Tag: Recipes

Halloween and Día de los Muertos Treats Around San Antonio

Celebrate the spooky season with Twang’s Zombie Fog Piña Colada Recipe. Photo: Twang + Thirsty Bartenders, used with permission.

🎃 Seasonal Bites & Sips in San Antonio: A Celebration of Flavor and Tradition

As the spooky season sweeps through San Antonio, local favorites are serving up treats that are as festive as they are flavorful. From Halloween-inspired pastries to Día de los Muertos breads and hauntingly good cocktails, here’s what’s new and not to miss this fall.

🕸️ Bakery Lorraine’s Halloween Pastry Collection

Available October 25–31 (while supplies last)

Bakery Lorraine is bringing a playful twist to Halloween with a lineup of handcrafted pastries that blend festive fun with refined craftsmanship. (Bakery Lorraine, 2025)

👻 Currently Available In-Store

  • Candy Corn Macaron – A tri-colored delight in white, orange, and yellow, filled with vanilla honey buttercream.

🎃 Available Starting October 25

  • Pumpkin Cream Puff – A charming pumpkin-shaped choux pastry filled with smooth pumpkin diplomat cream and decorated like a jack-o-lantern.
  • Passion Fruit Bat Tart – Almond sablée tart with tangy passion fruit curd, topped with chocolate bats and toasted marshmallow cream.
  • Black Cat Mousse – Cat-themed milk chocolate mousse with a raspberry center on a chocolate shortbread base.
  • Ghost Moon Pie – Graham cracker sandwich cookies with house-made marshmallow, dipped in white chocolate and finished with spooky green eyes.
Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

💀 Twang’s “Zombie Fog” Piña Colada

Available nationwide & in select stores

Take your Halloween gatherings to the next level with Twang, the San Antonio-based, Latino-founded brand known for its bold, Latin-inspired drink rimmers and seasonings. (Twang, 2025)

In collaboration with Thirsty Bartenders, Twang has crafted a hauntingly delicious cocktail:

🍹 Zombie Fog Piña Colada Recipe

Ingredients:

  • Twang Black Flake Salt
  • 1½ oz rum
  • 1½ oz pineapple juice
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • ¼ oz blue curaçao
  • ¾ oz coconut cream
  • Garnish: dehydrated lime wheel

Instructions:

  1. Rim a chilled glass with Twang Black Flake Salt.
  2. Shake all ingredients with ice until chilled and frothy.
  3. Strain into the prepared glass with ice.
  4. Garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve it in a skull glass or add dry ice for a foggy, otherworldly vibe!

🌼 La Panadería’s Totomoxtle Pan de Muerto

Available October 24–November 2 (in-store only)

In honor of Día de los Muertos, La Panadería presents a stunning new version of its beloved Pan de Muerto, crafted with handmade Totomoxtle Ash (burned corn husks). (La Panadería, 2025)

🌽 A Blend of Tradition and Artistry

  • Totomoxtle (Nahuatl for “corn husk”) is hand-burned to create a natural ash that gives the bread its deep black hue symbolizing mourning and spiritual cleansing.
  • Filled with slow-cooked sweet potato, the bread offers a naturally vibrant orange contrast and subtle sweetness, free from artificial dyes.
  • The ash adds only a hint of smokiness, letting the bread’s tender crumb and comforting aroma shine.

“With the passion and creativity with which we make our bread, La Panadería honors and welcomes our deceased with much love and respect…” — Azucena Nuño, Pastry Manager

“Día de los Muertos is a centerpiece of our Cultura… The Ofrenda always gives me the light to continue my journey.” — José Cáceres, Co-Founder

🍂 Celebrate the Season in Style

Whether you’re sipping spooky cocktails, sharing sweet treats, or honoring loved ones through tradition, San Antonio’s bakeries and makers are turning October into a feast for the senses.

Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Summer Send-Off: Splash & Savor at InterContinental + Tacos On The Street Grand Opening

End summer with a splash at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk. Photo: InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, used with permission.

