THE TASTE'S "Picnic In The Park"

It is hard to believe that we are at the closing event for the 2011 Los Angeles Times | FOOD & WINE'S THE TASTE! I must say though, that they've saved the best for last. I couldn't think of a better way to spend Labor Day than THE TASTE "Picnic In The Park".

The events atmosphere was electric and definitely designed to be a picnic atmosphere geared for the entire family to enjoy. There were a kid friendly foods, and activities throughout the afternoon. The first wine and food Festival that I have attended that had family-focused day.

Melissa D'Arabian

The cooking demos included Food Network's Melissa d'Arabian, renowned actress Debi Mazar and her husband Gabriele Corcos who host popular online cooking series "Under the Tuscan Gun" as well as the cooking channel's "Extra-Virgin".

This delightful afternoon culminated with a one hour question and answer session with the event's Host, Giada De Laurentis. Giada, as always was generous with the audience answering all their questions as well as taking the time at the end of the session to pose for pictures and sign autographs!

All in all, the 2011 THE TASTE  was a tremendous success from the friendly Festival staff to the Exhibitors and Restaurants who participated in feeding us and entertaining us. I can't wait for next year's THE TASTE!

THE TASTE'S "STREET EATS" @ The Studios at Paramount

Our Sunday continued at The Studios at Paramount in Hollywood with the evening event "Street Eats" hosted by Top Chef Master, author, restauranteur and one half of the "To Hot Tamales" Susan Feniger!

The backlot streets of Paramount Studios was the perfect setting to showcase a virtual cornucopia of Street cuisine that is Los Angeles. It's not often that you get to taste and experience the amazing array food trucks in such a close proximity to each other. It was a delicious and fun way to have dinner on Sunday.

Chef Fabio Viviani

In addition the cooking demos were the best! you haven't lived until you have Top Chef favorite Fabio Viviani teach you how to make gnocchi and then throw some at the audience so that we can experience the consistency of the gnocchi first hand! Fabio's wit and joie de vivre are only matched by his enjoyment and passion for teaching. Fabio is a joy to watch in action!

Chef Alex Guarnaschelli

For me there is only one person that can successfully follow Fabio and that person is Food Network's judge on Chopped as well as her own show Alex's Day Off, Alex Guarnaschelli. Chef Alex regaled us with stories about how it feels to be in a studio for 14 hours eating strange food made out of those infamous Chopped baskets, as well as the judges interactions with the contestants while cooking under such strenuous conditions.Alex cooked for us of beautiful dishes with the freshest of ingredients and the simplicity that made us all want to go home and try them!

THE TASTE Fashion Bites Brunch

I cannot think of a more exciting place to have Sunday brunch band the world famous Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills! Dozens of fine restaurants from Fig & Olive, Napa Valley Grille, Nate 'N Al's to Cafe Rodeo served us fantastic and scrumptious eats.

The atmosphere was magical as all the shops on Rodeo Drive were open for business!

THE TASTE'S "Secrets from the Kitchen & Cellars"

THE TASTE continued today with  "Secrets from the Kitchen & Cellars", an afternoon filled with fabulous food, insightful and informative cooking demos and wine and spirit tastings.

We started the morning by visiting the dozens of restaurants and exhibitors of wines and spirits participating in the event. Among the restaurants that we stopped by were La Seine, Mr. Chow, Black Market, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Sam's by the Beah, my personal favorite, Scarpetta @ The Montage, and many others.

We chatted with Chef Scott Conant about the fabulous Scarpetta Restaurant's Sunday brunch! The brunch is to die for and it's where I celebrated my 60th birthday with 10 of my closest friends and family.

Chef Drago

Our next stop was at the cooking demos at the tents. First up was chef Celestino Drago of the Drago Ristorante in Santa Monica as well as Pastaio, Drago Centro. Chef demonstrated for us to beautiful rissotto with organic beets. The dish was both beautiful and delightfully flavorful ( yes, we all got to taste it)!

Chef Scott Conant

Our next stop was to be with chef Scott Conant at the second tent. Chef shared with us to dishes from his childhood, simple pasta with garlic and a warm pasta salad with buffalo mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes. Remember the pasta water should taste like "BROTH"!

Our next presenter was Claire Robinson, the Food Network's host "5 Ingredient Fix" as well as Food Network's Challenge. There is nothing that Claire cannot do you five simple ingredients and her imagination.while creating dishes, Claire regaled us with behind the scenes stories about both of her shows. Claire is a talented chef and his delightful to get to know and talk.

Next stop for us the Paramount Studios backlot and Tacos and Tequila Tryst.

