 2:00 in the morning. I already get used to my default routine for a month during my recuperating period. Then the day I started to bounce back to the routine I left behind, I made boring days out of the picture. I am normal again and finally regained my old self. In fact it was merely awkward to see my doctor in a crowd of clubbing people. I danced and glided then his eyes spoke to me and uttered, I know this girl. And he's surely right. The girl who became his patient and went on a surgery a month ago. The girl that was barely naked in the operating room. Too much shyness that I just had to give a very tame wave of hello and goodbye when I saw him outside the clubbing.

Some random situations occurred from that morning 'til midnight of Saturday. I do believe peculiar moments only happen once in a while. Some things are strange. Some things are new and exciting. Some things are from the past but starting to resurrect. An emotional recovery from what I thought just flew away. I maybe wrong but indeed it was a pleasant surprise to juggle at the moment. What makes me grin now is because I found glee to put two unfamiliar things together. And that excludes the doctor encounter because some idiot people may interpret it that way. All I can say is, that made me say, that was really a Saturday less ordinary---wink***

On the other hand allow me to share you this comfort food I did which became my lunch for 3 consecutive days. My all time favorite simple Pomodoro recipe. Now it looks like it's fresh from the oven, but it's not. Just from my microwave :p

PAPRIKA POMODORO PASTA

Ingredients:

• Cherry Tomatoes (cut into halves)
• Paprika/Salt/Pepper
• Basil & Marjoram
• Tomato Sauce
• Garlic & Onion (Minced)
• Butter & Olive oil
• Mozzarella Cheese
• Angel Hair Spaghetti Pasta

Procedure:

Boil the angel hair pasta then set aside. Heat pan in medium temperature. Melt butter with olive oil. Add garlic and onion. Saute for a few minutes then add cherry tomatoes. Allow the cherry tomatoes to shrink then add the tomato sauce and water. Add salt, pepper, paprika, marjoram & basil. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Add the angel hair pasta and mix it with the sauce. Get a round shape pyrex baking dish or any microwable ceramic round or oval dish then put the pasta. Compress it 'til you fill in the rest of the container. Top it with mozzarella cheese and heat in a microwave for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese melts down. Slice a part and serve.

I hope you enjoy my story and recipe :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Good Morning Vietnam!

2010-04-17T12:51:00.007+08:00

G'day everyone! It's been a month since I had my surgery and it's a beautiful Saturday morning or should I say almost afternoon? I am alright now and back to my normal self. I did it sooner than I thought I would. So the pay-off, I am greeting everyone a Good Morning Vietnam!

Few more days and I will celebrate my birthday and my one year anniversary here in Vietnam. I think it's my first time to say good morning Vietnam since I came here last year. Never too late to say it again and again starting today. One more day and I am set to go back to work. Does that mean stress is coming or fun and excitement will begin again? The answer, I still have to ponder on eventually. Things randomly happened very fast and I didn't notice that one month has passed by. My operation was a success. I had to undergo a surgery where in they have to remove a cyst somewhere outside my uterus and ovaries. Luckily it's just dangling outside so my gadgets inside my tummy are perfectly fine and complete. It's not what others think of, that I lost everything. The doctor said I am ready to conceive in four months because everything is fine now. Sooner or later I have to quest for that boyfriend and make him my husband so that the conceiving idea will get materialized. My big laugh out loud now.

To wrap this post I'd like to thank few people who really did remember me and made me feel better during my recuperating period after the surgery. I'd like to thank Xie Hao for bringing that lovely cake during the days when I can't hardly walk. Mr. Mischu Zolot for visiting and bringing some grapes and pear that made me cook a special dessert out of those fruits. And I was overwhelmed and happy to receive the yummiest French Vanilla Ice Cream in Saigon that again Mischu brought me. Anneleen Berlingen visited me also at home and in the hospital and gave me this bell gift. She's very concerned on how I will call my Dad from my room to the other room because I can't walk and scream after the surgery. My officemates from Brand Maker who visited me in the hospital and brought me fruits and juices. My Sky Garden Friends namely Quinn Donato, Oliver Salazar, Yeng Reyes, Obee Ham, Ivy Sorreda & Vianca are the people who visited me also and very helpful and constantly accompanied me and Dad in all our dinner out and adventures. Thanks to them Dad gained new friends! And to Ampy Rio, Oji Valencia and Kate Bayona thanks also for the visit. To my boxing trainer Alvaro LealdelaTorre and to my Aussie mates Mr. Ashley Groom and Adrian Ammendola for remembering me as well. But most of all I have to thank my Dad for taking care of me all the time during his stay here. I owe him a lot ...

Thanks Saigon peeps, I am back on track :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Jamie's Food Revolution USA

2010-04-09T18:03:00.003+08:00

Hi everyone from the land of Mickey D's!

I am here to help my idol Jamie Oliver to make each US citizen be aware of his campaign: Jamie's Food Revolution. He is currently gathering people from United States to sign the petition. So anyone who drops by at my blog and happens to be a US citizen, be aware and have your concern about the growing number of obesity in United States. Your sign counts, so sign his petition now. Act now because tomorrow might be too late!

http://www.jamieoliver.com/campaigns/jamies-food-revolution/petition

hugs,
joanie xxx

YUMMY - August 2009

2010-04-01T00:25:00.004+08:00

HAPPY APRIL FOOLS to all foolish creatures :)

As we enter the month of April which is my favorite month of the year, my heart can't help but beats faster and faster. I wouldn't deny the reason and it's simply because it's my birthday month. Excitement ascends as the day gets near. But before I forget lemme share you guys an overdue post. I was featured in my favorite local food magazine in Manila which is YUMMY. Most likely it's about my cooking class stint in Sydney back in 2007. Thank you Ms. Mabekl Pilar David for the online interview. Would love the staff of this magazine to visit me one of these days here in Ho Chi Minh so I can share them the life The Artist Chef is living at the moment.

(Click to enlarge and read the article)

Can't wait 'til the egg hunting begins and the rabbit chasing thing. Looking forward cooking an Easter dinner feast to my Saigon friends and to my folk who is currently having his vacation here at my house.

Thanks for all the blessings our dear LORD!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Sunshine, Lollipop & Rainbow!

2010-03-28T12:34:00.006+08:00

Happy Palm Sunday to all the Christians around the globe!

