Culinary art is a form of art that involves the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food in aesthetically pleasing and creative ways. It is a skill that requires a combination of technical knowledge, creativity, and attention to detail. Culinary art can include a range of techniques, such as elaborate plating, intricate fruit and vegetable carving, food sculpting, and more.
Fruit and berries are popular ingredients in culinary art due to their vibrant colors, unique textures, and refreshing flavors. In fact, many professional chefs and home cooks alike use fruits and berries as a canvas for their culinary creations. Some examples of art culinary with fruits and berries include decorative fruit baskets, fruit bouquets, fruit tarts, fruit sculptures, and more.
I want to thank Eye on Photos for this photo. I just wanted a moment from the Kitchen lol. much love and respect to Las Vegas Uniforms #chefmode #cheflife #chefskiss #chefsofinstagram
Whether you are a professional chef or an enthusiastic home cook, incorporating culinary art into your cooking can add an extra layer of creativity and beauty to your dishes. So, why not experiment with different techniques, ingredients, and flavors to create your own unique culinary masterpieces? see more about art click on gateway.
Embracing the Journey the second time around, I went once more to Tula Mexico.
It was time for Lisa and me to embark on a journey to nurture our friendship once more. We engaged in deep conversations, exploring our spirituality and discussing our aspirations in our respective careers with a start of Glass WINE!
The journey of seeking friendship and more in life is a continuous process. It’s about being open to new possibilities, embracing change, and staying true to ourselves. Along the way, one may encounter challenges and setbacks, but these experiences shape and contribute to ones growth. My Culinary Journey: From Savory Carne Asada Empanadas to the Ancient Wonders of Tula, Mexico and more with my Friend Lisa.
I created these little bad boys for Me and Lisa the moment we touched down. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden-brown empanada, filled with juicy, marinated carne asada. The savory beef, seasoned with a blend of spices, melds beautifully with the flaky pastry crust. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, especially when paired with a dollop of creamy guacamole. The guacamole, made with ripe avocados, lime juice, and a hint of garlic, adds a refreshing contrast to the rich empanada filling Savory Carna Sada Empanada with Creamy Guacamole 1 lb carne asada 1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp chili powder Salt and pepper to taste 1 package empanada dough 2 avocados, mashed 1 lime, juiced 1 tomato, diced 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Preheat oven to 375°F. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onion until translucent. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add carne asada and cook until browned. Remove from heat and let cool. Roll out empanada dough and fill with carne asada mixture. Seal edges with a fork. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. In a bowl, mix mashed avocado, lime juice, tomato, cilantro, salt, and pepper for guacamole. Serve empanadas hot with guacamole on the side.
Exploring the Ancient City of Tula, Mexico. After a satisfying meal, embark on a journey to Tula, Mexico, a city steeped in history and culture. Tula, once the capital of the Toltec Empire, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilizations. The Tula Archaeological Site is home to the impressive Atlantes, colossal stone warrior statues that stand atop the Pyramid of Quetzalcóatl34. Wander through the ruins, imagining the grandeur of the Toltec era, and visit the Jorge R. Acosta Museum to learn more about this influential civilization
In the heart of Mexico lies the charming town of Tula, a place where history, nature, and culture intertwine seamlessly. For three unforgettable days, Lisa and Myself hope to embarked on an adventure that we will have cherish memories and a deeper appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and for each other.
From the delicious Carne Asada Empanadas with Creamy Guacamole to the ancient wonders of Tula, and the unique Smokey Eggplant Hummus Wraps, this journey is a feast for both the palate and the soul. Each day offers a new culinary delight and a deeper connection to the rich tapestry of Mexican culture and history Smokey Eggplant Hummus Wraps A savory and smoky twist on traditional hummus wraps featuring roasted eggplant and tangy, smoky tomato salsa. Packed with flavors and nutrients, these wraps are perfect for a snack. 1 large eggplant, sliced 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1/4 cup tahini 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp cumin Salt and pepper to taste 4 large whole wheat tortillas 1 cup smoky tomato salsa Preheat oven to 400°F. Place eggplant slices on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 mins. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Spread hummus on tortillas. Top with roasted eggplant slices and smoky tomato salsa. Roll up the wraps tightly and slice in half. Serve and enjoy
We ventured to the beach shores, where the rhythmic sound of the waves provided a soothing backdrop to our conversations.
