Monday, July 28, 2014

Chimichurri

Just back from a beach vacation and inspired by a new Argentine Deli that my brother and sister-in-law just found. They served sausages with chimichurri one night, and I haven't been able to stop thinking about that sauce! 

So tonight I decided to try my hand at making a batch. We ate it with reheated frozen chicken my husband had grilled up last week (while Ellie and I enjoyed our beach vacation...sorry Ben), some Jasmine rice, and a simple radish and cucumber salad. Let's just say our dinner was pretty yum for a Monday night! 

Chimichurri recipe:
- 1 cup parsley
- 1 cup basil
- 1/2 cup cilantro 
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 shallot
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup sherry vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried red chile flakes
In a food processor - or Vitamix!! - purée until smooth. Divine...

Friday, July 18, 2014

Buttermilk Ice Cream

I recently cleaned out the closets in my yearly quest to become a minimalist. I have a long way to go....but I do keep trying. When I dropped off my once loved stuff at the local thrift shop I found this little number for $8. Couldn't resist. 

And so my entry into the world of DIY ice cream is now churning away. Here's the recipe:

1 1/2 cups whipping cream
1/2 cup half and half
1 cup buttermilk 
5 egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar
Splash of pure vanilla extract

In heat proof pan, heat cream, half and half, and buttermilk to scalding (180*F). In a heat proof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, vanilla, and the sugar. Once cream mixture scalds, add a small amount (maybe 1/4c) to the yolk/sugar mixture with your whisk, then add the yolk mixture back into the pan with the rest of the cream. Heat over medium-high heat, whisking, until it thickens, maybe another 3-5 minutes. Pour into heat proof container and chill in fridge until it reaches about 40-50*F. Then pour into you ice cream machine and let her whirl! I downloaded some directions for my old girl, and it says to process for about 35-40 minutes, or until it has the consistency of soft serve. Then put in a freezer proof container and freeze until scoopable. 

I'm going to serve mine over a homemade Plum Torte. 

Happy summer!