What a lovely day to begin with a good lunch preparation. I've been stuck at my house for a week now since I came out from the 4-day stay in the hospital. I had my surgery which I will elaborate on my future post. The good thing is, I am fine now and trying to recover as fast as I can. But I just have to deal with it slowly. So after eleven days of resting and moving little by little everyday, I just figured out that I can move in the kitchen. My maid is here so she can help me do the chores and in preparing this one heck of a dish!

I have this weird friend named Francis, a college folk who tremendously appreciates my cooking after tasting several dishes I prepared during my birthday last year. He's spreading the word that I have this good understanding on how to use spices. He just loved my Lemon Herb Chicken. I guess his true. I can define my cooking based on spices that makes each dish so bold. I continue to understand herbs and spices to continuously concoct exciting recipes. And this combination I have for lunch is another keeper on the menu!

RAINBOW CAPSICUM FRIED RICE

Ingredients:

• Red/Green/Yellow/Orange Capsicum
• Paprika & Cayenne Pepper
• Ground Black Pepper & Salt
• Ground Cumin / Garlic
• Butter / Lime
• Chopped Wansoy leaves
• Jasmine Rice

Procedure:

Heat wok with butter and saute minced garlic. Add the chopped rainbow capsicum and chopped wansoy leaves then squeeze one whole lime. Add all the spices and stir fried with a nicely cooked Jasmine Rice. Put in a plate then set aside as you wait for the drunken pork.

DRUNKEN NEGRA PORK

Ingredients:

• Pork ( loin part)
• Black Beer
• Pepper
• Vanilla Ice Cream
• Salt/Black & Cayenne Pepper
• Ground Sage
• Butter

Procedure:

Get a bowl put the cube pork loins and add all the rest of the ingredients except butter. Mashed it all together and put it in a fridge for overnight. Marination for this dish requires more than 12 hours to see the effect of black beer & vanilla ice cream. Black beer will create this bitter but aromatic taste and on the other hand the vanilla ice cream will tenderize the pork more and will leave a creamy and sweet taste on the dish. So on the next day, ready your griller and wipe it with generous amount of butter. Place each cube pork and let it cook and sizzle. Do it in high heat and cook it quickly. Then add the excess sauce of the marinate pork on the dish. Top this on rice dish that we did previously. Awesome isn't it?

Are you guys looking forward for an Easter Lunch meal?

hugs,
joanie xxx

Earth Hour 2010

2010-03-27T13:19:00.006+08:00

If you guys are wondering how did this global awareness campaign started, let me share you bits and pieces of what I know. In 2007 the first Earth Hour took place in Sydney, Australia. It was an idea developed by newspaper The Sydney Morning Herald and WWF. For that first ever Earth hour, 2.2 million homes and businesses in the Sydney area switched off their lights for the period of one hour. After one year Earth Hour grew from an event in one city to a global movement. Millions of people, businesses, governments and non-profit organizations in nearly 200 cities around the globe turned out for Earth Hour. In 2009, Earth Hour took place in different time zones in over thousands of cities and towns, in nearly a hundred countries. Imagine how our fellow mates down under initiated one move that can change the world and make it a better place.

Augie March's "One Crowded Hour" became the song of last year Earth Hour. This Indie pop/rock band hails from Melbourne, Victoria. And apparently the bassist Edmondo Ammendola is the brother of my Aussie friend here in Saigon. All the while I thought he was his twin. But I have to laugh out loud and I realized that Edmondo is quite old to be my friend's twin. Then later on I met my dude's twin-Same same but different. I've listen to Augie March's music since July of last year. Among my favorite songs from them are: One crowded hour, Pennywhistle and There is no such place. Been following these dudes in my twitter and they've been following me as well. And that's the nice thing about twitter-- when someone you follow, follows you back!

The band Augie March

Back here on my bed at my Saigon house, I have my own little way to participate with this Earth Hour event. I just slept without the lights and aircon. I stopped using my laptop and imagined that I was in a crowded room for one hour. I can't help but remember that I was also here in Saigon during last year's Earth Hour. They also celebrate it here. How time flies, where will I be next Earth Hour? Saigon again? Or maybe in Sydney perhaps...

Thanks mates for the cool change you brought to our planet!

hugs,
joanie xxx

I am currently in ALASKA

2010-03-25T00:36:00.011+08:00

This is something to push me forward. I should stop being apprehensive and too judgmental about men. My dear friend Patrick Miciano who's getting married to my friend Kate, told me that this is a significant quote on how men fall in love...

"I wanted so badly to lie next to her on the couch, to wrap my arms around her and sleep. Not fuck, like in those movies. Not even have sex. Just sleep together, in the most innocent sense of the phrase. But I lacked the courage and she had a boyfriend and I was gawky and she was gorgeous and I was hopelessly boring and she was endlessly fascinating. So I walked back to my room and collapsed to the bottom bunk, thinking that if people were rain, I was drizzle and she was hurricane."

-John Green, looking for Alaska

Is John Green for real? Did I miss one?

hugs,
joanie xxx

NYDC in Saigon

2010-03-16T17:53:00.009+08:00

Hello friends from Manhattan!

I just want the share to my readers and the New Yorkers around Saigon that there's this cafe called NYDC right at the center of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City. The newly renovated NYDC has its New York feel compared to their old interior. Now they really have the vibe of a Manhattan apartment. This place is my favorite cafe for breakkie, lunchie and for coffee or dessert. I have this spot in this cafe where I get a great view of Notre Dame de Saigon (named after Notre Dame de Paris). Nice to look at especially when you are drinking coffee or savoring your dessert. The spot is so perfect when I need moments to think especially about work and other things about life to ponder on.

They have this breakfast with bacon, sausage and egg which happened to be my favorite. And I love the bread because the dough is so fine and it tastes so good. I hardly find a nice or at least decent bread in Saigon, but the one in NYDC is unexpectedly above the average! The next thing I like about them that made me spend my lunch there over and over again is because of their set meal. They have pastas, baked rice and sandwich to choose from for your main course. And either soup or salad for the starter. Default dessert is Creme Brulee, which is my favorite! The set meal also includes drink which is a choice of coffee or tea. The serving is generous, no need to worry! Price is very very reasonable for 100,000 dong including tax. Not bad.

Coffee, Tea or me?