Savor the End of Summer in San Antonio: Pool Parties & Taco Openings

As summer winds down, San Antonio is closing the season with food, music, and sunshine. From a rooftop pool party to the grand opening of a beloved Mexican taco spot, here’s what’s happening this weekend:

🌞 Splash & Savor Pool Party at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk

There’s no better way to wrap up summer than with a dip at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk’s Splash and Savor Pool Party on Saturday, September 6. (InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, 2025)

Guests can soak up the sun, enjoy savory bites, and take in rooftop views before the summer heat fades.

Event highlights include:

  • Exclusive rooftop pool access
  • Three chef-crafted tacos (chicken or beef)
  • One complimentary adult beverage (beer, wine, or margarita on tap)
  • Raffle entry for brunch for two at Cavalier, the hotel’s signature American Brasserie
  • DJ Tone spinning live from Noon to 5p.m.

🎟️ Tickets are $50 per person and are available now through OpenTable. Space is limited!

🌮 Tacos On The Street: Now Open in San Antonio

San Antonio food lovers have another reason to celebrate! Tacos On The Street, the beloved Mexican eatery famous for its street-style carne asada, has officially opened its first U.S. location today, September 4, 2025. (Tacos On The Street, 2025)

The restaurant keeps it simple but delicious with a menu featuring:

  • Tacos
  • Tostadas
  • Quesadillas

Each dish is made with thinly shaved, high-quality beef, grilled over blazing charcoal, and finished with a rich beef glaze for bold flavor and crispy edges.

Opening Day Special:
To celebrate 32 years in business, Tacos On The Street is offering its combo meal (3 carne asada tacos + Jarritos) — normally $15.50 — for just $3.20 today only, dine-in only.

📍 Find them at:
22026 US Highway 281 N, Suite #101
San Antonio, TX 78259

Photo: Tacos On The Street, used with permission

✨ Whether you’re sipping margaritas poolside or biting into authentic carne asada tacos, San Antonio has plenty to savor this week.

From Puerto Vallarta to San Antonio: Tacos On The Street Makes Its U.S. Debut

Artist interior rendering of Tacos On The Street, coming soon to San Antonio. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Tacos On The Street Brings Puerto Vallarta Flavor to San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Beloved Mexican eatery Tacos On The Street, known for its authentic street-style carne asada, is making its U.S. debut this August with a new flagship location on the northeast side of San Antonio. The restaurant will open at 22026 US Highway 281 N, Suite #101, with an official opening date to be announced soon. (Tacos On The Street, 2025)

Founded as a humble taco stand in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 1993, Tacos On The Street has grown into a cherished culinary destination with one guiding principle: do one thing, and do it exceptionally well—carne asada. Now, it’s bringing its bold flavors and rich cultural heritage north to the Alamo City, where it will also establish its U.S. headquarters.

“San Antonio felt like the natural place to begin our growth in the U.S.,” said Director of Marketing Natalia Bustamante. “It’s a city that lives and breathes flavor, family, and culture—and that’s exactly what defines us. This opening isn’t just a launch; it’s the beginning of a much bigger journey—with this city at the heart of it all.”

A Menu Rooted in Tradition

Every dish at Tacos On The Street—from mouth-watering tacos and cheesy quesadillas to crispy tostadas—is made using time-tested recipes passed down since day one. Guests can also enjoy refreshing margaritas, the signature Jamaica Mezcalita, and curated desserts featuring Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, making its San Antonio debut.

A Space That Tells a Story

The restaurant’s interior is a tribute to both its Mexican origins and its new San Antonio home. Designed by acclaimed creative Joel Mozersky (of Pullman Market and Mon Chou Chou), the space includes handcrafted ceramic elements from Guadalajara’s Cerámica Suro, a studio known for its collaborations with restaurants like Noma, Central, and Eleven Madison Park.

A custom mural by Don Mos, a muralist from Irapuato, fuses contemporary iconography with traditional Mexican symbolism. Under the creative direction of Guillermo Flores Pacheco of Orbeh Studio, the mural celebrates the shared spirit of Puerto Vallarta and San Antonio.

