Food Moments 2005

1.) 2005 was the year I began using vermouth for something other than martinis. I've always had it around owing to my preference to gin, not too dry, up with a twist, but due to an occasional reluctance to open a bottle of wine for a mere quarter cup, I started subbing it in recipes. Since vermouth is just wine fortified and flavored with herbs and spices, it's an easy substitute for many recipes asking for a splash of dry white. It has a long shelf life, which makes it a useful cabinet staple, and its bright flavor and herbal perfume means it compliments dishes with fish, tomatoes, or other vegetables. Plus, it is essential for a mean martini.

2.) This was also the year I discovered homemade spice mixes. I made curry power, dry rubs, cajun seasoning, ras-el-hanout, and I recieved a very special portion of Tejal's grandmother's garam masala. The pre-mixed stuff is for weenies, I sayeth.

I also finally organized my spices. I ordered tins online for about 70 cents apiece, attached strips of velcro down the side of one cabinet and to the bottoms of the tins, and, voila, a cheap and easy spice rack. Everthing is accessible, easy to find, and it doesn't clutter up my limited cabinet space.

3.) I moved to California, where oranges and avocados are cheap, where you can get organic everything and heirloom tomatoes are available as late as November.

4.) Speaking of California, 2005 was the year I first went to the Ferry Building, my Mecca, my heaven, one of the tastiest places on earth.

5.) Wait, one more California thing. This year, I had my first real dim sum, specifically, I had my first taste of the almost mythic Beijing-style soup dumpling. It's a delicate skin containing a savory meatball and a rush of hot, fragrant broth. You dip it in black vinegar, eat it with a big spoon, sigh.

6.) Sorry, I'm a liar. Last California thing. I went wine tasting lots and lots. I heart Sonoma. I've sipped and swirled, and I can honestly notice my palate expanding and becoming more sensitive.

7.) But, most importantly, Tejal and I finally committed to being the 2 Tasty Ladies. It's been such a blast to write and eat together with each other and all of you.

And, some food resolutions:

1.) I resolve to roast more happy organic chickens and fewer supermarket chickens.

2.) I resolve to continue organizing and pumping up this site.

3.) I resolve to make more pizzas myself (instead of ordering them).

So, let me wish a Happy (and Tasty) New Year's to all our friends and fellow eaters. See ya'll in 2006.