I'm a college girl now...

Hello internet!

I'm hanging out at the Cistern and it's ABSOLUTELY beautiful outside!!! My classes ended at noon today and I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately so I ventured outside (I mean, with weather like this, how could I not??)

The Cistern 

So, a bit of a rundown of my first couple of weeks at the College of Charleston, because you know, I'm now a college student (woahhh!)

Every time someone asks me "What's your favorite thing about college so far?" my response, the independence. Honestly, I was pretty independent and mature than most people my age (it has it's pros and cons) so the transition wasn't that difficult for me. I mean, yeah, sometimes you feel so overwhelmed (kind of like now) and you want to run away from it all, but you just gotta stick through it. It's not so bad.

Considering that this is a food blog, I have to say, the food here is top notch! I have a few favs: Caviar & Bananas, Christophe's Chocolatier, Nirlep, etc.. There are some other  restaurants around too, like Husk, Hall's Chophouse, and Chez Nous (to name a few). Hopefully I'll be able to dine at more upscale places soon.

My favorite days of the week are Tuesdays & Thursdays because a) I don't have class until wayyyy later on into the day and b) I get to have some 'me' time & go to my fav coffee shops! Black Tap (lavender latte and pain au chocolat...uh hello!) and Kudu (no joke, it's right next to my dorm). It's so nice going early in the morning and being able to relax, sip, and listen to some music (& homework, of course).

I feel like I'm back in Paris when I go here...oui?

He's the best!!! Swoon...

As for friends, I've met some pretty awesome people. At first, I was a bit apprehensive because you know, it's a whole new school and city, but it's been good! That's the one thing I'm really proud of myself for doing, breaking out of my shell. And the benefit? I met a friend who has a kitchen!! Let me tell you, for a girl like me who lives and breathes cooking/baking, it's extremely frustrating when you find out your dorm is the ONLY dorm without a communal kitchen!! But maybe that's a good thing....

I can't say it enough, Charleston is a beautiful little city, and days like this, I am so grateful.

This is just an insight into my life here at the College and I can only imagine what is waiting for me in the future. College life is pretty great.


That's all for now!

Tschüss,

Brianna x

Just a Few Things I Want to Share....

So, I'm out-of-town right now babysitting for a while, and while the kiddo is watching a movie and I scroll though Pinterest and listen to Mat Kearney, I have the urge to pour some things out. Whether or not anyone reads my blog, it's just a good thing to do once in while. So, here goes nothin'!


Rambling:
Now that is JULY (where'd the time go?), I'll be going to college next month! Oui, you read right, August! I'm sort of nervous, yet really excited. It's a new, fresh start and I'm ready (I think) to start this chapter of my life. You know what's also weird? This will be the first time my sisters and I are going to different schools...in different states (triplets..)!!!! I always thought I was the one who was going to go to school the farthest away and my sisters would be close to home. Wrong. As a matter of fact, I'm the closest (an hour and a half away). I pretty much hated high school so I'm looking forward to these next four years at CofC!!

This is a tricky one: I love food (obviously) and I love to travel (who doesn't). But how do you combine the two into a career? I'm going to college because I feel the need to learn more info. But, on the other hand I want to go to culinary school somewhere or learn from some badass in France. How do I do both? Well, I'm pushing to study abroad sometime in my college career. I was actually looking today on my school's website and there are copious amounts of internships/volunteer/teaching opportunities. Pretty cool, right?

