Rose Jelly

I have knockout rose bushes growing right outside my house. The roses are untreated, so I thought it would be fun and innovative to use them to create something fun! The colors of the petals are a beautiful pink that translates perfectly into jelly.

The key to making rose-flavored things is using the most fragrant roses. They tend to carry the flavor better. If you don't have a strong enough flavor, you can always add rosewater for a more floral essence.

Rose Jelly (makes about 3 cups)
1 cup Water
1 cup Sugar
1.5 cup Rose Petals
1 tsp Lemon Juice
2 tbsp Pectin
2 tbsp Rose Water (optional)

1. Prepare untreated, pesticide-free rose petals by plucking them off of the buds, and then using scissors to cut off the white part where the petal was attached.That section is bitter.
2. Mix the sugar and pectin together by gently whisking. Then, bring water, sugar,and petals to a boil.
3. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. The color will seep out of the rose petals, and the mixture will look dull.
4. Add the lemon juice to the mixture and stir. The color should pop once again. You would add rose water to the mixture at this point, if desired.
5. Allow the mixture to thicken slightly. The mixture will start to coagulate. You can test the consistency of the jelly by cooling a drop quickly in the freezer. If it is too loose, add more pectin. If it is too tight, add more water. 
6. Pour into a sanitized, heat proof mason jar as soon as it is ready, and seal the lid immediately. It will slowly seal itself because of the heat. It's a way to quickly can the jelly
7. Allow it to cool to room temperature, and then transfer the jar into the refrigerator.
8. The jelly will last a couple of weeks after opening. 

The jelly is a great balance of sweetness and acidity, with floral notes from the rose petals. The petals are a great inclusion, and make the jelly look incredibly unique in the jar. It's something that you wouldn't really find at a grocery store. It's a perfect wake-me-up with some artisan bread and butter!

The tea towel pictured is one that my friend, Esther gave me. She bought it from Crafted Westside, a small handmade goods boutique. Local Georgia artists display and sell their art there, and it's a great way to pick up a unique gift. I love this tea towel- not only is it adorable, but it also can be washed and dried with my other laundry! Plus, it photographs well :)

Apple Butter

Apple season is almost done, but I had to get in a quick fall apple recipe before it ended! What can you do with overripe apples? Make apple butter! It's a very simple way to use up apples and make them last longer! It's just a few ingredients, and the results are delicious!

Apple Butter
3 Apples
1 tbsp Honey
1/2 tsp Cinnamon
1/4 tsp Salt
1/2 cup Water

1. Peel and core the apples.
2. Cut the apples into a medium dice and place into a medium saucepan.
3. Add the remaining ingredients and stir.
4. Cook over low heat for about 1.5 hours, stirring every 5 minutes.
5. Cook until the apples are very tender, and the water has evaporated out. However, do not let the apples dry out completely, as they will burn.
6. Use an immersion blender to break up the apples to a smooth consistency. It should look like a very thick applesauce.
7. If the apple butter is not thickened, return to the heat and reduce slightly.
8. Cool in a thin layer on a pan or a plate.
9. Once cool, transfer to an airtight storage container.

If you do not have an immersion blender, you can use a fork or a potato masher to get rid of the large chunks. You want to get rid of as many chunks as you can.

I enjoyed this product on some artisan sunflower toast. The nuttiness of the bread complimented the sweet apple butter perfectly, making for a delicious snack!

Berry Mint Mojito

A couple of weeks ago, I catered a bloggers brunch with some of Atlanta's top style bloggers at Lululemon. It was great to experience catering for the women, and it was awesome to be able to see their smiling faces upon eating the food.

One of the most popular items on the brunch buffet was the berry mint mojito! It's a beautiful summery drink that boasts fruity, refreshing flavors. It's easy to make, and makes a beautiful presentation to any guests you serve it to. The cocktail is very light, refreshing, and delicious!

Berry Mint Mojito (Makes 6)
1 cup Sugar
1 cup Water
8 Mint Leaves
6 oz White Rum
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Blackberries
1 liter Sparkling Water

1. In a small pot, bring the sugar and water to a boil.
2. Tear the mint leaves a couple of times and add to the sugar solution.
3. Allow the sugar solution to cool completely. Then, strain into a vessel, such as a jar, to pour into glasses. Place the vessel with the solution into the fridge to make it cold.
4. Place a couple of each berry into the bottom of a highball glass with about an ounce of rum and an ounce of the sugar solution.
5. Use a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon to muddle the berries into the rum and sugar solution.
6. Add sparkling water to fill the glass, and add a few ice cubes to keep cold.
7. Garnish with a sprig of mint and serve immediately.

