Author: Franchesca

  • Tteokbokki Is What Dreams Are Made Of

    This is my secret Tteokbokki recipe that I normally don’t share with others, but hey I trust y’all. And I know that recipe is in great hands, so make sure to turn on your favorite Kdrama or favorite Korean band, mine is BTS. Go ahead and dance on to this delicious new Tteokbokki recipe

    Ingredients:

    • 350 g Korean rice cakes (12 ounces), separated
    • 150 g Korean fish cakes (5.3 ounces), rinsed in hot water and cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 2 cups Korean soup stock (made with dried kelp and dried anchovies)
    • 60 g onion (2 ounces), thinly sliced

    Tteokbokki Sauce (Mix these in a bowl):

    • 3 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
    • 1 1/2 Tbsp raw sugar
    • 1 Tbsp soy sauce
    • 1 tsp minced garlic
    • 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)

    Garnish:

    • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
    • 1 tsp sesame oil
    • 1 stalk green onion, finely chopped

    Instructions:

    1. If your rice cakes are not soft, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes.
    2. In a shallow pot over medium-high heat, bring the soup stock to a boil and dissolve the Tteokbokki sauce by stirring it with a spatula.
    3. Once the seasoned stock is boiling, add the rice cakes, fish cakes, and sliced onion. Boil for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the rice cakes are fully cooked.
    4. To thicken the sauce and enhance the flavor, simmer it over low heat for an extra 2 to 4 minutes.
    5. Add the sesame oil, sesame seeds, and chopped green onion, then quickly stir.
    6. Serve warm and enjoy!

    Time to enjoy your masterful Tteokbokki Adventure

    Once settled in, make sure to enjoy this recipe hot. It’s the true way to eat and the only way honestly. And if you love all things Korean make sure to rewind that Kdrama you put on before cooking and enjoy the show eating Tteokbokki like your favorite lead.

  • Lemon Drop So Good That Will Leave You Begging For More

    This is the ultimate spot to be if you’re searching for a cinematic experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Welcome to Alamo Drafthouse, where the magic of movies meets the allure of exceptional libations, and one standout favorite is the zesty delight known as the lemon drop.

    Now, you might be wondering, why is this my go-to choice. Well, first and foremost – have you seen the size of these lemon drops? They’re practically a work of art, visually stunning masterpieces arriving in glasses as bright as the movies on the screen. Moreover, it’s not merely a drink; it’s a cinematic event in itself. The lemon drop at Alamo Drafthouse is like a burst of sunshine, a perfect blend of tart and sweet that keeps you refreshed throughout the film.

    Ambiance is key

    Adding to the experience is the ambiance, with its dimmed lights, hushed whispers of anticipation, and plush seats that cradle you in comfort. As the movie begins and you take that initial sip of the lemon drop, it becomes an immersive journey that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional cinema outings.

    Pairing this citrusy delight with Alamo Drafthouse’s gourmet popcorn or their signature loaded fries elevates your movie night to epic proportions. The lemon drop at Alamo Drafthouse isn’t just a beverage; it’s a symbol of indulgence, a sensory companion to the cinematic journey unfolding before you.

    Moreover, as the credits roll and the lights come up, you’ll find yourself not only applauding the film but also raising a metaphorical toast to the Lemon Drop that made the entire experience that much more memorable. Alamo Drafthouse isn’t merely a cinema; it’s a haven for cinephiles and cocktail enthusiasts alike, where every Lemon Drop is a sip of cinematic bliss. So if you are ever in the mood for movie night and some drinks on the side make sure to make your way to Alamo draft house.

  • Home Made Pizza That Will Have The Pizzerias Jealous

    Want to skip the lines and find a bonding moment with a loved one? Making homemade pizza is the way to go, and honestly, the best way to go. You can be as heavy-handed with cheese as you like or not so heavy-handed. As for me though, I gotta have that teenage mutant turtle cheese pull.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup warm water (105 degrees F)
    • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
    • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 2 to 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour*
    • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to a blazing 500 degrees F. Place a pizza stone in the oven while it preheats and let it bask in the heat for at least 10 minutes.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar, giving it a good stir.
    3. Allow this mixture to sit for 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy, with delightful bubbles forming.
    4. Gently stir in the olive oil to enrich the dough.
    5. Add 2 cups of flour and the sea salt, and mix it with a spatula until a dough ball starts to take shape (the dough will still be slightly sticky). If needed, add more flour gradually until the dough comes together.
    6. Optionally, if you desire, cover the bowl with a damp tea towel and let the dough rise for 10 minutes or up to 1 hour.
    7. Roll the dough into your preferred shape and place it on a piece of parchment paper.
    8. Add your favorite pizza sauce, Provolone cheese, and the toppings of your choice. Feel free to get creative and add whatever toppings you like, such as leftover roasted vegetables, to make it uniquely yours.
    9. Use a trusty pizza peel to transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven.
    10. Bake on the preheated pizza stone for 12-15 minutes or until the bottom of the crust is gloriously golden brown.
    11. Once it’s reached perfection, remove the pizza from the oven with the pizza peel and let it rest on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before indulging in a slice of your homemade masterpiece. Enjoy!

