In a world brimming with busy schedules and endless distractions, one thing can always bring a family closer together - the art of cooking. Whether passing down generations-old recipes, experimenting with new flavors, or simply spending quality time in the kitchen, there is something profoundly beautiful about how family bonding and cooking go hand in hand. Let us tell you a story of why you should cook together with your family and how it can solidify that family bond.

Unveiling the Heart of Family Cooking

  In the heart of every family kitchen lies a story. From secret recipes passed down from grandparents to the laughter shared over a hot stove, these cherished moments create an unbreakable bond.

Imagine a grandmother teaching her granddaughter the secret to the fluffiest buttermilk biscuits or a father showing his son how to perfect his famous chili recipe. These are moments that transcend time and create a legacy of love through food.

Why You Should Cook Together

 Cooking together does sound poetic, and we could talk about it all day. But what is it really about? Why should you bring everyone together more often to make food? Here are some time-tested reasons why:

• Learning & Sharing Skills: Cooking together allows family members to learn and share culinary skills and knowledge. It provides a platform for older family members to pass down traditional recipes and techniques to younger generations, keeping family traditions alive.
• Promoting Healthy Eating: Involving the whole family in cooking can encourage healthier eating habits. It allows for discussions about nutrition, the importance of balanced meals, and the benefits of using fresh, whole ingredients.
• Building Confidence & Independence: Getting children to cook can help build their confidence and independence. Learning to cook equips them with an essential life skill they can carry into adulthood.
• Cultivating Creativity: Cooking can be a creative outlet. Collaborating on recipes and experimenting with different flavors can spark creativity and encourage family members to express themselves through their culinary creations.
• Fostering Teamwork and Responsibility: Cooking as a family teaches teamwork and the importance of shared responsibilities. Assigning tasks and working together to create a meal instill a sense of accountability and cooperation.
• Cultural Appreciation: Cooking traditional family recipes together can help younger family members appreciate their cultural heritage and understand the significance of certain foods in their family's history.
• Reducing Screen Time: Cooking together can be an alternative to screen-based activities. It encourages family members to disconnect from technology and engage in meaningful, real-life interactions.

Overall, cooking together as a family can positively impact familial relationships, health, and overall well-being. But how can we make these traditions easier and more memorable?

Simplify Your Cooking Traditions

The Smooth and Polished Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a symbol of both tradition and innovation. Its smooth surface and impeccable craftsmanship will effortlessly help you make tortillas and similar meals while adding a touch of modern elegance to your kitchen.

Its heat retention properties and even distribution ensure that every dish is cooked to perfection, just the way your family likes it.

But that's not all. It's also about versatility when it comes to cooking with your family. The 5qt cast iron pot has a 10-inch diameter – use it for grilling, steering, baking, roasting, stewing, braising, boiling, deep frying, sauté, etc.

Think of anything your family wants, and let your creativity go with our Cast Iron Dutch Oven.

Baking is not just a culinary act; it's an experience that blends creativity and precision, and nothing embodies this better than the delightful world of churros and doughnuts. Mmm, our mouths are already watering just by mentioning these two.

But what if we told you that making these treats could be fun and easy, whether you're a professional baker or a novice in the kitchen? If you're up for making fantastic churros, this article requires your full attention. So, without further ado, let's get to it!

A Journey Through Time

Before diving into the delightful world of churros and doughnuts, let's quickly journey through history. These treats have roots that stretch back centuries, captivating taste buds for generations.

Churros: A Spanish Delight

In the early days, churros were simple creations—a mixture of flour, water, and salt. The exact year of their invention is not well-documented, but they are believed to have originated in Spain in the 19th century. Spanish shepherds initially created them as a simple, portable snack that could be prepared and cooked quickly over an open flame.

Today, they've evolved into an international sensation, loved for their crispy exteriors and soft, warm insides. Delicious!

