Cross-posted from Calgary is Awesome.

Añejo and Xocolat are bringing high-end Mexican cuisine to Calgary, but what about the hole-in-the-wall taqueria? El Charrito on Edmonton Trail has that covered. Continue reading →

Cross-posted from Calgary is Awesome.

Helloooo from Hong Kong! B. and I were supposed to make our way to the Philippines today, but unfortunately B. had to fly back home for a family emergency and I’m here spending a little more time with my family.

The Philippines is probably the least well-travelled South Asian country. Even guidebooks boast of pristine, white beaches that have yet to be discovered by tourists. However, it is becoming a more popular destination thanks to growing Filipino populations in the West, and the promise of amazing diving (if you’re into that) and the aforementioned quiet beaches.

Since food is a huge priority for us when we’re travelling, B. and I tried to do a bit of research in Calgary before we left. Enter Pacific Hut. Continue reading →

I love lentils.

…and I’m not just saying this because it’s Canadian Lentils’ Love Your Lentils month!

Lentils are nutrition powerhouses. Most people know them as a vegetarian source of protein, but they’re also rich in fibre, folate, iron, potassium, magnesium and manganese, just to name a few.

They’re great from a culinary standpoint as well. Unlike other dried legumes, lentils do not require soaking before cooking, perfect for poor planners like me, especially when you’re looking for some protein to round out a meal.

Green, brown and black beluga lentils can add texture to salad, soups, stews and other side dishes, while red lentils (which are actually green and brown lentils with the outer “skin” removed) cook down into a neutral-tasting mush, meaning that they readily take on the warm spices in daal or can be thrown into soups, stews, or even pureed into bread and cookie batters for a nutrition boost.

Of course, the fact that 97% of all lentils in Canada are grown in neighbouring Saskatchewan means they’re a local choice! Continue reading →

Cross-posted from Calgary is Awesome.

Happy Mother’s Day! Where are you taking your mom to brunch today? For some reason, Mama T associates the word “brunch” with “buffet”, so I’ve taken her to Belgo a couple times now to avoid the hotel buffet crowds (and prices!) Mama T is out of town, so I’ll be celebrating with her in Hong Kong next week, but if you’d like to do something a little less traditional with your mom, give Mango Shiva‘s brunch a try. Continue reading →

Finally! It’s warm enough to dine al fresco again! I’m typing this to you from my “other office” (aka a lounge chair on my deck). B. and I loved spending time out here last summer, whether it was working away on our laptops (powered by a giant orange extension cord) or relaxing with some snacks and a cider.

Continue reading →