Let’s talk beans for a sec.
I have a strange love for beans. Not that enjoying beans is weird, but when you tell people you LOVE beans? You get some strange looks. Beans aren’t one of those things that you think of when you think of your ultimate-desert-island-favorite-foods, ya know? And I’m here to tell you I think that’s completely unfair.
My fascination with whole grains is still going strong. I blame the January 2014 issue of Bon Appetit.
It’s totally not even about health, it’s about the FLAVOR, people. (Although according to the rules of math and science, if it’s healthy, I can eat twice as much…right?) Anyways, ever since I started cooking with whole grains more, I’m suddenly like…why would I make this with white rice when farro would taste so much better? Quinoa and I are likethis. Whole grains just add a whole new flavor profile, one that’s rich and nutty and deep and chewy and delicious, and I love exploring all the ways out there in the world to make them taste gourmet and make you completely forget how good for you they are.
January has always presented a bit of a culinary conundrum for me. On one hand, it’s hard not to be totally inspired by all the healthy recipes out there on the inter-webs. On the other hand, it’s freakin’ freezing (can I just mention that the high in Chicago tomorrow is -13°F?) and all I’m craving is warm, hearty, hibernation foods. What’s a girl to do??
New Year’s Eve is tomorrow, and in honor of the pending holiday, I thought I’d make a quick, easy, and fabulous party dip. I’m not going to lie – I’m totally a stay-at-home New Year’s Eve-er. The idea of paying $150 for the “privilege” of spending the evening surrounded by sweaty, drunk people at a random bar (not to mention having to keep my heels on ALL NIGHT) is definitely not my idea of a good time.