2011 is already off to a rockin' start with my blog making it as a finalist in the Canadian Food Blog Awards in the Best Recipe category! (this news momentarily numbed the pain of the deep cut in my pinky finger from my amazing new -- and clearly very sharp -- set of cooks' knives).
I am honoured and humbled by this recognition and pleased that people come by to read and try these recipes. This blog has helped me find real enjoyment in the kitchen and it has challenged me to find new and diverse recipes to expand my cooking skills (properly using the previously mentioned knives is now firmly on my 2011 to do list) and my taste buds.
My husband jokes that once I have made a recipe, he'll never have it again because I'm always looking for new things to blog about, but here's a list of some of my favourites from this year, and, if he's good, maybe, I might make them again!
Pecan Pie -- the most popular post this year, and for good reason! A sweet, decadent, classic pecan pie.
Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes -- buttermilk makes everything better and these pancakes were no exception. Air bubbles creeped through this batter and made for light, fluffy pancakes.
Spinach Soup -- is eating more greens one of your New Year resolutions? This soup is an easy and delicious way to get them in your diet.
Ten months ago, I started this blog to keep track of the foods that I was making as I learned my way around the kitchen. This is my 100th post and I can't believe how far I have come. With 100 new recipes under my belt, I think I have upgraded from rookie cook, to junior cook. I still have a long way to go, but I have made some really great strides and some really great food!
To celebrate, I thought I would do an Oscar-style recap of some great kitchen moments.
Favourite New Dish -- My best investment this year was in Ina Garten's Barefoot Contessa cookbooks, because without it, I wouldn't have found this new summer staple: Summer Garden Pasta
Most Improved Technique -- My presentation has certainly come a long way, but is most noticeable in the cupcake icing. This is where I started, and this is where I am now!
Best Breakfast Dish -- I had never cooked with buttermilk before I tried these Buttermilk Blueberry Pancakes, but now it's a staple in my fridge
Most Impressive Dessert -- easily the triple chocolate mousse cake. It's not only visually impressive, but it's sinfully delicious.
Most Popular Blog Post -- dulce de leche brownies. This shouldn't surprise me, but it's clear I'm not the only one with a sweet tooth! Thanks for visiting my blog and feel free to drop any recipe ideas you may have or something you think I should try!
