Scrumptious & Sassy Apple Bacon Cheese Snacks – Vegan Style!
Posted on April 17, 2010 in the Kristin's Kooking category
Nothing like a little desperation and a hungry hubby to get kreative in Kristin’s Kitchen!
I’ve been substituting apple slices for bread lately to keep my starchy cards at bay (except I LOVE Brasserie Bread and get their bread delivered locally to me so I always have a heavenly loaf on hand).
Today’s experiment was a success – simple, yummy & perfect for a lazy Sunday.
Apple Bacon Cheese Snacks:
- Apple Slices – thin slices
- Vegie Delights Bacon Rashers – fried up in olive oil so crispy
- Simply Better Foods Soy Cheese w/ Chives – thinly sliced – this flavour is my favourite & goes well w/ apples.
Once you fry the bacon, make the sandwiches with apple slices & cheese.
Enjoy and make hubby happy – that’s the most important.
Till the next desperate attempt to cook something fast & delicious…
Sassy Assassin’s Book Review: The Art of War for Women Part 1
Posted on March 14, 2010 in the Real Women category
Yes, I’m back and just recovered from celebrating International Women’s Day!
I thought it appropriate to start reading my book “The Art of War for Women” by Ching-Ning Chu in honour of the launch of Social Media Women in Sydney (of which I’m a proud supporter of more women using social media) on 9 March.
I hope to learn some new tactics in my book which was graciously sent to me by Treeet. As you may know, I love love love to read so getting a new book is a special “treat” – ahah! The Sassy Assassin (that’s me) needs all the help she can get. Watch out, here I come!
Instead of waiting until the end to do my book report, I thought I’d share my insights along the journey – that way we can all learn to be better strategic women – haha!
This book is adapted for women based on Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War”. This is brilliant because I believe men and women are different and we process and use information differently.
I’m being general here but men and women can have different strengths and different communication styles, different ways of dealing with problems and responding to situations. Neither is better – just different and both are equally important.
Now that I’ve been married to my wonderful husband for a few years, I can vouch this to be true for us. But enough about me (can you believe I really don’t like to talk about myself?!)…on to the good stuff!
From the first sentence in the preface, I was hooked. The first part is called “It’s about the art, not the war.” This is why this book is so perfect for me. I don’t like to fight. I like to strategise, research, recommend, implement, measure,report, optimise and repeat. Probably why SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is a perfect job for TheSassySEO (that’s me, too).
I am not against conflict – I think it’s great – if both parties are open to learn, understand and resolve. I don’t believe anyone really wins by fighting.
So the fact this book started with “it’s about the art, not the war” is gold! I live to make progress with little conflict – HORRAY! I don’t like anyone to feel bad about themselves or feel defeated. I have felt that way many times and it’s no good.
I’m heartened that the key to this book is about “understanding myself”. I have to help myself before I can help others and seek to better myself so I can be more valuable.
The other greatest notion to come out of the preface is that integrating my ethics into my practices is necessary. I’m hot for this.
Lastly, to succeed, having the big picture in mind (long-term strategy & tactics) is critical, too. I think this book was written just for me.
So…Xie Xie, Chin-Ning – I just started the book and something has already changed inside me…for good (Thank you Wicked!)
See you soon – we may get to chapter one by 2011…
A Blast to look like the past…or my adventures with microdermabrasion
Posted on February 3, 2010 in the Real Beauty category
A gorgeous woman (and new found friend) Amanda, took a chance on me through Twitter and asked me to collaborate with her on an article about microdermabrasion. Here’s the skinny…or you can read it on her blog: Realize Beauty. I loved writing this post as much as I loved meeting her (I actually loved meeting her more) and I’m happy to share my experience.
Even though my Real Beauty blog is about a women’s best quality’s being on her insides, it doesn’t mean we can’t pamper ourselves to feel absolutely fantastic on the outside. Bon Appetit!
*************************
My little secret is out – I just turned 40 – and though I’m not upset about this milestone, it did inspire me to think about how well I was taking care of myself — specifically my skin. I have shunned facials and spa treatments and expensive creams my whole life. I’m frugal and I had acne. It took me years to find Proactiv (been using successfully since 1993) and I didn’t believe that spending a ton of money on a spa treatment would do anything for me.
