tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57645189867058391902024-03-14T18:17:47.899+08:00the nomad foodieUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-71169278329539910382018-12-31T16:40:00.000+08:002019-02-07T16:41:30.081+08:00Gramercy Tavern’s Gingerbread<div dir="auto">
This <a href="https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Gramercy-Tavern-Gingerbread-103087">gingerbread recipe</a> via <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2008/12/gramercy-taverns-gingerbread/">Smitten Kitchen</a> is dense, dark, and delicious. I've made it years ago and keep thinking of it fondly (I believe I ate most of that batch myself). This year for a Christmas party I made it again, and guests who were initially hesitant about ginger in their baked goods raved about it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6gP_7VPnbH8hl_EjqJb_5QlDN2fnUqNaA9QUGE0Tabo_nSib8XIfpglXbNrhyphenhyphenOhF2lkpcPAcPGYHTyvGETrR17i-5GOKlbDPUHGGVg502Kqqp44cUSW_6H5MkkS6xMk26PKb5EfLuU0/s1600/IMG_5967-767660.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6638440472478820162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6gP_7VPnbH8hl_EjqJb_5QlDN2fnUqNaA9QUGE0Tabo_nSib8XIfpglXbNrhyphenhyphenOhF2lkpcPAcPGYHTyvGETrR17i-5GOKlbDPUHGGVg502Kqqp44cUSW_6H5MkkS6xMk26PKb5EfLuU0/s640/IMG_5967-767660.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A few changes:<br />
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<ul>
<li>I reduced the sugar by 20%, so 88g brown sugar and 80g white sugar. </li>
<li>I used blackstrap molasses</li>
<li>Obviously, this resulted in minor sticking in the pan. Perhaps next time I will butter and sugar the pan, to prevent sticking.</li>
</ul>
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For future batches, I would consider:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>reducing the sugar even more, even though the sweetness was fine.</li>
<li>Perhaps reducing the oil and baking soda as per the comments on SK.</li>
</ul>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-36813201432503106382018-05-13T12:28:00.002+08:002018-05-13T12:29:14.251+08:00Cake Paper Party’s Buttermilk Chocolate Cake with Brave Tart's Cream Cheese Frosting<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51K2LxQVLh2mhoOI1bLZGTdnzva38wYezivjcJ9ujfdBnW3ePpydQaHTkNLkTmEQflPEhKcGRw2kg7jY2ck427KNPUR6tWERW0N1C0pCyO6yvwOIILzjbzV7OZn2q74N7R9kQJdvqfsw/s1600/IMG_1760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51K2LxQVLh2mhoOI1bLZGTdnzva38wYezivjcJ9ujfdBnW3ePpydQaHTkNLkTmEQflPEhKcGRw2kg7jY2ck427KNPUR6tWERW0N1C0pCyO6yvwOIILzjbzV7OZn2q74N7R9kQJdvqfsw/s640/IMG_1760.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss R's 9th birthday cake</td></tr>
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Yesterday, for Miss R's birthday, I made <a href="https://www.cakepaperparty.com/2014/05/buttermilk-chocolate-cake-butterscotch-buttercream/">Cake Paper Party's buttermilk chocolate cake</a> with <a href="https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2017/08/cream-cheese-frosting-recipe.html">Brave Tart's cream cheese frosting</a>. She asked for a Tsum Tsum theme, so I bought iced sugar cookies from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lan1210/">lan sugar cookie 嵐的甜甜手作</a> (which were beautiful and arrived well-packaged) and used those to decorate the cake.<br />
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Keeping in mind the advice on <a href="https://blog.kingarthurflour.com/2017/04/26/reduce-sugar-in-cake/">reducing sugar in cake recipes from King Arthur Flour</a>, I reduced the sugar by 20% which was perfect for our tastebuds. The cake still had a fine crumb and moist texture, and paired nicely with Brave Tart's frosting, which isn't as sweet as powdered sugar based recipes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSj_ZD3uIZQaQQUJ2tKdOnWb1wRr_Y_tW9mzWnGMR-M9Wr4yj-56lw0UFGPpD0xYaFWx5RXCfGI-JPjzfvUMe2u-ZvDobwJWzA_EbphWAqcbQL7lSk9iTOVXx564BjaFecWyDZqrI_CrI/s1600/IMG-1752-737809.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6554612464497075058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSj_ZD3uIZQaQQUJ2tKdOnWb1wRr_Y_tW9mzWnGMR-M9Wr4yj-56lw0UFGPpD0xYaFWx5RXCfGI-JPjzfvUMe2u-ZvDobwJWzA_EbphWAqcbQL7lSk9iTOVXx564BjaFecWyDZqrI_CrI/s400/IMG-1752-737809.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fine crumb, moist texture, lovely chocolate flavor.</td></tr>
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<br />
here are the weights of the ingredients I used:<br />
57 grams Dutch processed cocoa powder<br />
113 grams bittersweet chocolate, broken (about 60% cocoa)<br />
180 milliliters hot water<br />
315 grams granulated sugar<br />
1 cup (240 milliliters) buttermilk, cold<br />
1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) vanilla extract<br />
227 grams unsalted butter softened-1 cup<br />
4 large eggs<br />
284 grams all-purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) salt<br />
1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) baking soda<br />
¾ teaspoon (3 milliliters) baking powder<br />
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Baking time took me over 40 minutes rather than the 25-30 minutes suggested. Perhaps my oven was off; and I think one layer was slightly underbaked as it fell apart after I turned it out from the pan to cool. For future reference, I'd bake this a day in advance and refrigerate it before leveling the cake and icing it; I never got the icing down to 60º F even after chilling it for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76TDY9sGrBYcQNzBnVHENqMkdHJ2P3t6FnKe4zGvnYJbN61cJotu_HKUepLDGB06dvqwOtJSRRw6bGstPxrf0g78mVX4ZSIFtOj6TDDAFUyPOUJOZc8iSbPHCbc3nDSrfaQ_fa7UNN5E/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76TDY9sGrBYcQNzBnVHENqMkdHJ2P3t6FnKe4zGvnYJbN61cJotu_HKUepLDGB06dvqwOtJSRRw6bGstPxrf0g78mVX4ZSIFtOj6TDDAFUyPOUJOZc8iSbPHCbc3nDSrfaQ_fa7UNN5E/s640/IMG_1783.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This combo is on the repeat list!</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-59873899317715109392018-05-13T11:56:00.001+08:002020-01-29T13:22:07.452+08:00Joy of Baking’s Chocolate Almond Torte<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5TUz64nDaFzcsXQx4laVjGFoKgXBJyCpnAU0mv0eVVheYuOhGdkmu48m_uJQ6J27IgQ9Hc8L0HFwLefDe3Xuodm-uHheuch7VZ1ZI0MOmQo7QVVjp6Fisj-k0cpCXeJ6BcY8qIqcDpM/s1600/IMG-1790-705259.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6554909535737935426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5TUz64nDaFzcsXQx4laVjGFoKgXBJyCpnAU0mv0eVVheYuOhGdkmu48m_uJQ6J27IgQ9Hc8L0HFwLefDe3Xuodm-uHheuch7VZ1ZI0MOmQo7QVVjp6Fisj-k0cpCXeJ6BcY8qIqcDpM/s320/IMG-1790-705259.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-9636829282702928722018-04-04T10:43:00.000+08:002018-04-04T10:43:00.452+08:00Smitten Kitten's Miso Sweet Potato and Broccoli BowlWhy don't I have a photo of this <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/10/miso-sweet-potato-and-broccoli-bowl/">deliciousness</a>? I don't know, but I loved the miso sauce. Easy to prepare, and an excellent contrast to the vegetables.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-49068589136645325722018-04-03T10:13:00.000+08:002018-04-03T10:15:47.495+08:00BraveTart's Pumpkin MuffinsI first became aware of Stella Park, aka Bravetart, via Kenji Lopez-Alt on Serious Eats, and after trying her <a href="http://nomadfoodie.blogspot.tw/2017/11/bravetarts-mini-egg-chocolate-cookies.html">Mini Egg Chocolate Cookies</a> and other recipes, I've been turning to her takes on baked goods first. Yes, it's April not Trader-Joe's-Pumpkin-season, but I had a can of pumpkin that I've been meaning to use up and a craving, so I used her <a href="http://bravetart.com/recipes/SpicedPumpkinloaves">Spiced "Pumpkin" Loaves</a> recipe as a starting point. I didn't have any walnut oil, so I used all butter. As usual, I reduced the sugar by about 10%. I wasn't sure if the measurement for nuts was correct, so I used 12 ounces instead of 16 ounces. There's plenty of walnuts, as shown, but if you really like nuts, the recipe can certainly support the full 16 ounces. The recipe yielded 24 muffins. The recipe as I made it is written in metric, because currently the buttons on my scale are a bit sticky and not easily switching between metric and Imperial.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_WRLyPsj6EI5T61K2GpOi8MTeNqJdo9HsnIkXNwmDGFg9cij0foHsXTNQXf1d-rjFY2tQcHenFaQU75oIulT1c62bCShEw4GT2tUIAY-rwPGFIYJdSAizCrKUd4w75fL6JqoWFjXTM8/s1600/IMG-1217-793245.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6540016687941169570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_WRLyPsj6EI5T61K2GpOi8MTeNqJdo9HsnIkXNwmDGFg9cij0foHsXTNQXf1d-rjFY2tQcHenFaQU75oIulT1c62bCShEw4GT2tUIAY-rwPGFIYJdSAizCrKUd4w75fL6JqoWFjXTM8/s640/IMG-1217-793245.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Line muffin tins with paper liners, and spray with oil.<br />
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149 g unsalted butter<br />
130 g sugar<br />
130 g brown sugar<br />
1 1/4 tsp baking soda<br />
3/4 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp kosher salt<br />
2 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg<br />
1 Tbsp ground cinnamon<br />
1 3/4 tsp ground ginger<br />
1/4 tsp cloves<br />
1 Tbsp vanilla extract<br />
2 eggs + 1 egg yolk<br />
397 g canned pumpkin<br />
71 g cream<br />
170 g all purpose flour<br />
85 g whole wheat flour<br />
340-454 g walnuts, chopped<br />
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Preheat oven to 350°<br />
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Combine the butter, oil, sugars, baking powder, soda, salt and spices in a large mixing bowl. Beat them all together for about eight minutes. Stop the mixer to scrape the sides down occasionally.<br />
<br />
Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until each is thoroughly incorporated. Turn the mixing speed to low and add in the flours all at once, followed by the squash puree and then the milk or cream. Quickly add in the nuts and shut off the mixer as soon as everything appears mixed together.<br />