Doughnuts: The American Icon

American doughnuts evolved from Dutch settlers' "olykoeks," which means "oily cakes." These early doughnuts were sweetened, dropped into hot oil, and fried. While the specific year of invention is unclear, it is generally believed that American-style doughnuts began to take shape in the 19th century in the US, with doughnut shops and recipes becoming more prevalent.

The modern ring-shaped doughnut with a hole in the center is often attributed to Captain Hanson Gregory, who is said to have invented the doughnut hole in the mid-19th century. Whether you prefer them glazed, powdered, or filled with jelly, doughnuts have become a symbol of indulgence in the United States and worldwide.

The Dynamic Duo: Churrera Churro Maker and Churro Donut Filler

We brought two incredible products together to create a synergy every baking enthusiast dreams of. The Churrera Churro Maker and Churro Donut Filler are perfect for crafting stuffed churros, doughnuts, and other pastries like a pro.

Churrera Churro Maker: Fun with Form and Flavor

The Churrera Churro Maker is a marvel of simplicity and innovation. It allows you to create iconic ridged churros that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. But the fun doesn't stop there; this tool lets you experiment with various shapes and sizes, making it perfect for unleashing your inner creativity.

Whether you want traditional straight churros or prefer some twists and loops, you'll shape them effortlessly.

It's not just about the shape but also the flavor. You can experiment with different dough recipes and fillings with this churro maker. Now, picture yourself piping a luscious chocolate or caramel filling into your churros – it's an experience that's as fun as it is delicious. But you do need a filler for that.

Churro Donut Filler: Easy Filling for All

Gone are the days of struggling to fill doughnuts with your chosen cream, jam, or custard. The Churro Donut Filler is a game-changer for stuffed doughnuts and other goodies. This innovative tool removes the hassle from the process and makes it a breeze for professionals and home bakers.

Simply fill the Churro Donut Filler with your desired filling, and with a gentle squeeze, watch as the filling effortlessly fills your doughnuts. It's so easy that even kids can lend a hand, making it a fantastic family activity

The Joy of Combining the Two Products

Now, imagine combining the Churrera Churro Maker and Churro Donut Filler for a doubly delightful baking adventure. With the churro maker, you can shape your doughnuts into unique forms like churro-style loops, stars, or even hearts. These shapes not only look fantastic but also create pockets for even more filling!

The process is simple. After shaping your doughnut with the Churrera Churro Maker, use the Churro Donut Filler to inject your preferred filling. The result? A fusion of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Fun for All Ages and Skill Levels

 What truly sets these two products apart is their accessibility. Whether you're a professional pastry chef or just looking to enjoy a fun baking session with your family, the Churrera Churro Maker and Churro Donut Filler are designed with you in mind.

Their user-friendly designs make them suitable for children, allowing families to bond over the joy of baking. Even if you've never ventured into the world of churros and doughnuts before, these tools will make you feel like a seasoned baker.

In a world full of culinary wonders and gastronomic delights, a humble yet universally cherished dish has stood the test of time - the roti, also known as chapati. With its super simple ingredients and versatile nature, roti has graced countless plates and generations in India and left a mark across different cultures worldwide. But what's really behind this Indian flatbread? Let's take a delightful journey into the heartwarming traditions behind roti, deciphering why it has captured the affection of every family in diverse corners of the world. And we'll even discover ways to make and use roti to create something unique and mouthwatering. Let's get it!

A Brief Glimpse of Roti's Traditions

Rooted in the ancient Indian subcontinent, the tradition of roti-making goes back thousands of years. The term "roti" itself comes from the Sanskrit word "rotika," which means "bread."

In Indian culture, roti signifies more than just nourishment; it represents sustenance, love, and togetherness.

While the exact origins might be shrouded in the mists of history, it's clear that roti quickly became a staple in millions of households.

Roti Tacos!

The Ageless Appeal of Roti

Why has roti managed to sneak itself into family meals across generations? The answer lies in its simplicity and versatility. At its core, roti is made from just a few basic ingredients - flour, water, and sometimes a pinch of salt.

