Tag: food

Pueblos del Maíz: Celebrating the Flavors of Corn and Culture

Pearl to host UNESCO Chefs for Pueblos del Maíz. Chef Jaime Gonzalez of Carriqui. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

San Antonio has blossomed into a vibrant culinary hub, blending rich cultural influences and innovative gastronomy. Its diverse food scene, rooted in Tex-Mex and traditional Southern flavors, showcases local ingredients and culinary traditions. The city has attracted renowned chefs and restaurants, earning accolades in national food rankings. Events like the San Antonio Restaurant Week and the annual Fiesta highlight local talent and foster a strong sense of community. The city’s burgeoning food markets, food trucks, and artisan producers further enrich its culinary landscape, making San Antonio a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful experiences.

The culinary scene is active throughout the year, with various locations hosting events to highlight the chefs and cuisine that makes San Antonio shine. One of these is the Pearl downtown and this week they are hosting Pueblos del Maíz events.

Pearl is proud to host Pueblos del Maíz events this week on October 10-11, 2024. This celebration highlights San Antonio’s role as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and showcases the importance of maíz (corn) in global culinary traditions. San Antonio UNESCO Chef Ambassadors, including Chef Jaime Gonzalez of Carriqui, will showcase the diverse flavors of maíz by preparing small bites inspired by UTSA’s Special Collections cookbooks. (Pearl, 2024)

Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Ticketed event at Carriqui

The event kicks off on October 10 with an exclusive ticketed dinner at Carriqui from 6p.m. to 8p.m. This reception style experience will also feature maíz inspired signature cocktails and tastings of maíz derived spirits prepared by UNESCO Chef Ambassadors. Tickets are $70 per person and available online.

Friday, October 11, 2024 – Free Event at Pearl Park

On October 11, the celebration expands to a free community event at Pearl Park from 5:30p.m. to 9:30p.m. Visitors can enjoy cooking demonstrations by UNESCO Chef Ambassadors from Bergamo, Italy; Tucson, Arizona; Merida, Mexico; and San Antonio, Texas. The event will also feature live music, art installations, and a variety of food and beverage vendors showcasing maíz-inspired creations.

Carriqui
239 E Grayson St
San Antonio, TX 78215

Nourish Your Body: ‘The Good Energy Cookbook’ Inspires Wellness

‘The Good Energy Cookbook’ is a comprehensive guide to transforming your life and maximizing your metabolism. Photo: Amazon.

Cookbooks that are focused on healthy eating empower individuals to make nutritious choices without sacrificing flavor. They often feature fresh, whole ingredients, offering a variety of recipes that cater to different dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. These cookbooks emphasize balance, portion control, and mindful cooking techniques, making healthy meals accessible and enjoyable. With vibrant photographs and practical tips, they inspire readers to explore new ingredients and cooking methods. From wholesome breakfast options to satisfying dinners, these cookbooks not only promote better health but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for nourishing food, helping readers create delicious, guilt-free dishes every day.

Amanda Holsen is a nutrition enthusiast and dedicated researcher specializing in metabolic health and dietary science. With a background in health coaching and a deep understanding of metabolic principles, Holsen combines scientific insights with practical strategies to promote optimal well-being. In her latest book, “The Good Energy Cookbook: Achieve Lasting Weight Loss and Power Up Your Metabolism with Health-Boosting Recipes inspired by Dr. Casey Means,” Holsen offers a comprehensive exploration of metabolic diet principles, drawing on her extensive research and personal insights into effective nutrition strategies. (Amazon, 2024)

Review:
“The Good Energy Cookbook” is a refreshing addition to the world of healthy cooking. This vibrant collection not only prioritizes nutritious ingredients but also emphasizes the concept of “good energy” in food choices, making it a compelling read for health enthusiasts and culinary novices alike.

In the Introduction, Holsen explains what metabolic health is and the key components, including Blood Sugar Regulation, Lipid Metabolism, Cellular Energy Production, Inflammation and Metabolic Health, and Hormonal Balance. She also explains the impact of poor metabolic health, the factors that influence it, and the 5 biomarkers that damage our health.