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Portion into lightly greased muffin pans and bake for about 20 minutes.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-22085067059751171452018-03-05T10:32:00.000+08:002018-04-03T12:33:38.275+08:00Do: Kui Buri National Park (Thailand)Prior to our second visit to Hua Hin, I looked for day trips that would be fun and interesting for a 4-year old, a 7-year old, and adults. This rules out most historic and cultural sights, as the kids are too young to appreciate them. I'm always trying to find ways to incorporate nature and activity, so a day trip to Kui Buri National Park seemed like the best option.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildlife viewing area at Kui Buri National Park</td></tr>
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Established in 1999, Kui Buri National Park is in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, and its primary draw are the herds of gaur (aka the Indian bison) and elephants. There are also several species of birds and apparently event a resident tiger (a sighting of which is understandably extremely rare). What you are almost certainly guaranteed to see are elephants in their natural setting, which is a delight, instead of caged up or chained up for human performance. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elephants in the wild!</td></tr>
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Don't be intimidated by the logistics of visiting - the formal tours sold in Hua Hin town go only on Fridays, and a private tour was quite pricey. We ended up asking our cab driver one afternoon if he'd be willing to drive us, which he did for 2,000 baht round trip. At the park, the entrance fee was 200/100 adults/children and the hire of a truck/Jeep and guide was an additional 850 baht. In total, this was a third of the cost of an organized tour. We left our hotel in Hua Hin at 1:30p, and returned by 6p, so the timing was better for us as well. We enjoyed seeing the elephants and birds (bring binoculars), even if we did not spot the more exotic animals that also reside in the park (deer, bears, etc.).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhTTK5ehKOere1sY0EY6TtLQ55lg5hGmRBZwgmRJp7wrjKAcjlkKmpqS6Q0LvU2yiXi7GyAYShF1S22ujv9TyNib3oRoLMRbzKiDM9q2-F6uDOefmB6npY8tctOBj2xjSQEIwIrz50sk/s1600/IMG_4669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhTTK5ehKOere1sY0EY6TtLQ55lg5hGmRBZwgmRJp7wrjKAcjlkKmpqS6Q0LvU2yiXi7GyAYShF1S22ujv9TyNib3oRoLMRbzKiDM9q2-F6uDOefmB6npY8tctOBj2xjSQEIwIrz50sk/s640/IMG_4669.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'safari' trucks available for hire for 850 baht, which includes a tour guide.</td></tr>
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Related posts:</div>
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<b><a href="http://nomadfoodie.blogspot.tw/2018/03/review-hyatt-regency-hua-hin-thailand.html">Review: Hyatt Regency Hua Hin (Thailand)</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://nomadfoodie.blogspot.tw/2017/03/hua-hin-hills-vineyard-tour-lunch-hua.html">Hua Hin Vineyard Tour & Lunch</a></b></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-9015809702365660472018-03-03T23:22:00.000+08:002018-04-03T10:14:54.570+08:00BraveTart’s Glossy Fudge Brownies Quick Take<div dir="auto">
Just pulled brownies made following Stella Park's (aka BraveTart on Serious Eats) <a href="https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2018/02/bravetart-glossy-fudge-brownies.html">recipe</a>. She warned of this on her video, and so I reduced the time by 5 minutes, but an initial assessment looks like the edges are a bit over cooked and dry. But it smells lovely, and Miss Nomad Food happily licked the beater clean.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADdAHE_spfVJ6jG94HqHS-CubjuIyVvzvdJJteJl-QbUY-fVee0xHVJvDwp4_XSPs9JTa1Gh8ZPyW4jvjIaHjhXvyCu9m1zJy5pQnUYcD7jIBF88ZfD5870GjIjp7-V95Ssgg02jydsM/s1600/IMG_0784-721744.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6528732213355354450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhADdAHE_spfVJ6jG94HqHS-CubjuIyVvzvdJJteJl-QbUY-fVee0xHVJvDwp4_XSPs9JTa1Gh8ZPyW4jvjIaHjhXvyCu9m1zJy5pQnUYcD7jIBF88ZfD5870GjIjp7-V95Ssgg02jydsM/s640/IMG_0784-721744.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-38339250020261019882018-03-02T09:41:00.000+08:002018-04-03T12:33:23.750+08:00Stay: Hyatt Regency Hua Hin (Thailand)We first visited Hua Hin five years ago when I was pregnant with Miss Nomad Foodie and we realized that we had airline miles expiring. Given the range of destinations we could fly to on miles, and that I'd feel comfortable bringing a 2-month newborn to, we quickly decided on Thailand. Granted, on that particular trip we spent most of our time at the resort, but I found Hua Hin to be much more relaxed than other areas of Thailand, meaning I didn't notice any touts.<br />
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From Bangkok, the drive to Hua Hin takes between three to four hours, depending on traffic. For our last two trips, we used <a href="http://huahincab.com/">Hua Hin Cab</a> and found the service to be prompt, professional, and comfortable.<br />
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<b>Stay: Hyatt Regency Hua Hin</b><br />
<b>Do: <a href="http://nomadfoodie.blogspot.tw/2017/03/hua-hin-hills-vineyard-tour-lunch-hua.html">Hua Hin Vineyard Tour & Lunch</a></b><br />
<b>Do: <a href="https://nomadfoodie.blogspot.tw/2018/03/kui-buri-national-park-thailand.html">Kui Buri National Park</a></b><br />
future posts:<br />
<b>Do: Hua Hin Bike Tours</b><br />
<b>Dining in Hua Hin</b><br />
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We've since returned to Hua Hin and have spent the past two Christmas holidays at the <a href="https://huahin.regency.hyatt.com/">Hyatt Regency Hua Hin</a>. The hotel is located on the southern end of Hua Hin town, and has several pools set in a among truly lovely, lush gardens. And, despite the expansive gardens, we've never had an issue with mosquitoes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQKEWhedxUn0o2nSL4Q19EjYG8InC05hyphenhyphen_2y6RRqBuxydMkO65bt6P32xfJ7naT2y70p8uAqo3tBFgGlNxbx9kPFYDspkHX5lxJ5K5Cn1QGwWXhSl4Y_iwWnFPbQVFG5azWd3sit0HI0/s1600/IMG_9735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQKEWhedxUn0o2nSL4Q19EjYG8InC05hyphenhyphen_2y6RRqBuxydMkO65bt6P32xfJ7naT2y70p8uAqo3tBFgGlNxbx9kPFYDspkHX5lxJ5K5Cn1QGwWXhSl4Y_iwWnFPbQVFG5azWd3sit0HI0/s640/IMG_9735.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea view beyond the gardens and pool at the Hyatt Regency Hua Hin</td></tr>
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On our first visit, we stayed in their Club room. The bathroom was to the right of the entry, and featured a big soaking tub and separate shower. The tub was framed with two sliding panels, which could open up to the entire room, or closed for privacy. The kids loved the tub; I loved the retractable clothesline in the shower. <i>I wish more hotels that have swimming pools would provide a clothesline, because where else am I going to hang swimsuits to dry without causing puddles? (I now bring this <a href="http://amzn.to/2EPHU19">clothesline</a> on my travels, and love it.)</i> The room also came with an enclosed balcony, which featured a day bed that was made up with bed linens.<br />
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I had contacted the hotel ahead of time as Miss Nomad Foodie's birthday was during our stay, and the housekeeping staff came through with this super-cute decoration on the day bed. They also provided a chocolate cake, and our four year-old felt like a star.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday recognition at the Hyatt Regency Hua Hin</td></tr>
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On this most recent stay, we used one of Mr. Nomad Foodie's Globalist certificates to upgrade to a suite. The bedroom part of the suite was similar in layout and decor to the Club Room, but featured an additional outdoor covered patio.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daybed made up with bed linens and desk area in the bedroom of a standard suite, overlooking the covered patio.</td></tr>
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I find the beds to be a bit firm for my liking, so you can request to have an additional mattress topper added to the bed to increase the softness. Note that the iPod speaker system (on the night stand to the left of the bed) is a bit outdated in terms of the plugs, and so to use it, you have to bring your own 3.5mm auxiliary audio/speaker cable (Housekeeping did not have any to borrow, so on our first visit we weren't able to connect our phones to the speakers). However, there are plenty of plugs including USB ports on both sides of the bed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlltW3Laj1rRqGsqEQmQbgfTs3Iqln4hi0hHgtYbh1o-o0SFJgnlM2zb9HNAwST-WqT8Mo4XY_PvVN7tWFnxhMYnU0yd3NW4Hf4KszzpVSWLU9IMgeYHW8BEVSA_fOSKAxyS8h4N-9sE/s1600/IMG_9588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlltW3Laj1rRqGsqEQmQbgfTs3Iqln4hi0hHgtYbh1o-o0SFJgnlM2zb9HNAwST-WqT8Mo4XY_PvVN7tWFnxhMYnU0yd3NW4Hf4KszzpVSWLU9IMgeYHW8BEVSA_fOSKAxyS8h4N-9sE/s640/IMG_9588.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The living area of the suite provided plenty of space to stretch out, and included a dry bar that spanned the length of the shorter wall facing the couch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOiiZoNWqf6WSZZZ6Sa2rD0u6A8FwmRR4joCUIYBf8UaLF807YKzB0NxxdY_TX_HuHUA50FvoNBM3dqASwlwYBfckfpgxRUXQ4TKLuMa7rMeTVWRG2EnucVsLzixfo8CmRBLwioZpzkZI/s1600/IMG_9595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="832" data-original-width="1600" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOiiZoNWqf6WSZZZ6Sa2rD0u6A8FwmRR4joCUIYBf8UaLF807YKzB0NxxdY_TX_HuHUA50FvoNBM3dqASwlwYBfckfpgxRUXQ4TKLuMa7rMeTVWRG2EnucVsLzixfo8CmRBLwioZpzkZI/s640/IMG_9595.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The bathroom had an enclosed toilet, separate shower and bathtub, and could either be opened to the room or closed off with a sliding panel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYoSO-bp9FXp0rLNrYpgbJ2hWXMFuXyDmP0NPBb8sN94LmZVodmZsXuUrdiZfcU0AzO_B982gX8b1l83TLDFXv1UgPn14ggfkd6_E3MzMAIF1OzWiCk8TdlTxtCIbHRcMwYEByYfxD2s/s1600/IMG_9591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYoSO-bp9FXp0rLNrYpgbJ2hWXMFuXyDmP0NPBb8sN94LmZVodmZsXuUrdiZfcU0AzO_B982gX8b1l83TLDFXv1UgPn14ggfkd6_E3MzMAIF1OzWiCk8TdlTxtCIbHRcMwYEByYfxD2s/s640/IMG_9591.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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This year, Miss Nomad Foodie requested a strawberry cake, and a strawberry cake she received.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCFuC98JTaB7wOY5sLO6BPdL2UlLsrp84JMnSURRKl-9JtYyQr2VFaS9j7fWz863duq4ouJUjqtqWR-MlP9FW1vS3v5Kcz1s8Np7MqWYO1y6AWPa7xE9lNmxQIDP9ahtyh0TnxkYJXDI/s1600/IMG_9596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCFuC98JTaB7wOY5sLO6BPdL2UlLsrp84JMnSURRKl-9JtYyQr2VFaS9j7fWz863duq4ouJUjqtqWR-MlP9FW1vS3v5Kcz1s8Np7MqWYO1y6AWPa7xE9lNmxQIDP9ahtyh0TnxkYJXDI/s640/IMG_9596.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complimentary birthday cake</td></tr>