This simplicity makes it accessible to all, regardless of economic background or culinary expertise. In a fast-paced world, making roti connects families to their roots and provides a sense of comfort and stability.

The process of making roti is also an art form. From grandmothers to mothers and daughters, whether you make it on an open flame or with a modern roti maker, the skill of making a high-quality roti has become a treasured step creating every bite a reminder of the bonds that tie families together.

Banana Roti!

Universal Language of Roti

As time passed, different regions have put their unique spin on the humble roti, adapting it to their culinary preferences and traditions.

In South Asia, roti is not just a food but a cultural emblem. In India, the diversity of roti types mirrors the country's varied cuisine.

In the Middle East, the flatbread tradition takes on a new form with pita bread. These pockets of delight are used to scoop up falafel, hummus, and other delectable dips. Across the ocean in Latin America, tortillas mirror the concept of roti, acting as the perfect vessel for wrapping meats, beans, and fresh vegetables.

Nutella Roti!

Wrapping up

The traditions behind roti are a testament to the power of simple pleasures and food's role in connecting generations. Roti is not just a meal; it's a journey through cultures, a celebration of togetherness, and a reminder that some traditions are worth preserving. Savor the taste of this timeless creation, and don't hesitate to experiment. Enjoy!

Why Burgers Are More Than Just Food

 As the sun's warm rays kiss your cheeks and the scent of charcoal fills the air, you suddenly realize something magical is about to happen. A gathering of friends, the laughter, the anticipation, and the sizzling sound of burgers on the grill is a perfect recipe for creating memories that would last a lifetime - you'll probably agree that having a burger is more than just eating food. Today, we stroll through various chapters, reliving the joy of having a burger and discussing why it is more than just food. Plus, we'll give you tips on how to prepare a juicy hamburger properly. Let's get it on!

The First Bite

 Ah, the first burger - a momentous occasion that can transport you back to carefree days. It's an artfully assembled masterpiece; the patty, grilled to perfection, nestled between soft buns and adorned with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a dollop of tangy sauce.

Each bite - a symphony of flavors, and as you indulged in that delightful mess, your taste buds danced with ecstasy. Let's make it all happen again.

And this is where we come in with our first two tips:

• Pick the Right Meat: Choose a high-quality ground beef with around 80% lean and 20% fat. These fat percentages help keep the burger moist and let it soak the flavors better.
  
  
• Don't Overwork the Meat: When forming the patties, handle the meat gently and avoid overworking it. Overhandling can result in tough burgers. Form the patties just enough to hold their shape, and make a slight indentation in the center to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.

The Backyard Barbecue

 Remember those summer afternoons spent in the backyard, surrounded by loved ones and the air thick with the promise of delicious treats?

The grill sizzled as it kissed the patties, the chatter of friends and family, and the gentle clinking of glasses filled with lemonade or perhaps something stronger – it was an experience beyond eating food.

But good food is what makes it all work. Therefore, we continue with the tips:

• Season Lavishly: Burgers can handle bold flavors, so generously season both sides of the patty with salt and pepper. Depending on your taste preference, add other spices or herbs, like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or cayenne.
  
  
• Get the Grill (or Pan) Hot: Preheat your grill or pan over medium-high heat. A hot surface ensures the burgers get a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
  
  
• Oil the Grill or Pan: Prevent sticking by oiling the grill grates or pan before placing the burgers on it. You can use a brush, or a folded paper towel dipped in oil to coat the surface.

Uniting Over Burgers

 Burgers have a unique ability to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds or preferences. They are a canvas for creativity – from classic cheeseburgers to gourmet delights with unexpected toppings.

Remember when someone shared their secret sauce recipe or a friend dared to put pineapple on theirs? Those moments of culinary experimentation certainly spark joy and fosters connections!

But creativity also requires care and precision to make everything right! Continue reading our tips:

• Cheese It Up: If you add cheese to your burgers, do so at the last minute of cooking. Cover the burgers with a lid or foil for a minute to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
  
  
• Toast the Buns: For an added layer of flavor and texture, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster. It prevents the buns from getting soggy and adds a nice crunch.