Ah, well since this one big rambling post, I want to share some of  random things make me really happy! I guess you could call this my "Verbal Pinterest Board"....
-France...well, this one is pretty self-explanatory. I went in April...fucking. loved. it
-Coldplay....Chris Maritn has the voice of an angel. No matter what I'm feeling, there's a song that represents it. Oh yeah, 'Yellow' & 'Clocks' will forever be my favorite songs.
-Mat Kearney- I was introduced my an old friend. His music makes me feel alive and well.
-John Mayer- I went to his concert back in December 2013. I know some people are not a fan, but I personally think he's got a kick ass voice.
-Dominique Ansel- I was in NY back in December and I convinced my sisters and my exchange student, Larissa, to wake up at 6 AM and take a cab to SoHo to stand in line for about 2 hours to get my little hands on a Cronut. We did it. I am so inspired by Monsieur Ansel. His incredible dedication and innovation for pastry has made me dig deeper and explore what the world of pastry has to offer. Words cannot simply express my love for his work! You are the man M. Ansel!
-Cute & chic party deco....like the stuff you see on Pinterest & Etsy. I don't why, but it makes me  really happy. But then I have an urge to make things like confetti balloons and mini banners.
-Yoga- this has been a big one for a while now but there's nothing quite like a moving & empowering class that just makes you feel grounded and at peace (and fearless!!!!!)
-Kinder- ever since I went to France, I've been hooked to these damn things. And the best part was that I was there during Easter and I got Kinder eggs. That's right, the chocolate hollow eggs with a prize inside. Beat that, nasty Peeps. (I heard they were illegal in the US....whaaaaat?!)

I went to a grocery store in France with my host family & just had to snap a picture. The French don't mess around when it comes to Easter chocolate.

-Vine- whenever I need a good laugh, this is my go to. Especially Jerome Jarre & Dr. Harley!
-Getting magazines in the mail.... there's nothing like coming home from school/work and seeing a nice glossy Bon Appetit or Food & Wine. I just love 'em.
-Chocolate Mousse.... I recently tried some salted caramel chocolate mousse from David Lebovitz's new book, My Paris Kitchen. I remember when I made it; it was just my sister and I, so I made a nice roast chicken followed by this sinful dessert. I can't say much about the mousse itself because you're gonna have to find out yourself. It's worth it, folks.

So, that pretty much concludes this post. I have a lot of things going on and boy, is it moving fast.

Be good & bonne nuit,
Brianna x

My Trip to Paris, My Friends, & My Future

Coucou everybody!

It's been quite some time since I've posted on here (I'm sorry!) but I've been up to some pretty awesome things.

...ok, where do I begin? Hm....

Well, I achieved one of my lifelong dreams & traveled to France. I still can't believe that I was able to go...it still seems like a dream. Have you ever felt that way?? Anyway, here's a bit of insight of what I did abroad in the land of cheese and chocolate ;)

-April 11: Arrived in Paris at 6am...did not sleep at all during the flight. (Note to self: do not watch the movie Taken while flying to Paris...) My group and I checked in the hotel & headed off for some breakfast. I spotted a little boulangerie where I bought my first pain au chocolat (it was pretty epic). Then, off to the Louvre. Man, was this place beautiful. Though, I'm not an art officiando, each piece of art was absolutely magnificent. I can't say much, so you're gonna have to see it for yourself! Oh, and I must add one thing; the employees at the Louvre...damn... those pointy shoes.

i saw this lovely display at one of the supermarkets. the french definitely don't mess around when it comes to chocolate

just strolling around the streets of paris

my host family picked up some pastries from a local bakery in Bléré, France

le nipo bistro in Paris

the streets of Loches

behind the notre dame on easter

so cliche, but i how cool is this?

notre dame on easter

the louvre. what beautiful architecture

the chocolate chaud from Bigot was pretty sinful

some comte i bought back in Loches and a baguette from a boulangerie in paris. i was leaving the next day, so i just sat in front of my hotel window, opened it, and enjoyed the few moments of my time in paris

If you would like to see some of the pictures from my trip, click here

And that was just only day 1, folks ^^^

To sum things up, I went to Paris for a few days, explored, ate, drank, & admired all that Paris had to offer. After Paris, the group and I took the TGV to Loches where I stayed with the lovely Baptista family & went to Saint Denis International School (shoutout to Mr. Webbs!--'spicy girls!'). Following, we headed back to Paris and hung out in Montmarte, Luxembourg Gardens, and the Notre Dame (on Easter, of course)! Of course, this tidbit does not do any justice, so you're gonna have to go to France and find out all the wonders yourself ;)


As for other BIG news....I graduated high school! I am so pleased to share that I'll be attending the College of Charleston this fall. Also, some of the best people I have ever met are leaving. This year, my school hosted a lot of exchange students and somehow or another, we all became the best of friends. It breaks my heart to see them go but I damn, how lucky was I that I was able to hang out with such amazing people? Larissa, Michael, Katy, Sophie, Dennis, Julia, Jil, Carmen, Karim, & Carmen #2 you each hold a special place in my heart.