The author combines her passion for holistic wellness with practical cooking advice, sharing recipes that cater to a variety of dietary preferences. From energizing breakfast items like Avocado & Spinach Smoothie Bowl to wholesome dinner options like Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry with Tofu, the cookbook balances flavor and health seamlessly.

Chapters include:
Introduction
Power Up Your Morning: Energizing Breakfasts
Midday Boost: Wholesome Lunches for Lasting Energy
End the Day Right: Satisfying Dinners for Restoration
Snack Smart: Guilt-Free Bites for Anytime Cravings
Sweet but Smart: Metabolic-Friendly Desserts
Ready, Set, Go: Meal Prep for Busy Days
Meal Plan
Conclusion

Highlights:
Introduction: The Allies of Health where the author of defines the types of foods that “optimize bodily functions, reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar, and support overall wellness.” She explains what they are and how to add them to our daily meals.
Introduction: Tune In: Trusting Your Body’s Signals because it helps explain physical vs emotional hunger and gives tips help your body understand fullness and hunger, such as slowing down while eating and practicing mindful eating, which basically means paying attention to your food without any distractions like television or phones.

I especially like Holsen’s approachable style. Her friendly, encouraging tone invites readers into the kitchen, making the preparation of wholesome meals feel accessible and enjoyable. Beautifully photographed, each page is a feast for the eyes, showcasing the colorful, nutrient-rich meals that inspire creativity. I can’t wait to make the Matcha Bites with Coconut & Chocolate.

Overall, “The Good Energy Cookbook” is more than just a recipe book; it’s a guide to fostering a positive relationship with food. Holsen’s philosophy encourages readers to nourish their bodies while enjoying the process, making it a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their culinary repertoire.

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The Ultimate Guide to National Coffee Day Deals: Where to Score the Best Brews

Whataburger brews up a storm on National Coffee Day with a fresh batch of free coffee.

National Coffee Day, celebrated on September 29, honors one of the world’s favorite beverages. This day highlights coffee’s rich history and cultural significance. Coffee enthusiasts celebrate by indulging in their favorite brews, discovering new flavors, or exploring local coffee shops. Many businesses offer special promotions, such as free cups or discounts, inviting everyone to partake in the caffeinated joy. Beyond just a drink, coffee fosters community and conversation, making it the perfect reason to connect with friends and loved ones over a warm cup. Cheers to coffee!

To mark the occasion, Whataburger and Krak Boba in California have special deals for their loyal customers. See information below for details on each.

Whataburger

SAN ANTONIO — Calling all coffee connoisseurs and those jonesin’ for java, Whataburger is brewing up a storm for National Coffee Day. From daybreak to dusk on Sunday September 29, 6a.m. to 6p.m., every Guest gets to sip on a free 16-ounce Iced Coffee or a cozy 12-ounce Hot Coffee – no strings attached, no purchase necessary. Just pure caffeinated bliss at any of the 1,050+ Whataburger’s across 16 states. (Whataburger, 2024)

Dive into the bold world of Whataburger’s Iced Coffee, crafted with a premium blend of 100% Arabica beans from Colombia, Honduras and Nicaragua. It’s got that dark-roasted aroma that’ll wake up your senses and a vibrant finish with nutty, smoky, toasted vibes. You can make it yours by jazzing it up with Vanilla, Caramel or Mocha flavors. Or keep it old-school and sip on a hot cup of black coffee to kick start your day. Whether you’re chillin’ in a late summer heatwave or cozying up in autumn’s embrace, Whataburger’s got your back with a coffee “just like you like it.”

To lock in your freebie on September 29, visit a nearby Whataburger dining room, breeze through the drive-thru, or get techy with it online or the Whataburger App for curbside pickup or delivery. (Heads up, this deal’s not available on third-party delivery apps.)

