Famous Flavors

The Charm of Mid-Century Miami Beach The Charm of Mid-Century Miami Beach (Image Credits: Flickr) Miami Beach has shed its party-only reputation and embraced its Art Deco heritage in ways that feel fresh again. The pastel-colored buildings along Ocean Drive aren’t just Instagram backdrops anymore. They’re symbols of America’s mid-century optimism that resonates with modern travelers seeking substance over superficiality. Vintage hotels like The Betsy and The National have been meticulously restored, offering experiences that transport visitors back to the glamorous 1940s and 1950s. The neighborhood’s renaissance extends beyond aesthetics. Local restaurants are reviving classic cocktails and serving dishes that … Read more

Oranges Oranges (image credits: wikimedia) Oranges are usually known for their vitamin C, but they also offer a decent amount of calcium that many people overlook. A medium orange contains about 60 mg of calcium, which makes up roughly 6% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Not only are they juicy and sweet, but they are also low in calories, making them a healthy snack for any time of day. The calcium found in oranges helps support healthy bones and muscle function, which is crucial for overall health. You can enjoy oranges in a variety of ways—fresh, juiced, or … Read more

Coconut Aminos Coconut Aminos (image credits: wikimedia) Coconut aminos is gaining traction as a soy sauce alternative due to its unique origin and health benefits. Made from the sap of coconut blossoms mixed with sea salt, it’s naturally gluten-free and lower in sodium. This makes it an attractive option for those mindful of their salt intake. According to research in the Journal of Food Science, coconut aminos has 73% less sodium than traditional soy sauce. Its slightly sweeter taste can enhance various dishes, appealing to those looking for something different. As gluten-free diets continue to rise, coconut aminos’ popularity is … Read more

Harissa: The North African Chili Paste Harissa: The North African Chili Paste (image credits: pixabay) Harissa, a spicy and aromatic chili paste, hails from North Africa, particularly Tunisia. This vibrant paste is crafted from roasted red peppers, hot chili peppers, and a medley of spices, creating a complex yet delightful flavor profile. It’s a versatile ingredient, perfect for marinades, stews, or even as a condiment. With tariffs driving up the costs of imported spices, harissa emerges as a cost-effective alternative. A report from the Specialty Food Association highlights a 20% increase in harissa demand over the last year, underscoring its … Read more

Sprouted Whole Grain Bread Sprouted Whole Grain Bread (Image Credits: Wikimedia) Sprouted bread is made from whole grains that have started to sprout from exposure to heat and moisture. This process creates what many dietitians consider the gold standard of healthy bread. There’s some evidence that the extra germination process increases the bioavailability of some of those nutrients. Ezekiel bread stands out among most varieties because it’s made without added sugar and from sprouted whole grains. The sprouting process increases the amount and bio-availability of vitamins, like vitamin C, and minerals, like folate and lysine, so Ezekiel bread is a … Read more

Franco-American Macaroni and Cheese Franco-American Macaroni and Cheese (Image Credits: Unsplash) Two years after Kraft Foods debuted its now-famous boxed macaroni and cheese in 1937, hungry shoppers were introduced to Franco-American Macaroni and Cheese – a can full of long, spaghetti-like noodles drenched in an orangey, goopy cheese mess. This revolutionary product arrived in 1939 with promises of homemade flavor without the homemade effort. As opposed to a more common variety of macaroni and cheese–with elbow pasta and a thick, dark yellow sauce made chiefly from cheddar–Franco-American was more like spaghetti noodles in a thin, syrupy sauce that appeared to … Read more

The Great Casserole Collapse The Great Casserole Collapse (Image Credits: Unsplash) Lots of casseroles. Meals that would stretch a pound of meat farther were the backbone of 1990s family dining. These one-dish wonders filled large families without breaking the budget. Canned green beans, broccoli with homemade cheese sauce and canned peaches battered in graham cracker crumbs accompanied these hearty bakes every weeknight. Tuna noodle casserole, king ranch chicken, and broccoli rice casserole ruled supreme in suburban kitchens. These dishes required minimal skill but maximum love. Spaghetti with homemade sauce and meatballs, homemade chili and rice, beef stew with dumplings filled … Read more

Roy Rogers – The King of Cowboys Still Rides Strong Roy Rogers – The King of Cowboys Still Rides Strong (Image Credits: Flickr) As of recent reports, there are approximately 38-40 Roy Rogers restaurants across five Mid-Atlantic states: Maryland (22), Virginia (8), Pennsylvania (7), New Jersey (4), West Virginia (1). This Western-themed fast food chain refuses to fade into the sunset despite dramatic ups and downs throughout its history. In 1968 the hotel chain Marriott purchased a Midwestern chain named RoBee’s that served roast beef, but after legal troubles with Arby’s, the first official Roy Rogers opened in Falls Church, … Read more

1. Szechuan Peppercorn 1. Szechuan Peppercorn (image credits: wikimedia) Szechuan peppercorn is an essential spice in Chinese cuisine, particularly in the Szechuan province, known for its numbing heat and distinctive citrusy flavor. Unfortunately, overharvesting and changes in agricultural practices have led to a decline in its availability. Recent studies reveal that the demand for Szechuan peppercorn has surged, resulting in unsustainable farming methods. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), its cultivation has decreased by 30% over the past decade. While conservation efforts are underway, the future of this spice remains uncertain. Chefs and food enthusiasts are encouraged to … Read more