Minggu, 10 Agustus 2008

Hot White Chocolate From The Ancient Cacao Bean

by: Dean Forster

There are almost endless possibilities when it comes to choosing and buying chocolate. There are as many chocolate assortments on the market as many people's tastes for this treat. The term chocolate includes a number of foods that are produced from the seed of the tropical cacao tree, native to lowland tropical South America. People used to drink liquid chocolate beverages as back as 3000 years ago by the native Mayans and Aztecs. Chocolate is also associated with the Mayan god of fertility. A lot of the hot white chocolate consumed today is made into bars that combine cocoa solids, fats like cocoa butter, and sugar.

White chocolate is a special chocolate type. One of the first things you should know about it is that although it is called chocolate, white chocolate isn't really chocolate at all.

Yes, the white assortment comes from the same cacao plant, but it turns white because of a different production process. White chocolate was first made in New Hampshire after World War I and of course, hot white chocolate first appeared back then but only with isolated requests. Hot white chocolate isn't as popular as generic hot chocolate is, but it has way more demand than it had in those days.

Chocolate is made from useable items extracted from the ancient cacao bean. While dark chocolates use the cocoa powder ground from the seeds, the versions of white use only the butter. Actually, this is the reason for which the hot white chocolate has that very light color. White chocolate contains neither chocolate liquor nor cocoa solids. Because of this fact, the lack of chocolate syrup from its creation process, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not even consider white chocolate at all to belong to the chocolate family. Some people also state that hot white chocolate hasn't got anything to do to hot chocolate in anyway.

To create this delicious treat, producers use cocoa butter, milk solids, vanilla, sugar and lecithin; these being its main ingredients of course, for hot white chocolate, all of these are powdered (or should be). If real, natural cocoa butter is used, the result is a better tasting, higher quality product. Other producers will not use natural cocoa butter, but vegetable fats (these products are known as confectioner's coating or summer coating). Doing so, they end up with a lower quality chocolate product. If you read on the chocolate bar that vegetables fat has been used, you would better buy another assortment, made using real cocoa butter. It will simply taste better.

When they are made with natural cocoa butter, white chocolates have an ivory color. They are a tasty combination of cream and vanilla and no producer making white chocolate using vegetable fat will ever manage to match it in taste. You can also distinguish white chocolate made using cocoa butter from that made using vegetable fats by their consistency, taste and ability to be stored. White chocolate can be stored for many months before it expires. You can find out more about chocolate including recipes at http://www.gourmetdarkchocolatetruffles.com

White chocolate is very delicate by nature. It melts quite easily and it will scorch even easier. White chocolate can also be difficult to work with. When melted, the cocoa butter can split and create an oily compound that can be recovered by re-emulsifying.

If you want to melt white chocolate in your kitchen for making other treats (such as ganache or chocolate fondue), take care and slow the entire process down to be sure you do not ruin it.

White chocolate is usually used for decoration of milk or dark chocolate confections.

How To Enjoy A Glass Of Beer

by: Jon Caldwell

Drink and be merry is a familiar phrase that people would usually say back to you when you are on a vacation in Cork, Ireland. Car hire can provide assistance in bringing tourists to the various bars and pubs located all over Ireland. In the same way, this allows them total flexibility, since car for hire vehicles allow tourists the benefit of choosing the desired place, or to be able to hop from one bar to another.

These benefits are limited in a way when people disregard their need for mobility and transportation, having to look at time always to be able to ensure that they go home safe and sound, without the hassles of needing to worry about their means of getting back to their lodging accommodations. Unimportant as it may seem for most people, a vehicle for hire really has a lot of benefits rather than worrying about the expenses. Not only concentrated on the pubs, but car hire also extends its coverage into other tourist wants, as nearby sites, drinking, dining and other activities that tourists would prefer while they are on vacation.

Ideally, people will be restless once they are in Ireland. Thinking of what to do and where to go are only some of the issues that they have to address. Car hire also extends assistance on this aspect, providing tourists with information as to what ideal places would be worth their while. This car for hire organization is not solely aimed at providing vehicles for profit, but would also like to ensure that such tourists will get the most out of their vacation. Besides, a one shot deal is nothing compared to customer loyalty on their next visit and referral to their friends, if people are to find a trustworthy organization when they go on tour in Ireland.