If you’re not already in the Whataburger Rewards fam, download the app, sign up, and start racking up those perks. Who doesn’t love a good freebie with their coffee, right?

Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready to celebrate National Coffee Day with Whataburger – where every day is a good day for a great cup of joe. 

Krak Boba

Krak Boba, the iconic boba brand out of Southern California, is celebrating National Coffee Day on Sunday, September 29, with an exclusive buy one, get one free deal for their handcrafted coffee drinks. With 15 locations across the United States, this is the perfect chance for guests to grab a friend and head to their nearest Krak Boba to score two coffee creations for the price of one. (Innovision Marketing Group, 2024) 

Krak Boba offers an array of unique coffee drinks tailored to each guest’s personal taste. On National Coffee Day, guests can indulge in flavored coffee drinks like Taro Coffee, Matcha Coffee and Crème Brûlée Coffee, each featuring Krak Boba’s signature coffee topped with taro, matcha or crème brûlée. For those seeking a classic experience, there is Krak Coffee — a strong, aromatic coffee with a nutty and rich finish — or the Frap Star, which combines the signature coffee blended with caramel for a truly delectable drink. 

Krak Boba is all about pushing the boundaries of what boba can be, inspiring customers to ‘Krak Into It’ and ‘Slay the Day’ with every sip. This National Coffee Day, Krak Boba invites guests to head to their nearest location and gear up for whatever life brings them with a delicious, caffeinated drink. At Krak Boba, all drinks are handcrafted and taste-tested to perfection before making it to the menu.

This offer is valid only for Krak Circle Loyalty members on 9/29/24 for in-app and in-store purchases. There is a limit of four drinks purchased with four free drinks per transaction. For more information about Krak Boba, including store locations and hours, visit Krak Boba or follow on Instagram. 

Photo: Krak Boba, used with permission.

Taco Cabana Announces New Meal Deals and Limited Time Menu Items

Due to popular demand, Taco Cabana is bringing back fan-favorite Meal Deals. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX Tex-Mex innovator, Taco Cabana (TC), is thrilled to announce several new menu items hitting stores this fall, plus the highly-anticipated return of its crowd-favorite Meal Deals starting at just $4.99. All new menu items, including the Meal Deals, will be available in stores starting Wednesday, September 25, 2024. (Taco Cabana, 2024)

Taco Cabana will be adding several all-new delectable Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken dishes to the menu for a limited time only. Whether guests are team tacos or team quesadillas, this tangy twist on grilled chicken has something for everyone. The Street Tacos are served on three street corn tortillas, topped with cilantro and onion, and paired with fresh limes for an extra citrusy kick—all for just $5.49. Guests can also enjoy a Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Soft Taco for $3.99 or savor the Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Quesadillas, available in a small portion for $6.79 or a large portion for $9.99.

Guests can satisfy their sweet tooth with a spicy-sweet twist. Introducing the new Tajín Mango Fried Pie—a crispy golden delight filled with juicy mango and a zesty Tajín kick, priced at only $1.49. It’s the perfect way to end a meal on a high note.

TC’s latest menu is designed with its guests in mind, offering exceptional value without compromising on taste or quality. To honor that commitment, Taco Cabana is bringing back Meal Deals starting at $4.99.

New offerings include:

  • The Rise and Grind, which includes two breakfast tacos, a crispy golden hashbrown and a freshly brewed coffee or 20oz drink for $4.99. Breakfast taco options include Chorizo & Egg, Bean & Cheese or Potato & Egg. The Rise and Grind Meal Deal is available during breakfast hours only (6a.m. to 10:30a.m. Monday-Friday and 6a.m. to 1p.m on Saturdays and Sundays). 
  • The Crunch & Quench, which features a Double Crunch Pizza and a 20oz drink for $4.99. The Double Crunch Pizza comes with the guest’s choice of shredded chicken or ground beef, refried beans, jack and cheddar cheeses and chipotle ranch sandwiched between two crispy shells, then topped with more jack and cheddar cheeses, sour cream and pico de gallo. 
  • The Street Fighter, a three pack of Street Tacos, side of Mexican rice or refried beans and a 20oz drink starting at $6.49. Guests can choose from Chicken Fajita or Steak Fajita served on three street corn tortillas, topped with cilantro and onion and served with limes.
  • The O.G., a Taco Plate and 20oz drink for $8.49, featuring two fresh flour tortillas filled with the guest’s choice of ground beef or shredded chicken, jack and cheddar cheeses, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce, served with Mexican rice, refried beans, shredded lettuce, guacamole and two flour tortillas.

