maanantai 25. helmikuuta 2013

African style rice

Make it your way.
This African style rice a la Essi is a good for making a big portion at once. This way it is easy to take it for lunch the next day saving time and money! I made up this recipe and this was the first time I actually tried it, but it ended up being delicious! You can use different veggies, spices you like and different types of rice. You can also make it with chicken or shrimp if you like. Make it your way!
Ingredients:
2 cups long grain rice
a little over 3 cups of water
2 tsp salt
1 onion
Spinach
3 tomatoes
broccoli
mushrooms
cayenne pepper
lemon juice
fresh cilantro
2 garlic gloves
olive oil
cumin
black pepper
paprika

Chop the tomatoes and the onion. Clean and chop the mushrooms. In a sauce pan, fry the onion with some olive oil. Before the onion starts turning brown, Pour rice, salt and water into the pan and bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. Add water if needed. Add the tomatoes and red pepper with chopped garlic. You can also squeeze some lemon juice and add the fresh chopped cilantro. Add all other veggies along with the seasoning and cook until rice is soft (about 10 minutes).  Enjoy!

-e-

perjantai 22. helmikuuta 2013

Take a vacation!

Five things you need for a perfect relaxation and charging your batteries:
1. SUN
2. crystal clear water
3. People you love
4. Beach
5. Fresh fruit

I had the most amazing time in Jamaica with my best friend in the end of February. I truly believe that taking a vacation and getting away from your normal routines is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. When I look back at myself before the vacation, I don't even know the person I was. And I don't want to. I had totally lost my inspiration on everything, didn't feel like doing anything but sleep (not even cooking!!!), felt like it was dark 24/7 (which is almost true heh) and I wasn't able to think positive about anything. I am totally a summer person who needs sunlight and brightness for being happy.
Now I feel totally amazing! I have been cooking every day since I came home (the normal me). I have energy, ideas and inspiration to express myself and nothing feels impossible. And I only needed a week to achieve this. So my lesson to all you readers is; TAKE A VACATION! 

ps. I have so many recipes I need to share with you, You will get the first one tomorrow!
-e-