BAGuette

Uncommon Goods

It's almost November, the holidays are almost here, and I'm already perusing the web for interesting gifts. I stumbled upon these baguette carriers, which are absolutely genius.. Not only would this make a great gift, you can carry a baguette with ease, while keeping it secure!

Etsy

Donut Jewelry

Hi all and Happy Monday! 

How scrumptious are these necklaces by Tadam Design? It's making me want to go out and get a donut right now!

I Wish Cheese was a Vegetable

Hi guys, Happy Tuesday!

Lovin' this little notebook. If only cheese was vegetable!

notebook available at remedy quarterly 

Chocolate Balsamic Glaze Pairings

When it comes to flavor combinations, I love the thrill of the unexpected. Never did I think reduced balsamic and chocolate would work together. But, they do.  It may sound wrong, but it tastes sooo right. I found this treasure at a European market and knew I wanted to take it home with me. The balsamic is reduced down and enriched with chocolate.The glaze has a light acidity and a mouth coating richness. Its texture is creamy and decadent, similar to hot fudge but less runny.

The first thing that came to mind was what am I going to enjoy this with? The label offered the serving suggestion of drizzling it on gelato. Oooh. Then I thought to myself, cheeeeese! I chose two cheeses to pair the glaze with--Parmigiano Reggiano and Camembert.

Pairing the glaze with Parmigiano Reggiano seemed natural. The fruity and nutty qualities of Parm. and sweet chocolate paired wonderfully together. The effect was similar to a crunch bar; the crystalline texture of Parm provided that bite like crispy rice. This pairing is more on the sweet side, where as the Camembert was more of a savory flavor combination.

The creamy, dense interior of Camembert and the chocolaty richness of the glaze was an engaging duo. When eaten together, you notice the acidity of the glaze and then the earthy elements of the bittersweet chocolate and Camembert just fuse together and become one. It's smooth and luxurious on the palate.

photography credits:

  chocolate balsamic via la modenese, parmigiano reggiano via di bruno bros, camembert via igourmet

Waters of the Unique

I am always on the hunt for something exciting and unique. And, who knew that in the category of water there would be such an option? My curiosity led me to purchase these bottles of natural flavor-infused water. I had no idea there was such thing as almond water w/vanilla and rose and birch tree water. Let me tell ya, I am so glad it exists.

Almond water originated from France--which makes perfect sense, as its flavors resemble a french macaron-- but, in liquid form. It's liquid decadence! Victoria's Kitchen brand of almond water w/ vanilla and rose is delightful. It has a hint of sweetness, an accent of vanilla a lovely aroma. The almond water has a refreshing quality that I can't get enough of.  Did I mention that there are only 110 calories per bottle? 

Byarozavik, aka birch tree water is refreshing and quite delicious. Say what?  It's a tad sweet, slightly acidic and reminds me of coconut water. It's crisp, light and purely refreshing. Birch tree water is made from birch tree sap harvested in spring and is a traditional beverage in Europe.