Summer Fun!!
Today is another gorgeous weather day. I am sitting here, on the porch with Olive. I have checked out my freshly planted veggies and herbs. They all look great. I was a bit worried yesterday when the sun was so hot. The newly planted vegetables and herbs looked very droopy. Happy to see that all the newbies have recovered.
The Xitrous kitchen is taking some time for awhile to regroup. My husband and I have cleaned all 4 ovens, the outdoor grill and planted our vegetable garden. The flower garden in the front of house continues to evolve in blossoms. The Iris are done. The Peonies are almost done. The Summer lilies have buds. It has progressed from purples, to pinks and yellows. The summer reds, yellows and oranges should be opening in a couple of weeks. I feel such joy everyday that I can see life in the rainbow colors of my garden.
My latest experiments have included making Guava Jam. (Surprisingly quite delicious - Very tropical in flavor, with hints of pineapple and mango).
Dehydrated steamed beets that my sisters and I processed last summer. Ground up the dehydrated beets and used that powder in sourdough bread dough. The pre-baked color was phenomenal. Bright magenta. The aroma of beets was very strong. I wondered if the beet flavor would dominate the sourdough flavor. The baked breads were great. HOWEVER……the bright magenta color turned to a lovely salmon color and the flavor of the beets disappeared. So, it was a successful failure experiment.
Made a very savory and tasty Pepperoni, Locatelli, and Sharp Cheddar Sourdough Sandwich Loaf. We enjoyed it as a grilled cheese sandwich. We also toasted it with mozzarella. My favorite was a toasted slice with some flavored extra virgin olive oil drizzled on top.
Tested a new recipe for lighter than air dinner rolls. OMG!!! YES!!!
Shared a new dessert with friends; Limoncello Tiramisu!! Freshly squeezed lemon juice, fresh lemon zest, mascarpone cheese, limoncello, and magic. I read somewhere that this type of dessert has NO CALORIES and NO FAT!! The circumstance have to be: share with 8 of your friends on a Wednesday with the outdoor temperature being 68*F, and you have to be sitting on a porch. (Sadly, otherwise, the calories and fat do exist!) HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
Made some very tasty Puff Pastry Tomato Tarts. I know they were delicious, but they will be OUTSTANDING when I can use my own tomatoes on them.
The Art of French Pastry has been calling my name for several months. The pages await!!
I am considering holding a few classes this Summer. Keep your eyes on the calendar. I will notify everyone when they are posted.
I have added some new photos to the gallery. Hope you enjoy.
Till then, I wish everyone a joyous Summer, filled with fun, food, friends, and family. (In the order of those you choose).
So, on to exploring new places, lots of new recipes, playing in the gardens, harvesting vegetables, herbs, and tons of happiness.
Please add your comments. I love hearing from you.
As always, please feel free to send any requests for a private class or baking requirement to: info@xitrous.com.
Happy Summer!!
I wish you and yours have a safe fun filled, restful, and joyous summer.