We invite you to explore burger-making possibilities with our Hamburger Grill Maker. Remember, it's not just about the end product but the moments we create while cooking and sharing meals. So gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and let the magic of burgers and togetherness unfold. Happy grilling and even happier reminiscing!

So, let's finish with some final tips to ensure your burger is juicy, flavorful, and delicious:

• Build with Care: Assemble your burger thoughtfully, starting with the bottom bun and adding your favorite toppings. Classic choices include lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo.
  
  
• Let Them Rest: Once your burgers are done cooking, let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the patty, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

Easy French Recipe You Must Try 

Blurb: Straightforward and foolproof French recipes that will make you look like an expert. Prepare to impress with these simple yet outstanding recipes! 

French cuisine is a beautiful and complex culinary pursuit, but it can also be pretty intimidating. From Mille Feuilles to Coc au Vin, Escargot to Bouillabaisse, among other words we all can't seem to pronounce, these dishes taste easy on the palette but look difficult to do in the kitchen. 

But are they? It's time to expand your knowledge about this elegant cuisine and get your groove going in the kitchen with these easy recipes! 

Croque Monsieur

If you love grilled cheese, it's time to Frenchify it and turn it into a Croque Monsieur. A staple in French cafes and bistros, this easy-to-make sandwich usually uses nutty gruyere cheese, ham slices, Dijon mustard, and bechamel sauce for its ingredients. Together in some slices of sourdough toast, everything is baked or fried to a crisp.

To make the bechamel sauce, you first need to warm some milk over medium-low heat until just before boiling point. Meanwhile, melt some butter in a separate pan, then stir in some flour to create a paste-like mixture. Add in the hot milk while whisking, then put a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir the sauce until you reach a thick consistency. 

Next, to create the sandwich, spread some Dijon mustard over half of the bread slices while adding 2 slices of ham to the other half. Top the ham slices with shredded cheese. You can then place the remaining slices on top of the ham and cheese. After that, spread 1-2 tablespoons of bechamel sauce over the top of each sandwich. You can add more shredded cheese on top of the sauce. 

To bake, set the sandwiches on a baking sheet until the cheese begins to melt and bubble. It's ready when you see that the cheese starts to have little golden spots. 

Steak Frites 

Recreate your favorite French-style steaks with this one! First, pre-heat a large cast-iron pan over high heat. Meanwhile, make sure that you rinse, and pat dries your steak, then season generously with salt and pepper. When your skillet is hot, add olive oil and butter. Place in the steaks and cook until your desired temperature (it's about 5 minutes on each side if you're in for a medium-rare steak). 

You can serve the steak with a sprinkle of sea salt and then garnish it with fresh parsley. You can also serve them with crispy potato fries on the side. 

Fast and Easy French Crepes 

What's most interesting about this famous French breakfast staple is that it's more versatile than its counterparts like pancakes and waffles. Pair it with fruits, hazelnut sauce, gruyere cheese, or even mushroom gravy, and it would always be a flavor explosion that just makes perfect sense. 

Start with creating the crepe batter by whisking in flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well from the dry ingredients and add the eggs. You can now gradually pour the milk. Let the batter sit at room temperature for a good 15 to 20 minutes. To cook, you can use a skillet heated over medium heat, or for more convenience, you can opt for a dedicated crepe maker like the one from StarBlue. It has non-stick plates and an automatic heat regulator to help you achieve that perfect thin consistency. 

After creating some batches, you can explore your filling and topping options however your taste buds decide! 

 Delight your senses with bright, colorful, flavorful dishes that are in all ways a Spanish delight. Every plate is a party--truly perfect to try as an energetic summer meal. Get started with these awesome recipes that are surprisingly easy to do! 