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Our room came with a welcome fruit plate, which was refreshed throughout our stay, along with some locally dried fruit and crackers packaged in paper bags which were also made by local craftspeople. We also had a floral arrangement and two handwritten notes welcoming us to the resort.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome fruit plate and snacks.</td></tr>
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One of the reasons we like this hotel so much is that it's very family-friendly. The main attractions are the pools, which include a pool that winds like a river past a few wings of the hotel. It's not a lazy river, so there's no current pushing one along, but it does provide ample nooks for loungers with a bit more privacy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNLytjg9lTblhBzgniEl9ZL79RP5L0AI4dZ18X1pB_Eaf3g-KOGG5l0eAZUXNvVQGtpxaKLqMO-cgJh37bigN6v3BoBcDSn8O4gwPB84cFR9EePElZfatO9uTvOVwItSbG7mGaywXoflA/s1600/IMG_9717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNLytjg9lTblhBzgniEl9ZL79RP5L0AI4dZ18X1pB_Eaf3g-KOGG5l0eAZUXNvVQGtpxaKLqMO-cgJh37bigN6v3BoBcDSn8O4gwPB84cFR9EePElZfatO9uTvOVwItSbG7mGaywXoflA/s640/IMG_9717.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This river-like pool flows into the lagoon pool, complete with an "island" that features the poolside restaurant. The lagoon pool then flows into a zero-entry beach pool perfect for the kiddos. The pool staff have bottles of water, towels, and some pool floats on hand to borrow.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyozwqA-pO8gYnMGMHfvf0mm844VzenQbuzjIFCs-w_zN_rVhcssm3UyYgV91caZlO4Ie7HMLa1KS5i5TxKLXiCeRF3wlpeZ85CQGBr1aHvPZU6d7t8t9Y7kr8lUb1EtMxBFtltBwh-zA/s1600/IMG_4663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyozwqA-pO8gYnMGMHfvf0mm844VzenQbuzjIFCs-w_zN_rVhcssm3UyYgV91caZlO4Ie7HMLa1KS5i5TxKLXiCeRF3wlpeZ85CQGBr1aHvPZU6d7t8t9Y7kr8lUb1EtMxBFtltBwh-zA/s640/IMG_4663.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lagoon pool</td></tr>
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There's also a tiny little wading pool and a 7-meter tall water slide that leads to the lagoon pool. While the signs say you have to be 1.2 meters in order to go on the slide, the staff allowed my daughter, at 1 meter, to go down the slide. Also, only one person is allowed on the slide at a time— unlike at the Grand Hyatt Bali, parents are not allowed to hold their children—so that is something else to keep in mind.</div>
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Club-level rooms and above access the Regency Club area of the hotel, which features it's own rectangular pool adjacent to the Regency Club lounge. There are signs posted in the area requesting quiet, so it's not suitable for children.<br />
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Another point to keep in mind is that the pools are not heated. While this was not an issue on our first visit in 2016, on our most recent visit, we experienced cooler and windy weather which meant the pool water was too cold. Even with shorties, the kids didn't want to play in the water.<br />
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That's not a worry, as there are two playgrounds. The newer one is adjacent to the baby wading pool, while the older one is next to the basketball court and tennis courts. I appreciated the variety of equipment for the kids to play with, and that a basketball could be borrowed from the fitness center for use on the courts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgErHZnFLO7bR7iYxatxlF-9aDX6tJQTD9fNEh6usnX64mH7QZ6yKci5KfZrgrRlfXe8e8P4W0hf2kr2aAAnWrQVYWN1tuk2kR1b3afedgoHdDfVs7fVTt4bNpv0dpShXgdY62UCxyAqzM/s1600/IMG_9734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgErHZnFLO7bR7iYxatxlF-9aDX6tJQTD9fNEh6usnX64mH7QZ6yKci5KfZrgrRlfXe8e8P4W0hf2kr2aAAnWrQVYWN1tuk2kR1b3afedgoHdDfVs7fVTt4bNpv0dpShXgdY62UCxyAqzM/s640/IMG_9734.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Newer children's playground</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Older children's playground next to the basketball court and tennis courts.</td></tr>
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In addition, the kid's club, Camp Hyatt, features different activities each day. I was pleasantly surprised on our first visit to pick up my kids after their full day in the program to have my son ask me, "what are you doing here so early?" They were having so much fun they didn't want to leave! This is a rare situation since my kids have always been eager to go home from daycare. There is a charge for the kid's club, but a full-day program includes two craft activities and lunch. I appreciated the programming as the kids are not just inside watching movies and playing video games; they also spend time outside doing activities such as feeding the fish in garden pond.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqf1qJNOqmaZgzWx_-ZtIfRtYf6CvidQfAALK_Bggmpt7EuTBc3MgIcCm6dtm9r7D1o9ANwdDWQPd6ouelGU0Lq6PTb7BKwH0nUHNu3ndEWu-jfls5e62lWmNLctt1RMNvntvCgBd5UI/s1600/IMG_9749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqf1qJNOqmaZgzWx_-ZtIfRtYf6CvidQfAALK_Bggmpt7EuTBc3MgIcCm6dtm9r7D1o9ANwdDWQPd6ouelGU0Lq6PTb7BKwH0nUHNu3ndEWu-jfls5e62lWmNLctt1RMNvntvCgBd5UI/s640/IMG_9749.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridge/walkway designed to look like a boat over a pond filled with fish,</td></tr>
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Of course, there's also the clean beach for beach combing and the expansive grounds for exploring and observing. The hotel also arranged seasonal events, such as caroling by local children at a school that is supported by the Hyatt community. At night, kid movies were screened in the dance studio, complete with beanbags and snacks, so that parents enjoying the evening canapés and drinks at the Regency Club just steps away have a chance at some kid-free time.<br />
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In addition, twice a week the hotel offers family movies on the great lawn adjacent to the beach, complete with popcorn. The outdoor screenings are a step up from the movies at the park we enjoy in the summer because the staff sets up lounge chairs. This was a super comfortable way for my kids to get their snuggles and cuddles with their parents while we watched favorites like <i>Moana</i> and <i>Sing!.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKFoYwCl0Ft2Do5apUFJMCvur0Jo7gmut9_jMFwWkve-LH8rF0lXDui1pdRP9AaclV2_3MYbUyr23SyXmjG1PniyYkFxn4NJit6zU72sQy7jr-QNvSNwJqgXrSrbObJHzbMMT_hmqHCk/s1600/IMG_4632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKFoYwCl0Ft2Do5apUFJMCvur0Jo7gmut9_jMFwWkve-LH8rF0lXDui1pdRP9AaclV2_3MYbUyr23SyXmjG1PniyYkFxn4NJit6zU72sQy7jr-QNvSNwJqgXrSrbObJHzbMMT_hmqHCk/s640/IMG_4632.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring the plant life in the gardens at the Hyatt Regency Hua Hin</td></tr>
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The fitness center was small but well appointed, and the hotel will lend a yoga mat and light weights for use in the room. There were bikes which could be borrowed (which we didn't use) and fitness classes. I tried the yoga class and aqua aerobics, and to be honest, both classes were underwhelming,.<br />
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One Mile at a Time has an <a href="http://onemileatatime.boardingarea.com/2016/01/22/hyatt-regency-hua-hin-review/">extensive review of the hotel from a stay during Christmas 2015</a>. In general, that review matches my experience except that I think that the quality of the dining service has improved (the actual food items and dishes appear to be the same). The food we ordered - whether at the lounge, poolside dining at the You & Mee Noodle Shop and Poolside Bar, or through room service came quickly and correctly. There were menus for You & Mee were paired with each table next to the loungers, and you could also order via an app on your phone (which, to be honest, I couldn't download), although I never had a problem flagging a member of the pool staff, along with tags attached to each lounge chair outlining the hotel's policy on claiming loungers. Even during an obviously busy holiday season, I never had a problem finding an available lounge chair.<br />
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I think the General Manager rotated into his position prior to our first visit; he and other members of the management team were continually walking the grounds and greeting guests, during both the day and during the evening canapés at the Regency Lounge. I'm sure their active presence motivates staff to be their best!<br />
