Slightly spicy, earthy, and comforting with all the benefits of a little fermentation. Doenjang Jjigae (Korean Soybean Paste Stew) is a delightful Korean stew that combines the rich, savory flavors of fermented soybean paste with a medley of fresh vegetables and tofu. Its umami depth is comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect dish for … Continue reading Hearty Korean soybean paste stew
Month: March 2026
Arranging flowers – using a bud vase
Making a flower statement one bloom at a time. Bud vases are cherished for their minimalist elegance and versatility, perfect for scattered groupings or single statement stems. Their narrow necks naturally support delicate flowers without additional structure. Single roses, tulips, ranunculus, or dahlias create instant sophistication. Spray roses, sweet peas, and lisianthus offer multi-bloom impact … Continue reading Arranging flowers – using a bud vase
Hearty braised pork belly
Comfort food Eastern style. (Hong Shao Rou) This iconic dish from Shanghai delivers melt-in-your-mouth pork belly with a glossy, caramelized coating that's both savory and subtly sweet. The slow braising transforms tough meat into tender, succulent bites while the fat renders into silky richness. The complex sauce, built on soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and rock … Continue reading Hearty braised pork belly
Arranging flowers – using a round vase
Bringing 360 degrees of bloom magic to your table. Round vases are beloved for their accessibility and 360-degree viewing potential, making them perfect for table centerpieces. Their wide opening accommodates generous, full arrangements. Roses, peonies, hydrangeas, and dahlias work beautifully, as their rounded blooms echo the vase shape. Tulips and ranunculus add graceful curves, while … Continue reading Arranging flowers – using a round vase
Hearty stir-fried bok choy with garlic
This simple preparation lets the mild, slightly sweet flavor of bok choy shine through. The garlic adds aromatic depth while the quick cooking method preserves the vegetable's crisp texture. Bok choy provides 2g of fiber per cup and wilts beautifully without becoming mushy. It pairs wonderfully with any Asian protein, fried rice, or noodle dishes. … Continue reading Hearty stir-fried bok choy with garlic
Red-breasted Nuthatch
What fun it is to see these flashy little birds in Minnesota. I'm happy when a Red-breasted Nuthatch shows up at my feeder because these small, active birds are a rare sighting here for me and have proven not easy to see in this part of the country. Their nasal "yank-yank" call is distinctive and … Continue reading Red-breasted Nuthatch
Hearty kimchi
Tangy, spicy, savory, pungent, and crunchy. I have upgraded this recipe to improve flavors from the original. This traditional kimchi delivers a perfect blend of tangy, spicy, and umami flavors. The Napa cabbage's tender crunch, combined with the sweetness of carrots and the pungency of garlic and ginger, creates a rich, balanced taste. The fermentation … Continue reading Hearty kimchi
Shopping smart – the well curated wardrobe
We've all been there. Standing stunned in front of a packed closet claiming we have "nothing to wear," or discovering tags still attached to impulse purchases from months ago. Shopping for clothing can feel overwhelming, expensive, and frustrating when we don't have a clear strategy. This guide is for anyone who wants to make smarter … Continue reading Shopping smart – the well curated wardrobe
Easter
This Easter, let us remember that the beauty of spring and the joy of rebirth belong to everyone, everywhere. Updated since 4/4/2025. Easter is a joyful celebration of renewal, hope, and faith. Families gather to honor the resurrection of Jesus Christ through church services, prayers, and hymns. Traditions include decorating eggs, symbolizing new life, and … Continue reading Easter
Hearty seasoned spinach
(Sigeumchi Namul) This simple spinach side dish is a staple at nearly every Korean meal, featuring tender blanched spinach dressed in a delicate sesame-soy seasoning. The spinach becomes silky and mild while the nutty sesame oil and garlic add depth without overpowering. With 4g of fiber per cup, it's both nutritious and light. This banchan … Continue reading Hearty seasoned spinach