    Once you have created your homemade pizza and munching on it remember all the hard work and bonding experience you had to make this treat. As well as embracing your inner teenage mutant turtle doing that saucy chees pull.

  • Butter Rolls That Will Have You Buttering For More

    Homemade butter rolls to help you get into the mood of embracing that inner baker. With these butter rolls, will want to stop buying the storebought. Making them at home is a game changer for when you need to make mini buns or just a side dish.

    Ingredients:

    • ¾ cup milk
    • ¼ cup butter
    • ¼ cup white sugar
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 4 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
    • 1 teaspoon white sugar
    • ½ cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
    • 3 ½ cups bread flour, divided, or as needed
    • 1 egg, lightly beaten
    • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, or more as needed, for dusting

    Directions:

    1. Start by pouring the milk into a glass 2-cup measuring cup, and heat it in the microwave until it begins to boil and gently climb the sides, which should take around 1 minute.
    2. Add the butter, 1/4 cup sugar, and salt to the scalded milk. Allow this mixture to cool until it reaches below 110 degrees F (45 degrees C).
    3. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in warm water. Let it stand until the yeast softens and starts forming a creamy foam, which usually takes about 10 minutes.
    4. Pour the milk mixture into the yeast mixture, then add 2 cups of bread flour and the egg. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it becomes smooth. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, making sure to mix thoroughly after each addition. You’ll know the dough is ready when it’s smooth and slightly tacky.
    5. Turn the dough out onto a sheet of waxed paper lightly dusted with flour and gently knead it to bring it together. Shape it into a ball.
    6. Place the dough in a large bowl that has been lightly oiled, and turn it to coat. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for approximately 30 minutes.
    7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into thirds, and then break each third into six equally sized balls. Arrange these balls on the prepared baking sheet. Cover the balls with a towel to let them rise further for another 30 minutes.
    8. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
    9. Bake in the preheated oven until the rolls have turned a lovely golden brown, which should take about 15 minutes. Enjoy your freshly baked rolls!

    Once you are done with your baked butter rolls, make sure to have your favorite spread on hand and indulge in the buttery goodness.

  • Submerging in the flavorful flavors of Hotpot

    With the cold weather slowly creeping in, soups become our ultimate go-to. There’s something about soups and stews that elevates the warmth in both our tummies and our souls, especially in cold times. It’s that cozy feeling you can’t resist, especially when you can craft your own bowl of comfort in the name of a hotpot.

    How do I pick my dream sauce and food items?

    Whether you’re a meat lover looking to load up on protein or prefer a veggie-centric approach, you’re in control here. The customization options are out of this world. If you’re in the mood for meats, you can pile them on, and if meat isn’t your thing, no worries at all. There are various soup bases and a galaxy of ingredients to choose from. As well as perfecting your go-to sauce from the sauce bar to dip your food into. My go-to sauce includes sesame sauce, peanut sauce, lots of green onions, lots of garlic, chili oil, chili powder, sugar, vinegar, fried onions and garlic. Wow, that is a mouthful, but so delicious. You can customize your dips depending on your palette.  

    How do I pick my liquid gold broth?

    For my soup-based, I went with the mala and beef broth option, and let me tell you, it was an explosion of spice, and palate cleansing with the beef broth. I’m a fan of spicy food, but this took it to the next level. It was almost too hot to handle, but you know what? It was very much worth the heat. It’s like a fiery journey for your taste buds, and sometimes, a little extra kick is just what you need to warm up in chilly weather. So, if you’re seeking that perfect bowl of warmth and flavor, this customizable soup spot is the place to be. It’s like a cozy adventure for your taste buds, and you won’t regret it. If you are like me and love the warmth that this hotpot dish brings to your time, it will have you craving it every season of the year.