It's quite out of the topic but I have to mention that I am going to stop cooking for a month because I have to undergo surgery and I have to be in a complete bed rest. So I am going to hold my brushes and splatter some paint on my canvass again. Recently, I noticed receiving negative comments from anonymous people. I later found out the origin and the exact details of this person commenting here. I don't want to be rude to people. And I got tired replying the comments from this person so I stop posting the post from the same origin. I don't write for people who are not interested in the same interests and passion I have. Having been blessed with my cooking and artistic talent, I owe it to my creator-GOD! I don't claim to be expert of any of those two which I brand my self to be, but I definitely claim that I am passionate of both craft and happy to share my experiences in life. Success is given to those who are humble about themselves and to those who are not stepping on someone's foot. But I do believe detractors are everywhere, they are like mushrooms that pop. They will pull you down, but I will not allow anyone. See you guys in the next days as I post my painting saga.

Good afternoon New York!

hugs,
joanie xxx

My Melbourne in Saigon!

2010-03-10T15:55:00.009+08:00

How are you doing bloody readers?

I am glad that things are going well for me lately. I had my Dance party last weekend and Sunday dinner with my friends. Both went well. But what's exciting last weekend was when I got some of my favorite things which I placed in one basket. They are capsicums, lemons, limes & onions! I was truly delighted to put them all together because the colors are very lovely. I hurriedly grabbed my camera and took a photo of these smiling friends I got in my basket. It reminded me of my one exciting market day in Melbourne. I visited Queen Victoria Market and saw my capsicum and aubergine friends all smiling at me along with the cherry tomatoes. They are lovely creatures and they all made my dishes wonderful and exciting. They are my little Melbourne on my table.

I want to go back to Melbourne very soon. Perhaps I miss Queen Victoria. There are little things in my life that constantly reminds me to keep on going and hold on for one more day. I'd like to believe that dreams do happen and if you continue to be positive about it, it will come... in due time. Looking forward embracing my Australian dream.

Someone from Queensland told me why I never say hi to them, well I am going to do it now...

Hi to all the Banana benders down under!!!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Women's Day in Vietnam!

2010-03-08T19:39:00.004+08:00

Xin Chao to all Chi oi's and Em oi's in Vietnam, all the dudettes in Oz, in my home town and all the babes in the world! Today is Women's day here in Vietnam. This is a big event and very much celebrated by the entire nation. Today the men here in the office made me feel like I am a WOMAN! A woman that deserves to be appreciated and deserves to be complimented. They gave me a box of chocolate and a basket of flowers--that made wear a big smile on my face. They gave me my weakness--and I guess all the women in the world have the same weakness as mine.

All my female friends just texted me and greeted me on this day. But surprisingly someone has to make a silly comment first about this special event before greeting me. The day didn't end and my good Aussie friend didn't fail to greet me. Well "whatever" happens, I still owe him my big thanks!

Well to all women out there, we shouldn't forget to be confident about yourself, to make yourself beautiful and make others see how smart and brave you are despite adversity and failures. Because when we fall, the day will come that we will stand again and will face life in a better perspective...

hugs,
joanie xxx

2/3 The Artist Chef Manila

2010-03-07T01:20:00.000+08:00

It's very funny that I have forgotten the name of this couple again. I think I also forgot the name of the couples of the last customers I posted. One more couple and I am done posting my Manila customers! I am so sorry for taking so long posting these photos. Too many activities going on here n Saigon. Maybe by April I can finally post my very first customers here in Saigon. My good friend Angel was the first to experience my intimate dinner Saigon style. I am also excited because Sunday next week I'll be in the heat of the kitchen cooking Italian set meal for my third couple customers. They are Belgian and can't wait to do it for them in my huge Saigon veranda this time!

Italian set meal is the most favorite set meal in Manila. Aside from Spanish, Thai, American, Mediterranean & Mexican. I look forward cooking sumptuous dishes for local & foreign customers here in Saigon!

Ciao everyone!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Vietnam Jungle Trekking

2010-03-01T12:01:00.008+08:00

(With my trainers, FX Lealdela Torre & David Minetti)

Xin Chao Vietnam!

It's the first day of March and I am already in my 1oth month here in Saigon. I haven't really been around that much to maximize the beauty of Vietnam. But last January I decided to join some jungle adventure with the K1 Fitness - Minetti team. With us is the owner and trainers from my Muay Thai class. We headed at Tac Mai Rapid, Tran Phu Forest---about two and half hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. I also brought in some Filipino friends to share this fun adventure!

(Filipino Friends with Tom Meyer)

(The hammock at the base camp)

We started our first day with a 7km trekking at the jungle. That was a very easy level but some of my Filipino friends find it a bit hard. They told me that they do not exercise the way I do. My Muay training helped me to be agile and tenacious with whatever physical activities ahead of me. So my trainers were proud of me how I progress each day.

This adventure was really fun for several reasons. Aside from the 2 day trekking activities that we did, we also had time to swim on the river and played volleyball using a the ball of football. That caused me few bruises on my arms. But that was fun. The stone in the river was slippery and the rapids were very fast that somehow scared me but eventually I felt alright. During the night we had some barbecues, wine, beer & smoke. We slept at a duplex cottage and had our shower in a small wooden bathroom with tarpauline as the wall. It was very back to basic but indeed was very fun too. The rest of the K1 team slept in the tent and other cottages. It was also nice to have slept on a hammock once again.

(FX Lealdela Torre at the river)

(Alvaro Lealdela Torre at the river)

(The owner of K1 Fitness Center Saigon - David Minetti)

(The complete cast)

Everything that happened in the trekking was a brand new experience to me and to the Filipino friends I brought. I want to do it once more, maybe soon after I recovered from my surgery. I procrastinated a lot of weekends lately and made me realized that I missed a lot of exciting places I should visit while I am here in Vietnam.

Until next time, Anh oi, Chi oi and Em oi.. Tambiet!!!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Ginger Olive Curry Rice

2010-02-22T16:25:00.008+08:00

Hello dancing lemons and bouncing cinnamon!

I just arrived from my Cambodia trip the other week. It was a tiring trip crossing the border from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh. It took me and my friend 6 hours to go to the city of Phnom Penh. Then another 6 hours going o Siem Reap to witness the Angkor Wat. That's a long story to tell. I have an upcoming blog for that definitely. One thing I learned about Cambodia is: There's no such thing as Cambodian dishes. I didn't enjoy my food trip there so I was really starving for a good food since I came back to Saigon.