But as I approached 40, I started thinking that maybe I could help my complexion (especially motivated by the beautiful women of Sydney), by getting microdermabrasion. I don’t like to wear foundation, so camouflaging my face was not an option. So, encouraged by the lovely Amanda (Realize Beauty), I began to hunt for a place that would beautify me.
I found Lotus Spa in Bondi Junction - an elegant & friendly oasis – where I was told my skin had sun damage and would need extensive therapy. This was no surprise to me as I’d already taken a beating at another spa (and wasn’t keen to go back) but it still pricked my ego. But the lovely woman was nice, honest and right. So after she explained the details, I booked an appointment.
I really thought microdermabrasion would be harsh and I would have to go into hiding with scraggly skin – I was SO wrong! It was a wonderful experience. I received the crystal method (not diamond) with a device from Beauty Culture. It was more of a sucking vacuum than a face blasting. What a relief.
The treatment started with a soothing cleanser to prepare my skin. The the microdermabrasion. The beautician (she was globally and locally certified) gently smoothed my skin so the vacuum didn’t bruise the fleshy areas like my cheeks. It was enjoyable and didn’t feel like I was losing a layer of skin.
After the main treatment, she put on a soothing masque and serum and treated me to a hand/scalp massage. It was decadent!
She did warn me to wear sunscreen — that’s a given — and sent me on my way after telling me I looked radiant! Thank you very much. I came home and took pictures but didn’t notice too much difference. My skin was definitely brighter and clearer and I looked pampered – my skin was definitely softer, too. My skin felt just a little tight but there was no obvious redness. The next day, my skin still had that pampered look and I noticed I looked rested and a bit younger.
Success!!
I am certainly going back in a few months for another treatment. Will I go back to Lotus Spa? Maybe. I’m going to visit a few others and see what I find. I am on the quest for the friendliest and most feminine spa in Bondi Junction. The kind of place that makes me feel like a beautiful woman — before my treatment. I’m looking for ambiance…an ultimate experience. It will take a lot to surpass Lotus Spa, and I’ll share what I find.
Thanks Amanda, for inspiring me to treat myself to a much-needed and loved treatment. I’m a believer!
Mamma Mia’s Vegan Taqueria – tacos for two
Posted on January 30, 2010 in the Kristin's Kooking category
Well, Veganuary is almost over and it’s been a blast! I haven’t cooked some of my recipes in a while and LOVED each one.
The other night, I cooked one of my best: Vegan Stroganoff – yum yum yum! The tofu/sour cream is divine – this time I put lemon in it.
But today – to mark the end (almost) of such a great month, I cooked Vegan Tacos. I love tacos – I especially love them because my mum is the Taco Queen. She’s been cooking them since I was born so they will always be special to me.
So I vegan-ed the recipe and I’m pleased to share:
Shells:
You can use pre-made but I don’t. I fry Corn Tortillas in extremely hot Olive Oil – watch your fingers. Let dry on paper towels.
Filling:
Vegan Meat – my new favourite it from Vegie Delights canned Casserole Mince. It’s in the Health Food section of Coles.
Kidney Beans – I used the mexican chili flavoured ones today but you can use Taco Seasoning, too. I added some extra Enchilada Sauce, too.
Vegan Cheese – the Low Chol Soy Bean Cheese from Kemeny’s in Bondi is superb.
Spring Onion
Avocado Cream Sause – I used the leftover tofu sour cream from Stroganoff (above) and added Avocado – basically it’s tofu, lemon, garlic, avo & cumin – blend until smooth.
You can add other onions (Mum LOVES onions), lettuce & tomato, olives, etc.
Isn’t the picture divine? It tasted even better. Rob agreed – he had a heap of them.
I’m sad to see Veganuary end, but I shall continue to create vegan meals and share. I love cooking vegan even if I don’t eat 100% vegan. It makes home life easy & healthy.
Adios & Via Con Comida,
Senorita Rohan
Mashed Potato Time – Fakin’ Bacon-tastic!
Posted on January 19, 2010 in the Kristin's Kooking category
I love Veganuary! Why? It’s always on my mind when I eat PLUS I’m having fun challenging myself to find Veggie meals when I’m on the town.
But tonight was a stay at home and cook for the Rohans night. I threw this recipe together quickly – it’s a slight variation of my baked cauliflower recipe - and goes to show that I can scrounge up anything from the fixin’s in our fridge and Rob will eat it. That’s why I love him so much.
