Flourless Orange, Almond and Ginger Cake

I'm loving many things about the Portland, Oregon area. Many things! 

One of my favorite new eateries here is the St. Honoré Bakery and Cafe. It's a casual little place with fresh soups, killer vol au vonts, savory caprese sandwiches. And hecka amazing flourless orange and almond cakes! It's one of those places where the food is just as beautiful as it is delicious.

Time for another run!!!

Mustard Magic

Last spring when I was out running around eastern France, I was surprised to come across softly rolling hills covered with fields and fields of zappity bright yellow mustard farms. It was astounding and enchanting to see cultivated mustard, as I had only really seen mustard grow wild over here in California. I suspect we don't value the humble mustard seed as much as the French, but we should. A good mustard is the core of everything that is right with the world. Ok, well, maybe not that, but it really can be the best part of a sandwich, or a salad dressing or a meal. Viva flavor! Viva mustard!

Raisin Pastries Paris

Raisin Pastries Paris
Originally uploaded by pixelish
These raisin pastries are similar to cinnamon buns, but with a delicious twist. They use a flaky French pastry for the dough to make them ultra light and uber yummy.

I think I may try to reverse engineer the recipe for these delicate morsels... they were just too good!

French macaroons in natural light

French macaroons
Originally uploaded by pixelish
Thinking about my trip to France next week. C'est an affaire gastronomique! I plan to document the lovely foods I come across in Paris, Champagne and Alsace-Lorraine. Zut alors! Both fun and yummy!

Cranberry Claufoutis copy

Cranberry Claufoutis copy
Originally uploaded by pixelish

Claufoutis day today! Used a modified version of Martha Stewart's recipe. ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS!!! Just saying.