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In any case, I found the staff to be warm and friendly - one morning the buffet didn't feature my kid's favorite corn kernels. Not a problem, they quickly brought out a bowl of corn for her. I do wish that there were more cooked vegetable dishes, especially on the children's menu. For example, my kid's loved their penne with carbonara sauce, but just two broccoli florets is not enough veg for this mama.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vBVwKplB590O2XnBhESqTxO7g0pbCLPH0MJSa4XtGqmkg3lu7zHVr4XqsYLlh-0edWSOMcNp0Fez9gjLfvEeRrVc9Xz4UmQntQCLZDxkZmCh6Gvb5MJZvKQApIud1Ja51pfPIr2YYks/s1600/IMG_9752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1297" data-original-width="1600" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vBVwKplB590O2XnBhESqTxO7g0pbCLPH0MJSa4XtGqmkg3lu7zHVr4XqsYLlh-0edWSOMcNp0Fez9gjLfvEeRrVc9Xz4UmQntQCLZDxkZmCh6Gvb5MJZvKQApIud1Ja51pfPIr2YYks/s640/IMG_9752.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor seating at Figs Restaurant (where the buffet breakfast is served) overlooking the grounds</td></tr>
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On our first visit, we preferred to dine at the lounge in the morning—it's a more calm environment than at the main buffet breakfast—but on our most recent trip, we preferred the buffet breakfast with indoor seating because of the much cooler weather. While it isn't mentioned in the hotel literature, the Club does serve complimentary ice cream daily at 3pm.<br />
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Finally, my last two data points on services available just outside the hotel that were mentioned in the <a href="http://onemileatatime.boardingarea.com/2016/01/22/hyatt-regency-hua-hin-review/">OMAAT review</a>: I found the <b>Thai massage</b> just outside the hotel along the hotel's driveway to be mediocre and the service at <b>Smile Laundry</b> on point and as described.<br />
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In summary, this is one of my favorite resorts in my favorite vacation destination (Thailand, for it's hospitality, food culture, and value for money). It's well-run, comfortable, and makes relaxing with my kids easy. We've gone two winters in a row, and I'd love to make a tradition of it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCDxWfU5EQV0PnM7e2ondjSEQPUwwg3Fk6EcsMaYQWN7w_j19P_RTFMT6MYj08m_M4cWftr2ZYdwOgdW1quv7RtmDdhIo7vHb4pU3xIQMbLlvdq4AqE2pxhv2A1NKH5oc7g1oOzQ6yJ4/s1600/IMG_9732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCDxWfU5EQV0PnM7e2ondjSEQPUwwg3Fk6EcsMaYQWN7w_j19P_RTFMT6MYj08m_M4cWftr2ZYdwOgdW1quv7RtmDdhIo7vHb4pU3xIQMbLlvdq4AqE2pxhv2A1NKH5oc7g1oOzQ6yJ4/s640/IMG_9732.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-52738388941349875232018-01-27T11:01:00.000+08:002018-04-03T11:28:03.104+08:00Homemade Hamburger Buns & Breakfast SandwichThe problem with shopping at Costco is that one ends up with a quantity of foodstuffs (e.g. cheddar cheese slices) that one is then compelled to create as many dishes as possible utilizing said items. This is how I found myself making <a href="https://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/beautiful-burger-buns-recipe">burger buns</a>. The buns did not come out as soft as I was hoping for, but that may be to my own baker error.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgI0ABhjwTru4FKHUbSVCd8SrTJKhatJcIM9NdbYZllAW4Y9PPiPGijp2ZKSPUDYXpHiHm8MCXK1Ql3iBtFtRwZ4ZBd3V4W-D9PdU1fj6n7E21TcqX49apUAH4h_mwEMKkSX2oZrYN5w/s1600/IMG-0413-771135.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6515531416860947586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgI0ABhjwTru4FKHUbSVCd8SrTJKhatJcIM9NdbYZllAW4Y9PPiPGijp2ZKSPUDYXpHiHm8MCXK1Ql3iBtFtRwZ4ZBd3V4W-D9PdU1fj6n7E21TcqX49apUAH4h_mwEMKkSX2oZrYN5w/s640/IMG-0413-771135.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-63212770866373980862018-01-24T10:52:00.000+08:002018-04-03T11:31:43.461+08:00Easiest buttermilk biscuitsI had a craving for biscuits, ones that would be rich but also light, that would be a perfect foil to melted butter or also sweetened strawberries. This <a href="https://thecafesucrefarine.com/ridiculously-easy-buttermilk-biscuits/">recipe</a>, recommended by <a href="http://www.laineygossip.com/">Lainey Gossip,</a> does indeed live up to its name. The only problem is, I cannot find buttermilk in Taiwan, and instead must use soured milk. I'm sure this must affect the flavor of the final product.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePn3IaNNOTV7y0Kt7pKA1f2ZLwXFXKGQybhJtwTPV1hzxb302uO1gIruoQzWQhyphenhyphenUBjv7h093n0yHCrYpC_dSggzF9tSztHpnnNyyBb04v65AYuKF-hbFkHjHIM2iIuLFKYZlKSVoTGG8/s1600/IMG-0402-754451.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6514503122283296002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePn3IaNNOTV7y0Kt7pKA1f2ZLwXFXKGQybhJtwTPV1hzxb302uO1gIruoQzWQhyphenhyphenUBjv7h093n0yHCrYpC_dSggzF9tSztHpnnNyyBb04v65AYuKF-hbFkHjHIM2iIuLFKYZlKSVoTGG8/s640/IMG-0402-754451.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-85514411938741540522018-01-15T10:48:00.000+08:002018-04-03T11:28:49.962+08:00King Arthur's Butter-enriched Bread Recipe<div class="mobile-photo">
Master Nomad Foodie complained that the bread I bake is too hearty in flavor and texture, and that he prefers sweet, milky breads. So I decided to give this <a href="https://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/butter-enriched-bread-recipe">recipe</a> a try.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Pe6yZrb1-2U14RFfpuSdluL0EnqIo0GI9Xp1wZZZbyzBfraof_gm1QTwNCFKON9YqgkxLczdLkb0-QYFOoQnV17QecRk6XNXKzBqqlPzuvhipgjOfz6V4qZuLG6CHxEDijdRRrIfYx4/s1600/IMG-0357-744650.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6511783509771864226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Pe6yZrb1-2U14RFfpuSdluL0EnqIo0GI9Xp1wZZZbyzBfraof_gm1QTwNCFKON9YqgkxLczdLkb0-QYFOoQnV17QecRk6XNXKzBqqlPzuvhipgjOfz6V4qZuLG6CHxEDijdRRrIfYx4/s640/IMG-0357-744650.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My shaping needs work.</td></tr>
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It was a good recipe, and was certainly delicious. However, I felt it was a lot of work to make just 16 rolls that disappeared rather quickly.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRuIZOjx1hh5Uf5bIIsNtbJ271STjYXjSgrHZOzvjaOCJ2NcGCLMKoPP_NBLp5nw1V3D32IUZydzyE8VPpLjGQHsglAMjaria-shaS7-RlTh7KpBgI8HxM0isRdvvn4thP-1_0GL4UtmQ/s1600/IMG-0363-747673.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6511783519768915842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRuIZOjx1hh5Uf5bIIsNtbJ271STjYXjSgrHZOzvjaOCJ2NcGCLMKoPP_NBLp5nw1V3D32IUZydzyE8VPpLjGQHsglAMjaria-shaS7-RlTh7KpBgI8HxM0isRdvvn4thP-1_0GL4UtmQ/s640/IMG-0363-747673.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Definitely buttery.</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-90323002692512785182018-01-15T09:52:00.000+08:002018-01-15T09:52:01.277+08:00Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Cranberries<div dir="auto">
Last Monday's dinner menu:</div>
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<li><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/brussels-sprouts-with-balsamic-and-cranberries-recipe-2106799">Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Cranberries</a></li>
<li>Pork Burgers (adapted from this <a href="https://communitytable.parade.com/169511/debperelman/carrot-soup-with-turkey-meatballs-and-spinach/">meatball recipe</a>)</li>
<li>Shredded Carrot Salad with Sesame Dressing</li>
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Now, while overall I liked the menu, the kids did not. My attempts to get them to like brussels sprouts were for naught. I thought Ree Drummond's take on the sprouts might be helpful, with all the sweetness, but I think the kids were turned off by the darkness of the balsamic vinaigrette glaze. I halved the sugar and the recipe was too sweet for my tastes.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6CFAEtz53bwkYQn0OH4iNvYx9c32rExTDxNeTgZa2ImeZaibsZGG1Korf7rBO1IQJNQ7Uj5lHtbc0PhFyObAu9fBEKdcwbYyjyRgppar_I9tJirWBQyAjeydj-xmioEE1KQ3Lh_ZCOs/s1600/IMG-0303-723117.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6509294494831659330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6CFAEtz53bwkYQn0OH4iNvYx9c32rExTDxNeTgZa2ImeZaibsZGG1Korf7rBO1IQJNQ7Uj5lHtbc0PhFyObAu9fBEKdcwbYyjyRgppar_I9tJirWBQyAjeydj-xmioEE1KQ3Lh_ZCOs/s640/IMG-0303-723117.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze and Cranberries by Ree Drummond/The Pioneer Woman</td></tr>
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The pork burgers were more successful, as I adapted Deb Perleman's recipe. So easy, and so yummy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSho4VHiu0jqX0LYyDOuWw3IBngqG8TmA1JX9-rjFOrOAUzagaW3fuUtyGPGTJagdUiZH_pfgt8oTmfC8bur-h6mNxA7z5GBWz5FZXL1Ll_lbTvoOdoWo7hfUO4_UJzwPx83eMEpxaDNM/s1600/IMG-0305-728455.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6509294505773900962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSho4VHiu0jqX0LYyDOuWw3IBngqG8TmA1JX9-rjFOrOAUzagaW3fuUtyGPGTJagdUiZH_pfgt8oTmfC8bur-h6mNxA7z5GBWz5FZXL1Ll_lbTvoOdoWo7hfUO4_UJzwPx83eMEpxaDNM/s640/IMG-0305-728455.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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No pictures of the carrot salad (it was simply shredded carrots), but I'm quite certain my kids wouldn't eat as much salad as they do without <a href="http://amzn.to/2DwDGYc">Kewpie Sesame Dressing</a>. It's full of umami, creamy, and not too sweet (at least the one made in Japan).</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-45667311756433543132017-12-11T13:37:00.002+08:002017-12-11T13:37:58.930+08:00Neapolitan-swirl Bundt Cake<div>
