Cookbookmaniac
  • Homemade Udon Noodles by Harumi Kurihara
    Homemade Udon Noodles by Harumi Kurihara
    Asian Recipes

    Regret. There is a popular saying that goes, "Live your life with no regrets." This saying does not ring true to me. I am not a perfect person. I have made mistakes that I wish I could undo. For example: * I started to learn how to drive in high school over 10 years ago, but I never went for my P's. I am now a sardine in the can that we call Cityrail. I went to get my L's again a year ago but I still have not had one driving lesson since. * My ability to save money did not start until a few years ago. I wish I had started earlier, my bounty would have been a lot more voluptuous today. However, that Alannah Hill dress that I bought many years ago and still have not worn was worth every cent. * I wasted many years pining…

  • Gyoza – Japanese Pan-fried Dumplings
    Asian Recipes

    Gyōza is a japanese dumpling with origins from China. They were introduced to Japan after WWII when the Japanese soldiers returned to their homeland from China. It is now a staple in every Japanese home kitchen and is commonly eaten as a side dish to ramen. Gyōza typically consist of a ground meat and/or vegetable filling wrapped into a thinly rolled piece of dough, which is then sealed by pressing the edges together or by crimping. Gyōza should not be confused with wonton. Gyōza have a thicker, chewier skin and a flatter, crescent like shape, and are usually eaten with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce (and/or hot chili sauce); while wontons have thinner skin, are sphere-shaped, and are usually served in broth. The most popular preparation method is the pan-fried style, in which the dumpling is first fried on one flat side, creating a crispy skin. Then, water is added and…

  • The Japanese Kitchen by Kimiko Barber
    Cookbook Reviews

    There is something about the Japanese cuisine that captures my heart and taste buds. It seems that every time we visit a Japanese restaurant or cafe, I am inspired to recreate or research whatever it is that i have experienced. It is more than just a plate of food. It is the current seasons best offerings, prepared with utter reverence to its natural taste and texture. When my partner and i go out to eat, it is usually the Japanese cuisine that we go  searching for. Ramen, Izakaya (bar & grill),  sushi train, sukiyaki etc etc. It is so simple and yet complex. It is mysterious but approachable. It is so healthy and one of the world's most misunderstood cuisines. The Japanese Kitchen is a good starting place for people who have just opened the door to the Japanese cuisine. It goes into the history and uses of essential ingredients…