Thoughtful Partnerships, Soulful Service

Tacos On The Street has teamed up with like-minded brands including Jarritos, Twang, and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream to enhance the dining experience. The restaurant’s fast-casual model delivers warmth and hospitality rooted in Mexican tradition, paired with the efficiency and ease of Texan-American service.

Tacos On The Street will be open daily, with full hours and an exact opening date to be announced soon. This San Antonio flagship is just the beginning of a broader expansion—one that honors place, partnership, and purpose. Additional U.S. locations are in the works, with more details to follow.

Stay tuned—and come hungry.

Seafood Delight: Taco Cabana’s Shrimp Tacos Are Here for Lent

Taco Cabana announces new shrimp tacos for Lent season. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Taco Cabana is kicking off spring in Texas and Lent season with the addition of new Shrimp Tacos to the menu. Guests can take advantage of this new offering starting Wednesday, March 5, 2025 for a limited time only. Each taco features battered shrimp, fresh lettuce, tomato and a zesty chipotle ranch sauce all served in one of Taco Cabana’s beloved flour tortillas for just $3.99. (Taco Cabana, 2025)

“Lent is here, and we know many of our guests are looking for delicious meat-free options. That’s why we are excited to introduce our new Shrimp Taco – a crispy, golden, flavor-packed way to keep your Fridays (and every day) delicious,” said Taco Cabana President Ulyses Camacho. “These tacos feature panko-crusted shrimp, our smoky chipotle ranch, fresh toppings and freshly made tortillas for a bold and satisfying way to enjoy seafood.”

Taco Cabana is also continuing its commitment to providing delicious food for guests at an unbeatable price with its recently introduced $4.99 meal deals, including:

  • The Rise & Grind: Start your day off right with 2 Breakfast tacos, a hashbrown, and your choice of coffee or a small drink. Choose from our signature potato & egg, bean & cheese or chorizo & egg tacos.
  • Monster Breakfast Burrito Meal Deal: A delicious burrito loaded with chorizo, bacon, hashbrowns, beans, cheese, and chipotle ranch in every bite. Served with your choice of coffee or a small drink to fuel your morning. 
  • The Crunch & Quench: Get a fan favorite ground beef or shredded chicken Double Crunch Pizza. Served with a small drink to satisfy your cravings.
  • 7-Layer Burrito Meal Deal: All the layers of flavor you could want including rice, beans, lettuce, cheese, sour cream, tomato and guacamole, wrapped up in a flour tortilla and served with a small drink. It’s the perfect lunch on the go. 

This spring is also a great time to try Taco Cabana’s savory Carne Asada menu featuring:

  • Carne Asada Street Tacos: Three carne asada tacos on street corn tortillas topped with freshly chopped onions and cilantro.
  • Carne Asada Taco: Carne asada topped with fresh lettuce and tomato served on one of Taco Cabana’s fluffy flour tortillas.
  • Carne Asada Cabana Bowl: Carne asada served over a bed of rice, beans and shredded lettuce and topped with fresh pico de gallo, shredded cheese and sour cream in a crispy shell.
  • Carne Asada Loaded Fries: Crispy french fries topped with Taco Cabana’s signature queso, carne asada, guacamole, pico de gallo and sour cream.

Available Everywhere You Are: Dine in, drive thru, pick up curbside, or order through the MY TC!® App or online—however you choose, Taco Cabana is here to serve you. 

Founded in 1978, Taco Cabana is a Texas institution known for its Mexican-inspired flavors, freshly made tortillas, and vibrant dining experience. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a meal with friends, Taco Cabana is the go-to spot for bold flavors and unbeatable value. With 141 locations across Texas, we’re here to make every meal unforgettable.

National Margarita Day: Taco Cabana’s Big Red Margarita, Delicious Cocktail Recipes & Top Margaritas By State

Taco Cabana’s iconic margarita featuring Big Red. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

National Margarita Day, celebrated on February 22, is a beloved occasion for cocktail enthusiasts, particularly fans of the refreshing margarita. This vibrant holiday offers a chance to honor the iconic drink, typically made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, enjoyed in various styles from classic to frozen. For many, it’s a fun, festive day to gather with friends, explore different variations, and savor their favorite margarita concoctions. Bars and restaurants often offer special deals, making it a go-to event for those seeking to indulge in the tangy, citrusy goodness of one of the world’s most popular cocktails.