It certainly has been an incredible year. With all the ups and downs, highs and lows, I wouldn't change it for the world. I am so excited to embark on this 'new' journey and be that much closer to achieving my dreams. I know that it's just the beginning and the best is yet to come. x

Pain au Chocolat and My Trip to Dominique Ansel Bakery

Coucou!  

    What a busy couple of months it's been! Over the past couple of months I had a great time testing (& tasting!) new recipes and I can't wait to share them with all of you.


   Ok, so back to business!
A couple of days ago I made some pretty badass croissants/pain au chocolat from Thomas Keller's Bouchon Bakery. I encourage you to break out your French butter, rolling pin, and flour, and patience (this is key…trust me, folks) because it will be soooooo worth it in the end.

Beautiful

 If you want the recipe, check out Bouchon Bakery. It is my go-to baking book!

Layers upon layers

Please refrain from licking the screen

Oh yeah!!!!!!!!! Last month I visited my family in New York, which meant a trip to Dominique Ansel Bakery. I still cannot believe I visited! You have no idea! This man is my inspiration! And yes, the 2 hour wait for the Cronut™ was so worth it. If you're ever in Soho, check out Mr. Ansel's place, s'il vous plait. 

We got there around 7 am. Soho is so charming in the morning

Larissa (my exchange student from Brazil) & I got some fresh (free!) madeleines while waiting in line
  

love, time, & dedication right there, you guys ^^^

Posted below are a few things I bought:

Gingerbread Pinecone + Cotton Soft Cheesecake (works of art)

Magic soufflé….made fresh to order!

Valrhona Chocolate & Champagne Cronut™ (what a beauty)

I had to….so damn delicious

 Visiting Dominique Ansel Bakery has been one of my dreams for a long, long time…

Oh yeah, next stop, Paris (in April!!!!) 

See ya soon,

Brianna x

Challah Bread

Happy Thanksgiving folks! Over the weekend I fulfilled my long-time desire to bake Challah! Can you say procrastination? I was so impressed on the results, tears almost came to my eyes. Anyway, I have to admit  I was a bit intimidated at first, but soon realized baking challah bread really isn't a challenge...quite easy if you ask me! I'm thinking maybe a nice brioche next? Maybe from Thomas Keller's Bouchon Bakery! 

I braided the challah with 4 strands, although you can use the more simpler 3 strand or even a more sophisticated 6 strand!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 c warm water
• 2 1/4 tsp yeast (1pkg)
• 1 1/2 c all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 c whole wheat flour
• 2 tbsp sugar, or honey
• 1 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk (save the white for egg wash)
• 4 tbsp oil (I used canola)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375F

• In the bowl of a stand mixer, pour in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let stand for 10 minutes.

Yeast sprinkled over warm water

Pretty simple, right?

• Add flours, sugar (or honey), eggs, salt, and oil to yeast mixture on low for 7 minutes, or until dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.

Ingredients being mixed together

• Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl and allow to proof in a dry, warm place for an hour.
• Punch down dough to deflate, then cover to rise again in a dry, warm place for 45 minutes.

Braiding:

Braided with egg wash

• Divide dough into four equal strands. Lay side by side, and pinch together at the top.
• Take the strand furthest to the right and weave over, under, over.
• Repeat this pattern always using the strand furthest to the right; always remember over, under, over.
• Braid until the whole loaf is complete, then pinch the ends together and tuck under.
• Brush egg wash over the challah loaf and feel free to add poppy seeds or sesame seeds for a little added crunch!
• Bake for approximately 30 or until dark brown 
• For assistance on braiding click here

The finished product!

Whole-Grain Animal Crackers

“Let the wild rumpus start!” 



Said Maurice Sendak, author of the beloved 'Where the Wild Things Are'


Sendak's quote from our childhood tales and bedtime stories made me want to make my own 'wild things', in this case, animal crackers! Ever since I was a wee one I beloved the little crackers- especially the elephants! Oh, my nostalgic childhood…

Aren't these adorable? I purchased mine from AC Moore.