Walking along the sandy coastline, we encountered exotic lizards basking in the sun. I couldn’t resist capturing these fascinating creatures on camera as well as. Lisa . She shared stories of her own encounters with wildlife, and her new career as a Bartender. We bonded over our mutual appreciation for nature’s wonders.
Our last night was filled with Modern Mexican Soft Toritas with Carne Asada, Berries, and Spicy Chocolate A fusion of Mexican flavors with tender carne asada, fresh berries, and a kick of spicy chocolate, all layered between soft toritas for a delectable twist on a classic dish. 1 lb carne asada 8 small toritas (soft tortillas) 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/2 cup heavy cream Cook carne asada on a grill or stovetop until medium-rare, then slice thinly. Warm toritas on a skillet until soft and pliable. Place a few slices of carne asada on each toritas. Top with mixed berries. In a saucepan, melt chocolate with cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and cream until smooth. Pour spicy chocolate sauce over the berries and carne asada. Fold the toritas and serve warm.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the bustling kitchen, Chef Freedom Mercado stood at the center of creativity. His culinary journey had led him to this moment—a harmonious blend of Korean and Belgian cuisines, where crispy fried chicken met fluffy scallion waffles, all drizzled with a tantalizing Gochujang maple syrup
Chef Freedom’s eyes sparkled as he reminisced about the day he discovered the magic of this dish. It was a serendipitous encounter with Chef Wu, a master of fusion cuisine. Chef Wu’s wisdom transcended borders, and he shared his secret: “To create something truly original, you must embrace tradition while daring to innovate.” I had the privilege of learning from Chef Wu. The experience was truly enriching and has inspired me to strive for excellence in all that I do. I am filled with gratitude and admiration for Hand Downs Catering.
(This photo serves as a reminder of the hard work and persistence that goes into learning something new Today,)
Korean “Fried” Chicken Marinate chicken legs (skinned for a healthier version) in a mixture of fish sauce and garlic powder. Let it absorb the flavors overnight. Coat the chicken in an egg wash (egg + water). Dredge the chicken in a combination of breadcrumbs and potato starch. Bake the chicken at 400°F for 30-40 minutes until golden and crispy. Prepare the spicy stir-fry sauce: Combine ground chili pepper, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, gochujang (Korean red pepper paste), and water. Adjust the spice level to your liking. Stir-fry the baked chicken in the sauce until it’s beautifully glazed. Kimchee & Scallion Waffles
(I finally got it right!!!)
Create the waffle batter by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, a large egg, milk, and chopped kimchee and scallions. Pour the batter into a waffle maker and cook until crispy. The savory waffles, reminiscent of Chinese scallion pancakes, are ready to play their part. Gochujang Maple Syrup In a small saucepan, gently heat maple syrup and gochujang until well combined and warmed through. The sweet and spicy symphony of flavors is complete. Plating and Garnish Place a scallion waffle on the plate. Top it with two pieces of the Korean “fried” chicken. Drizzle generously with the Gochujang maple syrup. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions. A slice of lemon adds a zesty touch.
Water is the essence of life, a fundamental resource that sustains all living beings on our planet. Yet, despite its critical importance, billions of people around the world face challenges related to water scarcity, pollution, and inadequate sanitation. World Water Day, observed annually on March 22nd, serves as a global reminder of the vital role that water plays in our lives and the urgent need to address water-related issues.
Raising Awareness and Promoting Action
World Water Day was established by the United Nations in 1993 to highlight the importance of freshwater and advocate for the sustainable management of water resources. Each year, the day focuses on a specific theme related to water, such as water and climate change, valuing water, or water and sanitation. These themes help to draw attention to different aspects of the global water crisis and encourage individuals, communities, and governments to take action.
Addressing Water Scarcity
One of the most pressing issues highlighted by World Water Day is water scarcity. According to the United Nations, over 2.2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water services. This scarcity affects not only drinking water but also agriculture, industry, and ecosystems. By raising awareness about water scarcity, World Water Day encourages efforts to improve water efficiency, invest in infrastructure, and develop sustainable water management practices.