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With National Margarita Day around the corner, they are celebrating by revealing America’s favorite margaritas. By using Google Trends, they found the most sought after margaritas in each state.

Here are the top 5 margaritas:

  1. Skinny margaritas
  2. Classic margaritas
  3. Spicy margaritas
  4. White Christmas margaritas and virgin margaritas
  5. Mistletoe margaritas, pomegranate margaritas, and frozen margaritas

See the full study here, along with details on which margarita each state prefers and a fun infographic.

If you’re a fan of Taco Cabana, margaritas, and Big Red in Texas, Taco Cabana (TC) is excited to announce the return of its Margarita featuring Big Red just in time to celebrate National Margarita Day (February 22). The margarita will be a limited-time offering that blends two Texas favorites: Taco Cabana’s classic margaritas and Big Red’s iconic soda. (Taco Cabana, 2025)

In collaboration with the team at Keurig Dr Pepper, Taco Cabana has crafted a one-of-a-kind, innovative experience to give margarita lovers a delicious new twist on the classic margarita. Guests can purchase this offering in the following sizes:

  • Single Serving – Perfect for a quick, refreshing drink.
  • Margarita Yard – For those who want to indulge in the ultimate margarita experience.

Taco Cabana’s Margarita featuring Big Red will be available starting Friday, February 21 just ahead of the holiday for a limited time only. Guests must be 21+ to purchase. Margaritas must be purchased alongside a food item at Taco Cabana.

Menu items are available for in-restaurant dining, drive-thru, online ordering for front counter or curbside pick-up, and through the MY TC!® App or TacoCabana.com for mobile orders..

National Margarita Day: Saturday, February 22, 2025
*Available starting February 21 just ahead of the holiday
**Available for a limited time only

If you prefer to make them at home, here are some recipes from Cantera Negra Tequila, including a cult classic, winter twist and traditional margarita. Cantera Negra is additive-free and celebrity-free ultra-premium tequila made from 100% fully mature blue weber agave, hand-crafted in small batch quantities from 40 years of family tradition in Mexico and sourced from rich volcanic soil.

Their award-winning portfolio of additive-free tequilas includes Silver, Reposado, Añejo and Extra Añejo, and Café, premium coffee liqueur known for its distinctive character and refined taste. Their aged tequilas are aged longer than standard and perfect for both sipping and cocktails in the colder months – check out Reposado in the Winter Marg recipe below. (Cantera Negra Tequila, 2025)

Winter Marg

Let every sip warm you up from the inside out. A perfect combination of Cantera Negra Reposado, fresh lime and blood orange juice, complemented by a flavorful winter spice rim.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5 parts Cantera Negra Reposado Tequila
    • 0.5 part Fresh lime juice
    • 0.5 part Fresh blood orange juice
    • 0.5 part Agave syrup
    • 0.75 tsp Vanilla extract
  • Directions:
    • Rim a rocks glass with winter spice mix.* Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain into prepped rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
    • *Winter spice mix: .5 tsp salt, .5 tsp sugar, .25 tsp cinnamon, and .25 tsp chili powder

Tommy’s Margarita

This go-to cult classic is known as a “Tommy’s Margarita” and is a bartender favorite.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 parts Cantera Negra Silver Tequila
    • 1 part Fresh lime juice
    • 0.5 part Agave nectar
    • Blood orange slice for garnish
  • Instructions – Add all ingredients to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain over ice in a half salt rimmed rocks glass and garnish with blood orange slice.

Cantera Margarita

Traditional margarita recipe but with orange bitters to give a nice orange essence without any added sugar.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 parts Cantera Negra Silver Tequila
    • 1 part Fresh lime juice
    • 0.5 parts Agave syrup
    • Orange bitters
  • Instructions – Shake and strain over ice in double rocks glass. Add 2 dashes of orange bitters.
Cantera Margarita. Photo: Cantera Negra Tequila, used with permission.