Not only is this drink simple and quick to make, it is entertaining to watch! It's a great way to spruce up a party- and show off your excellent bartending skills ;)

Now, for the brunch recap! This was actually my first delici-owh-so catered event, and it was actually pretty successful! The ladies seemed to enjoy the food, and the space was very well made for the type of event that Lululemon was hosting. At the brunch, people discussed visions and goals, which actually made me think about some that I have for this blog. This blog started out as a simple way to share my passion for food, and expand on it by honing my photography skills, and sharpening my writing skills. Of course, I will always have more to learn, but I think over the past year I've been developing more of a vision for myself as a blogger, but also as a professional. I hope to continue to be able to touch people's lives through my love of food, but in a more tangible way- through catering for them! I hope to get into doing desserts for small weddings and small events like this! I think this brunch was a small step to developing delici-owh-so as a brand. Still, there's much to plan and look into before I can make any of those goals a reality. Although that description sounds pretty vague, I hope it keeps all the readers on edge for what's to come! Anyways, here are some pictures from the brunch!

Spinach, Heirloom Tomato, and Goat Cheese Frittata

This frittata was very light, fluffy, and healthy! A perfect brunch option for any vegetarians out there!

Bacon Cheddar Biscuits- recipe here!

These biscuits are flaky, flavorful, and scream southern comfort! Simple and delicious!

French Toast with Orange Anglaise and Mixed Berries (Left); Desserts (Right)- Nectarine Mint Macarons, Coffee Chocolate Chip Cookies, Blueberry Muffins (click items for recipes!)

The macarons were the biggest hit for this event- and the recipe is posted on the blog! Be sure to check it out :)

Mimosa (left); Berry Mint Mojito (right)

These were very popular drink items that went perfectly for an afternoon brunch! :)

Photo By Futuristic Vintage

Me with the buffet :)

If you'd like your event to be delici-owh-so- catered, check out the box to the right! You can leave messages and ask about having your event catered by delici-owh-so! Not only do I cater brunches, but you can also special order custom macarons!

Eggnog French Toast

Holiday season calls for festive flavors with lots of winter spices. One of the first winter drinks that comes to mind for me is eggnog! Yes, it's a great drink to enjoy during winter, but it is also a great way to make a sauce! This french toast is a filling, delicious winter breakfast that is simple and quick!

Eggnog French Toast (Makes 2 Servings)
Eggnog Anglaise
4 Yolks
1/2 cup Milk
4 tbsp Sugar
1 tsp Corn Starch
1 tbsp Whiskey

1. Heat milk with half of the sugar to a boil.
2. Mix yolks, corn starch and remaining sugar together until completely incorporated.
3. When milk is boiling, slowly add to the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture back into the pot and mix until it thickens.
5. Pour into a clean bowl through a fine sieve to ensure that curdled pieces do not get through.
6. Add whiskey and mix. If you would like a stronger whiskey flavor, add more.
7. Cool the anglaise over a ice bath by placing the bowl into a bigger bowl filled with ice and a little cold water. 

Winter Spice French Toast
6 Hawaiian Rolls
1 Egg
1/4 cup Milk
Pinch Nutmeg
Pinch Cinnamon
1/4 tsp Salt
1 tbsp Sugar
Fresh Berries
Whipped Cream

1. Slice the crust off of the rolls, then slice the rolls in half to make them thinner.
2. Whisk remaining ingredients together until completely incorporated.
3. Heat a frying pan and add oil or butter to prevent the bread from sticking.
4. Dip the bread on each side in the egg mixture, then place onto the frying pan.
5. Flip when golden.
6. Remove from heat when both sides are golden brown. Then, arrange the pieces of toast onto a plate.
7. Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, and eggnog anglaise.

I took the remaining eggnog anglaise and made some ice cream. If you make a bigger batch of anglaise, just spin it in an ice cream machine, according to the manufacturer's directions. Allow the ice cream to harden in the freezer for at least 3 hours after churning. This creates a smoother, fuller texture.