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Miss Nomad Foodie asked for a <a href="http://www.sweetdreamscakeapp.com/2013/09/26/animal-print-inside-the-cake/">cheetah-print inside the cake,</a> with vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry-flavored cakes, so I made an attempt using my go-to yellow birthday cake recipe, <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2009/07/best-birthday-cake/">Smitten Kitchen's Best Birthday Cake</a>. I find this cake consistently turns out as described: moist, plush, with a fine, dense crumb, and buttery flavor. I did reduce the sugar by 10%, to 360 grams. For the strawberry portion, I took about a third of the batter and added 1 teaspoon of strawberry flavor and about 15 grams of ground freeze-dried strawberries (I ground Trader Joe's freeze-dried strawberries in a coffee bean grinder). For the chocolate portion, I added about 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder to the battery.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjLuvQb68mvjcTZepCiE7JdPQA3f9xrsmJf_BED-Mx7J0g0gyZIQWajgY1MstoZtXYEfTWA4HLsPb4nJJJoVSHDPYn-x1aVC4wzOGOxYnx03q4PwLvmn4f7eVG4v9zc_eFEmBgBofPHY/s1600/IMG_9472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjLuvQb68mvjcTZepCiE7JdPQA3f9xrsmJf_BED-Mx7J0g0gyZIQWajgY1MstoZtXYEfTWA4HLsPb4nJJJoVSHDPYn-x1aVC4wzOGOxYnx03q4PwLvmn4f7eVG4v9zc_eFEmBgBofPHY/s640/IMG_9472.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I thought the easiest way to create the print inside would be to use a bundt cake pan. Miss Nomad Foodie insisted on "strawberry, strawberry is my favorite" frosting, so I started with <a href="https://celebratingsweets.com/double-apple-bundt-cake-with-cream-cheese-frosting/">Celebrating Sweet's Cream Cheese Frosting</a> recipe, since I wanted something more liquid than my usual cream cheese frosting but more substantial than a glaze. The proportions of ingredients were:<br />
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113g cream cheese at room temperature<br />
200g powdered sugar sifted with<br />
30g ground freeze-dried strawberries<br />
2 Tablespoons milk<br />
1/4 teaspoon strawberry flavor<br />
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
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I supposed I could've added more milk to make the frosting flow and drip more attractively over the cake, but it was fine for our purposes, and it had an intensely strawberry flavor.<br />
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The kids decorated the cake with Trader Joe's Candy Coated Chocolate Drops, which are like a slightly more natural version of M&Ms.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_CT33WuesCJViCe0FoU8iH_rXg3hmHYFltUWXqxR4H9-S7Os6tfrdmGP1RO4MjwvgmVtCCJNsmQuFpBHRVrUBk4pYltbhf7itEmQZs0A3sJPrRWjYPfzU_RGRwvwUH-0lbORcRbj_aY/s1600/IMG_9469-723142.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6498088908647840162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_CT33WuesCJViCe0FoU8iH_rXg3hmHYFltUWXqxR4H9-S7Os6tfrdmGP1RO4MjwvgmVtCCJNsmQuFpBHRVrUBk4pYltbhf7itEmQZs0A3sJPrRWjYPfzU_RGRwvwUH-0lbORcRbj_aY/s640/IMG_9469-723142.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How did the cake turn out? Well the flavor and texture was great, but alas, the pattern inside was more of a marbled-swirl than a cheetah-print. Nonetheless, we had a happy little girl!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBeBTMeGYVWEif0Y2IAJ5BgnOb47w4EA0tUSZQsz8Rt7vKtxDb7OEK3DGUeA9IANb6fLkGA9172EwxBJ3murlvgWBQERGOT0rQRGCFM4_iX_AdKsB5C83hsu-2oloWiY1GhmDwBlyDDo/s1600/IMG_9478-720302.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6498088898055349522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBeBTMeGYVWEif0Y2IAJ5BgnOb47w4EA0tUSZQsz8Rt7vKtxDb7OEK3DGUeA9IANb6fLkGA9172EwxBJ3murlvgWBQERGOT0rQRGCFM4_iX_AdKsB5C83hsu-2oloWiY1GhmDwBlyDDo/s640/IMG_9478-720302.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-19197150349027235552017-11-20T17:20:00.000+08:002017-11-20T19:10:20.142+08:00Top 10 Travel Must Haves for Long Flights with Young Kids (and Babies)As someone who regularly (at least once a year) takes a round-trip trans-Pacific flight with two young children since they were breastfeeding infants alone<i>—</i>yes, as in the <i>sole</i> adult—here are my favorite must-have travel items that makes those long-haul flights easier.<br />
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<b>1. <a href="https://www.zoandco.com/">Zo & Co Travel Totes</a></b><br />
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Oh my gosh, how I wish I'd found these earlier. I only just found out about them this past year while browsing Amazon, and I want to spread the word. These are a must-have travel organizer if you travel economy.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIsr5-dV1iaWx3bzS3XfP7_TfdCzeVMKQ_5OQ_D9FFPtJKTb0uMgjTQZu3tzsASmNqaJC809sS5fVDwXgEZXbxtQitxuT0x6Kk_U_LPIhm6qv9LdiG5iqwvlb2eEWC6zzwIPk8cOsqTk/s1600/IMG_6335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIsr5-dV1iaWx3bzS3XfP7_TfdCzeVMKQ_5OQ_D9FFPtJKTb0uMgjTQZu3tzsASmNqaJC809sS5fVDwXgEZXbxtQitxuT0x6Kk_U_LPIhm6qv9LdiG5iqwvlb2eEWC6zzwIPk8cOsqTk/s640/IMG_6335.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought the size of the pockets in the Original version were just right - the largest pocket held my <a href="http://amzn.to/2yZCSYF">Kindle Paperwhite</a> in the standard Amazon Case perfectly, and the taller pocket on the right was just right for holding my <a href="http://amzn.to/2B525Co">travel mug</a>. In the pockets on the left, I put in <a href="http://amzn.to/2hExkvN">Babyganics Stain Eraser marker</a>, <a href="http://amzn.to/2iylu7j">spray hand sanitizer</a>, lip balm, and my earbuds. The tiny pocket in the middle held a <a href="http://amzn.to/2zjycRI">collapsible cell phone stand</a>. The seat back pocket then held my bullet journal. </td></tr>
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This is an awesome way to keep track of all the in-flight essentials: smart phone, Kindle, headphones, water bottle, eyeglasses, and any other sundry items (hand sanitizer, dental floss, tissues, pen, lip balm, etc.). I used to hate just using the seat pocket, because if a put a water bottle in, the pocket would get overextended, causing all my other items to fall towards the bottom of the seat pocket, making finding my stuff in-flight harder. Also, at the end of a flight, I’d always be afraid I’d forget some overlooked item that had fallen to the bottom of the pocket, not to mention how uncomfortable it is to come across previous passengers’ trash. With this organizer, I arrange what I want handy in-flight before I leave my home, and then once on board, it’s a simple matter of pulling out the organizer and sliding it into place. Disembarking is made easier, as I just slide the organizer out and put it in my bag. In-flight, having everything at my fingertips is so much more convenient than bending over constantly to reach my bag tucked underneath the seat in front of me or opening the overhead bin.<br />
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There are sturdy metal clips built into the organizer that clips it to the seat back pocket. The organizer folds into thirds (there's a small piece of velcro to keep it folded) to make it easy to toss into a bag after the flight. I had looked at other organizers, but this one still retains the usability of the tray table, and is more flexible than a pouch. In the photo above, you can see it takes minimal leg room.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijd4HBnEoJMWrH5Yk_HIcBqbqJhmYhsWnBxcPdC32m7fMGgaj5a20LlIv5rUMNkFlwriJRPAFaAerh3GG5aDbaoCduURIO6OUAsGNaFzniFmKeIfy2Llznzr5aP9PBIyMYllLFV2FB7sw/s1600/IMG_6337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijd4HBnEoJMWrH5Yk_HIcBqbqJhmYhsWnBxcPdC32m7fMGgaj5a20LlIv5rUMNkFlwriJRPAFaAerh3GG5aDbaoCduURIO6OUAsGNaFzniFmKeIfy2Llznzr5aP9PBIyMYllLFV2FB7sw/s640/IMG_6337.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids version of the Zo&Co Travel Organizer comes in a quilted fabric and held both kids' water bottles, crayons, and a compact notebook for coloring. The carabiner clips were handy for holding the <a href="http://amzn.to/2hNtzaT">kids' headphones</a>. You can see their backpacks tucked underneath.</td></tr>
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They come in three versions: <a href="http://amzn.to/2AeErGK">original</a>, <a href="http://amzn.to/2yZR18r">kids</a>, and <a href="http://amzn.to/2z0G861">tech</a>. The exterior dimensions are the same - the only variances between these versions are the number of pockets and fabric. The tech version essentially combines two pockets found in the original into an extended pocket to better fit a tablet. The kids version adds one more smaller pocket and an extra carabiner to the original version, but in a washable quilted fabric.<br />
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While you're at it, tuck in a <b>small handled plastic bag</b> into one of the many pockets. You can later clip it to the carabiner and use it to collect trash in-flight, to keep your seat area tidy.<br />
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<b>2. <a href="http://amzn.to/2iwHrDK">Insulated Straw Water Bottle</a></b><br />
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We have the <a href="http://amzn.to/2zV46Tw">Thermos Foogo Water Bottles</a>, which have lasted over six years now. I always ask the flight attendants to serve the kids drinks in their water bottles to prevent messes. I actually don't travel with wipes - just saving the wet wipes and napkins served during snack time and dinner - because preventing spills is easier than cleaning up after them.<br />
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I will note that the straw parts can get gunky if you're not vigilant about cleaning and drying them out, but replacements are readily available (I stocked up on a bunch awhile ago).<br />
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I myself travel with the <a href="http://amzn.to/2B525Co">Zojirushi Stainless Steel Insulated Travel Mug</a>, which is easy to clean and has a flip-open lid with a lock, plus incredible insulation power. While the kids have their own Zojirushi bottles, the open sipper design makes it less ideal for in-flight use. Like the Thermos bottles, the rubber stoppers and sipper components are replaceable.<br />