“Taco Cabana is committed to menu innovation and value for our guests. We want to continue to introduce fun new items like the Tajin Mango Fried Pies and the Chipotle Lime Chicken, but we also want to make sure our guests are getting the biggest bang for their buck, which is why we are proud to bring back a variety of Meal Deals for our customers. At Taco Cabana, we’re all about keeping things fresh—whether that’s with bold new flavors or unbeatable prices. Our goal is to create dishes that make your taste buds dance, without putting a dent in your wallet.” – Taco Cabana President Ulyses Camacho

Taco Cabana’s new menu items, including the Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken and Tajín Mango Fried Pies, are available for in-restaurant dining, drive-thru, online ordering for front counter or curbside pick-up, and through the MY TC!® App or online for mobile orders.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of September 17, 2024, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

Diversifying your plate: tips for introducing new foods to your diet

Woman in purple eating. Photo: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels, used with permission.

We often stick to the tried and tested when it comes to our dietary habits. However, opening up your taste buds to new flavors not only broadens your culinary horizons but gives you a range of health benefits. Here are five strategies to break the monotony and introduce new foods to your diet effectively.

Start Small: Embrace Baby Steps

Introducing new foods into your diet can feel like a culinary adventure. To make this journey smooth and enjoyable, it’s essential to start with small servings. Our palate sometimes needs time to adjust to unfamiliar flavors and small portions can make this adjustment period more manageable.

Imagine you’ve stumbled across a tantalizing lamb burgers recipe, and you’re eager to give it a try. Go all-in and prepare a full meal around this new dish; or you could consider starting with just a mini burger or two, pairing them with familiar side dishes. This step-by-step approach allows your taste buds to familiarize themselves with the new flavors gradually, enhancing your chances of developing a liking for the new food.

Pair With Favorites: Use The Trojan Horse Method

Pairing new foods with your all-time favorites can be a smart way to experiment. This technique not only enhances the flavor profile of your dishes but also makes the unfamiliar, more familiar.

You might love your grilled chicken and use it regularly in your salads. So, when introducing a new vegetable like kale, pair it with your grilled chicken salad. The familiar taste of chicken can help mask the bitterness of kale, aiding your taste buds to get accustomed to it.

Explore Cultural Dishes: The World Is Your Oyster

Every culture has a unique culinary repertoire that can open a whole new world of flavors. Exploring international cuisines not only widens your food choices but also exposes you to a range of nutritious options.

Japanese cuisine, for example, is known for its use of seafood and fermented foods that are excellent for gut health. On the other hand, Mediterranean cuisine utilizes a plethora of fresh vegetables, legumes, and olive oil, which are renowned for heart health. So why not try a traditional Greek moussaka or an Indian lentil curry and bring the world to your kitchen?

Engage Your Senses: Make Eating A Mindful Activity

Mindful eating is a powerful strategy to accept new foods. Paying attention to the colors, smells, and textures of your food can enhance your overall eating experience.

Think of it as a sensory exploration. Say, for a new fruit like dragon fruit, observe its vibrant color, feel its leathery skin, smell its fresh aroma, and then take a bite. This sensory engagement can make the unfamiliar food more appealing and enjoyable.

Be Patient: Accept That It’s A Process

The journey of diversifying your plate is a gradual process. It’s completely natural to not like a new food the first time you try it. Research suggests it may take up to 15 times of trying a new food before you develop a liking for it. So, don’t give up on the first try.

