Monday, November 17, 2008

Wafer Snacks

Ok, before I start...does anyone recognize the above snack? Ok, yes, it is just a negative of a Little Debbie Nutty Bar, but I am trying to depict a snack I enjoyed in the 1980s while visiting my gr-great aunt. It was like a Nutty Bar, but it had a white chocolate coating with, I believe, toasted coconut mixed in. Instead of peanut butter, they had a vanilla or coconut oreo style creme inside. They were so good, but I am not sure they are made anymore. I don't know if they were made by Little Debbie, Dolley Madison, Hostess, etc. Any help?

So, I have always enjoyed a good wafer snack whether it be a Nutty Bar, Kit Kat, or simple Vanilla/Strawberry/Chocolate wafer cookie. Of course, the best way to enjoy them is by pulling them apart and scrapping the creme centers clean with your incisors. Of course, my wife did not allow my relationship with Little Debbie to continue after we were married....sigh.

Recentlly, we discovered Goya brand wafer cookies at the local Korean market, that just happens to sell Latino food items as well. They have the traditional flavors, but also include guava, mango, pineapple, and coconut. I like to simultaneously eat a pineapple and coconut wafer to make a pina colada medoly in my mouth. Anyway, dangerous items to have in the house as it is so easy to eat a whole package in one or two sittings. They may seem airy and light, but they'll soon make your pants too tight.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Crocus Sativus

Yes, I am talking about the producer of saffron. As I have mentioned before, I like growing things, especially things that produce something pleasing to the taste buds. A few months ago, I decided to plant some Crocus Sativus bulbs and try my hand at harvesting some saffron. Pictured above is one of the results. Yesterday morning, I harvested the saffron contained in the red stamens and dried them for future use. I don't expect to ever get a high yield, but hopefully enough to make a few dishes every once in awhile. I can practically taste the lamb kabobs with grilled veggies over top some saffron rice...of course, maybe that is because I had that for dinner on Friday, Yummm!