The Los Angeles Times | FOOD & WINE'S The TASTE Kick's Off With BURGERS & BEER

The official kickoff to the fantastic weekend events for The Los Angeles Times | FOOD & WINE'S The TASTE began tonight with Burgers and Beers!

Chef Alex, Bianca The Foodie, Claire Robinson

The red carpet was jumping with famous chefs, television celebrities, and foodies.  Food Network stars such as Claire Robinson, Chef Scott Conant, Aarti Sequeira, Candace Nelson (the Queen of cupcakes) and Alex Guarnaschelli were greeted by the media.

Bianca The Foodie & Kathy Griffin

We got a chance to speak to BRAVO TV's and Emmy award winner Kathy Griffin. Kathy was having a ball meeting fans, eating delicious burgers from over 30+ of Los Angeles great restaurants.

Bianca The Foodie & Fabio Viviani

Top Chef's Fabio Viviani was excited to have THE TASTE in his back yard. Fabio was also looking forward to his demo at THE TASTE's "Street Eats" on the Paramount Lot Sunday, Sept. 4th. Tickets are still available at THE TASTE website.

The deliciously prepared burger samples were beautifully displayed by the participating restaurants which included Delphine, LA Market, The Counter Burger, STK, The Yard, Kaibi Burger, City Tavern, Westside Tavern, and others.

Wines and Spirits were flowing from the likes of Peroni Beer, Blue Moon Beer, Cupcake Wines, etc.

The weekend's first cooking demo was presented by Marc Boussaire, The Counter's Executive Chef. The TASTE could not have chosen a better chef to begin a weekend full of information, good food and fun! Chef Marc has it all, great skills, good looks and a wonderful personality.

Next up is Saturday's "Secrets from the Kitchen & Cellar on Saturday, Sept. 3rd from 11-3 in Beverly Hills. Tickets are available at THE TASTE website or at the door.

Curried Lentil Soup w/Chicken Meatballs - Gluten Free and Organic - Bianca The Foodie Cooks

One of the most Important things that I try to do when cooking these days is to make healthy, organic, and satisfyingly delicious meals that can be prepared easily and in a timely manner.

This is a delicious lentil soup made with wonderful ingredients, and the prep time is minimal.

I use organic basil, organic lentils organic vegetable broth. In addition, I added gourmet chicken meatballs found in Trader Joe's in the deli section, they are gluten-free.

All my spices are from Penzey's Spices! not only can you order from them online, but check to see if they have a store near you. It is a wonderful experience to go to their stores. Penzey's Store Locations.

• 1 pound out organic lentils (I get mine from Whole Foods)
• 2 quarts of organic vegetable broth (I get mine from Trader Joe's)
• 2 medium onions chopped
• 2 medium carrots chopped
• 4 garlic cloves minced (I use Penzey's Minced Garlic, it is a wonderful alternative to fresh and imparts the sweetness of garlic without being pungent!)
• 2 tablespoons of Pensey's Garam Masala (it is salt free)
• Penzey's Sunny Spain Salt Free Seasoning to taste (I use this liberally, be brave and indulge it's SALT FREE, and packed w/flavor)
• extra-virgin olive oil

In a heated Dutch oven pour the olive oil and when it is hot, sauté the onions, carrots, and minced garlic until translucent. Add the garam masala, and the Sunny Spain, and "cook" the spices for a couple of minutes while stirring. Add the two quarts of vegetable broth, the lentils and stir. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce to a low heat. Cook for 45 min.

Using either a blender, or food processor, process the soup to a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning. (You might opt at this point to add a little bit of salt. I use kosher salt, but very little of it, perhaps 1 teaspoon or less to this huge pot).

Serving: when serving this wonderful lentil soup I add Trader Joe's Gourmet Chicken Meatballs (Sun Dried Tomato, Basil and Provolone.) However, if I want to keep it as a vegetarian dish, all I add before I serve it, is fresh basil which I chiffonade. I also add a tablespoon of grated Parmigiano Reggiano.

Bianca The Foodie Attends Paula Deen's Gospel Brunch at SOBEWFF

 

Attending Paula Deen's Gospel Sunday Brunch gives new meaning to "going to church". Here is a brief glance at the sights and sounds of one of SOBEWFF 2011's most popular events!

Bianca The Foodie Talks Cooking w/Parkinson's Disease

Listen to Bianca the Foodie on with Lonely Gourmet Radio Blog

Listen to internet radio with Lonely Gourmet on Blog Talk Radio

A Night With Acclaimed Pastry Chef Richard Ruskell @ Montage Hotel Beverly Hills

BiancaTheFoodie & Chef Richard Ruskell

Krista and I had the rare opportunity to attend the viewing party for the season opener of the Food Network's "Last Cake Standing" at the cozy Library of the beautiful Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Chef Richard Ruskell

Our host was the Montage Hotel's acclaimed Executive Pastry Chef Richard Ruskell. For you Food Networks fans, Chef Richard is one of the superstars of the network's "Challenge" program having won 5 times! While watching the East Coast feed of the show we were treated to not only some scrumptious sweet amuse-bouche and delectable cupcakes, but Chef Richard's stories.