So last Saturday I whipped up this amazing rice dish inspired by Jamie Oliver's Turmeric Rice. I read that recipe from his Ministry of Food book. So my paellera turned out to be my default pan when I cook rice dishes. This rice is so good when you eat with my Chicken Kebab recipe or my Morrocan chicken recipe. In the meantime lemme share you guys this recent concoction I have.

Ginger Olive Curry Rice

Ingredients:

• Jasmine Rice
• Olives and the broth
• Curry Powder
• Coconut Milk
• Ginger
• Lemon
• Ground Black Pepper
• Cayenne Pepper
• Salt & Sugar
• Butter

Procedure:

Heat the pan with butter in medium temperature then add shredded ginger. Saute then add olives, squeezed lemon and olive's broth. Continue stirring for 2 minutes. Add curry powder and cayenne pepper then the coconut milk. Stir and simmer for about 3 minutes then add the rice. Fold the rice with the mixture then add salt, pepper and sugar. Topped it with the olives and serve hot.

Quick and easy to prepare sumptuous dish is always a winner!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Perfecting Fish & Chips

2010-02-07T14:50:00.004+08:00

Chuc Mung Nam Moi Saigon!

The flowers are totally complete around Nguyen Hue in time for the Lunar New Year. The entire Vietnam is preparing for their holiday. Gift baskets, Cherry Blossom Trees, Money envelopes and a lot more for this special festival. While inside my apartment I am busy cleaning and preparing my house because I have a visitor coming tomorrow from Manila. We are off to Cambodia on Monday to celebrate Valentines. I hope it will be fun and romantic? Lol!

It's been three years since I started cooking Fish and Chips when I was still in Manila. Tonight is the night where in I was able to prove that I already mastered and perfected the right way to do my Dory Fish and the batter. Lemon or lime plus salt & pepper! Whoah but where's the chips? I didn't take a photo of it because I didn't cook it properly. Maybe because my chips are so old and over staying already in the fridge. Next time!

Tomorrow I will try to get some pictures of Nguyen Hue and how Vietnamese celebrate the Lunar New Year or popularly known as the Chinese New Year. But here, they simply call it TET...

hugs,
joanie xxxx

Aussie Day - Saigon Celebration!

2010-02-01T11:24:00.005+08:00

This is the Kangaroo like cake I bought in a French bakeshop here in Saigon called Tous Les Jours.

The big and small bread bun for the English Onion soup I learned from my idol, Jamie Oliver. Of course the Fusilli Pesto, the sausages and pork are part of the dinner meal. I marinated the pork in Coopers stout beer and vanilla ice cream. I can say the tenderness of the porky is sooo awesome. Can't wait to do this recipe again.

Since it's an impromptu celebration, I didn't cook much. Though what I cooked is still too much for me to eat it by myself. So I invited one friend. It increased unexpectedly into four. The night was indeed a good dinner and a simple way to celebrate Ozzie Day. Yay!

'Til next time me dear mates!!!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Australia Day 2010

2010-01-26T17:52:00.012+08:00

How's it going down under? Another year passed by and I just want to send this greeting...

Happy Australia Day to all the Aussies around the globe :-)

How time flies and today I am reminded that it's my third year of celebrating this special day. It also serves as a reminder that I shouldn't give up my Australian dream. I wrote last year a lot of things about how I fell in love with this country. It's more than two years ago since I last visited Oz. How I terribly miss being there. I still remember how teary eyed I felt when the plane landed on Brisbane. So much joy when I saw the Sydney landscape while I was still in the plane. Indescribable feeling and unfathomable happiness.

Even though I am 8 hours away from Oz I still do join them in celebrating their big day! And my only way to do that is to do some cooking the Ozzie way. Last year I grilled pork which I marinated with black beer & honey. This year is the repeat of the same porky recipe but this time I marinated it with Coopers stout beer and spices. Aside from that my Fusilli Pesto with Sun dried tomatoes is ready. After office I will quickly run to the French bakeshop called Tours Les Jours to buy a small cake.

Somewhere in Geelong, Victoria - Australia

Somewhere in Portland, Victoria - Australia

Featherdale National Park, Sydney - Australia

London Bridge at The Great Ocean Road, Victoria -Australia

The Roof of Sydney Opera House - Australia

Missing Oz makes me feel pressured about my dream. Oftentimes I wonder if that will turn into a reality. Would I still get a Permanent Residence Visa? I am still praying for that. Sometimes I feel sad because the day something in my life crashed, I thought along with that is my Australian dream. That is what I thought so. But I told myself that as long as I breathe I will continue to dream for myself. As you see in my photos--like the cows they seem to have no direction and they seem to walk infinitely but surprisingly their purpose is to provide us milk everyday. Same as the unique plant I saw in Oz, I was bewildered that it exist and I do believe it has a unique purpose. Also with the little kangaroo that I never thought I will get that close to be able to feed and cuddle it. Maybe fate brought me there. Like the moment I touched the roof of the Sydney Opera House, it was an amazing feeling touching it. To think its not nice when you see it in a closer distance. And lastly the rock formation at The Great Ocean Road which Aussie called "The London Bridge." Its myth is about 2 people who fell in love. I do believe that the order of events in my life has a meaning. Each of us serves a great purpose and along with that lies a great dream.

Getting ready for Aussie Day dinner Saigon style!

hugs,
joanie xxx

French Toast with Cranberry Jam

2010-01-23T01:15:00.005+08:00

G'day Mates!

Aussie Day is just two days away. I woke up this morning thinking about what am I going to do on Tuesday? and at the same time I wanted to cook my favorite French toast, which I did. I just had it with my favorite Cranberry jam and finished the jar today. My French toast tasted different because of the vanilla and cinnamon. Thanks to Nigella Lawson & of course Jamie Oliver!

Lunch time came and I was still thinking about Aussie Day (so obsessed) 'til I took my ladle and cooked some ginger pork and served it with to my Vietnamese friends. Then later on I had my Vespa lesson with them. I'm just happy that I was able to ride and run it! After falling 4x, I agree now with my Vietnamese friends that if I won't try and try I will never learn. So I believe that you have to fall several times or even more than the average before you really succeed on something.

Night came, I decided to do some barbies since I doubt if I can do it on Tuesday after my Muay Thai class. I invited my friends from Sky Garden and Hung Vuong and we grilled the chicken and dory that I marinated. I also bought some fresh corn and they brought some sausages to be grilled too. And of course my Ginger Turmeric Lemon Rice never fails to amaze hungry stomachs. Thanks to my new found friend Quinn for bringing the griller. The girls had fun and before we actually started the barbecue picnic dinner at my veranda, my Russian friend Mischu arrived. He's the only thorn among the roses. I guess we all had fun. I hope next time I can finally buy my real griller.

