VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS: VDay Minus 6 ~ Aphrodisiac Caramels From Theo Chocolate

Is rose an aphrodisiac? Saffron? Ghost chile? We can’t vouch for it, but these bittersweet caramels from Theo Chocolate definitely turn us on! Give them to a caramel connoisseur, who is sure to love you in return. Theo is America’s only producer of organic and Fair Trade chocolate. You can visit the factory in Seattle,…
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TRENDS: Cutting Edge Flavors For 2009

Grains of Paradise: Largely confined to West Africa, these tiny seeds are related to cardamom, and resemble the seeds inside cardamom pods. Want to know what the cutting edge flavors will be at top restaurants this year? According to trade weekly Nation’s Restaurant News, they’ll be these rarities: – Grains of paradise from Africa –…
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TRENDS: Flavor Combinations For 2009

Looking for palate excitement this year? McCormick, the world’s largest spice company, has developed cutting-edge flavor combinations that are sure to inspire. International influences and natural foods figure prominently in the company’s Top 10 Flavor Pairings for 2009, allowing for flavorful yet healthy dishes. After reviewing the introductions to each flavor pairing, you can click…
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TOP PICK OF THE WEEK: Best Gourmet Foods 2008

We wish you a happy and healthy New Year. In fact, you can start 2009 with a pantry full of some healthy Top Picks Of The Week from 2008. These delicious foods will not only meet with your approval; they’ll get the nod from your doctor, nutritionist and trainer, too. – Cool Beans Dip. Leave…
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PRODUCT REVIEW: The Best Vanilla Extract & Vanilla Beans

Vanilla is the second costliest spice in the world, after saffron.   The United States is the largest consumer of vanilla beans, using around 1,200 tons per year. Most of them are made into vanilla extract. Even if you buy pure vanilla extract—not the artificial stuff, which is a fraction of the price—all pure vanilla…
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