BiancaTheFoodie & Chef Richard Ruskell

The setting, attendees, and Chef Richard himself made it a memorable night and a heck of a way to watch this exciting show. For all of you in the Los Angeles area, the Montage Hotel as well as Chef Richard will be hosting another viewing party for each of the episodes of "Last Cake Standing". The next viewing will be on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 6 PM Pacific time. Call the Montage Hotel for information.

Dr. Hyman Talks About Celiac Disease

This is a wonderful video from Dr. Mark Hyman regarding the tremendous impact on your health gluten sensitivity can have on ALL of us!

I wanted to share with you as I start a four week purge of gluten from my diet. Some of the symptoms with Dr. Hyman talks about on this video I am experiencing. Since being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease I have been trying to eliminate anything that could exacerbate any symptoms that I'm having. I hope you find this video helpful.

Chef Scott Conant's Tomato Basil Sauce w/A Twist From Bianca the Foodie

For those of you who know me and for those that are new to the blog I should explain that I am obsessed with Chef Scott Conant's famous Tomato Basil Sauce for pasta. My "twist" video will come AFTER you watch Chef Scott's YouTube video.

In order to save on carbs I make this delicious sauce, but use a product called "Konjac" (see related post)
Which has no calories, gluten, sugar, or anything else except that it's high in fiber!

NOW HERE'S MY TWIST!

Wild Halibut with Honey Glazed Carrots and Parsnips on a bed of Brown Rice – Bianca The Foodie Cooks

I love wild halibut and find it quite easy to prepare.

When I'm on vacation I tried to use the freshest ingredients but I also want to ease and so my side dishes are from Trader Joe's. The honey glazed carrots and parsnips as well as the organic brown rice are perfect complements for the lovely piece of halibut that we cooked.

Thank you to our friend Gary for going fishing every year in sharing his catch with us so that we can eat wild halibut as well as wild salmon all year long!

Hot Curry Garbanzos Served Over Brown Rice - Bianca The Foodie Cooks

This is a great dish for "Vegetarian Monday" dinner!

• 2 cans of Trader Joe's Organic Garbanzo Bean
• 2 Shallots finely chopped
• 3 Garlic Cloves finely chopped
• Penzey's Hot Curry Powder - Salt Free
• Hot Pepper Flakes
• Fine Sea Salt
• Trader Joe's Organic Brown Rice (frozen section)

1.  heat a frying pan and pour a tablespoon of canola oil in heated pan
2. sauté the shallots and garlic until translucent. Make sure you do not burn as the garlic will become bitter.
3. add the Penzey's Hot Curry Seasoning to taste ( I use about 1 tablespoon for two cans of garbanzo beans), a sprinkling of the hot pepper flakes again to taste. I want the seasonings to "cook" before adding the garbanzo beans. You will notice that the seasonings, the shallots, the garlic and the oil will become a paste.
4. at the garbanzo beans stir into the shallot and garlic seasoning paste and then salt to taste. (Remember not to use too much salt!)
5. serve over brown rice.

Enjoy!

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH SIDE DISH: BIANCA THE FOODIE COOKS

This is a simple side dish:

• Butternut squash (cubed)
• Bertoli Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Penzey's "Sunny Spain"
•  Sea Salt (fine)
• Fresh Lemon Juice

Enjoy!

The Winners of 2011 SOBEWFF Burger Bash Talk to Bianca the Foodie

Before they knew they had won, we talked to both "Chopped" Judge Chef Marc Murphy and Iron Chef Michael Symon.

Chef Marc was the winner of 'Judges Award'!

Chef Symon took home The "Best-Dressed Burger" for his "shasha" sauce topping, a hot mustard sauce with hungarian peppers. And for a 2nd year in a row, Chef Symon took home the much coveted  "People's Choice Award".

5 Ingredient Fix's Claire Robinson at the 2011 SOBEWFF Burger Bash

This was the first time meeting Claire Robinson of the Food Network's "5 Ingredient Fix" and "Challenge". I love her energy! Watch!

In Their Own Words: Bianca the Foodie Presents Her 2011 SOBE Wine & Food Festival's FIU MVPs

When I first met the six FIU students that had graciously volunteered to assist  me during the 2011 South Beach Wine and Food Festival, we took a candid picture together!