Still looking forward for Tuesday :-)

hugs,
joanie xxx

UST - College of Architecture and Fine Arts

2010-01-13T17:42:00.006+08:00

I feel a bit sentimental today because I terribly miss college. After watching several episodes of the famous Australian Mockumentary "Summer Heights High" I suddenly miss going to school.

Early this morning I was tagged in Facebook in one of our college photos. I suddenly remember who I was before. I was this skinny long hair girl full of dreams and fought blood and tears just to enter her dream university with her dream degree. I miss my Fine Arts days. Things were simpler back then. All I need to think about was to finish my plates to be submitted on deadline and have it passed then that's it! Life is different now. More responsibilities and complications.

I do love my course. I supposed to take up HRM - Major in Food Nutrition but I decided not. I find Fine Arts more interesting and filled with tons of adventures. And besides I can always do cooking whenever I want. True enough the day I decided I also want to be in the heat of the kitchen, I never stopped cooking sumptuous dishes since then.

Despite the temptations during college, I remained to be a goody-two-shoes. I was quiet. I rarely talk. I don't have group of friends 'til the latter part of my college days when I found the company of Harbey & Warren. My two best dudes up to these days of my life. Our story is another story that I think is also monumental.

If I will check out the life of each of my classmates now, I think they went a long way the day we wore our toga and received our bachelor's degree. Most of them are married with kids, some look different the way they were in college and some remain the same. I do miss doing manual plates where in I sketch, I paint and all those hard work versus the technology of computerized plates these days. I can't imagine myself with any course. I am proud to wear my chocolate brown pants and polo shirt with vertical stripes! The coolest uniform in our university back then. But of course a lot of things have changed since the day we all left our Alma mater. How I miss my school.

I am MANALANG JOAN y MARCELO
Has a degree of BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS
Major in ADVERTISING ARTS
Graduated from UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS

I wish I could go back to college...

hugs,
joanie xxx

Chicken Curry Rice ala Paella

2010-01-10T12:37:00.005+08:00

Happy Year 2010 Mates!

How have you been my Filipino, Vietnamese, Aussie & the global readers and friends? What are you guys preparing for the dinner tonight? :)

It's always best to welcome the year with a bash of good food. Any occasion will not be a feast unless there are sumptuous dishes on the table. It's more than a week now since 2010 arrived. Still unfathomable that we are ending another decade. How time flies, really. Tonight I will be preparing Jamie Oliver's Ginger Lemon Turmeric Rice along with my specialty Chicken Kebabs. It's always good to catch up with good friends here in Saigon after my Holiday vacation in Manila.

Before I headed for my holiday in Manila, I did some cooking stints for my good friends here in Saigon. I cooked Paella for Muay Thai friends after not cooking the dish for almost two years. I also cooked Crepe Dome Chocolate Cake for the first time but I do not have a nice photo for me to post it here. But one of my specialties which is Chicken Curry Rice was a winner during the Christmas dinner with fellow Filipinos here in Saigon. And I am happy to share the photo and the recipe here in my blog.

Did you guys know that I spent Christmas Eve in Saigon unexpectedly? On the day of my flight back home which is on the 24th, an unfortunate event happened in the airport. Problem with my visa at the immigration. The whole day of he 24th I was fixing my visa to be able to fly back home on the 25th of December. I thought it will be a lonely Christmas by myself because most of Filipinos I know went home already for their vacation. I was sad until Ashely Groom my Aussie mate from Muay Thai invited me to be part of his Christmas dinner. I brought a cake and we ate it along with the Cayenne Chicken he prepared which I terribly liked. With us also was his American friend Corey and his Vietnamese girlfriend. Corey's girlfriend left early so Corey, Ashley & I just watched the DVDs of Logie Award-winning Australian television mockumentary series---SUMMER HEIGHTS HIGH. That's how we spent the Christmas Eve after the Cayenne Chicken, Salad, Beers & Wine. It was indeed a different and memorable Christmas Eve that I will always be thankful to have and it's because I gained a true friend like Ashley Groom.

It was a pretty tiring holiday back home. I engaged myself meeting a lot of people to catch up and I didn't cook much during Manila trip because it was too tight and I am still a bit sickie then. To summarize the year that was, it's a pretty amazing year. It's about failures & victories, quitting & surviving and most of all standing the test of time.

Chicken Curry Rice Ala Paella

Ingredients:

• Curry Powder
• Chinese Chorizo
• Breast Chicken
• Spring Onion
• Lemon/Lime
• Chicken Stock
• Paprika/Pepper/Salt
• Jasmine Rice (cooked)
• Green Capsicum
• Egg/Butter
• Garlic

Procedure:

Cut the breast chicken into cubes then put in a bowl. Squeeze in some lemon then put a dash of salt, paprika, pepper and curry powder then set aside. Boil the eggs then cut diagonally then set aside also. Cut the capsicum in small cubes then peel and pound the garlic and have it ready. Heat a wok in a medium temperature then place the butter then add the garlic. Saute it for around 30 seconds then add the marinated chicken and chorizo. Allow it to be cooked until a little golden brown then add the the capsicum then followed by he Jasmine rice. Mix them all together. Then add the chicken stock then seasoned it with huge amount of curry powder. Then some pinches of salt & pepper. Continue to mix all together until cooked. Place it in a Pallera pan or wok then sprinkle the chopped spring onions and top it with the sliced eggs. Put some lime on the side for optional citrus flavor of the rice.

Here's to another year of roller coaster adventure to a life less ordinary! The day I proclaimed "Starting today will be my lucky day" it did happen and it still continues...

hugs,
joanie xxx

Hungry Jack's Melbourne

2009-12-14T00:57:00.004+08:00

Me at Hungry Jack's Flinders Station, Melbourne - Victoria, Australia

Howdy me mates? :(

If you guys would ask me the same question, I am not fine. I am chilling and the muscles in my entire body are aching. Seems like I am getting a fever. Hope not. Maybe I was too tired for cooking last Saturday evening and this Sunday lunch. I cooked Chicken Curry Rice Ala Paella. I also shopped the whole afternoon amidst the tremendous heat of the sun. I had the ultimate shopping of The North Face Jacket and Crumpler Bags. I also got the best deals from Ben Thanh Market. My luggage is filled with items to be given away as my Chrissy presents to dear family and friends back home. But as I chill after recounting the good food I cooked, all I want is My HUNGRY JACKS.