Among the alternative places where people may meet and bring women would be that of bars. Mixing alcohol with music and some pleasantries along the way are a good mix of better things to come, even perhaps leading to a stage where they can be able get to know each other better. Part of this of course comes from enjoying the company of each other and this proves to be an advantage on the part of the guy. You see, one of the hardest parts of trying to gain the nod of women is providing them a good time and impressing them that they made the right decision in giving in to your company.

By all means, this is one hard thing to do if a man is not careful. The judgment phase, that of which is trying to win the woman’s nod is perhaps the most invigorating part that cannot promise anything frugal. It is an open battle field for them as they try to save face or obtain their trophy of trust from the apple of their eyes.

Women of course will not give in to easily. Men have to find out the funny bone of their intimate and romantic desires. The things that make them click as a whole are the most important aspect since women rarely have the time to waste time for men who pursue them without purpose. Flings may be possible but honestly, women today have become wiser. Time is an essential element in maturity and this can be seen once a woman shows that she is not playing around with men. Companionship is one thing but going towards the next level is something else.

Moreover, women value the effort and persistence. A woman will automatically not entertain the would-be suitors if they are not interested. With an open minded, most women would provide equal chances. If in the first try you are turned down, then perhaps it would be better not to pursue or expect more. The whole thing will become useless and moot.

These are the realities in love and relationships. Many would want to get intimate and take on life together even if there is not seen bond just yet. However, for most people wanting something serious, their road towards it will say it all. Persistence and sincerity will be tested and all of these can be seen sooner than they think.

Wine Gifts – The Perfect Present This Christmas

by: Louise Truswell

Not sure what to buy your friends or relatives this Christmas? Well, why not opt for a wine gift? It’s a definite crowd pleaser, looks classy and can be bought from the comfort of your armchair, so you simply can’t go wrong with it.

Buying wine gifts is easy. Just follow a few handy tips below and you’ll have your Christmas shopping sorted in no time.

The simplest piece of advice to remember is that sparkles always go down well. Whether you are buying for your Great Aunt or best mate, for a 50th wedding anniversary or 21st birthday, champagne is always well received. It looks elegant and tastes great.

If you are buying for a range of people and are not sure what to buy for who, you can generally expect that people over the age of 50 will prefer Old World wine, whilst people under the age of 50 are more likely to opt for New World wines.

When buying for your partner or loved one, the best option is to choose something that you are both going to enjoy. Go for a bottle you know you both will love or a mixed case of both of your favourites and you are bound to impress.

If you are looking to make an impact with your wine, why not go for a pre-packaged wine gift? Many wine retailers usually have a range of wine gifts available, which have been carefully prepared for that special occasion. And if you want to go the extra mile, always opt for a wooden gift box. They are a great way of making a bottle of wine look even more perfect, for relatively little extra cost.

Always remember to personalise your gifts with a message. Whether you’ve opted for a case of wine or something from the gift selection, a short message will make it meaningful for the lucky recipient.

For comfort and stress-free shopping, make sure you buy online. Buying from an online wine retailer will mean that you can complete your gift shopping in the cosy surroundings of your own home without the hustle and bustle of supermarket trolleys, Christmas Shoppers and pushy sales assistants. What’s more, unlike traditional retailers, online retailers aren’t restricted by space and don’t have so many hefty overheads, so it means that they can offer a wider range of products at lower prices.

Finally, make sure your buy early, particularly if you are ordering online. Whilst online retailers will often promise to order within a few days, there’s nothing worse than a present arriving late. Make sure you don’t disappoint and place your order with a couple of extra days notice, particularly at Christmas, which is always a busy time.

5 Steps to Guilt-Free Dining Out

by: Susan Collmorgen

Perhaps dining out is something you and your family really enjoy doing. After all, it’s a great way to spend quality time together and engage in conversation, and you don’t have to be the one to cook the meal or clean up the mess. But can you really enjoy dining out together and still maintain a healthy lifestyle? The answer may surprise you.

When done in moderation, dining out can still fit in with a healthy family lifestyle. So long as you make wise food choices and keep nutritional value in mind, you can enjoy your dining experiences without the guilt. The following are five steps to guilt-free dining:

Step 1.) Skip the appetizers.