At the end of my time with them,  I wanted to capture on film their impressions of not only the Festival, but of working with someone that has Parkinson's disease (PD). As you know my goal is to inspire and encourage my fellow PDers to live life fully and that includes traveling and attending events such as SOBEWFF!

The following videos are of my FIU MVP's. Each and every one of them contributed in making the 2011 South Beach Wine and Food Festival an incredibly fun, exciting and touching experience for me. YOU ARE THE BEST!

Wylie Dufresne's Interview at SOBE Wine & Food Festival's Best of the Best

As you know my goal in filming my experiences at the 2011 South Beach Wine and Food Festival was to encourage people like me with Parkinson's Disease (PD) to live a full life, travel and attend events you have gone to prior to your diagnosis or that are in your "Bucket List".

Something wonderful happened in the process that I was not expecting. While interviewing the chefs, I met people that have personally been impacted by a PD diagnosis as well.

I hope you enjoy this video of WD50's Executive/Owner Wylie Dufresne! Chef Dufresne is a gentleman as well as a great Chef!

BIANCA & XIAO ATTEND SUNDAY'S GRAND TASTING AT SOBE WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL



Xiao & Bianca

 Well I can't believe it but we are at the last event that I will be attending during the 2011 SOBE Wine & Food Festival!

My FIU student for the Sunday Grand Tasting was Xiao Lin Pan. I first saw Xiao running towards me when she spotted me at the entrance to the village.

Xiao is this lovely young woman and at first blush, she seems like a hothouse flower. Let me tell you that is as far from the truth as you can get.

Xiao is a strong, vivrant young woman who took her assignment of assisting me during the event very seriously. Xiao focus was to make sure that I was safe, comfortable and if I needed anything, she was there to get it.

Because on Saturday the eager crowd pinned me down against the barrier in front of the stage, the Security guys decided to put my walker and myself behind the barrier. Unfortunately, Xiao got "bopped" in the face by the walker. We were all concerned, but Xiao just brushed it off and said "I am OK, I am tough!"

Tough she is! She asked me to call her when I got back to my Hotel and to make sure to let her know that I got back safe and sound to Los Angeles.

I love this young woman! Xiao will be an incredible asset to the Tourism and Hospitality industry. Xiao is strong, caring, determined and compassionate. I am honored to call her my friend.

BIANCA & LILLIAN ATTEND PAULA DEEN'S GOSPEL BRUNCH

Lillian and Bianca

Amen and Hallelujah! Lillian and I had a blast at Paula Deen's Gospel Brunch! As Lee Schrager told this HOT ticket sold out in 3 hours.

With inspirational music and outrageously delicious, soul satisfying Southern breakfast treats, the Gospel Brunch was the place to be this Sunday.

My FIU student for this event was Lillian Poletti. Lillian is a strong, confident young woman with her head straight and her feet firmly planted on the ground.

Lillian took care of me as if I was part of her family. We had a table full of terrific people and the conversation was spirited and funny.

It was amazing to sit and chat with Lillian and find that her level of maturity is beyond her young years. That being said, Lillian is fun to be around!

I look forward to hear how this remarkable young woman's life progresses! I guarantee that Lillian will be a tremendous asset to any Tourism and Hospitality career path she takes.

BIANCA & TIK ATTEND SOBE WINE & FOOD's SATURDAY GRAND TASTING

Bianca & Tik

Tik, my FIU student volunteer, and I spent a glorious Saturday at the 2011 South Beach Wine & Food Festival's Grand Tasting. Jamie Oliver, Giada DeLaurentis, Emeril Lagasse, Ming Tsai, Sunny Anderson and Alex Guarnaschelli entertained and dazzled us with their culinary expertise, quick wit and joie de vivre! (pictures and videos to come.)

Tik was a great assistant throughout the day. He is a wonderful young man, kind, respectful and eager to help. Tik will do well in the Hospitality and Tourism industry because of his servant's heart.

And the most amazing thing Tik help me with was when we left the grand tasting, we walked 12 BLOCKS to my hotel! For a person like myself with Parkinson's that is quite an accomplishment. The ONLY reason I was able to do that after such a full day at SOBEWFF was because Tik was with me every step! Tik made me feel safe.

I enjoyed our time together and know we will be friends for a long time.

BIANCA & MONIKA ATTEND "LET THEM EAT CAKE"

The second FIU student that assisted me on Friday night was Monika Fuentes. From the first time we chatted about this project Monika and connected on so many levels that it was uncanny.

Monika's Mother is from the same province in Cuba as myself. When talking about family, I almost felt as if Monika was part of mine.  That feeling increased when Monika picked me up outside the Fountainebleu Hotel. MinHee delivered me to Monika's car and we were off to SOBEWFF's 10th Anniversary party, "Let Them Eat Cake". (videos and pictures of the event will be posted next week.)



