Israeli Couscous with Sauteed Vegetables

Often thought to be a grain, couscous is actually a tiny semolina pasta that is commonly used in middle-eastern dishes.  Israeli couscous is regular couscous's fat cousin, and I actually prefer it to regular couscous because it has more substance to it.  It's just as versatile as pasta and is great for making a dish that you can eat all week when you're living on a budget.  The following dish is simple, fast and you can always change it up to make it with whatever vegetables you happen to have in your kitchen.

Rugelach inspired by Israel

It's no secret that I am a huge fan of foreign markets.  I like the smells, the sounds, the people-watching, and most importantly the tastes.  When I recently visited Israel, the markets there did not disappoint me in the slightest.  The first market we went to was the Shuk in Jerusalem.

Curry Coconut Lemongrass Bars

I always like taking traditionally savory ingredients and incorporating them  into a dessert.  These bars look like normal lemon squares but have an unexpected twist that makes them a whole lot more interesting.  The flavors blend together very nicely for a delicious and addictive treat.

Fig and Almond Coffee Cake

The other day I had a craving for coffee cake.  Not just any coffee cake, but the kind with huge chunks of streusel on top and dusted with powdered sugar.  I looked up several recipes and decided to go off of one by Martha Stewart, but made some of my own changes.  The result was a deliciously moist cake with a fig filling and an almond streusel topping.  New Years resolutions are for quitters so enjoy this decadent cake for a sweet start to the new year.

Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

If you're looking for a soft, chewy, oatmeal raisin cookie with just a hint of spice then look no further.  This cookie is delicious and highly addictive.  The trick is to not over-bake it and to chill the dough before putting it in the oven.  Now that I've given away my secrets, read on for the full recipe.

Chai Tea Concentrate

Chai tea is an Indian drink that you make by steeping various spices in milk and water and then sweetening with sugar.  You can buy pre-made mixes or spice blends, but this concentrate is a great thing to keep in your fridge.  It's super easy to make and is a great drink for a cold winter night.  I gave the jar I made as a christmas gift (hence the packaging).
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Stovetop Popcorn

Sometimes you come home from work and all you want to do is plop down in front of the TV and watch a mindless movie with a bowl of popcorn on your lap.  Forget buying microwaveable bags and make some stovetop popcorn!