Here’s the scoop for Fakin’ Bacon-tastic Mashed Potatoes:
Boil water – put cut potatoes in and cook until soft.
Fry Bacon – I LOVE Vegie Delights Bacon-Style Rashers from Cole’s. I used about 6 or so pieces in olive oil. Fry until crispy – as crispy as fake bacon can get. Let drain and cool – cut up into little chunks.
Boil peas.
Cut Spring Onions.
Shred Soy Cheese – Kemeny’s in Bondi has an incredible Low Chol Soy Bean Cheese. It’s out of this world and melts/tastes like REAL cheese. Huzzah!
Mash potatoes and put in baking dish. Layer peas, bacon, spring onions & cheese on top. A little dash of cayenne pepper for the top and bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes until cheese melts.
IT”S YUMMY and easy and fun and healthy. What more to life is there?
Happy Veganuary – but don’t despair! I’ve decided to continue with Veguary and Vegarch. I’ll keep cooking if you (my 3 readers) keep visiting!
Hasta la vista, baby and happy eating!
A Sweet & Sassy Start to Veganuary…Berry Smoothie…Berry Yummy!
Posted on December 31, 2009 in the Kristin's Kooking category
Happy New Year to my 5 Readers!
So super excited to start Veganuary that I had to post a delicious and mega-quickie recipe that will get you off on the right foot.
Sweet & Sassy and Berry Yummy Berry Smoothie:
Berry Mixture – I used frozen (you can use fresh) berry mix of Strawberries, Blueberries & Raspberries – about 2 cups
Chocolate So Good Ice Cream – about a cup
Vanilla So Good Ice Cream – about a cup
Mix in my FAVOURITE mixer – the Magic Bullet
You can add other fruit, play with the amounts of soy ice cream, or add orange juice/apple juice depending on your preferences.
It is SOY GOOD and makes a perfect mid-meal snack.
I loosely follow the Great Australian Diet by Dr. John Tickell where I try to get in 15 plant foods a day (grains, seeds, fruit & vege). This has 4.
Great boost to your day – great boost to mine!
Cheers & happy healthy plant eating,
kristin
Holy Granola! Another Sweet & Sassy Recipe for Veganuary
Posted on December 23, 2009 in the Kristin's Kooking category
After writing this blog for about 4 years now, I’ve discovered a lot about myself…I love to eat!
I also like to share. So it is with the spirit of both of those, that I present to you my super secret but scrumptious Granola – to prepare for Veganuary – HORRAY!
This is my Pop’s and Pop-in-Law’s favourite (or so they tell me – and they wouldn’t lie to me, would they? Not if they want more granola, right??!!). So without further adieu…
Super Sweet & Sassy Granola – Kristin Style:
In a big bowl:
- Rolled Oats (I like organic)
- Mixed Nuts – broken in small pieces – Almonds are especially healthy
- Coconut Flakes
- Sunflower Seeds
- Olive Oil
- Maple Syrup
- Honey
Mix together with your hands until the Oil, Syrup & Honey cover all other ingredients. Heat oven to 150 (in Aus) and stir every 15 minutes. If your oven is too hot, cook at lower degrees. It will take about 45 – 60 minutes.
It’s ready when the oats are golden and taste crunchy.
You can add sultanas (raisins), dried cranberries or carob chips – you can even experiment with different kinds of nuts. The possibilities are endless.
This will keep for quite a while in a container in the fridge. Tastes awesome with soy milk.
I know this is delicious because when I make a new batch, Rob eats it for brekkie, lunch & tea everyday until I yell at him to stop eating it so fast. If that is not a positive testimonial, I don’t know what is!
Happy & healthy eating!!!
Merry Kristin Part 2 – On the 13th Day of Christmas, Sydney gave to me – The Winery in Surry Hills
Posted on December 13, 2009 in the Kristin's Kristmas category
Whew, that was quick, I know – but I’m back with more lovely girlie fun!
Like I said in my last post “Merry Kristin – on the 12th Day of Christmas”, I adore Sydney, champagne and pretty places – I seem to have found a few – yesterday’s hero was Madame Fling Flong in Newtown. Today it’s all about luxurious, delicious, dripping with lushness & femininity — The Winery in Surry Hills.