Bianca & Monika

I love this young woman! Bubbly and full of life is how I describe Monika. Last night Monika's goal was to be of service to me throughout the event.

From making sure that she picked me up on time to getting me into the event, Monika was totally on point. Anyone in the Hospitality and Tourism business would be enriched by Monika.

Once we got into the event, Monika not only was a great help to me but was like a girlfriend out on Friday night!

She got a kick out of Duff Goldman and Jaques Torrez! Meeting Martha Stewart (and being impressed by what a beautiful woman Martha is) a thrilled for Monika.

Just like Laura, Monika was my eyes and ears wherever I could not get to because of Parkinson's!

Again, Monika is a friend for life!

BIANCA & MINHEE @ BEST OF BEST 2011

Friday night was a great night at the 2011 SOBE Wine and Food Festival.  I attended 2 events, Best of the Best and Let Eat Cake. Next week I will post pictures and videos, but now I want to tell you about the 2 young ladies that assisted me at the events.



Bianca & MinHee



MinHee is currently working at a hotel, her first actual job in hospitality, and so far she loves it! "I don't dread going to work and I enjoy working with the people I work with."

These days,MinHee is earning that it's the people around you who have a big influence on whatever you do. Especially at work, the people aroundl her make it enjoyable,

MinHee enjoys going fishing, reading, hanging out with her 2 adorable kitties. Her ultimate favorite channels are the Food Network and the Travel Channel. MinHee states "My final dream in the end is to become a teacher (sometime in the future after I experience hospitality a bit more)."

I loved having MinHee assist me during Best of the Best. MinHee again is everything you want in a person going into the Hospitality & Tourism career. She is attentive, eager to be of service, polite, caring and pays attention to details. MinHee's warmth and heart are evident in her beautiful smiling face. I look forward to calling MinHee my friend for many years to come!

BIANCA & LAURA GO TO THE BURGER BASH!

Bianca & Laura

Next week I will post Burger Bash videos and pictures, but now I want to talk about FIU's Laura Torres.

Laura was my helper, assistant, videographer and girlfriend during the Burger Bash.

This young woman is the epitomy of what the Hospitality & Tourism industry should strive to be. Laura is has a servants heart, a quick mind, flexible and ready to tackle any task! As if that is not enough, Laura an infectious smile that lights up a room.

 Laura was a great support for me as we made our way through the Burger Bash with my walker - tasting great burgers, side dishes and desserts; interviewing the Chefs and filming them; and all around having fun!

As my videographer, Laura was my eyes and ears when I could not get somewhere because of my PD.


I love this young woman and am proud to call her a "friend for life"!

Bianca the Foodie is in South Beach 4 the SOBE Wine & Food Festival

Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village - Saturday & Sunday - South Beach Has Never Been Better

There is no better way go to the beach then to attend this year's Whole Foods' Grand Tasting Village. Whether I am attending one of the Culinary and Lifestyle Seminars or visiting the many wine and food stations, South Beach has never been better. (See list below of scheduled chefs).

For the 10th anniversary of the festival wines of Italy will be featured. And as if that is not enough, souvenir for the event will be a copy of Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival Cookbook (Clarkson Potter, Fall 2010) with a foreword by Anthony Bourdain.

Tik Chan

The FIU students assisting me during the Grand Tastings:

SATURDAY:  Kai Tik Chan is known by "Tik". Born in Hong Kong, Tik came to the United States 11 years ago. Tik is in his junior year at FIU pursing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Hospitality Management.

"I chose this major because I love meeting new people and I really like to be part in this industry. I love to smile, and I think I'm always a positive person. I'm really happy I have the opportunity to assist you in this event, I'm looking forward to meet you and I'll do my best to be your assistant next Saturday."


I look forward to our time together!

Xiao Lin Pan

SUNDAY: Xiao Lin Pan is in her junior year at FIU pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Hospitality Management. Born in Shanghai, China, Xiao is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin Chinese, Shanghainese. Raised by a very supportive mother, Xiao has been in the U.S. since middle school.

Although she describes herself as shy, Xiao looks forward to a career in the Hotel Industry where her language skills as well as her desire to serve the traveling public will be used to it's fullest. Xiao states "I hope by the time I graduated from the school I can work in one of the biggest hotel in the world."


I look forward to our time together on Sunday. You will be the last student assisting me at the Festival!