Patatas Bravas 

 Who loves potatoes? You're surely going to enjoy Patatas Bravas, a simple Spanish dish made with fried or baked potato cubes that are flavored with a spicy sauce for that mild kick. The spicy sauce is basically tomato sauce spiced with smoked Spanish paprika. To get started with the special spicy sauce, heat the oil in a pan and fry onions for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, sweet paprika, chili powder, sugar, and some salt. Bring everything to a boil, stirring occasionally. Lower the fire then simmer for a good 10 more minutes. 

 To bake the potatoes, heat your oven to 200C. Make sure that the potatoes are pat dry and put in a roasting tin with olive oil and some seasoning for that extra flavor. Roast for 40 to 50 minutes or until the potatoes are perfectly golden. 

 Pisto 

A hearty dish made with vegetables and lots of olive oil, you can consider Pisto a Spanish version of France's ratatouille. Eat it for breakfast with eggs, or with some Manchego cheese and bread as an appetizer or have it as a side dish with protein. Start by heating 4 tablespoons of olive oil before adding onions, chili, and diced peppers. Cook this over medium heat until all ingredients are well softened. You can then add garlic, tomatoes, salt, and sugar, cooking for 10 minutes. In a separate pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, then add chopped eggplants and zucchini cooking them until slightly browned. You can add the pre-fried eggplants and zucchini to the tomato mixture then cook for another 25 minutes over medium-low heat. When it's done, garnish with fresh parsley or basil. 

Churros 

Let's finish this list with something sweet and comforting for your cravings. A popular treat for both kids and adults, churros are great to be learned from scratch. To start off, heat about 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot--this will be used for deep frying. Now for the mixture, add water, butter, sugar, and salt to another saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat then add flour, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth. Let this cool before adding vanilla and egg then blend everything together with an electric mixer.  

Now onto the piping. Transfer the mixture to a piping tool preferably with a star tip like the Churrera Churro Maker by StarBlue. Carefully pipe in the mixture to your pre-heated oil, creating about 6-inch churros. Fry on each side until golden brown. Another tip: You can skip the deep frying altogether for a healthier way of cooking by using StarBlue's Churro Maker. It has non-stick plates that you can put in the Churro mixture. Just wait for it to cook, and you have instant delicious Churros too! Finish off your Churros by dusting them with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. 

 Which of these recipes are you going to try today? 

Did you know that Hong Kong is considered the "World's Food Fair"?

Hong Kong has always been one of the world's best places for traveling and one of the reasons it continues to be a favorite destination is because of the culinary experience it offers. Get to know the country's best food options!

Tomato Pork Rice 

Looking for a flavorful rice meal? Get a serving of this meal! First, marinate the pork in soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, Sichuan pepper, fish sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and red wine. Next, fry chopped onion, garlic, ginger, star anise, and chili, then allow cooking until the oil is fragrant. Add in the marinaded pork, making sure to brown each side. Add diced tomatoes, ketchup, and hot chili oil. After that, add sliced mushrooms. At this point, you can allow everything to simmer until the meat is cooked and the sauce thickens. You may add more salt and pepper to taste. Serve this over steamed rice then topped with green onions. 

Hong Kong Style Noodles 

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, then coated in a savory gravy with a variety of vegetables and meat. Start by soaking the egg noodles in hot water for 3 to 5 minutes or until the noodles have separated. After which, drain the water and allow the noodles to dry. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok, over high heat. Add peppers and stir fry for about a minute then add Chinese greens. After 1 to 2 minutes, you can add the bean sprouts. When all the ingredients so far are incorporated with heat, it's time to add the noodles, then stir fry for another 1 to 2 minutes. Next, add about 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce and stir fry until the noodles become dry and crispy. Serve this with some green onions and a dash of sesame oil. 

Egg Waffles 

Want to indulge in something sweet and filling? Create your own version of the famous waffles seen everywhere in the streets of Hong Kong--the Egg Waffles! The first step for this easy recipe is to sift together the flour, baking powder, custard powder, and tapioca starch. Next, set up a double boiler over medium heat. Add eggs and sugar, whisking until the sugar is dissolved. You can then add water and evaporated milk. On this mixture, slowly add the dry ingredients you've sifted earlier. Follow this with vanilla and vegetable oil. When it's all done, strain the batter to catch any lumps as you need it to be smooth. You can let this batter rest for at least an hour or overnight. 