If you follow me on Twitter @KristinRohan, you know I co-host a snappy little shindig each Friday – “Champagne Fridays” – my pal, Oliver Palmer and I cooked it up so we could get together and toast well, ourselves. It’s grand and I love exploring new places to drink champagne in Surry Hills each week.
One such week, David Soul (an executive member of ChampagneFridays) suggested The Winery. Needless to say, it was LOVE at first site for me. Are you surprised?
I know!
It’s too bad we had just moved or I would have brought my suitcases straight here and never left the joint.
Here’s the unbelievable ceiling – a close-up of indulgence:
I came. I saw. I drank champagne. I fell in love. I thanked the heavens for Sydney, good friends and great times.
Here’s one more shot just so you can appreciate how breathtaking & fabulous this place is…
Okay, okay – just ONE more – guess where I’m going next week?!
Wheeeeeeee!
Merry Kristin! On the 12th Day of Christmas, Sydney gave to me…Madame Fling Flong in Newtown
Posted on December 13, 2009 in the Kristin's Kristmas category
Christmas is here again and I’m picking up my posts almost to the day I dropped them off last year – meant to be?? I think so. (Well, actually – it was a little encouragement from my friend, Andrew Blanda – thanks Andrew!)
If you recall (or maybe you don’t since I only had 1 reader last year and now I have 3), I decided to share my love and appreciation for Sydney. It’s been a totally incredible year, and if I was smitten a year ago, let’s just say it’s full-blown love into infinity now.
So each day I reveal to my 3 readers more of the magic we are experiencing here.
It may not be a surprise that I love beautiful places and drinking champagne. When I can enjoy bubbly in a pretty place it’s KISMET! I have 2 such places that have caught my fancy in Sydney...Madame Fling Flong in Newtown and The Winery in Surry Hills (see Day 13 post).
Since it’s the weekend, I’m breaking this post up into 2 days so you can doubly enjoy my mouth-watering girlie girl pictures and giggle like I do when I look at them…
Madame Fling Flong’s in Newtown is the absolute cocktail lounge.
I was completely under it’s spell from the first minute and couldn’t wait to order my Manhattan (I strayer here a little but the place has retro cocktails and one must partake, yes?) and try out every delectable and utterly fantastic vintage chair until I found the one that screamed “Kristin” above all others.
I did.
Here’s the amazing bar – if I was still bartending, this is the first place I’d apply:
Needless to say, this is the first stop to heaven. We almost moved to Newtown so I could be close to Madame’s. Really. Wouldn’t you?
Come back tomorrow, when I share with you the horrendously feminine and soul-touching beauty of The Winery in Surry Hills…same Sweet & Sassy time…same Sweet & Sassy channel.
In Celebration of Veganuary, Something Sweet & Sassy Chili!
Posted on December 7, 2009 in the Kristin's Kooking category
A cool bloke I know, Mal (@Afficionados_HH and purveyor of fine wallpaper & fabric – www.afficionados.com.au/) has inspired me to participate in Veganuary!
I do the “Vegan-essque” thing now — 3/4 Vegan — because the food is so magnificently delicious in Australia and Meat/Cheese seems to be sprinkled like yummy fairy dust into most dishes, bbq’s, etc.
But I’m ready for a little more action. I weaned myself off cheese earlier this year (hardest habit to break EVER!) and only have it occasionally – even Dominos delivers my pizzas with no cheese. HORRAY!
To kick off the pre-Veganuary festivities, I am sharing my super secret Sweet & Sassy Chili recipe. I like to eat this for lunch most days. Easy to keep a pot in the fridge for quick fixes.
In a frypan:
Vegie Delite Vegie Mince from Coles
Olive Oil
Spring Onions
Fresh Mushrooms
Once that is browned, add with the following items in a saucepan:
Red Kidney Beans (2 cans)
4 Bean Mix (1 can)
Fresh or Frozen Corn
Capsicum (I like to add a few different kinds for taste and make it look pretty)
Chili Con Carne Seasoning (sometimes with the Mexican food ingredients)
Pasta Sauce (I like Herbs & Spices in Red Wine or Garlic)
Can of Tomatoes (you decide which kind you prefer)
Minced Garlic
You can add more or less ingredients depending on how big your pot is. Let simmer for about 20 minutes but stir continuously as the mince sometimes sticks to the bottom.
It’s easy, simple, delicious & healthy.
Viola, it’s Chili – happy Veganuary!
keep trying »