Amen & Hallelujah Getting Ready for Paula’s Down Home Cookin’ Sunday Gospel Brunch

I can't imagine a better way to start the last day of the festival than with Paula’s Down Home Cookin’ Sunday Gospel Brunch hosted by Paula Deen Presented by Smithfield

Along with Paula, we will have the pleasure of such talented chefs as Iron Chef Cat Cora, Chefs Alex Guarnaschelli (watch my video cooking Chef Alex's Eggplant Parm!), Elizabeth Karmel,Joseph Len, Myron Mixon and Tim Love.
With the sweet sounds of Gospel music to entertain us, we will feast on Southern favorites that include  "grits (with a twist), fried green tomatoes, homemade pork sausage, spiked iced tea and stiff Bloody Mary’s, plus plenty more"!

And you know Paula and family will keep us in stitches (hope Paula keeps her pants up!, LOL)! I cannot wait to go to this culinary "prayer meeting"!

Lillian Poletti

The FIU student who will be assisting me during the brunch: 

Lillian Poletti Comes from an international family, anything and everything diverse always catches her attention. Lillian shared with me her love for learning about different cultures and viewpoints. Growing up and living in south Florida has given Lillian the great opportunity to see the diversity of the world in her own backyard. Lillian is a senior at F.I.U. with an interest in pursuing international tourism. 

"The prospect of creating happy experiences on a global scale is what I dream of doing in the future. I'm very excited to work with you, Bianca, at this year's festival. I truly admire your viewpoint on life, of not letting your circumstances dictate what your life will be like. Every moment is a moment to grow and learn." 

Lillian your words touched me deeply and it is exactly the reason why I wanted to do this project!

One Week Before "Let Them Eat Cake" @ SOBE Wine & Food Festival 2011

Sobe’s 10th Year Anniversary Party “Let Them Eat Cake” hosted by Emeril Lagasse and Martha Stewart sponsored by Ocean Drive Magazine takes place just one week from today. This event is going to be GREAT! Tantalizingly lucious desserts brought to the participants by  the likes of Mr. Chocolate himself, Chef Jaques Torres, Food Network's Duff Goldman and many others! All will present their own 10th Anniversary treats. The venue, South Beach's newest PARKING GARAGE, was designed by  the same architects as London's Tate Modern Museum. I can't wait!

Meet the lovely FIU student who will be assisting me during "Let Them Eat Cake":

Monika Fuentes

Monika Fuentes says that she might not be the best cook in her class but she surely has the biggest appetite. Monika is a Senior in the Hospitality and Tourism program of FIU and has a loving and caring family that supports her. She has this insatiable hunger for life that pushes her to go out of her usual comfort zone. "Life is about experiencing and doing as much as you can, and I plan to do just that." 

When Monika and I spoke for the first time we were blown away by how much we had in common! You see it just so happens that Monika's Mother is from the same Province in Cuba, Matanzas, as I am! She states "I know I have mentioned this before but I'll say it again, I am very honored in having the pleasure to assist you in this event Bianca. After our phone conversation I was amazed that a woman miles and miles away which I've never met before, could have so much in common with me. That's the beauty of hospitality, it gives people like you and me a chance to create bonds they wouldn't have made otherwise. Thank you again for the opportunity to do something different!"

One Week Before The Burger Bash @ SOBE Wine & Food Festival 2011

There are no words to describe how excited I am that the Amstel Light Burger Bash presented by Allen Brothers hosted by Rachael Ray is only one week away. This will be the first function I will be attending during the weekend!  


Let me tell you this is not just your little run-of-the-mill burger contest!  This is serious business or as Bobby Flay would say a "Throwdown". Some of the very competitive and talented chefs that will be "showing us what they got" are last year's winner, Iron Chef Michael Symon, Iron Chef Bobby Flay, Top Chef cheftestants Spike Mendelsohn and Howie Kleinberg as well as acclaimed Chefs Jacques Torres and Geoffrey Zakarian to name a few. (List follows)


As I blogged earlier I will be assisted by 6 great FIU students throughout the festival. They will be helping me get around with my walker, filming the festival and HAVING FUN! I will be introducing them to you as we talk about the events!

Laura Torres

The young woman that will be assisting me during the "Bash"  is FIU student Laura Torres. Laura is the perfect example of what the ideal candidate would be for a career in Hospitality and Tourism. Laura is excited about life, loves her family and wants to be of service to her clients.  An enthusiastic young woman who shared with me that when given the chance to assist me during the SOBEWFF she "raised my hand and started waving it like I used to in elementary school when I was sure I knew the answer haha" and "I just wanted to tell you how exited I am to work with you. "


Well Laura let me tell you I am equally excited to share the "Bash Adventure" with you!

Bianca the Foodie Gets Ready to Attend the 2011 South Beach Wine & Food Festival

The South Beach Wine and Food Festival 2011 is fast approaching and I'm in the process of making the final arrangements in order to have a great time! This is one of my favorite events and it is, every year, my gift to myself.  I am fortunate enough to have air miles as well as Marriott rewards points so that I don't have to pay for either my lodging or my flight.