Remember, every step you take towards introducing new foods to your diet is a victory. And over time, your palate will grow to appreciate the variety, leading to a more nourishing and satisfying eating experience.

To sum it up, introducing new foods to your diet doesn’t need to be a daunting task. By following these tips, you can gradually expand your culinary landscape, making your meals not just healthier, but also more interesting and enjoyable.

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Five activities that can bring your life joy

Woman forming heart with hands. Photo: Unsplash

Life is often so busy. We have many responsibilities and commitments that it’s so easy to forget to live. After all, there are so many things in our lives that can bring us joy and we definitely deserve to indulge in them regularly. Yet, either we just can’t find the time or them or we don’t always really know what to turn to. If you’ve found yourself in a rut, you may want a little inspiration. So here are five things that you should always look to fill your life with for more joy.

1. Books
First of all, we have books. When you’re a bookworm and avid reader, books are always going to bring you joy. You’re going to find that you’re able to really immerse yourself into a relaxing environment when you read. It’s okay to always want to prioritize reading time. Filling your life with books and stories can be a simple way to make sure that your life feels fulfilling.

2. Food
It’s safe to say that food always brings us joy. When you’re eating your favorite meals, life can feel good. And if you’re a foodie, taking the time out to go to the right restaurants and trying new dishes is always going to be fun for you. But you can also do the same by cooking things up at home too. Maybe it’s an authentic goulash or your favorite pasta dish – another way, cooking can always make you happy. And it’s certainly something to enjoy the results of too.

3. Movies
If you love cinema, then turning to the right movies is always a good idea. You’re likely to find that filling up your time with amazing stories, documentaries, and even things like shows and theater could spark so much joy in your life. Cinema is art, just as much as other forms. So allowing yourself to switch off and enjoy it can be such a great move for you.

4. Nature
Then we have nature. Being in nature is something that can bring so much happiness into our lives without us even knowing it. Nature is calming. When we’re outdoors, we can exercise, move, enjoy sunlight, and many other things that help our health. Whether you like to walk, practice yoga in the garden, read in the sunshine, or anything else, being in nature can be great for you.

5. Travel
Finally, there’s also travel. You may find that getting out and about in the world is always going to bring you a lot of joy. There’s a wealth of experiences to be had when you travel. From relaxing and enjoying the culture, to getting out into nature and eating more food (two of our joy-filled things), you can do so much when you travel. If you’re yet to book your next trip, go ahead and do it. After all, our lives should be filled with experiences we’ll never forget.

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Mardi Gras Night at Jazz,TX

jazzsign
This Fat Tuesday, February 28, Jazz, TX will be having its first Mardi Gras celebration. Photo: Jazz, TX, used with permission.

Jazz, TX, the Pearl’s upscale jazz venue, is hosting its first Mardi Gras celebration on Fat Tuesday, February 28, 2017. There will be a special menu created by locally renowned guest chef John Russ previously from Luke and a special performance by Kyle Keener, Curtis Calderon and friends during happy hour from 5:30p.m. with no cover charge and Doc Watkins and friends from 8:30p.m. to 11:30p.m. with a $20 cover charge per guest. Guests will be able to enjoy specialty drinks such as a twist on the popular Hurricane and New Orleans menu items. Tickets are available online. (Jazz, TX, 2017)

Mardi Gras menu:
Finger-licking Good Y’all – marinated crab claws, broiled with parmesan
La Grande Vie – Gulf shrimp and celery root remoulade
Oysters en Brochette – wrapped in bacon, on buttered toast
Red Beans and Rice – fried quail tots, crystal
Crispy Rice Jambalaya – pulled pork, andouille, rice crispies
Popcorn Shrimp Po’ Boys – dressed or with buttered bread and pickles
King Cake – no babies

Jazz, TX
312 Pearl Pkwy, Building 6 Suite 6001
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 332-938