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<b>3. <a href="http://amzn.to/2B3IeUc">Skip Hop Toddler Kids Backpack</a></b><br />
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These are inexpensive, durable, hold a surprising amount, and come in a variety of fun styles. Until my eldest started grade school, he used this backpack everyday for preschool and kindergarten. At the airport, my kids carry their own water bottles, <a href="http://amzn.to/2zWeybC">pillow</a>, blanket, and amusements.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbNEj6g4h4Qp6rFhWyOKmYczMDPzkFCOM8oyYTcG4ollaDv0XsPvfrXmiG3ZsEn5caJ4keMTjG3V-zGNWCHAXcSpUcSU2fMPx5WY8KaZs3v_zj-pLLtwq4P2e-X6LEzr2zbiBVxMUXOI/s1600/IMG_9306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbNEj6g4h4Qp6rFhWyOKmYczMDPzkFCOM8oyYTcG4ollaDv0XsPvfrXmiG3ZsEn5caJ4keMTjG3V-zGNWCHAXcSpUcSU2fMPx5WY8KaZs3v_zj-pLLtwq4P2e-X6LEzr2zbiBVxMUXOI/s640/IMG_9306.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skip Hop backpack holding the Skip Hop travel pillow, Zo&Co travel organizer, aden+anais muslin blanket, and Thermos Foogo insulated straw water bottle.</td></tr>
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<b>4. <a href="http://amzn.to/2zWeybC">Skip Hop Little Kids and Toddler Travel Neck Rest</a></b><br />
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To go along with the backpack, you can get a coordinating pillow, or a different one. My kids like to use them while sitting up, and also while lying down. They've also used them on road trips. I once forgot to bring their pillow on a low-budget flight, that while short-haul, had turned into a red-eye because of weather delays. Never again.<br />
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<b>5. Lightweight Cotton Zip Hoodie</b><br />
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You probably already have one at home. They're great for keeping warm when the air conditioning gets too strong. (As an aside, for warm-weather travel I adore <a href="https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/women-airism-uv-cut-mesh-zip-up-hoodie-164466.html?dwvar_164466_color=COL00&cgid=">Uniqlo's Airism UV Cut Zip-up Hoodie</a> for myself. It's inexpensive, lightweight to be comfortable in hot, humid climates, and yet also surprisingly warm during spring and fall. The fabric is also so thin that it folds easily and compactly into your purse.)<br />
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<b>6. <a href="http://amzn.to/2AduHw8">Muslin Swaddle Blankets</a></b><br />
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Now there are lots of different brands; I got the <a href="http://amzn.to/2B4DTjJ">aden+anais swaddle blankets</a> when my eldest was a newborn, and this is one baby item that has held up. It's surprisingly warm, highly breathable, and the swaddle size means that it's big enough to be usable even though my kids are now 8 and 4. This also means that if your youngest is still asleep when your plane lands, you can scoop them up wrapped in this blanket. I've also used it as a makeshift sun shade. It's the equivalent of a pashmina for kids!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD8tSmDP0UqbcvK2JxZVOzdl_AFOJKU-HvI0Ap4QiLGDN5EXfqFd3gVXAjf3CG40WIKidTt4HpDhu5ODmk9MzG9ZZ4eeWBntA29TkoJJOA1-iEix7gVQKSN53DMKGzj22nzziFtUURR0E/s1600/IMG_9305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD8tSmDP0UqbcvK2JxZVOzdl_AFOJKU-HvI0Ap4QiLGDN5EXfqFd3gVXAjf3CG40WIKidTt4HpDhu5ODmk9MzG9ZZ4eeWBntA29TkoJJOA1-iEix7gVQKSN53DMKGzj22nzziFtUURR0E/s640/IMG_9305.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">aden+anais muslin swaddle blankets (still used after all these years!) and Skip Hop travel pillow</td></tr>
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<b>7. <a href="http://amzn.to/2z0t3dg">Kids' Headphones</a></b><br />
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We have the <a href="http://amzn.to/2hNtzaT">Kidz Gear Wired Headphones for Kids</a> - customer service was great about replacing our daughter's faulty headphones 6-months after purchase when we put them on one day and realized she could only hear out of one side. These are sized for smaller heads, and are adjustable, so adults can also easily check the volume and sound quality. The complimentary earbuds or headphones distributed by the airlines have never worked for them.<br />
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<b>8. Snacks packed in <a href="http://amzn.to/2yZKSJh">Easy Lunchboxes</a></b><br />
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I'll pack fruit, crackers, and whatever will otherwise rot in my refrigerator if I didn't bring it with us in these handy <a href="http://amzn.to/2yZKSJh">compartmentalized containers by Easy Lunchboxes</a>. They're easy to clean and stackable, so they take up less space when we're done with them. The compartments mean that if they're not feeling hungry during meal service, packing any leftovers from their airline meals (e.g. bread rolls, fruit) for them to eat later (although make sure all fruit and veg is eaten up before disembarking the plane and lining up at customs!) is easy.<br />
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<b>9. Amusements</b><br />
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To be honest, I didn't start packing an tablet until this year, when my kids were 7 and 4. Usually, they're fine with the existing in-flight entertainment (remember, I'm flying international long-haul, not short-haul flights on an American carrier), crayons, and paper. The flight safety card once provided my son with at least 15 minutes of entertainment, as he deciphered the various exit points on the plane. The toy that has consistently provided the most amusement are the <a href="http://amzn.to/2hNFmGc">Melissa & Doug Water Wow Activity Pads</a>. My kids have also enjoyed <a href="http://amzn.to/2hN1CAn">Wikki Stix</a>, <a href="http://amzn.to/2hNxbJZ">magnetic doodle boards</a>, and the <a href="http://amzn.to/2B4gSNE">Melissa & Doug Reusable Sticker Pad</a> (although the pad itself is rather bulky, and so has been disqualified for future flights). Bring paper and pen with you, and you can play tic-tac-toe, fold paper airplanes, or do other origami crafts.<br />
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<b>10. Change of Underwear</b><br />
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Now that kids are fully toilet-trained, I only bring a spare set of underwear (tucked into the front pocket of their Skip Hop backpacks). During the toilet training years, because sometimes the line to the bathroom, especially after meal service, is long, I've only once had to change underwear and bottoms. If your child is bringing a hoodie anyway, that can substitute for a wet t-shirt. Keep things simple. When my kids were infants, I'd bring a spare onesie and leg warmers. I think I only changed my top once. I found I tended to pack more than I actually used.<br />
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Now, for babies, I'd also recommend:<br />
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<b>11. Structured Baby Carrier</b><br />
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Even after my infants were well into their toddler years, I still got a lot of use out of my <a href="http://amzn.to/2hOkPSb">Boba Baby Carrier</a>. The structured carrier meant that it was easy to put on (just two buckles to snap together), and given that you can carry up to a 45-pound child on your back, it's ideal for a keeping jet-lagged, overtired child calm while waiting in long lines at immigration and customs.<br />
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<b>12. Nursing Cover</b><br />
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Breastfeeding was my number one tip for dealing with infants in flight, because they're not going to fuss if they're in their happy place, nursing in mom's arms. Now, while I generally didn't use nursing covers, I found them useful for flights because the rigid neckline provided air flow while also blocking out extra light (from all the signage such as the seatbelt light, toilet occupancy light, etc.) which can be distracting for an overtired infant. I was given a second-hand <a href="http://amzn.to/2hFPpcZ">Bebe au Lait nursing cover,</a> so that's what I used, but any one with a rigid neckline would do.<br />
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<b>13. <a href="http://amzn.to/2B4hQth">Skip Hop Pronto Changing Pad</a></b><br />
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This portable changing mat has thoughtfully-designed pockets so that you could tuck a number of diapers and wipes in to minimize the amount of stuff to carry with you to the toilet, as well as a handy strap that could hook the pad out of the way.<br />
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<b><a href="http://amzn.to/2hN7F7K">14. CARES Travel Harness</a></b><br />
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I only once carried my child's car seat in flight, and I vowed never to do it again. It was heavy, it was bulky, and I didn't get that much value out of it (my child did not sleep for more than an hour in the seat). However, good for toddlers is the CARES FAA-approved restraint system, which creates a shoulder strap with chest buckle restraint system. They're safer, and also less likely to wiggle about.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-37491704003843955512017-11-17T12:15:00.000+08:002017-11-17T12:15:33.835+08:00BraveTart’s Mini Egg Chocolate Cookies<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXENgZ8UC6hL568owsqp12fS8gp28bJU0nLQqyGHOmKMl-yRS2KQ6HE6xpWhHW6PZeLRfYJaqmYXsveHHc6twzmtVX8WAX0U_hfB04g7Ct9d4jXYXy9UHXtUdSoWPTlmb5l5A7ly1pcA/s1600/IMG-9267-787890.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6488611487298108082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXENgZ8UC6hL568owsqp12fS8gp28bJU0nLQqyGHOmKMl-yRS2KQ6HE6xpWhHW6PZeLRfYJaqmYXsveHHc6twzmtVX8WAX0U_hfB04g7Ct9d4jXYXy9UHXtUdSoWPTlmb5l5A7ly1pcA/s400/IMG-9267-787890.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cookies were quite tender and broke apart easily, but I loved the flavor.</td></tr>