As far as the tickets to the events, although pricey, they benefit in part Florida International University School of Hospitality & Tourism. As the festivals website states  “To date, the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival has raised over $10 million in support of the educational programs at Florida International University’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. A significant amount of the funds raised from the Festival is allocated to a construction project fund for the expansion of FIU’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management’s existing dining room into a full service Teaching Restaurant.”

This year will be the first time that I will be on my own.  It also will be the first time I will be traveling alone since my Parkinson's diagnosis. My greatest concern was how do I maneuver alone through these events on my own, with a walker. Since my goal is to show how Parkinson’s diagnosis should not preclude me from attending events such as SOBEWFF, I knew there had to be an answer.

After thinking and praying (wishing and hoping - yes I remember Dusty Springfield!) I decided to see if I could make arrangements to have assistance from the student volunteers.

Stay tuned as I share with you this coming week the marvelous miracle of how I was able to line up some incredible FIU student volunteers and how they will assist me  chronicling this event. I hope to inspire other PD patients to "Live Life" and think "outside the box" when planing vacations!

Bianca the Foodie Cooks Vegan - Breakfast

I am starting on a week long Vegan diet. (Yes, I watched Oprah!). The most important thing that I must remember is to include both good fats and Protein in all my meals. (Thanks Dr's. Hyman & Amen!)

What is interesting is that we think the only way to get our Protein is to consume animal products. In reality plant based products can also be rich in Protein.

For breakfast I am making Steel Cut Irish Oatmeal (My fave is McCann's Nutritional Facts below) w/fruits and nuts.

Although you can purchase quick cooking (microwave packets) McCann's I prefer the old fashioned ones. I cook the oatmeal in my rice cooker. Some rice cookers have a setting for porridge, mine does not so I cook it on the regular setting.  The recipe that follows makes enough for an entire week! I store it in the fridge and warm up enough for each breakfast as I need it! So I get the convenience of a quick breakfast with the taste of the traditionally cooked oatmeal.

"Smooth Moves" Dr.Oz' Favorite Subject.

As with anybody who is on medication knows, I have experienced constipation due to the PD meds! Yes ladies and gentlemen I'm talking about it. I think Dr. Oz would be proud of me!

I have found that the more fresh vegetables, fruits, and my new best friend, Konjac Noodles, I consume, the better my digestive system works. (See my post "Bianca Cooks The Daniel Plan for info on Konjac Noodles).

Here is Dr.Oz talking about constipation:

Dr. Oz prescribes foods that will help your constipation: RaspberriesPapayaCantelopeApples

EWG’S SHOPPER’S GUIDE TO PESTICIDES™

Dirty Dozen™ (buy Organic)

Celery
Peaches
Strawberries
Apples
Blueberries
Nectarines
Bell Peppers
Spinach
Cherries
Kale/Collard
Greens
Potatoes
Grapes (Imported)

Dr. Hyman’s Interview on CNN: How Eating at Home Can Save Your Life

TGIF - Planning for a Trip To The Market!

Today I am sharing links to wonderful videos that are teaching me what to buy when I grocery shop tomorrow. The links and information below is courtesy of  The Daniel Plan.

Understanding the Label

saddleback.com

Dr. Mark Hyman takes a few minutes to reveal what’s really included on packaged food labels. In general, when reading a food label, he recommends that if you can’t pronounce it or if it has more than 5 ingredients, then put it down. Additionally, he reveals other tricks food marketers use to keep consumers eating more. Instead, eat whole foods without labels, and if you must, read the labels and know what to avoid!

Bianca CooksThe Daniel Plan

I am starting today on "The Daniel Plan" / .

This is a program to live a healthier life through diet and exercise. One of the most important things that I must do for Parkinson's is to eat healthy, nutritious foods and continue my exercise regime.

Today I am incorporating Konjac into my diet. What is it?
Konjac foods - Shirataki noodles ....

Konjac Root

Konjac Tree

• are naturally water soluble fiber with no fat, sugar, starch, or protein.
• contain zero net carbohydrates and zero calories.
• are wheat and gluten free.
• pure Vegetable
• can be stored in the room temperature for about one year. Don't need refrigeration
• JAS (Japan Agricultural Standard) Certified Organic
• are translucent and gelatinous, with no flavor of their own - they easily absorb the dominant flavors of any soup or dish.



Konjac Angel Hair

• are instant and come in a variety of styles and shapes - you can simply toss salsa with Konjac instant pasta for a quick meal.

