Thursday, January 31, 2008

Pork and Lotus Root Soup

This pork and lotus root soup gets its deep colour actually from the lotus root. The lotus root itself is not coloured, but quite creamy in colour. I used meaty pork bones, which were boiled and washed before making the soup. A lot of fat comes from these bones, so I cool the pork broth and put it in the fridge overnight, and then skim the fat. The lotus is then added last and then boiled on low until tender. Usually in chinese type soups, salt is added at the end, and never in the beginning, at least this is what my parents tell me.
Lotus root is a traditional food to have around Chinese New Years. If you find really fresh ones that you can slice thinly, they're awesome in a stirfry.

Monday, January 21, 2008

Strawberry buttercream and custard wedding cake

I make cakes for family and friends. I did this one for a friend's wedding last summer. It was quite a challenge for me to get everything even and smooth. I always surprise myself with the results.

Blue and white floral and paisley wedding cake


Yes, believe it or not, another cousin's wedding cake. This was in April of 2007. Luckily flower can be made ahead of time for a real time saver. Since I was in the bridal party, I had to get this cake done asap, meaning only 2 hours of sleep. I think it turned out great, one of my best.

Calla Lily Fondant Wedding Cake

This three tiered wedding cake I made for my cousins's birthday. I filled it with lychee buttercream. Calla lilies are made out of gumpaste.

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Macaroons, Macarons

I looked around for a good recipe for these almond macaroons. I was so excited and finally decided to try making them. The "feet" on the bottoms weren't as bubbly as I liked, and they definitely needed some extra flavour.

Coconut Macaroons


I saw Ina Garten on tv making these macaroons. They seemed so simple and quick, so I whipped up a batch for Christmas. They're quite good and sweet, luckily I used 1/3 unsweetened coconut, or else they'd be really really sweet.

Friday, January 18, 2008

Blueberry streusel coffee cake


Yummy coffee cake. Oozing blueberries are really delicious.