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Rummaging around the refrigerator to make room for the products of this last weekend's cooking binge reminded me that I have bags of butterscotch chips stashed in the back of the refrigerator. I've been impressed by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bravetart/?hl=en">BraveTart's creations on Instagram</a>, so I decided to check her site and modify her recipe for <a href="http://bravetart.com/recipes/MiniEggChocolateCookies">chocolate cookies with Cadbury Mini Eggs</a> to use up the half bags of butterscotch and peanut butter chips I had on hand. Other substitutions: I substituted coconut sugar for the brown sugar, and used 2 ounces of white sugar instead of the 2.5 ounces called for (the sweetness was fine). I can't imagine using the full amount of sugar.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8rYdnn28aQ2PIsPSnqrDVQTiHgtVCiMTNM_iXKgeHTtLWUmQmzTdXKLThc0BoDK_yntsbaHin9aGfQ6fGARKAcR6mWzC5CrVotYNNOIwlTvU0gbhAS8TrYYMozr_DSE6s0bb9cPay6w/s1600/IMG-9256-791985.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6488611501341457218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8rYdnn28aQ2PIsPSnqrDVQTiHgtVCiMTNM_iXKgeHTtLWUmQmzTdXKLThc0BoDK_yntsbaHin9aGfQ6fGARKAcR6mWzC5CrVotYNNOIwlTvU0gbhAS8TrYYMozr_DSE6s0bb9cPay6w/s320/IMG-9256-791985.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had the kids add five mini M&Ms to the top of each cookie, after pressing the scooped dough with the pusher (from my food processor) dipped in cocoa powder - since the dough was very sticky</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-41220158219169474222017-11-15T19:59:00.003+08:002017-11-15T19:59:41.972+08:00Homemade Pizza, Revisited<div>
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I've made pizza often in the past, making dough from the recipe in <a href="http://amzn.to/2yH0FNa">Wildly Affordable Organic</a> or <a href="https://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/pizza-crust-recipe">King Arthur Flour's basic recipe</a>. On a Smitten Kitchen kick, I decided to try her <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/10/lazy-pizza-dough-favorite-margarita-pizza/">recipe</a>. The kids rolled out the dough, so it was a bit thicker than I'd like, but the sauce was a <i>revelation</i>. In the past, I've just used jarred pasta sauce, but I tried her recipe which is simple - just drained canned whole tomatoes, whizzed in the food processor with a little salt and fresh garlic - and it made a huge difference.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLYE1rGjJVmuhNI5U-nkzhvkKVkhwlosPnzaqeX10A1rIl5Wk5m4_aAjl9_pbmWp92rvEor2jzgF4SpaoYL79d9ibyeOvew1kypayPU1a0-6MSxUakBDzZyDOLg5V7gjqXclMjvUJ6YU/s1600/IMG_9237-792070.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6487698826494226946" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLYE1rGjJVmuhNI5U-nkzhvkKVkhwlosPnzaqeX10A1rIl5Wk5m4_aAjl9_pbmWp92rvEor2jzgF4SpaoYL79d9ibyeOvew1kypayPU1a0-6MSxUakBDzZyDOLg5V7gjqXclMjvUJ6YU/s640/IMG_9237-792070.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hawaiian Pizza, from the side</td></tr>
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Since it has been awhile since we made homemade pizza, I forgot that I usually have the kids roll it between two sheets of parchment paper, so there was a big floury mess on the dining table when they had finished. Cornmeal also makes a superior substance to dust baking pans with, to prevent sticking.</div>
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I had leftover sauce, shredded cheese, canned pineapple, and Canadian bacon, so I made the pizza again today. The first time I followed her 22-hour recipe (starting it at night before I went to bed, for a lunch of pizza) and today I had only time for a 6-hour rise. I definitely recommend the flavor with a longer rise...although since I rolled out the dough today, it was much thinner. Also, I substituted whole wheat flour, for a proportion of 175g whole wheat flour and 200g bread flour.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6kP-ea1a5hKbucGwzskh2pRuILScUMsU6qLJQsxmYAzRJuZqxpvZPPwfZUCX3D5DUd8caOrfhBQWmRlR0aeHeheHf6Aq7hmOo1DtmIwENHZrERJit6UbhXIXCKxoMA-un3WkrbS80Po/s1600/IMG_9236-796294.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6487698846393850594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6kP-ea1a5hKbucGwzskh2pRuILScUMsU6qLJQsxmYAzRJuZqxpvZPPwfZUCX3D5DUd8caOrfhBQWmRlR0aeHeheHf6Aq7hmOo1DtmIwENHZrERJit6UbhXIXCKxoMA-un3WkrbS80Po/s640/IMG_9236-796294.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kid-created pizza</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-30696943702291576912017-11-12T13:10:00.002+08:002017-11-12T13:10:31.897+08:00Deb Perleman’s Carrot Soup with Meatballs and Spinach<div dir="auto">
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Smitten Kitchen has always been a favorite, and her recipe for <a href="https://communitytable.parade.com/169511/debperelman/carrot-soup-with-turkey-meatballs-and-spinach/">Carrot Soup with Meatballs and Spinach</a> was another winner. After I puréed the soup with an immersion blender, the soup started splattering everywhere - I'm unsure how to prevent that from happening again. I liked the meatballs, of which I used about a 50/50 mixture of ground chicken and ground pork. Next time I might use all pork because the chicken was too lean. Also, while the kids complained that their carefully cut carrots had been blended into a mash, Miss Nomad Foodie chose to have another serving instead of the <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/10/miso-sweet-potato-and-broccoli-bowl/">miso sweet potato and broccoli bowl</a> that I'd prepared for dinner. A final note: I think I'll use butter to sauté the vegetables in next time because I like the flavor of butter in soup.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-54159554653541153392017-11-06T10:31:00.000+08:002018-04-03T10:37:47.491+08:00Red Dragon Fruit Bread<div class="mobile-photo">
Master Nomad Foodie mentioned a classmate had brought bread made with dragon fruit. Dragon fruit is in season in the fall in Taiwan, and I love eating it because it's refreshingly, not cloyingly, sweet, and great for digestion (ahem). Anyways, at his request, I experimented with making dragon fruit bread following this <a href="http://kristygourmet.blogspot.tw/2010/04/red-dragon-fruit-simple-baguette.html?">recipe</a>. (I looked to King Arthur Flour for guidance on the specifics of making baguette).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely magenta color prior to baking.</td></tr>
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The bread was fine - there wasn't a particular dragon fruit taste, which is unsurprising given that it's such a subtly flavored fruit, but there was the most lovely pink color. Unfortunately, the color dulled over time in the oven - I might have slightly overbooked the bread.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duller pink color after baking.</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-7921832462547850612017-11-04T10:18:00.000+08:002018-04-03T10:41:57.635+08:00Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies<div class="mobile-photo">
I think I tried this <a href="https://www.averiecooks.com/2013/06/softbatch-cream-cheese-chocolate-chip-cookies.html">recipe</a>, mostly to use up some leftover cream cheese. Alas, I wasn't impressed.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-86643147725358715662017-10-16T15:17:00.003+08:002017-10-16T15:42:49.132+08:00Weekend trip to Tainan, TaiwanOver the long National Day holiday weekend, we traveled to Tainan to attend a wedding. Given the holiday weekend, we were thankful to have found a hotel room at a good price the week before through <a href="https://refer.hotels.com/x/zO7Erw">Hotels.com</a>.<br />
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We stayed at the Young Soarlan Boutique Hotel, which was perfectly adequate for one night. There was a refrigerator (handy for refrigerating the snacks we had brought down in a cooler), four bottles of water, an electric tea kettle, plenty of space for our carry-on luggage, flat-screen television, and desk. The bedding and towels, and the bathroom, seemed to be bleach-white clean. The air conditioning was much appreciated, as the wedding had been held outdoors <i>bando</i>-style in unusually warm weather.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1IPstMbjn0zd2mZdqEJ51aNyCCzaOZduejIPfNGDIkNqBSgLe6Kq9OH2-zG60oXF6tXvN96s1oPdLQ6ysMX7Lk-3lkRGUkltCjIfbKBgEInoNIOfXXH5OZ7LwwEveE4iygAERKBFmZIA/s1600/IMG_8951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1IPstMbjn0zd2mZdqEJ51aNyCCzaOZduejIPfNGDIkNqBSgLe6Kq9OH2-zG60oXF6tXvN96s1oPdLQ6ysMX7Lk-3lkRGUkltCjIfbKBgEInoNIOfXXH5OZ7LwwEveE4iygAERKBFmZIA/s640/IMG_8951.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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At breakfast the next day, there was a small buffet of mostly Taiwanese-style breakfast offerings: rice porridge with sweet potato and typical porridge toppings, steamed rice, stir-fried noodles, various tofu and vegetable dishes, chicken nuggets, and steamed egg. There was also toast and steamed buns available. The only beverages on offer were coffee and tea.<br />
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My only two quibbles about the hotel were minor: the bed was firmer than I'd like (though this is generally true of Taiwan, and even the Shangri-la in Taipei is not immune to this problem), and that when we arrived to breakfast, there was a shortage of plates. I constantly had to ask the server for dishware, which he promptly refilled. To be fair, we had arrived towards the end of breakfast service.<br />