We highly recommend you try making this using StarBlue's Egg Waffle Maker or Egg Waffle Pan so you can achieve distinct bubble shapes! Pour the batter you've made over the non-stick plates and allow the automatic heat control configurations to cook the batter until they form into waffles that are perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside! You can also try to use the special Waffle Tongs to make taking the cooked waffles out of the pan an easier task. Top these waffles with your favorite sweet ingredients like fruits, nuts, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream. 

Which of these must-try foods are you going to try soon? 

https://starblue.co/products/hong-kong-egg-waffle-maker

You didn’t misread anything. Pizza is not the national food of Italy. If you ask a local Italiano, anyone is going to tell you the same thing, ‘Pizza is just from Napoli (a.k.a. Naples). Nobody has pizza every day’ with a condescending tone. I was surprised by this counterintuitive statement.

Now here comes the mystery. What causes its popularity across the Italian peninsula, and across Europe? And the prevalence of Napoli pizza has led us to believe that it represents Italy as a general truth.

Naples: Vibrant Romance Ripped by Conflicts

A boy went back to Napoli because he missed the scenery.

The native dancers, and the charming songs. But wait a minute, something's wrong…

If you know this song, you must be also a fan of Sophia Loren. In Pane, Amore E… (Bread, Love and…), the romance comedy mesmerises you with seafood, sunshine, and the spectacular Amalfi coast (and mostly likely of the sensuality of Sophia Loren).

Sounds like a good holiday destination, right? But why does it end up in poverty and mass immigration? Unfortunately, the Southern Italy had been war-torn since the late 19^th century. The ceaseless conflicts of independence and unification of Italy in 1800s, as well as the two world wars left its economy stagnant. It resulted in the outpouring the population to Europe and America.

After the Second World War, the Italian economy started reviving. The movie illustrates this post-war honeymoon period. Nevertheless, the present-day Naples’s development is relatively slow compared with its European counterparts.

(Image Attribution: IlSistemone, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

‘La Cucina Povera’ (the cuisine for the poor): Embracive Nature of Pizza

Nowadays, the homeland of pizza, Naples is generally considered as a poverty-ridden and underdeveloped city. According to the OECD figures published in 2020 (See Ref. 1), the GDP per capita of the southern Italian city is below the average amongst other OECD cities.

If you travel across Europe, you will find that pizza is an economical choice alongside kebabs and burgers. The economy was the main driving force behind this norm. During late 19^th century and early 20^th century, four million of Neapolitans emigrated to different parts of the world (Ref 2). For the early 20^th century, urbanisation and industrial development was centralised in the Central and Northern regions, where the southerners moved for the job opportunities (Ref. 3). Natives of the Naples brought the cuisine culture to the other parts of Italy.

Besides, the ingredient of pizza consists of flour, yeast, salt and water only. Toppings are lavished with tomatoes, basils, and cheese. Henceforth, it adapts to local food cultures. For example, the infamous pineapple pizza is a variation in Hawaii.  

The simplicity is exhibited on the two traditional types of Neapolitan pizza, i.e. marinara and the well-known Margherita which were put on the dining table of native Neapolitans during the Ancient Roman period.

Pizza Marinara (Image Attribution: Ruthven, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Pizza Margherita (Image Attribution: Lombroso, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons)

Southern Italy­­: a region blessed with the Sun

Despite the uneven national development, the Southern Italians are particularly proud of their pasta and pizza. They make fun of the northerners because of their food made from low-quality wheat. The warm climate of the Mediterranean makes favours the agricultural industry. The best crops are lemons, oranges, olives and the grains.

Your own style of Pizza

As mentioned, pizza is the Neapolitan culture adept to diversity. Why not giving it a try? With a large pan and an oven everyone can do it.

