Did you know that vegans and strict vegetarians can’t have Rice Krispie Treats? The problem is the marshmallows. The puffy white pillows of sweetness that hold together these crunchy, chewy snacks are made with gelatin. And gelatin is a substance derived from the bones and connective tissue of farm animals. Too bad, because Rice Krispie Treats are a relatively inoffensive dessert. It’s …
Enjoy a Chinese banquet but boycott the evil of shark fin soup – photo essay
A typical Chinese banquet can be an insanely delicious 10-course orgy. While I’ve attended a few fab vegetarian versions of this feast, most events are heavy on meat and seafood. Unfortunately, these menus also feature one item that symbolizes the brutality of Chinese food culture: shark fin soup. Chinese banquets go on 24/7 to celebrate just about any occasion. Starting …
How to make a fast, easy, cheap orange cake recipe from “The Cake Mix Doctor”
Even though I’m not into baking, I recently made the most sublime orange-flavored sheet cake. It took me just a few minutes and only a few dollars. And the secret ingredient in this rich, moist wonder? Miracle Whip salad dressing. Yeah, really. The cake was for a surprise 50th birthday luncheon. Sort of risky to try out this recipe — …
Making Chinese dumplings with Kian Lam Kho at the Institute of Culinary Education
Last night, I got out of my kitchen to take my first real cooking class. After years of teaching Asian cooking classes to kids, I finally got a chance to play with food myself! What a great learning experience. The four-hour, $120 workshop was called “Discovering Dumplings.” It was held at the Institute of Culinary Education on W. 23rd Street …
A Chinese herbal medicine diet that’s good for the health and skin conditions
It’s taken me nearly two decades to come up with a regimen that keeps me feeling strong and energetic. To find my path, years of therapy unburdened my spirit. Holistic health options (see my post on rolfing) and yoga continue to do wonders. Then there’s my friend, Jeffrey Yuen, the Chinese medicine master. We met during a very bad stretch in …
Connecting with quinoa
I love quinoa because it’s low-carb, high-protein — and makes a great substitute for rice. But only if you know how to cook it in my special way. Check out my recipes on this post, which are fast, easy, cheap.