What is HUNGRY JACKS? Why their logo is so similar to BURGER KING? Yes you are right! Hungry Jacks is the Burger King in Australia. Only in OZ! Just a short trivia how I found out the reason why they can't use the name Burger King in Oz. I was sitting on the tram on my way to Flinders station when I heard a young couple talking about the story behind it. It's quite simple. When Burger King opened its franchise in Oz on 1971 they found that its business name was already trademarked by a takeaway food shop in Adelaide. The franchisee Jack Cowin used Hungry Jack's instead. It was established in Innaloo, Perth on 18 April 1971, under the auspices of Cowin's new company Hungry Jack's Pty, Limited. That's the story behind it. That's very trivial for me to have found out. And that led me and my mate to dine at the nearest Hungry Jack's in Flinders street.

I miss my Hungry Jack's :(

hug the sickie girl...
joanie xxx

My recipe on JamieOliver.com

2009-12-11T18:13:00.003+08:00

I think I call it a day mate!

It was a Friday surprise to see my recipe today being featured on Food Wise section at JamieOliver.com. I am now now encouraged to concoct more recipes. Looking forward to be featured again soon. Now I am excited to cook this weekend for Christmas dinner. One down, two more to go!

Have a delightful weekend!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Tim Cahill

2009-12-06T16:28:00.008+08:00

Love me or hate me. Its one or the other. Always has been. Either way you will know who I am. Look deeper, do you see what I see? The angles, the inches, the split-second. You think I am not a danger? Think again. See the game one move ahead, that's what you saw in me...

"Love me or hate me. Its one or the other. Always has been. But never underestimate me."

Tim Cahill with Lucas Neill

Timothy Joel Cahill or simply Tim was born in Sydney on December 6, 1979. He was raised by his Samoan mother and an English father, of Irish decent. He is a professional football player who plays as an attacking midfielder for Everton in the Premier League and Australian National Team. Since he was a young boy he was already playing football in Australia until 1997 came, he asked his parents that he wants to go to England. All he wanted is to be a professional football player so he started his career at Millwall. He then polled over 100,000 votes to win the FA Cup "Player of the Round" award for his performance during the semi-final victory in that competition.

In 2004, He joined the Everton. In the season 2004-2005, He finished it being the top goal scorer and Fans' player of the season. And that time Everton reached the Champions League qualifying stage ahead of cross-town rivals Liverpool. Cahill's international career blossomed as expected. He played for Samoa at age 14, participated in 2004 Olympics and made an amazing performance during 2006 game where in the socceroos defeated Uruguay and qualified for the FIFA world cup. Last June 17, 2009 Cahill made another outstanding performance by setting 2 goals and the Australian socceroos defeated Japan with the score 3-1.

I admire Tim Cahill just lately. I've know him for more than 2 years. I saw his remnants of fame in Sydney Telstra Stadium and Melbourne Cricket ground back in 2007. I didn't appreciate him at first. But after watching the Australian socceroos won the game last June 17, 2009--Tim Cahill is the MAN for me. That very moment my love for football was resurrected. He's the reason I am grabbing football lately. He's also the reason why I do football drills at my veranda whenever I can and he's also the reason why I courageously joined the Saigon Raiders when they play during their practice.

I first knew about the sport football when I was in first grade. I played it in school but it's not the same football that I see on TV now. It's a street-type football in Manila. But during college, I once again revived playing football by applying the soccer try-out for women. I was taking Fine Arts then so the schedule was very difficult. I had 3 try-outs. All those 3, I got dizzy. So I decided to give up and accepted that football is not for me. No matter how I dream to be part of those lesbos in maroon uniform playing for Fine Arts, I have to quit. I lack stamina and energy. I don't have the energy like those lesbos. Haha. But seriously speaking, Tim Cahill really inspired me to kick the ball again. I am trying now. I hope it's not too late. It just amazes me every time I see him doing the classic Cahill moves-- his ultimate goal! After the first classic Cahill move, the next one will follow and that is doing the boxing when he is in the state of euphoria.

If people would ask me who's your next idol after Jamie, probably that's Tim Cahill in my heart. Just like my idol Jamie who is involve in so many charity and helping people to cook, Cahill is heavily involved with the UNICEF children's charity. Cahill is sooo amazing as a man! If heaven will throw someone like him on my lap, geez I will really grab him. I never liked tattoos on man's arm but the one that Tim has, is so meaningful and artistic. I know a little history about Samoa but definitely I can get the insight on what was tattoed on his arm. Not just like other men who are posers of tattoos just for display and to prove their masculinity.

Today I pay tribute to the greatest football player I have known and admire...

Happy Birthday Tim Cahill!!!

Sorry, I am not a David Beckham fan :p

hugs,
joanie xxx

Australian Dinner Feast

2009-12-01T13:43:00.005+08:00

Mango & Prawn Salad Medley

Hello knackers! It's Chrissy month already...

Christmas is coming and it is the best time for me to think of a dinner feast! I always love cooking dinner feast for people who are dear to me. I remember that I cooked a very special dinner for the people of Liverpool, Sydney Australia. That was two years ago. How time flies. Now with the feeling of Dinner Feast and Christmas I ended concluding something. And that is to go back to Australia come Yuletide 2010. I'd be excited to cook not just dinner feast but some cooking stints for the people of Liverpool and nearby towns. Of course I'd be back to Melbourne too since I agree now with Bourdain that it's the Food and Art Capital of OZ. I am also wishing that I can pass by Perth to visit a friend and to meet a famous Australian boxer. Another thing I also want to have a side trip to New Zealand if given the chance. Hope things will work out so I can finally go back down under next year. I want to spend my next Christmas in a place I called HOME. Australia.

Meanwhile, lemme share you some photos of the food I cooked for fellow Filipinos in Liverpool. It happened at the house of my very kind and accommodating cousin Gary. His dear wifey Yons is like a sister to me the way she treated me and accommodated me not just during my Aussie days but until now. The couple gave me so much help not just during my stay there but also in times of my emotional crisis last year. Now that I am okay, they are still here to listen to my happy stories and giggles. They still spare me some time and accommodate me whenever they can.