The traditional way of cooking pizza is by placing the dough into a wood-fire oven. Its shortcoming rests on the uneven distribution of heat, which leaves the same piece of pizza charred and uncooked. The risk of burning yourself is also an unneglectable concern.

Everyone is entitled to the safety of the cooking. Even a professional chef like Gordon Ramsay failed to avoid from getting burnt by sizzling handles (it hurts so bad from his reaction). It requires the oven temperature as high as 400 to 500 degree Celsius, which poses a safety risk for us.

(Image Attribution: gordan-ramsay-15.gordanramsaysubmissions. https://www.flickr.com/photos/54397539@N06/5034955830/in/photostream/)

In order to optimise the pleasure of cooking, it is commendable to choose the brands which prioritise consumers’ safety. A good pan should ensure the even transmission of heat and safety at the same time. The pizza pan produced by StarBlue exemplifies the trustworthiness as kitchen brand. Your hands are protected by the silicone handles. Apart from it, cast iron is a time-enduring and reliable material for cooking pans. Unlike the steel pans, cast iron does not break easily.

Not everyone owns a house with a sea view, but you can always have the seafood! Don’t let the reality defeat you. Nothing stops you being self-sufficient creating your own holiday. After a hectic day, taking one or two hours to treat yourself is totally worth it.

The Importance of a Shift in Eating Style

The Mediterranean diet is highly commended by the World Health Organisation and health experts. It celebrates the freshness of food and the rainbow of vegetables, which provides the nutrients strengthening our immune system. WHO has classified processed food as cancer-inducing agents; besides, in spite of limited evidence, frequent consumption of red meat potentially takes a toll to our health.

We all know that eating healthy is quintessential. However, as Uncle Roger said, salad tastes sad; vegetables taste no fun. Well we tried but it yields limited results.

Reward yourself with Fruitful Gifts from the Sea

Eating blend is discouraging. Then why don’t we go for a way that is both fun and healthy, i.e. the Spanish Ajillo. It is nothing more difficult than diced seafood (or frutos do mar, to make it sound Spanish), and vegetables with basic seasonings commonly found in kitchen.

First, mix the olive oil, garlic, pepper and salt. Pour it into the honeycomb pan.

Second, when bubbles emerge, add your desired food. The suggested list includes (but not limited to) shrimps, octopus, scallops, cherry tomatoes, broccolis and baby mushrooms. The frozen ones from supermarket will do the job. Of course, buying straight from the fresh market is always fantastic.

Third, turn the food to another side to make sure each piece is fully cooked.

 The last step, pair the food with your favourite wine. White wine and rosé go with seafood.

Time-saving, Economical and Safe

Eating out in a Spanish bistro costs you no less than 10 dollars, not to mention the menu is decided by the chef. The classic Ajillo is a plate of shrimps or mushrooms. Owning a takoyaki maker allows full autonomy to the choice of food. Here I recommend hard cheese, adding animal protein and the subtle creaminess in your diet.

Comparing the price with the same products, which costs approximately 45 dollars, the Takoyaki maker from StarBlue is economically priced at USD 29.99.

In order to withstand the simmering heat from cooking, the electric pan is made of aluminium and protected from high-density polyethylene, one of the safest types of coating materials proved by substantiated biological and chemical experiments. Therefore, it lasts longer than a year. So what does it mean? You spend less than one dollar each time having an exotic dish!

As the name speaks for itself, this machine makes Takoyaki, the Japanese octopus balls. Apart from this function, it is also used for making Ajillo.

From preparation to cleaning up, it takes no longer than two hours. Thanks to the non-stick coating, it is easy to clean the pan without any grease or stain left.

Final Words

Building a habit is not easy. But with new explorations and the right tools, a seemingly unreachable goal becomes possible. It is plausible to take things at your own pace, instead of chasing a drastic change at one night.