What am I going to do with them? Well I have decided to make Chef Scott Conant's Tomato Basil Spaghetti sauce and using the Konjac Angel Hair Pasta instead of traditional pasta.

Stay tuned and I will let you know how it turns out!


The Daniel Plan Info: http: //www.saddleback.com/thedanielplan
Konjac Foods Info:  http://www.konjacfoods.com/index.htm#1
Chef Scott Conant's Recipe: http://gregrafferty.posterous.com/making-scarpettas-tomato-basil-spaghetti-with-0

No Cooking Today - Spending Time With My Mommy!

My Mommie and I

Today was a very bittersweet day for me. I got to spend time with my mom because she had a doctor's appointment.

My mother Martha, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease when she was about 65 years old and currently lives in a beautiful nursing home in Pasadena, CA. So when my mother needs to go to the doctor, the nursing home makes arrangements for medical transportation and I meet her there so that I can be her patient advocate.

My M

I no longer drive because of Parkinson's, I went on a public transportation adventure in order to meet my mom at the doctors.  My mother's appointment was at 11:15 a.m., and the doctors office is approximately 25 miles from my home, I left at 8:30 a.m. to catch the first leg of my journey, an LA metro bus.  Line 244 picked me up three blocks away from my house and deposited me 2 miles away at the De Soto Orange line station. 45 minutes later, I boarded the LA Rapid Transit Red Line (yes, Los Angeles has a Metro System!) at the NoHo station (that's what we call North Hollywood) going towards Union Station.   12 minutes later I was emerging from the subway @ Vermont and Sunset right where the Dr.'s office is.

The Journey Begins

I would like to begin by telling you a little about myself, I was born in Cuba and emigrated to the Untied States as a child when my country was taken over by a Communist Dictatorship (not naming names, but you know who I mean).

My widowed mother and I lived in Miami Beach, for the first 4 years. We then moved to California and lived in Santa Monica where I attended school. I married at the tender age of 17, mind you I didn't have to I was a virgin but somehow I thought it was a great idea at the time.  Who knew? The marriage ended 4 years later.

I worked for Bank of America and Beverly Hills National Bank and then change careers and went to work for Kaiser Permanente, on a temporary assignment that lasted 35 years!

In the fall of 2007 while working as a Senior Project Manager on a huge project implementing a full electronic medical record at Kaiser, a project which I worked on for what seemed to be the last 10 years of my life, I was hospitalized and eventually was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.  This was quite a blow as my mother had been suffering from Parkinson's since the age of 67, and at 88 years of age is wheelchair bound and living in a nursing facility.

What I can only credit to the grace of God, I was able to transition from working 12 to 14 hour days and traveling for Kaiser five days a week, to being on long-term disability which eventually led to early retirement. In 2008 I stopped driving due to Parkinson's.

In the last three years I have attempted to forge a life for myself that allows me to use all the gifts that God has given me in a non-traditional way within the limitations of PD.

So I asked myself what do I love and what do I want to accomplish? Well I love to travel, I love to eat, and I love to cook.  So I started a blog dedicated to showing the world that while I might I have Parkinson's disease, Parkinson's disease doesn't have me! 

In the blog “Bianca The Foodie Cooks” I cook, I share tips and gadgets, I hopefully make you smile! Most importantly, it is my desire to show the World that life can be lived richly after PD. I pray the blog will also give HOPE to my fellow PD brothers and sisters.

Join me on my journey! It will include posting videos of me cooking, travels to the South Beach Wine and Food Festival in February, 2011 and other marvelous places as well as a glimpse of my life.

My plan is to not hide a thing, so sometimes you will see trembling because that's who I am today and I'm proud of what I'm accomplishing!

WARMEST REGARDS!

Committed to Healthy Eating & Healthy Ingredients!

I am committed to improving my life by making a change in how I eat and how I exercise.

Gone are the days when I eat junk food, fast food. I want to eat healthy and I know that I can still  love food and accomplish that goal.

I will use whole foods, eat from the "rainbow", organic whenever possible,

I will not consume high fructose or hydrogenated fat! Don't drink your calories and juices are NOT the way to go!

I have begun to be good to my body in a way that I have never been before.  This is the only body I've got and I am committed to treating it right and that will include continuing to exercise daily within the limitations of Parkinson's disease.  The funny thing is that the more I exercise, the better I feel in the better I manage my symptoms!

I Bought Too Many Eggplants! Bianca Cook's Chef Emeril's Eggplant Casserole

OK so I bought too many eggplants!  A yes, I didn't have ALL the ingredients that Chef Emeril used. But HEY you got to go with what you have! It's delicious and easy to fix side dish or veggie main dish!

Another Eggplant Dish. This time Emeril's! http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/eggplant-casserole-recipe/index.html