Ensuring Clean Water and Sanitation
Access to clean water and sanitation is a basic human right, yet millions of people still live without these essential services. Poor water quality and inadequate sanitation can lead to serious health issues, including waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery. World Water Day emphasizes the need for improved water quality and sanitation facilities, particularly in underserved communities. This focus aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by2030
Highlighting the Impact of Climate Change
Climate change poses a significant threat to global water resources. Changes in precipitation patterns, melting glaciers, and rising sea levels can all impact the availability and quality of freshwater. World Water Day provides a platform to discuss the intersection of water and climate change, promoting strategies to mitigate these impacts and adapt to changing conditions. This includes investing in resilient infrastructure, protecting natural water sources, and implementing water-saving technologies.
Fostering Global Cooperation
Water is a shared resource that crosses borders and connects communities. Effective water management requires cooperation at local, national, and international levels. World Water Day fosters this cooperation by bringing together stakeholders from various sectors, including governments, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and the public. Collaborative efforts can lead to innovative solutions and policies that address water challenges more effectively.
Inspiring Individual and Collective Action
World Water Day is not just about raising awareness; it is also about inspiring action. Individuals can contribute by conserving water, reducing pollution, and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable water use. Communities can organize events, educational programs, and campaigns to spread the message about the importance of water. Governments and organizations can implement policies and invest in projects that ensure equitable access to clean water and sanitation.
Conclusion
World Water Day is a crucial observance that underscores the importance of water for all life on Earth. By highlighting issues such as water scarcity, sanitation, climate change, and the need for global cooperation, it encourages us to take meaningful action to protect and manage our precious water resources. As we celebrate World Water Day each year, let us remember that every drop counts and that our collective efforts can make a significant difference in ensuring a sustainable and water-secure future for all.
Did you know only about three percent of the water on Earth is fresh water? That’s why we need to take care of it
Reduce water use: Turn off the water tap when brushing your teeth, and use less water overall. When you further your own education, you can help others understand the importance and value of our natural resources.
Conserve water. The less water you use, the less runoff and wastewater that eventually end up in the ocean. “Taking care of Earth’s water” means Actively managing and safeguarding the planet’s water resources involves reducing pollution, conserving usage, and adopting sustainable practices to guarantee the availability of clean water for all forms of life., as only a limited amount of freshwater exists on Earth.
Reduce water consumption: Simple actions like turning off taps while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers, and fixing leaky faucets can significantly cut water waste.
Use water-efficient appliances: Opt for low-flow toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers that use less water per cycle.
Collect rainwater: Install rain barrels to capture rainwater for watering plants.
Proper irrigation practices: Use drip irrigation systems to minimize water loss when watering plants outdoors.
Protect natural water sources: Support efforts to preserve wetlands, forests, and watersheds which naturally filter water.
Reduce chemical pollution: Avoid dumping harmful chemicals down drains, which can contaminate water sources.
Educate and advocate: Raise awareness about water conservation and encourage others to adopt sustainable practices.
Why is taking care of Earth’s water important?
Essential for life: Water is crucial for all living organisms on Earth.
Limited resource: Only a small percentage of Earth’s water is freshwater, making it a precious resource.
Impacts ecosystems: Polluted water can disrupt entire ecosystems and affect biodiversity.
Climate change concerns: Water scarcity is expected to worsen due to climate change.
By nature, water connects different environments, peoples and sectors. But growing demands for water, coupled with poor water management, have increased water stress around the world. Meanwhile, the effects of worsening climate change are often felt through water, in the form of floods or droughts. Something has to change. Halfway into the Water Action Decade, our progress on water-related goals and targets remains alarmingly off-track, jeopardizing the entire sustainable development agenda.
Soil health on our planet is vital. Soil supports plant growth. While it’s easy to dismiss soil as the simple dirt beneath our feet, it’s this earth that contains the most foundational elements for all of life. The microorganisms within soil form the building blocks of food webs and complex ecosystems.
About half the soil around the world is considered degraded. Degraded soil can’t support plant life, which contributes to food insecurity and elevates the threat of extinction. Degraded soil also releases stored carbon into the atmosphere, further intensifying climate change. Without healthy soil, we can’t eat. In subsistence farming communities, this can lead to desperate behaviors that further environmental damage.
Restoring soil health can happen a number of different ways, but one keyway is regenerative farming. Because a lot of soil damage happens on land that is used for farming, learning new farming skills (or re-learning indigenous farming skills) that support soil health can help restore these areas. Regenerative farming can include practices like composting, minimizing soil tillage, or practicing crop rotation appropriate for that place. These practices minimize the release of carbon and organic matter from the soil and retain more nutrients within it.