Clam & Basil Linguine

Chicken Curry

Indian Corn Fried Rice

Australian Bistek

Kind peeps from Liverpool, Sydney NSW

The cake was given by our guest Lucci Olmedo

I am always happy when I cook. It makes me wear a smile on my face whenever I see the people eating it and enjoying it. Most of all when I see the food almost empty, my heart will definitely smile too. I am thankful I had a brigade of helpers who helped me with the food preparation. Now this is my mindset, I also want to cook for friends in London, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy & Spain. European tour is getting near. I will apply my visa early next year. That's another story. Anyways, I will post the recipe of these foods here and at Jamie Oliver's website. Hope to do it very soon.

Excited about Christmas!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Mui Ne, Phan Thiet - Vietnam

2009-11-29T17:40:00.008+08:00

Tốt buổi sáng Việt Nam!!!

I just sometimes can't believe it that I have been living and working in Saigon for almost 7 months already. How time flies. I already learned to embrace their culture, foods, scenery and language. And even the chaotic motorbikes whom I find irritating at first is now part of my everyday life. I have my everyday hitch on the Xe Om (motorbike) driver and the adventure I had everyday made me decide to buy one soon. Saigon is very small, that's why I go to the same malls, bars and all other stuff. So it's always great to have a city escape once in a while. And I am going to share you a story about a beach place and the reason why I was smitten.

Mui Ne is in Phan Thiet. A six-hour drive from the city. You can either rent a coaster or a van or you can ride the public bus. The public bus will cost you about 120,000 dong. Basically P360.00 pesos or roughly AU$12.00 dollars. I must say it's a great escape, a worth it six-hour drive. You can find the strip of good resorts to choose from. Good restaurants also surround the area. There's this nice bar near the shore that will lend you some pillows so you can lie down on the sand and gaze at the stars during night time. Lovers, friends and soloist could probably enjoy this unique offering. It's one spectacular moment to wish upon a brightly shining star and hopefully it will come true.

Aside from putting sand between your toes it's also good to watch and play some football in the sand. Isn't it great? I thought frisbee and volleyball are the two sports that we can only play on the beach, I think I was wrong. Because Vietnam is a football country the volleyball thingy won't appeal to them so this is what I got in Mui Ne. Since I am playing football lately I became enthusiastic about this nice Goalie court I found in the middle of the shore. But I feel bad I took it off playing with the Saigon Raiders. I am really not sure if I will go back. I had my bruise on my knee. It's kinda big one. Maybe I will hangout first with some Vietnamese footy players then hopefully go back to Saigon Raiders or could be with the Saigon Saints. In the meantime I still do train on my own with my football and do some drills whenever I can. It's hard to be athletic these days. But I am not giving up my running and Muay Thai and will join the jungle trekking come February.

In a nutshell, Vietnam has a lot of interesting beaches. I got smitten first by Mui Ne. I supposed to go to Na Trang but it was postponed. Maybe I try to visit Hoi An first and find out why Anthony Bourdain would love to live there with his family given the chance. But in my own opinion beaches in my country is still incomparable. I think we really have the most captivating beaches in Asia. I don't know if I can claim that, but probably I can.

Tạm biệt!
Cho đến khi thời gian tới...

hugs,
joanie xxx

Australia Socceroos & The KIWI

2009-11-25T11:05:00.015+08:00

Who's winning the footy mates?!

The FIFA World cup will happen next year June 11 - July 11, 2010. I'm sure you guys have your own bet and will be cheering for your favorite footy team. As for Joanie she is cheering out loud for the Australia Socceroos and at the same time for their neighbor New Zealand. Japan was beaten by the Socceroos last June 17 with the score 3-1 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Tim Cahill the Wonder Boy of the Socceroos scored 2 goals for his team. The Socceroos qualified and secured a slot for the FIFA World Cup in Cape Town, South Africa in 2010. Tim Cahill never fails to amaze me with his typical Cahill moves. This Samoan-Irish-English breed with an Australian nationality is also playing for Chang Everton in UK. Every time he will have that classic goal he will be ecstatic and will automatically do the boxing stunts. And that is what I like the most about him aside from his other interesting details. The socceroos team captain is Lucas Neill whom I also admire. To name other Socceroos I remember are Josh Kennedy, Mile Sterjovski, Nick Carle, Mark Schwarzer & Rhys Williams.

Rhys Williams running for the ball

Tim Cahill kick for his classic goal

Victorious moment for the Socceroos

Nice one on the head by Rory Fallon who has a nice ass too =)

Recently New Zealand won over Bahrain and secured a slot for FIFA. As the Kiwi rejoiced for their victory the players from Bahrain went home broken hearted. It was a boring game when there is no action happening after one hour watching it on ESPN live on a Saturday afternoon. But it was exciting when the momentum arrived. I think it was 27 years ago since New Zealand made it to the Finals and that was 1982. Ricki Herbert (NZ Coach) probably repeated the history of what the Australia Socceroos did last November 16, 2005 when they defeated Uruguay in a dramatic penalty shootout to progress to their first World Cup finals in decades. It also prove that this is truly the defining point for the sport of football in that nation. Only after a 32-year absence from football's biggest stage, and countless moments of qualifying heartbreak, could a triumph be as euphoric and memorable as it was for the Aussies that night? The Kiwi coach admitted that they are under pressure but they are enjoying it.

Rory Fallon is the son of the Assistant coach who played during the last NZ World Cup final game in 1982. Rory scored the winning goal using his head literally for New Zealand over Bahrain. He is also my favorite among kiwi footy players. He is the counterpart of my Tim Cahill. But of course Tim Cahill is undisputed here in my heart. My love for Aussie people and Australia as a nation is incomparable. Tim Cahill is like Jamie Oliver in my heart too, but of course Jamie is Jamie. No body can take away this feeling of admiration I have towards him. Just a short story, I hung out with Saigon Raiders the other week and played some football game near where I live. It's truly difficult to run on a big field with all men playing. I feel intimidated and it made me think if I really wanted to play with an all male team. On the other hand I met a footy player from Saigon Saints last Saturday. The opponent of Saigon Raiders. I am thinking which is which? And where will I be at my best? In the meantime I'd like to say GO, GO, GO Tim Cahill and Rory Fallon!!!

Go Australia Socceroos and New Zealand Kiwi =)

hugs,
joanie xxx

Radicchio Coleslaw

2009-11-23T00:47:00.003+08:00

What's up Mates? How's your weather today?