Most restaurant appetizers are high in fat and calories. Rich chip dips, mozzarella sticks, potato skins, and Buffalo wings are tempting, but they should be avoided if you wish to feel good about your food selections afterwards. Keep in mind that at many restaurants, the main course will automatically come with bread, salad, soup, or in the case of a Mexican restaurant, chips and salsa. If you simply must order an appetizer, limit it to one to share with everyone at the table.

Step 2.) Choose your entree carefully.

When it comes to your main dish, pay attention to the listed ingredients. Avoid items with cream sauces or high-fat meats. Pass on fried side items like French fries and onion rings as frying adds additional fat. Consider steamed vegetables or rice as a side dish, or ask for the side items to be left off completely.

Step 3.) Control your portions.

I cannot stress this enough. Whether dining out or eating at home, portion control is perhaps the most important factor to consider when trying to maintain healthy eating habits. When you can, order from the lunch menu since the portions are generally smaller. Also consider asking for a to-go box when placing your order so you can split your meal immediately and avoid the temptation of over indulging. This also gives you a second meal later. Another option would be to split an entrée with your spouse or child.

Step 4.) Avoid alcoholic beverages.

A mixed beverage or beer with your meal may be tempting, but try to limit alcoholic beverages to special occasions. Alcohol is very high in empty calories.

Step 5.) Say no to desserts.

Desserts may be hard to resist, but you’ll thank yourself for doing so. Not only are they very high in calories; they’re generally just as high in fat. If you’re really craving a dessert, make it a point to split one dessert with someone else. That way you’ll only take in half the fat and calories. Of course, on special occasions, it’s alright to cheat a little. Just don’t make it a habit.

7 Tips To Get Rid Of A Wine Hangover

by: Jack Wells

How about teaming up your favorite meal with the best of wine this weekend? It sounds a great idea but don’t you think you may overindulge? Well, you may not mind this but what about the hangover you have to face, the other morning. How about spending you entire Sunday afternoon sitting inside the bathroom, with one hand on your forehead and the other on your stomach? Scary isn’t it?

Hey, hold on! I am not trying to scare the life out of you. I am just showing you the real picture of a hangover that you may require to face the following day after you have overindulged in your favorite wine.

This sounds really bad but don’t worry, there are many tips you can follow in order to get rid of a wine hangover. All you need to do is to follow the instructions given below:

a) Water, water and water:

Water is the key to get over the wine hangover. Drink plenty of water. Alcohol has a tendency to dehydrate your body. This is the main reason that most people end up having a lot of liquids in the form of plain water, lemon water, coffee and black tea without having pee for a single time. If you want to stay away from the temptation of overindulging in wine, the best way is to have a glass of water for each glass of wine you desire to have. Wine is a great source of water, but the presence of water tends to produce adverse effects on the body. Hence, it is necessary to keep hydrating your body with water.

b) Binge in:

Sounds great! Believe me, it really works. Eat your favorite meal or some snacks an hour before a drink. This will save you from getting involved into overindulge and the hangover. The meal or snack should include bread or pasta.

c) No prescription drugs:

So you want to save money! It’s a good idea but you should not save money via mixing your glass of wine with prescription drugs for more effects. This will only damage your body. Drink less if you really want to save money.

d) Milk:

Drink a glass of milk prior to consuming wine. This will provide a protection coat to your stomach and helps you absorb the alcohol in the wine.

e) No salt:

Salt will prove dangerous as it tends to maximize the process of dehydration. You should stay away from salt when having margarita...

f) An aspirin:

An aspirin will help you to remove headache. Avoid taking ibuprofen or paracetamol. These medicines usually have adverse effects on the body especially after the consumption of wine.

g) Avoid dark drinks:

The major hangover you experience may be due to combining red wine with whiskey. You should mix whiskey with soda or water. Avoid mixing it with cola and tonic.

Hangover is due to over indulgence in wine. Try to stay away from it. Follow the instructions mentioned above you would feel better after a wine party with your friends.

Low Cholesterol Pizza Recipes? You're Kidding!

by: Bretislav Slansky

That is the reaction for most people. But as soon as you try these simple low cholesterol pizza recipes, you'll know it's true.

Personally I love pizza. I can't live without the smell of freshly baked, cheesy tasting pizza with bunch of veggies or other stuff.

Every time I watch movie at home, I have to bake a pizza. Otherwise I do not enjoy myself watching the movie. Which is about once a week.

