January 8, 2009

going green, eventually

The sample of our revisited concrete counter top was ready today. It's full of recycled glass. Is it possible that I may soon have something other than plywood on which to prepare food???

Concrete work is being done by the enthusiastic and talented Eric Billig of Eric Billig Works.

(Or do you care about the status of my kitchen? I just can help but chronicle this with great anticipation...)

love me some Trudy's Mexican martinis

Now that I've recovered from the sugar, fat, and alcohol indulgences of the holiday past, it's almost time to get my drink on again. In moderation, of course.

I came across this Mexican martini at Trudy's Restaurant that I photographed (poorly, but with great enthusiasm) last summer and on which I intended to post. My favorite involves the following, shaken with plenty of ice: gold tequila (I like Cazadores for a fairly priced but tasty version), Cointreau, plenty of fresh lime juice, olives with a little extra olive juice, and plenty of salt.

I don't know how popular Mexican martinis are in other regions or states, so you like tequila or lime at all and haven't had one, please do so! AND if you live in Austin and haven't tried Trudy's version, add it to your to do list.


Mmm... it's kind of warm out today. Might have to find someone to grab one of these after work.

January 7, 2009

excuse: good enough?

Well, maybe you'd say I don't have to apologize, but it was kinda sad.  I was just cruising along last summer and the move to our new house killed my cooking momentum.

So here's my excuse, aside from the fact that it took weeks to get floors and walls in and restored: Our kitchen is not yet done. We're working slowly with a local artist who works in concrete and wood to get some bitchin' counters in, and we won't be able to install our sink or hook up the dishwasher until the counter arrives. As a result, I offer you exhibits A and B below.

Exhibit A: Someday soon, a lovely, deep stainless under-mount sink will appear here, surrounded by a built-in drainboard and cutting board:


Exhibit B: The current dishwashing area. Appetizing, no? Did I mention that this sink is the nearest water source to the kitchen, and it's about 40 feet away. Try getting a roasting pan in THAT sucker.

Well, wish me luck. And while you're at it, any advice for these last stages of the kitchen renovation?