Mine is a little bit gloomy today. In spite of that I am still enthusiastic in posting this very simple salad recipe I did two weeks ago. I guess most of Western people are very familiar with the Radicchio. Especially the Australian and English people. I remember my favorite kiddo chef Matthew McKenzie from Melbourne using Radicchio on his salad that he got from his backyard. He simply did a lips smacking dish. From there I was inspired to come up something with my Radicchio. So voila! I come up with this pink coleslaw using my now favorite salad essential--Radicchio! It's also my first time to use fresh green peppercorn which I pounded using my steel mortar and pestle. You guys excited with the recipe?

Just took this photo on my living room floor

My diet meal. No rice just the Radicchio Coleslaw.

Ingredients:

• Half part or small Radicchio
• 2 medium Carrots
• 2 medium onions
• 4 stem fresh green Peppercorns
• Japanese Mayonnaise
• Cane Vinegar
• Salt / Sugar to taste

Procedure:

Slice thinly or shred the Radicchio, Carrots and onions then set aside. Pound the fresh green Peppercorns using the mortar and pestle then set aside. Bring out a huge bowl then put all together the shredded veggies with the pounded peppercorns. Add right amount of cane vinegar then add salt and sugar to taste. Leave it for 15-20 minutes. Mix everything then add Mayonnaise. Chill then you can serve with chicken or steak with mashed potatoes on the side.

Buon Appetito!

hugs,
joanie xxx

Saigon Pomodoro Night

2009-11-20T00:17:00.002+08:00

Thanks Oji and Kate for the photos

I call this dinner night a Pomodoro night. I cooked my specialty the Pomodoro sauce. All made from natural tomatoes, basil leaves, tomato sauce and olive oil with my spices. My guests were my two college friends back home. We all graduated from the same University and same degree which is Bachelor of Fine Arts major in Advertising. My two friends are Oji and Paolo. Paolo came with his girlfriend Kate. It's a small world that Kate and my good friend Anton were classmates during college at De La Salle University. Oji and Paolo are also here in Vietnam working in the same industry where I work. We are all advertising people. This dinner is their first visit and I think I didn't fail them with the simple meal I prepared.

My Spiced Chicken is little but very tasty :p

The meal with the bread and Olive oil with Balsamic Vinegar

The Dinner feast that the four of us enjoyed :p

They all told me that the dinner was great! Whenever I see Paolo he often asks me when I will cook my Paella for them. I guess I have to find first where to buy Saffron here. On the other hand Kate was joking Oji that he never ate any spaghetti without any meat before. Good thing Oji had his two round or three with my meatless Pomodoro Sauce. I am glad everyone had a blast! Thanksgiving is near and I am planning to have another intimate dinner with another set of close friends. I hope I can cook my Paella this coming weekend.

Enjoy your dinner mates!

hugs,
joanie xxx

COTTO vs. PACQUIAO

2009-11-16T16:15:00.012+08:00

Woot woot! To all the Filipinos around the globe!

Maybe you guys are wondering why on earth am I blogging this event here in The Artist Chef blog. This is supposed to be about my art, food and other interests in life. Now allow me tell you why I was so excited to blog about this entry since yesterday. First of all I am one of those millions of Filipino who are rejoicing for the victory of our People's Champ Manny Pacquiao! Second, and the more important reason is---I do Muay Thai Boxing now at this point of my life. So from there you can grasp the connection for this blog entry. Gets? :p

Last Sunday morning I woke up very early around 7am. I headed the city to watch the live telecast of the fight at an Irish Pub in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Filipino friends invited me join them in watching. Some foreign dudes are also watching the game. Everyone had their breakfast and patiently waited the main event of Cotto & Pacquiao after few under card fights. Then it was almost 12 noon when the fight started. All of us were yelling for Pacquiao of course. But since Cotto is a good looking guy and has a nice body, the Filipina girls can't help but cheer for him at the same time. And I wasn't exempted. I giggled for him at first but I shifted my emotion quickly when the fight started. Then the crowd sipped their beers as they watch the blow by blow round of the game.

Cotto is a very tough opponent for our dear PACMAN. That's my opinion and I feel like I can analyze the game now in a different perspective since I am into boxing these days. Before when I used to watch Manny's fight all I cared were the punches and who's going to be knocked out. I don't really get how the pointing system here because in the end all I care is the winner. Now I can determine if the punch is a foul or if it's really counted. The upper cut, left and right punch and so on matters to me now. The offense and defense techniques which I already learned so I can figure things out. During the game, I know PACMAN will win. I have the gut feel already. When I noticed that most of the time Cotto loves to hug and cut the momentum during the intense exchange of punches. He was very alert in backing out and creating a distance to Manny. Another thing I noticed, he's very protective and rarely open his hands so his face was really protected. That's why it took a while before Manny got the chance to get in. And when he did, there you go Cotto fell on round 4. It was a good game but judging it based on round 8-12, I knew Manny will be the winner. I observed that Cotto was making distance very often to prolong the game 'til 12th round. And when Cotto made several distance to Manny--Pacquiao will just stand and rest in the middle of it all. And I had my laugh during those times.

The referee called it off before round 12 ends. He declared Manny as the winner. Cotto with all his humility went to Manny and gave him the real power hug. Technical Knockout. Winner by unanimous decision, Manny Pacquiao! His 7th title on different weight divisions. I admire and appreciate Manny now. How amazing he is as a boxer and how spectacular his training was. His endurance and agility to be numb with any pain is truly breath taking for me. Manny is a hero on his own right. He has a legacy that has no compromise. He will be the greatest boxer I will know in this life I have. Although there are things that depresses me about Manny like his political friends that cling on him and influencing him in a bad way. Next is his being associated on female sexy celebs like Ara Mina and Krista Ranillo. The rumors were confirmed by various people already so I feel sad for his children and his wife. On the other hand I can't blame him because he has everything--money, fame and legacy. And the girls can't help but get flashed by the glittering offerings of a Manny Pacquiao. I think all men are like that with or without fame and money. Human nature of man. In Manny's case, I think it's acceptable. Hehe...

To summarize this blog entry, I wanna tell everyone that I enjoyed the fight last Sunday. I was stunned by the physical beauty of Miguel Cotto. The sad part is, it's just another unrecognizable beauty after the fight with Manny Pacquiao. Blood and bruises serve as his make up. While Manny is still Manny! I like Cotto though...

'Til next time, Have a bloody week everyone!!!

hugs,
joanie xxx