I think that having pizza once a week is not a bad thing.

If you do not overeat of course. And if you know how to cook low fat low cholesterol pizza, you have nothing to be ashamed for.

Ok, let's stop talking, put on some chef’s uniform and presto; you have just become healthy pizza chef.

Healthy Pizza Recipe Preparation:

When trying to prepare healthy pizza, start with a fat-free pizza dough or crust. I love to prepare pizza out of pita bread. For all pizza, use substitution like fat-free cheese, fat free tomato sauce, crushed red pepper or garlic (which has cholesterol lowering properties).

Just be creative. Follow the samples of low cholesterol pizza recipes below and let your imagination create something great.

Here are samples of my favorite pizza recipes:

Breakfast Pizza

You can just scramble some egg whites and put it on the top of your pitta bread or fat-free pizza crust. If you can find whole-wheat one, you are better off.

Top it with:

-smoked turkey "bacon"
-grated fat-free cheddar cheese
-diced green onions

Bake or broil your pizza until cheese melts. Cool down for a 5 minutes and enjoy.

Vegetable Pizza

Start with a whole-wheat crust. Top it with these:

-fat free mozzarella cheese, shredded
-sliced mushrooms
-diced red and greed peppers
-diced onions

Again bake it as an example above. Until cheese is melted.


Hummus Pizza

On top of your crust spread fat free hummus and top with:

-diced tomatoes
-chopped parsley
-ground cumin

Bake or broil until heated through. About 10 minutes on 350 degrees F.

Like I said before, experiment with these samples and you can create your own low cholesterol low fat pizza.

Hope you will get a lot of good ideas on how to make great tasting, yet healthier pizza.

And remember, you can use pita bread, all vegetables on your pizza. You can also cut skinless chicken breasts on stripes, grill it using something like George Freeman Grill and add that on top of your pizza.

Use your imagination!

Visit Brett Slansky's web site for more low cholesterol recipes.

How To Make Cappuccino In 3 Simple Steps!

by: Ebenezer Heng

Consider this the basic in the how to make cappuccino series. This article would highlight the steps to make cappuccino like the baristas you see in Starbucks and most coffee shops...

Before moving on to the 3 simple steps to make the cappuccino, do you know what is cappuccino? The key to understanding this, would be invaluable to learn how to make it. Knowing the components of a cappuccino enables you to visualize the procedures later.

Cappuccino is actually an espresso filled with 2 types of heated milk, i.e the steamed milk and the frothed milk. And, it is the frothed milk that gives cappuccino that classic look and it is also the "so difficult " frothing that lead world coffee bodies in using the froth to evaluate the skills of baristas.

The proportion of cappuccino is 1/3 espresso, 1/3 heated milk and 1/3 frothed milk. We would not touch on espresso in this article, as it warrants one entire article on how to get a good espresso, here we would highlight the other 2 components, the steamed and frothed milk, to better your learning in how to make cappuccino.

You would get steamed milk when the heat source (usually the steam wand) is injected into the milk, slightly below boiling point. As the injection of hot air is controlled to a minimal, there would not be any change in the milk volume except for a small amount of micro bubbles or froth.

To get more bubbles, i.e. to get frothed milk, place the steam wand at the surface of the milk, and this would creates more of the micro bubbles, remove the steam wand, when the froth has the look and feel of whipped cream.

Now, let's learn how to make cappuccino in 3 simple steps:

i. when using an espresso machine, while waiting for the espresso to brew, steam and froth the milk in a frothing pitcher. Once done, set it aside for approximately 30 seconds.

This is to allow the milk densities to separate. To speed up the process, you can try what Starbucks or most coffee shops' baristas are doing -by knocking the frothing pitcher on the table, this would separate the steam from the froth milk.

ii. Then, take a large spoon to keep the milk foam as you pour out the steam milk. As you pour the steam milk into a mug, do it slowly to prevent breaking the froth, and stop when you reaches 1/3 of the mug.

With the 1/3 steam milk done, spooned up the froth milk and put it on top of the steamed milk, this foamed milk should take up another 1/3 of the mug.

iii. For the last 1/3 of the mug, pour in the espresso down the middle of this foamy sculpture. And there you have it, a foamy cappuccino!

Not that complicated right? No need to ask how to make cappuccino like that Starbucks baristas anymore right? You can do it with 3 simple steps!:)