Savor the Flavor: Twang’s Perfect Dry January Cocktail Recipe

Enjoy Dry January with Twang’s Miche-Nada Recipe. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Dry January has gained popularity as a way for individuals to reduce their alcohol consumption, often for health reasons. By committing to a month of sobriety, participants can experience immediate benefits, such as improved sleep, increased energy, and better hydration. It provides an opportunity to reset habits, assess personal drinking patterns, and evaluate how alcohol affects overall well-being. Many people find the challenge empowering, with the support of a growing community engaging in the same commitment. Dry January also offers a break from the pressures of social drinking, promoting mindfulness and a healthier approach to alcohol consumption in the long term.

With the Dry January movement gaining popularity on social media, I want to share a refreshing, non-alcoholic recipe from Twang, a sensational Tex-Mex-inspired, family-driven company infamous for its bold blends of flavored salts, sugars, and spices since 1986. (Twang, 2025)

To celebrate Dry January, Twang offers a twist on the classic Michelada —the Miche-Nada. Made with Twang’s Reserve Michelada Mix in flavors like classic, spicy, or pickle; this drink packs a punch with all-natural ingredients, including real lime juice, ancho chiles, and organic Worcestershire sauce. For the ultimate experience, top it off with Twang’s zesty Drink Rimmers in varieties like chile lime, grapefruit, dill pickle, and more.

The 16oz Michelada Mix is just $7, conveniently packaged for easy shipping, while Drink Rimmers are $5 for 4oz of unbeatable flavor. Twang is available in-store in all 50 states and ships nationwide, ensuring every abstemious friend or family member can easily enjoy.

Twang Miche-Nada

Ingredients:
• Twang Reserve Michelada Cocktail Mix (classic, spicy, or pickle flavors)
• Twang Rimming Salt (chile lime, grapefruit, dill pickle & more flavors)
• Ice
• Sparkling water
• Lime wedge

Directions:

  1. Rim your glass with your choice of Twang’s Rimming Salt
  2. Add some ice to your glass
  3. Add your choice of Twang Reserve Michelada Mix
  4. Add sparkling water
  5. Garnish with a lime wedge

Taco Cabana’s New Menu Items That Will Have You Coming Back for More

Taco Cabana is turning up the flavor with new menu items. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

(SAN ANTONIO, TX) The new year just got tastier! Taco Cabana is kicking it off with a show stopping lineup of bold, flavorful menu items designed to wow your taste buds. Starting Thursday, January 2, 2025, join us as we celebrate the new year with a menu that’s all about deliciousness, variety, and unbeatable value. (Taco Cabana, 2025)

“We’re always looking to surprise and delight our guests with bold, fresh flavors, and this new lineup hits the mark. From satisfying combos to lighter, nutritious options like our new salad bowl—perfect for sticking to those New Year’s resolutions—there’s something for everyone. And our $4.99 Meal Deals prove that amazing food doesn’t have to come at a high price!” – Taco Cabana President Ulyses Camacho

From hearty combos to light, fresh options and irresistible $4.99 Meal Deals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Ready to spice up your new year?

Check out these must-try additions:

  • Unbeatable $4.99 Meal Deals:
    • The Rise & Grind: Breakfast tacos, hashbrowns, and coffee to fuel your morning.
    • Monster Breakfast Burrito Meal Deal: Chorizo, bacon, hashbrown, beans, cheese, and chipotle ranch in every bite.
    • The Crunch & Quench: Double Crunch Pizza with your choice of shredded chicken or ground beef, paired with a drink.
    • 7-Layer Burrito Meal Deal: All the layers of flavor you could want, wrapped up with a drink to go.
  • Cabana Salad Bowl: Ring in your health goals with this vibrant 300-calorie creation, packed with chicken fajita, black beans, guacamole, and all the fresh fixings you love.
  • Cabana Combos: A fan-favorite pairing of beef or chicken entrées with chips, queso, and a small drink. With options like Steak Fajita Tacos, Ground Beef Burritos, and Chicken Flautas, you’ll be coming back for more
  • Carne Asada Taco Plate: Dive into tender carne asada tacos served with all the sides—rice, beans, guacamole, and extra tortillas to complete the fiesta.
  • Half-Dozen Breakfast Taco Box: Breakfast just got an upgrade. Perfect for sharing (or not), this $9.99 box features Bacon & Egg, Bean & Cheese, Chorizo & Egg, and Potato & Egg Tacos.