    Hou Yi Hotpot with ingredients
    Hou Yi Hotpot with ingredients close up
  • Homemade Bread In A 1 … 2… Pot

    Making homemade bread in a pot will never be easier. Been in the mode for some fresh and hot bread straight for your home? With this recipe, it’s going to have to go back to making more due to its addictiveness.

    Ingredients:

    • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 tsp active dry yeast
    • 1½ tsp sea salt
    • 1½ cups warm water (105 degrees F)

    Instructions:

    1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt, and stir to combine.
    2. Pour the warm water into the bowl and mix until the dough forms a ball.
    3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (sprayed with cooking spray) and a damp tea towel.
      Let the dough sit covered at room temperature for 18-24 hours.
    4. After the long rest (or at least 1 hour before you want to serve the bread), preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (232°C).
    5. Place a 2 3/4-quart Dutch oven (or a 2.4L baking dish) with a lid in the oven while it is preheating. (Note: A 5 qt. Dutch oven can also be used successfully).
    6. While the oven is preheating, transfer the dough from the bowl onto a floured surface.
      Form the dough into a ball, adding a few tablespoons more flour if needed. The dough should still be slightly loose. Cover it with a floured towel while the oven is preheating. (Note: The dough ball will be loose and “floppy” – this is expected as it’s a very moist bread that’s irresistible).
    7. Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven. Remove the lid and spray the dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
    8. Gently place the dough ball into the baking dish, so it’s evenly distributed.
      Cover the dish with the lid.
    9. Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on.
    10. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the loaf is golden brown.
    11. Remove the loaf from the baking dish and let it cool on a rack before slicing. To keep it warm, you can cover it with a tea towel.

    Once completed make sure to grab some butter or spread of choice and add it to your newly fresh homemade bread. Embrace that inner baker and appreciate all your hard work.

  • Best Chocolate Surprise Cookie Monster

    Indulge in a delightful twist on the classic Cookie Monster cookies with our Cookie Monster Chocolate Surprise Cookies. These cookies capture the whimsical charm of the original but come with a chocolatey surprise. The step-by-step guide is designed to be beginner-friendly, ensuring bakers of all levels can recreate these playful treats. Don’t forget to top each cookie with those iconic candy eyes for the full Cookie Monster effect. As you savor each bite, you’ll be transported to Sesame Street, sharing cookies with your favorite blue monster. Preheat your oven and let’s bake up these scrumptious delights that even Cookie Monster would approve of! 🍪👹👀

    Ingredients

    • 200g all-purpose flour
    • 120g cake flour
    • 100g white sugar
    • 100g brown sugar
    • 200g unsalted butter, softened
    • 300g chocolate (dark and milk), chopped into chunks
    • 1 tsp cornstarch
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp baking soda
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
    • 2 eggs

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    2. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix them well and set aside.
    3. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
    4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
    5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the cookie dough comes together.
    6. Now, fold in the chocolate chunks into the cookie dough.
    7. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form large cookie dough balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading.
    8. To give them that classic Cookie Monster look, you can add two big candy eyes to the top of each cookie. These can be found in most baking supply stores or online. If you want to go wild and add as many eyes as you want all over, just like we did, feel free to get creative and have even more fun with these playful cookies!
    9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
    10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
    11. Once cooled, your Cookie Monster Chocolate Surprise Cookies are ready to enjoy. Share them with your loved ones and experience the joy of homemade cookies that even Cookie Monster would devour! Happy baking!

    Want another bite?

  • Indulge in Decadent and Rich Chocolate Macadamia Nut Delights

    **Recipe 2: Cookie Monster Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies** Indulge in a delightful twist on the classic Cookie Monster cookies with our Cookie Monster Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies. These cookies offer the same whimsical charm as the original but come with a nutty crunch and a chocolatey surprise. The step-by-step guide is designed to be beginner-friendly, ensuring bakers of all levels can recreate these playful treats. Don’t forget to top each cookie with those iconic candy eyes for the full Cookie Monster effect. As you savor each bite, you’ll be transported to Sesame Street, sharing cookies with your favorite blue monster. Preheat your oven and let’s bake up these scrumptious delights that even Cookie Monster would approve of! 🍪👹👀

    Ingredients

    • 200g all-purpose flour
    • 120g cake flour
    • 100g white sugar
    • 100g brown sugar
    • 200g unsalted butter, softened
    • 300g chocolate (dark and milk), chopped into chunks
    • 260g macadamia nuts, coarsely chopped
    • 1 tsp cornstarch
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp baking soda
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
    • 2 eggs

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    2. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix them well and set aside.
    3. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
    4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
    5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the cookie dough comes together.
    6. Now, fold in the chocolate chunks and coarsely chopped macadamia nuts into the cookie dough.
    7. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form large cookie dough balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading.
    8. To give them that classic Cookie Monster look, you can add two big candy eyes to the top of each cookie. These can be found in most baking supply stores or online. If you want to go wild and add as many eyes as you want all over, just like we did, feel free to get creative and have even more fun with these playful cookies!
    9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
    10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
    11. Once cooled, your Cookie Monster Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies are ready to enjoy.