Though these little critters are called 'crackers', they are more cookie than anything. Soft and not too sweet, just the way I like 'em! 

Over the summer I given the opportunity to spend a couple of weeks in the Washington DC area to watch some little kids, and what did we do? We made homemade animal crackers, and boy, were they a hit! 

'Where the Wild Things Are'

Enjoy!


*Adapted slightly from the Cilantropist

Whole- Grain Animal Crackers

• 3/4 cup Stone ground whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed*
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg 
• 1/8 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 c unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 c yogurt or 1/4 c unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 c stevia, honey, agave, mashed banana, date paste, etc.
• 1 flax egg (1tbsp ground flax w/ 3 tbsp water)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flours, flaxseed, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon, set aside.  In the bowl of a stand mixer cream together the applesauce, sugar and sugar for about 2-3 minutes, then add the flax egg and vanilla extract and continue to mix.  With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in two additions, and then mix until the flour is just incorporated.  Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a ball; flatten the dough ball into a 1-inch thick disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.  Refrigerate the dough at least 2 hours or overnight.  

When ready to bake, preheat to 350 & line a baking sheet with a Silpat.  Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it get to room temperature; then roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.  If the dough sticks, sprinkle more flour.

   

Next, the fun part! Start cutting out various shapes and gently place onto a cookie sheet. Re-roll and add more flour.

Bake at 350 degrees for 7-9 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Transfer baking sheet to a wire rack to allow cookies to cool completely. 

"I'll eat you up!" a quote by author Maurice Sendak, himself.

Fresh Summer Frittata with Stuffed Baked Tomatoes

Is it true? Is summer really almost over? Well, I had such a marvelous summer, spending time in the beautiful Washington D.C. and Greenville, SC. Amidst all of my travels, I was still able to pursue my passion of baking and cooking; testing and experimenting with new recipes not only from my never-ending collection of cookbooks but from my own recipes of my own.

Makes a wonderful dish for a summer soirée or brunch 

Adapted from La Tartine Gourmande & Giada at Home. Jouis.

For the frittata:

• Bunch of fresh asparagus, roughly 10 tips, depending on size
• 1/3 c olive oil
• 1 c packed spinach leaves
• 1 onion, thinly sliced (mandoline recommended)
• 7 oz russet potatoes, or 2 medium, peeled and sliced
• 5 Jerusalem artichokes, peeled and sliced 
• 8 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 c goat cheese
• 1-2 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro

    In a large saucepan, blanch asparagus tips for 2 minutes in salted boiling water. Drain and rinse; set aside. In a 8-inch nonstick skillet with 1 tbsp of olive oil, saute spinach until wilted. Cool and finely chop. In the same frying pan, heat 1/4 c olive oil over medium heat, reduce to low. Without browning, add onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring until tender; season with salt and pepper. Add sliced and peeled potatoes, artichokes, and cook for 18-20 minutes, without browning. Set aside in bowl. In a large bowl, beat eggs and cumin with a fork until combined, season with salt and pepper. Gently stir in the tender vegetables, goat cheese, and cilantro. Preheat broiler to 'high'. Add remaining tablespoon to skillet and add egg mixture. Cook for 7-9 minutes, or until middle is still runny. Transfer to broiler for approximately 4 minutes to finish. Remove from skillet and cool until room temperature.

For the tomatoes:

• 12 medium sized tomatoes, sliced lengthwise
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3/4 c breadcrumbs
• 3 oz cheese (gruyere, feta, chèvre, gargonzola)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

   Preheat oven to 375 F.

Remove seeds from tomato halves and rest cut side down on paper towels for 5 minutes. In large bowl, combine tomatoes, 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic, and salt and pepper; toss to coat. Sit for 10 minutes.  In small bowl, combine cheese and breadcrumbs. Place tomato halves on a greased rimmed baking sheet. Stuff each half with breadcrumb mixture, add a bit of salt and pepper and olive oil. Bake the tomatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Arrange on platter and sprinkle with parsley. 

How was your summer? Did you discover yourself? Alter your life (or others!) in any way? Let me  know! 

                                                               Ciao bella!