I think brunch is such a wonderful time. There's something special about making brunch for your friends and enjoying the late breakfast/early lunch. The french toast is an inexpensive, delicious, and simple brunch that boasts elegance, flavor, and class. Make some for your friends and family this holiday season!

Portobello and Goat Cheese Spread

Portobello mushrooms, goat cheese, balsamic, and honey- what could be better? Some of my favorite flavor combinations come together in this delicious spread. I used to hate mushrooms growing up. Somehow, I came to taste portobello mushrooms and it changed my mind completely. I realized that I actually like just about every mushroom except the button mushrooms! Portobello mushrooms pair extremely well with balsamic vinegar and goat cheese. The honey in the spread adds a sweetness to create a balance and symphony of flavors to enjoy. Keep reading to see how to create this easy spread for yourself.

Portobello and Goat Cheese Spread (Makes about 10oz of Spread)
8 oz Goat Cheese
7  Baby Bella Mushrooms (or 1 Portobello Cap)
2 tbsp Olive Oil
1/4 tsp Salt
1 pinch Black Pepper
1 pinch Garlic Powder
2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
1 tsp Honey

1. Cut the mushrooms to a small dice. This means about 1/4 inch dices.
2. Heat a pan over high heat. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Once hot, add diced mushrooms all at once. Then, add salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Mix slightly and add the remaining olive oil. The mushrooms tend to soak up the oil very quickly and need some more to keep from drying out.
5.  Once the mushrooms have browned slightly and are tender, add the balsamic vinegar and mix until it evaporates. Remove from heat.
6. Allow to cool slightly.
7. Then, put mushrooms, goat cheese, and honey into a medium sized bowl.
8. Mix until completely incorporated. Using your hand is probably the best way to do this quickly. Don't be afraid to touch your food! (Just wash your hands first)
9. Once incorporated, scrape whats on your hands back into the bowl.
10. Serve when finished. If you want to save it for later, just store it in the fridge.

I used the versatile spread on a piece of toasted whole wheat bread and topped it with some baby spinach for an open-faced sandwich. I imagine putting an over easy egg on top would be a delicious way to add extra protein. You can also use the spread on your next grilled cheese or burger, on top of a salad, or serve it with crackers at a party. Not only is it delicious, it's simple and quick to make.

Summer Berry Jam

During the summer, all of the fresh berries go on sale. I'm a sucker for fresh raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Sometimes I get a little bit too greedy and buy more than I can eat. They end up sitting in the fridge and getting soft, mushy, and even moldy. Rather than throw out the berries, there is a solution to be able to eat them (as long as they're not too moldy)! Make some homemade jam!

Making jam is simple. There are very few ingredients, and lots of ways to use it! Jam is a great way to utilize many types of leftover fruit. The composition of each fruit differs, which can affect the texture and color of your jams, but do not be afraid to experiment!

Summer Berry Jam (makes 1 quart of jam)
1 lb Fresh Strawberries
6 oz Fresh Raspberries
1 pint Fresh Blueberries
6 oz Fresh Blackberries
1/2 cup Sugar
2 tbsp Apple Juice 
1/4 cup Honey

1. Cut the greens off the strawberries, and cut them in half. Put into a pot that is big enough to hold all of the berries. Place other berries into the pot as well.
2. Pour sugar and apple juice into the pot with the berries.
3. Place pot on the stove, and turn the stove to low heat. 
4. Allow the jam to cook for about 1.5 hours, stirring every 10-15 minutes. Make sure you stir the bottom so that the berries do not burn.
5. Test the viscosity of the jam by spooning a small portion onto a plate and cool. If the jam is runny, allow it to cook longer.
6. As you test for viscosity, taste the jam. If you want it to be sweeter, add the honey until you are satisfied with the flavor. Stir in the honey.
7. When the jam is cool, move it to a bowl or casserole dish to cool.
8. After the jam has cooled, transfer it to a container to store. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Jam has many applications besides on toasted sandwich bread in the mornings. Use it as a topping on French toast or pancakes for breakfast, or in some sandwiches for lunch (think wheat bread, turkey, brie cheese- toasted! Or try sourdough, chicken breast, provolone cheese). You can even cut 3-inch circles out of pie dough, place some jam in the center, brush the edges with a little egg, seal with a fork, and bake at 350 degrees F until golden to make turnovers for dessert! Experiment with the jam and comment with your experiences!