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<i>As a side note, I must mention how much I like <a href="https://refer.hotels.com/x/zO7Erw">Hotels.com</a>, for several reasons:</i><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i>Finding rooms in relation to a specific part of town, such a certain district or landmark, is easy;</i></li>
<li><i>The booking process is quick and streamlined, and customer service has been great when we've had to use them;</i></li>
<li><i>Their <a href="https://refer.hotels.com/x/zO7Erw">Rewards program</a> is awesome, with basically a 10% return, as they have a 1 night free for every 10 completed nights booked through them;</i></li>
<li><i>You can stack their Rewards program savings by going through a shopping portal, such <a href="https://www.topcashback.com/ref/liaohimi">TopCashback</a>, which is currently running a 5% return on completed stays. I've used <i><a href="https://www.topcashback.com/ref/liaohimi">TopCashback</a> </i>for a few years now, and have been pleased with how well it works;</i></li>
<li><i>You can stack further savings on top of that by using a credit card that rewards travel spending;</i></li>
<li><i>Since it's an hotel room aggregator, you're not tied to a specific chain. While room upgrades and lounge access at a preferred hotel chain are nice, it's also nice getting a return on travel spending when that isn't an option.</i></li>
</ul>
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Later, we caught up with friends at the <a href="http://www.sinhua.gov.tw/?menu=sinhua5_details&notice_id=2">新化體育公園</a>, which was a lovely park with lots of trees shading the playground area. Our friends told us that the park is rarely crowded. There's a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sinhuapool/">public pool</a> at the park, and while we did not swim, we took a peek. The pool is much more appealing than pictured, as in person it seems very spacious with a lot of natural light.<br />
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Lunch was nearby at Pa Pa Yummy, a delightful pizzeria with a comfortable, light-filled setting. The salad was ok, more Taiwanese-style, but we enjoyed the pizzas which seemed to utilize fresh, not canned, ingredients, such as the thinly-sliced pineapple on the Hawai'ian pizza.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids enjoyed the presentation of the freshly baked pita bread.</td></tr>
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My favorite pizza was the most unusual one on offer, featuring honey, ricotta, and apples.<br />
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When we left, we bought a whole-wheat boule loaf with longan, which was a good reminder of the trip. Just across the street from Pa Pa Yummy and a few storefronts down is 筱庭杏仁豆腐冰, which is a wonderful shaved ice and almond tofu place. I highly recommend the almond tofu, which has the silkiest texture I've ever had for almond tofu, which can be served atop shaved ice. Delightful.</div>
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Overall, we had a great trip, even though the traffic on our drive back to Taipei was awful. </div>
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<i>Young Soarlan Boutique Hotel, 揚悅精緻大飯店- 台南館</i><br />
<i>No.487 Section 2, Jiankang Road, South District, Tainan, Taiwan</i><br />
<i>70249台南市南區健康路二段487號</i><br />
<i>+886-6-264-0999</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Pa Pa Yummy 柴燒美食基地</i><br />
<i>台南市新化區武安里中正路301之3號</i><br />
<i>+886-6-590-3595</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/%E7%AD%B1%E5%BA%AD%E6%9D%8F%E4%BB%81%E8%B1%86%E8%85%90%E5%86%B0%E8%B1%86%E8%8A%B1-111556519011705/"><i>筱庭杏仁豆腐冰</i></a><br />
<i>台南市新化區中正路328號</i><br />
<i>+886-6-580-0972</i><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-25862199048790602802017-08-19T20:01:00.000+08:002017-08-19T20:03:07.903+08:00Blueberry-Peach Crisp<div style="text-align: left;">
We had picked a lot of blueberries on trip to Michigan that were unfortunately not that sweet for eating out of hand, so I combined them with home-grown peaches to make a crumble-crisp.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG79lOXEzKNqZ9Y3Dilwe6BJCF3CB5m46uw4OfpBugTdM9gkgEwyVFqyRCe6InHsmol7jRgELTc42_6fuzC2kWkyjtQZwtJ0AvgcMuwKdEtT5TgN_0KwCNnfVwaOfTRqu6MWT6KhIKm6k/s1600/IMG_8120-731499.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_6452101448832066018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG79lOXEzKNqZ9Y3Dilwe6BJCF3CB5m46uw4OfpBugTdM9gkgEwyVFqyRCe6InHsmol7jRgELTc42_6fuzC2kWkyjtQZwtJ0AvgcMuwKdEtT5TgN_0KwCNnfVwaOfTRqu6MWT6KhIKm6k/s640/IMG_8120-731499.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
The recipe I followed was a mashup of <a href="http://lifemadesimplebakes.com/2016/04/blueberry-crisp/">this</a> for the fruit and <a href="http://www.trialandeater.com/coconut-oil-blueberry-crisp-crumble/">this</a> for the topping. Blueberries and diced peaches were tossed with about 3 Tablespoons of sugar and 1 Tablespoon of cornstarch for roughly 4 cups of blueberries and 1 cup of diced peaches. I also squeezed half a lemon and added about 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. The topping was comprised of rolled oats, almond flour, coconut oil, honey, 2 dashes of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. When I ran out of almond flour, I substituted wheat germ. Overall, family members liked the crumble, as it wasn't too sweet.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-35059067033863635642017-08-01T05:53:00.001+08:002018-04-03T12:34:32.155+08:00Shop Review: Lunada Bay Market<div class="mobile-photo">
Lunada Bay is a beautiful neighborhood in Palos Verdes Estates, California. There are a limited number of commercial centers on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and probably one of the most charming ones is the Lunada Bay Plaza, which has a little coffeeshop, a few restaurants, and small businesses. In the summer, the Lunada Bay Homeowners' Association sponsors a summer concert series - I went to one concert last year and it was a lot of fun, with a beautiful green lawn, children dancing to music, and a few booths set up featuring some community organizations. </div>
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Recently opened, the Lunada Bay Market is a small market with a selection of natural, organic, and high-end grocery items, beautiful produce, seafood, and meats, wine, and a deli counter offering a few salads, a handful of sandwiches, and smoothies. I ordered their tuna beet sandwich, which was comprised of tuna salad mix, diced beets, greens, radish, tomatoes, and cucumber on an oat french roll. The sandwich was tasty, and I like the idea of adding beets to tuna salad. Maybe Miss Nomad Foodie will be more inclined to try some foods if they are (naturally) colored pink?</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tuna beet sandwich from Lunada Bay Market</td></tr>
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In any case, it's a charming grocery store - bright and clean, and catering to the affluence of the surrounding area - and certainly a good option if you want something less corporate and with a more neighborly feel than the Trader Joe's up the street at the Golden Cove Plaza. All of the staff members I met were uniformly friendly and attentive. <br />
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<i>2201 Palos Verdes Drive West, Palos Verdes Estates - 310-377-2025</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-42777986826042866072017-07-10T02:38:00.001+08:002017-07-10T06:34:06.076+08:00Places I'd like to see in Columbus, Ohio<div dir="auto">
We just finished a short stay in Columbus, Ohio. On a future visit, I'd like to see:<br />
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<ul>
<li>the <a href="http://www.sciotomile.com/">Scioto Mile</a></li>
<li>the <a href="http://www.topiarypark.org/visit-the-park.html">Topiary Park</a>, especially since Seurat's <i>A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte</i> is my favorite piece at the Art Institute</li>
<li>actually seeing the roses at the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0ahUKEwi9v9e3oP3UAhVIWxQKHR1IAlgQFggoMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.parkofroses.org%2F&usg=AFQjCNHjl3ddIOLpIYMJv1MNf1121fsdQA">Columbus Park of Roses</a> (we didn't get beyond the playground before it started raining)</li>
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I'd also like to return to the <a href="https://www.columbuszoo.org/">Columbus Zoo</a>, which was really well done - definitely up there among the zoos that I've visited. I want to spend more time in the Heart of Africa section.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-64244724511690841412017-06-30T15:32:00.001+08:002017-07-03T02:05:43.825+08:00Trader Joe's Avocado Citrus Greek Whole Milk Yogurt<div>
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I found this a little intimidating, since I associate avocado with savory guacamole, but this was quite good - a very creamy, tart yogurt with a citrus aroma. I'd get it again!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5764518986705839190.post-43423235290439460022017-04-25T09:23:00.001+08:002017-07-03T02:05:53.419+08:00Coconut Quinoa Banana Muffins<div>
I tried this <a href="http://www.coffeeandquinoa.com/2013/02/coconut-quinoa-banana-bread-vegan/">recipe from Coffee & Quinoa</a> as I've been looking for ways to use up quinoa in baked goods, and I had some overripe bananas. While the flavor was good, unfortunately the muffins (I baked muffins instead of a loaf to save time) were very dense. I think this is so because the recipe calls for baking soda, and I don't see an acid amongst the ingredients to activate the baking soda. I think I'll work on modifying Smitten Kitchen's <a href="https://smittenkitchen.com/2012/09/crackly-banana-bread/">Crackly Banana Bread</a> instead, which I've baked before and is quite good.<br />
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