A Cozy Classic Returns: For those chilly days, warm up with our fan-favorite Chicken Tortilla Soup, served with rice and priced at just $4.99. Available Everywhere You Are: Dine in, drive thru, pick up curbside, or order online through the MY TC!® App or TacoCabana.com—however you choose, we’ll make sure your 2025 starts with flavor.

Why wait? Taco Cabana’s new menu is the perfect way to embrace the new year—one bite at a time.

Founded in 1978, Taco Cabana is a Texas institution known for its Mexican-inspired flavors, freshly made tortillas, and vibrant dining experience. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a meal with friends, Taco Cabana is the go-to spot for bold flavors and unbeatable value. With 143 locations across Texas, we’re here to make every meal unforgettable.

Unwrap the Perfect Holiday Drink: Bols Ready-to-Enjoy Cocktails for Effortless Celebrations

Cheers to every holiday moment with Bols Ready-to-Enjoy Cocktails. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The holiday season is a time to gather with friends and family, creating cherished memories filled with laughter and joy. Whether cozying up around a crackling fire or sharing festive meals, the warmth of togetherness is unmatched. Cocktails add a special touch, with creative concoctions that brighten the mood—perhaps a spiced mulled wine, a classic eggnog, or a vibrant cranberry mojito. These drinks serve as more than refreshments; they spark conversations and bring everyone closer. As glasses clink and stories are shared, the magic of the holidays truly comes alive, making the season unforgettable.

This season, whether it’s a cozy night in, a lively gathering, or the countdown to midnight, Bols Ready-to-Enjoy Cocktails make it effortless to elevate every occasion with bar-quality flavors, backed by nearly 450 years of cocktail expertise. (Bols, 2024)

Here’s how each of Bols RTE cocktails can seamlessly fit into your favorite holiday moments: 

  • Christmas Eve Wind-Down: Espresso Martini – End Christmas Eve on a high note with this rich, smooth treat as a sophisticated after-dinner indulgence with family and friends. Served chilled with coffee beans, it adds a refined, comforting vibe to the evening.
  • Holiday Brunch Cheers: Margarita Azul – This vibrant blue margarita adds zest and cheer to holiday brunches on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, bringing brightness to the morning to start the day with joy.
  • Elegant Gatherings: Red Light Negroni – Ideal for holiday soirées or office parties, this Negroni offers smooth, malty flavors with a botanical twist, perfect for mingling in style. Served with a twist of orange zest for that extra touch.
  • Fireside Nights: Very Old Fashioned – Nothing warms a winter night quite like the cozy, cedarwood notes of the Very Old Fashioned. It’s the ideal fireside sipper for intimate family gatherings or a quiet night by the fireplace, letting you unwind and embrace the season’s peaceful moments.
  • New Year’s Eve Toasts: Pornstar Martini – Add a pop of festive flair to New Year’s Eve with the vibrant, sweet libation. Its orange hue and lively flavors of vanilla and candied orange peel make it perfect for toasting at midnight, bringing lively energy to any celebration as the countdown begins.

Each cocktail is available in both 200ml tubes (perfect for one generous pour or two cocktails) and 375ml bottles (providing three-to-four servings), making them a thoughtful gift for hosts or an easy addition to your own celebrations.

Tammy’s Tasty Cuisine: Delicious and Healthy Baked Goods to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Tammy’s Tasty Cuisine offers delicious and healthy baked goods.

Eating a healthy, gluten-free, and sugar-free diet can significantly benefit your body by reducing inflammation, boosting energy, and improving digestion. Gluten, found in wheat and some grains, can cause digestive issues for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Eliminating refined sugars helps stabilize blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes and reducing the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes. Focusing on whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and gluten-free grains—supports optimal health, promotes weight management, and enhances mental clarity. This approach nourishes the body, strengthens the immune system, and supports long-term well-being.