    Share them with your loved ones and experience the joy of homemade cookies that even Cookie Monster would devour! Happy baking!

    macadamia chocolate cookie

    Want another dessert?

  • Cookie Monster Oreo Double Chocolate Chunk Best Recipe

    Indulge in a delightful cookie-making adventure with our Cookie Monster Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Dive into the whimsical world of everyone’s favorite blue monster by creating these irresistibly chunky, chocolate-filled cookies. Our step-by-step guide ensures that bakers of all levels can join in the fun. And for that authentic Cookie Monster charm, don’t forget to top each cookie with the iconic candy eyes. With every bite, you’ll feel like you’re right there on Sesame Street, sharing a sweet treat with Cookie Monster himself. So, preheat your oven, and let’s bake up these scrumptious delights that will make even the biggest cookie monster smile! 🍪👹👀

    blue oreo cookie monster cookie

    Ingredients

    • 1 package of Oreos (about 15 cookies)
    • 200g all-purpose flour
    • 120g cake flour
    • 100g white sugar
    • 100g brown sugar
    • 200g unsalted butter, softened
    • 300g chocolate (dark and milk), chopped into chunks
    • 1 tsp cornstarch
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp baking soda
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
    • 2 eggs

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    2. In a food processor or using a plastic bag and a rolling pin, crush the Oreos into coarse crumbs. Set them aside.
    3. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix them well and set aside.
    4. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
    5. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
    6. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
    7. Now, fold in the Oreo crumbs and chocolate chunks into the cookie dough. It should look chunky and delicious, just like Cookie Monster’s favorite cookies!
    8. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form large cookie dough balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave enough space between each cookie for spreading.
    9. To give them that classic Cookie Monster look, you can add two big candy eyes to the top of each cookie. These can be found in most baking supply stores or online. If you want to go wild and add as many eyes as you want all over, just like we did, feel free to get creative and have even more fun with these playful cookies!
    10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
    11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
    12. Once cooled, your Cookie Monster Chocolate Chunk Cookies are ready to enjoy. Share them with your loved ones and relish the comforting taste of homemade cookies. Happy baking!

    Baking tip: For an extra playful touch, serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk – just like Cookie Monster would! 🍪🥛👹

    Want a another cookie?

  • Chocolate Surprise Cookie Monster To Elevate the Spooky

    Get ready to embrace your new Chocolate Surprise cookie cravings with our delectable Chocolate Walnut Cookie recipe. These chunky, chocolate-filled cookies come with the perfect nutty crunch, making them an absolute delight for bakers of all levels. The step-by-step guide ensures you capture the essence of these scrumptious cookies. And, to give them a playful twist, don’t forget to add those iconic candy eyes on top of each cookie for that extra charm. With every bite, you’ll savor the joy of freshly baked cookies, ready to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, let’s preheat the oven and whip up these mouthwatering delights that will leave everyone smiling! 🍪😋👀

    Ingredients:

    – 200g all-purpose flour

    – 120g cake flour

    – 100g white sugar

    – 100g brown sugar

    – 200g unsalted butter, softened

    – 300g chocolate (dark and milk), chopped into chunks

    – 260g walnuts, coarsely chopped

    – 1 tsp cornstarch

    – 1 tsp baking powder

    – 1/2 tsp baking soda

    – 1/4 tsp salt

    – 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

    – 2 eggs

    Instructions:

    1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    2. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix them well and set aside.

    3. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

    4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.

    5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the cookie dough comes together.

    6. Now, fold in the chocolate chunks and coarsely chopped walnuts into the cookie dough.

    7. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form large cookie dough balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading.

    8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.

    9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    10. Once cooled, your Cookie Monster Chocolate Surprise Cookies are ready to enjoy. Share them with your loved ones and experience the joy of homemade cookies that even Cookie Monster would devour! Happy baking!

    After the baking Chocolate Surprise fun

    once the cookies are ready, make sure to take a seat, and have a large glass of milk of your choice! Mine is oat, and lay back and enjoy this spooky goodness. Stay deliciously spooky!