Monday, June 20, 2011

Where to Eat in San Fran..

No doubt San Fran is one of my favorite cities in the country... besides the scenery, the people and the laid back west coast vibe, SF has some of the best food I've eaten.

Breakfast in SF is a must if you can roll yourself out of bed early enough because you smoked too much of that medical marijuana the night before. However, if you're up and looking for a breakfast spot, here are a couple recommendations...

Boogaloos in the Mission- who doesn't love a biscuit smothered in gravy for breakfast, seriously? This was one of the better breakfasts I've had, ever. Get the home fries, biscuit and always add avocado to anything while in Cali-nothing tastes better!
Brenda's on Polk St. - It's a french-soul-cajun style cuisine so don't feel weird about ordering their fried chicken for breakfast because it's delicious ANY time of day. I heard a rumor that the Food Network was just at this place, which means they'll have longer waits then they already do...just be prepared to wait a bit, but trust me it's worth it.

If you're doing some shopping in the Mission and looking for a quick and yummy taco spot, swing by La Taqueria Guadalajara on 24th St. A Mexi-Coke and 2 tacos for under $10- can't beat it!
This next place I'm almost hesitant to tell you about because I waited an hour and a half to eat here. It's a tiny little, 'hole in the wall' type sushi spot.. it's where the locals come to eat, so you know it's good. If I tell you the name will you promise to not go when I'm in SF, please?! Sushi Zone on Market St...cheesy name, but amazing sushi at a really reasonable price!
If you're looking for something a little fancier or even romantic, try the Foreign Cinema on Mission St. Ask to sit outside so you can watch that evenings screening. We got to see 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' and I know what you're thinking.. "That's not a foreign film" I know it's not, but it might be my only 'complaint' about this place. Good food, good service and great atmosphere. Cap the night off with a drink at the bar next door.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Where's the Beef...Bolognese?

To the amateur cook, the thought of tackling a fresh Bolognese seems scarier than rappelling down a 20 story building..However, I might be one of the rare humans on this planet who has done both and I'm here to tell you that Bolognese is way less scary..and super easy!

Before we get started, I would feel better if I got something off my chest...I'm not really one for keeping accurate recipes..but, I will make a conscious effort to get better as we continue this journey together..

Things you will need (to the best of my knowledge):
2 lbs ground beef
olive oil
1 red onion, finely diced
4 carrots, peeled and finely diced
4 celery stalks finely diced
2-3 cloves of garlic
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup wine, red or white
2 15 oz cans crushed tomatoes
fresh oregano
red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and pepper to taste

So, basically it's really easy..heat the olive oil in a large pan then add onions, carrots, celery and garlic, sprinkle with salt to help soften the veggies...


After about 10 mins add the beef. Once the beef is cooked through add salt, pepper and tomato paste until its thoroughly mixed in then pour the wine to deglaze the pan. Once all the alcohol has cooked off you can add the tomatoes (if you have fresh tomato sauce ready to go, by all means use that..fresh is always better) Once everything has come to a boil, add the oregano and pepper flakes and salt and pepper to taste. Cover with lid, cook on low for about 2 hours.