Saturday while visiting the Brownsville Farmers Market, I came across Tammy Muñoz, a friend and former co-worker from back in my Valley Regional days. As owner of Tammy’s Tasty Cuisine, she’s a local entrepreneur who, on her spare time, makes guiltless desserts that are both delicious and good for you. Her goal is “to bake healthier desserts and change the stigma that healthy food and desserts taste bad.” Baking is her calling and she truly enjoys sharing her creations with locals. After struggling with a medical condition, she realized that choosing healthier options, including low carb, gluten-free, and low sugar, was beneficial for her body. It is difficult, but not impossible, to find healthy desserts here in the Rio Grande Valley, so I was pleasantly surprised to find another option for people looking to take care of themselves, all while satisfying their sweet tooth.

Her baked goods are primarily low carb and gluten-free and include cookies, brownies, cinnamon rolls, pies (apple and pumpkin), and other sinfully delicious, yet healthy items. I tasted her chocolate chip cookies and they are really good. She doesn’t have a brick and mortar, but on most Saturdays you can find her at the Brownsville Farmers Market in Linear Park. With the holiday season among us, she is now taking orders for pies. So if you’re taking care of your health but still want to indulge, especially this time of year, check out her out on Facebook and Instagram. You can also email her.

Photo: Tammy’s Tasty Cuisine
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Excellent choices
Tammy’s Tasty Cuisine at Brownsville Farmers Market.

Elevate Your Gifting Game with Gourmet Salt from Josu Salt Co.

Josu features unique Korean salts to boost wellness and flavor this holiday season. Photo: Josu Salt Co.

The holidays are a time when people reflect on their relationships and celebrate the joy of sharing. Whether it’s a small, thoughtful token or a grand gesture, the act of giving allows us to express care and appreciation for those we love. Beyond the material aspect, the true value of a gift lies in the thought behind it—the connection it strengthens and the memories it creates. In a world that often feels busy and disconnected, holiday gift-giving is a reminder of the importance of showing kindness and making time for one another.

Finding the perfect gift for someone who is focused on health and wellness can be thoughtful and practical. Consider items that enhance their fitness journey, like high-quality yoga mats, resistance bands, or foam rollers. A sleek water bottle with time markers can encourage hydration, while a cookbook featuring nutritious recipes might inspire healthy meals. Fitness trackers or smartwatches help monitor activity and sleep. For relaxation, essential oil diffusers, weighted blankets, or aromatherapy sets provide soothing benefits. Gifts like these not only support a health-conscious lifestyle but also show you value their well-being and commitment to a balanced life. For someone on your list who enjoys cooking with artisanal salts, consider the following from Josu Salt Co.

Josu Salt Co. guarantees No Boring Meals with its wellness-driven, artisanal salts that have been featured on Food Network and Kimchimari and transform everyday dishes into flavorful experiences. Harvested using traditional methods from the family farm on Imjado Island, South Korea, these salts are naturally rich in essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium and free from harmful additives. Founded by Hae-Sin Thomas, Josu Salt Co. blends tradition with mindful, health-conscious eating. (Josu Salt Co., 2024)

Their artisanal Korean salts, packed with essential minerals, are designed to enhance not only the flavor of meals but also promote overall well-being—perfect for anyone looking to cook with both taste and health in mind. They use traditional sun-drying methods to preserve their mineral-rich, earthy flavor and natural health benefits. The Solar Salt process creates a precious Korean white salt that’s both flavorful and beneficial to your health.

Why they make excellent holiday gifts:

  • Unique and thoughtful: Josu Salt Co.’s salts provide a distinctive gift for the health-conscious.
  • Health benefits: The natural minerals in the salts support wellness, from heart health to bone strength.
  • Flavorful and versatile: Their salts enhance any dish, making them a versatile kitchen essential.

Their top selling products include:

Just Salt – Pure, mineral-rich sea salt for everyday cooking. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Garlic Chive Salt – A nutrient-packed blend combining the benefits of garlic and chives with their sea salt. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

All-Purpose Umami Blend – A flavor-packed mix with shiitake mushrooms and gochugaru, perfect for a health-conscious diet. Courtesy photo, used with permission.