Hongkongers are infamous for their bitter face, which is inevitably mistaken as arrogance, indifference and animosity…It’s just the façade for self-protection in a competitive economy. It’s not uncommon that people find us unapproachable. Nonetheless, if you manage to get into our world, it will be a completely different story.

The century-long integration of Chinese and western communities in the city renders us adept at cultural shocks.

To summarise Hongkongers’ characters: hard on the outside but soft and rich on the inside. We don’t hesitate to help whenever you are in need; our mind is never exhausted to be sparkling with how to make life enjoyable.

This attribute is reflected in the street food——coated in a crispy layer is the mochi-soft heart.

Tea-eggs

(source: The Storm Media)

Whenever you pass by some Cantonese herbal tea store, a strong but modest scent fills your nostrils. It undoubtedly comes from a snack unique in Hong Kong, i.e. the tea-eggs. As the name speaks for itself, the eggs are boiled in black tea, spiced up with star anise, cinnamon sticks and dried orange peels.

Crack the shell, take a bite and the juicy creamy egg blended with the spices makes your mouth full.

Pineapple Buns (with a piece of butter within)

(source: Liberty Times Net)

It has nothing to do with pineapple. The Hongkongese dessert got its name from the flaky and crackle appearance. Certainly it doesn’t look flattering. The annoying part is, you make a mess as the crumbs scatters.

What makes it a must-try then? Its soul rests on the piece of melting butter buried inside the hot bun. It is how guilty pleasure feels like.

Egg Waffles

How can you skip the egg waffle as an authentic snack in Hong Kong? It is highly commended amongst the young generation.

(source: U food)

The splashes of custard across your cavity give you shivers! Just like the Shivers of Ed Sheeran, ‘and when you're close up, give me the shivers’ , which makes you wanna dance till the sunlight cracks.

The vibrancy of flavours resonates with this painting by Jackson Pollock. You don’t see stars, but arrays of colours.

(Convergence, by Jackson Pollock)

Don’t settle for mundanity. You are entitled to sensations beyond your perception. Allow yourself to explore the unprecedented. Here are some tips for you:

If you long for a nice ambience, moonlight and candles…

• Earl Grey
• Coffee
• Wine
• Cheese （imagine the runny cheese…)

If you are up for an exotic or an oriental experience without physically travelling abroad…

• Milk tea (it goes with cinnamon!)
• Green tea
• Sesame and seaweeds 

If you are a sweet lady…

• Berries and fruits
• Chocolate
• Marshmallow

If you love Ed Sheeran…

• Ketchup. Why not?

Seems it takes the efforts. If you work a nine-to-five job like I do, the egg waffle maker is a splendid choice. You may not have all the Eastern spice in your kitchen; or the time to knead a dough.

5 minutes, and some basic ingredients are all you need to make an egg waffle.

As simple as pouring the mixture into the maker as instructed, the lovely egg waffle is ready. And feel free to top it with fruits, chocolate chips or ice-cream.

Sharing is caring. Don’t wait to share your authentic joy with your family and friends! Ah, and the one who pulls like a magnet too.

What? Too early for planning for the Valentine’s Day? Well think about that: fine dining and roses are fantastic but…is he/ she going to be impressed? Do they show your creativity?

Imagine that you are awed by the stunning view of the earth covered in feathery snow. However, you are embraced by warmth. Scents of grilled chicken, mashed potato fill your nostrils. Comfily seated in a tent, you lean on each other sharing a mug of hot coffee. After the sunset, the milky way brightens in darkness.

Would you like to share this precious moment with your loved one? You don’t need to be an outdoor professional or a frequent hiker to do so. Even if you are a first-timer in nature, our camping rocket stove will do the job for you.

Anytime, Anywhere

Take it a mini outdoor kitchen. You just need to pack the pots and pans, food and the camping rocket stove. It just takes a few minutes to set up, and you have the privilege to enjoy the freshness of nature everywhere, including the lakeside, a camping site and your backyard. Besides, you can boil a large pot of water for showers. Spending time outdoor doesn’t mean personal hygiene has to be compromised.

Of course, you are not going to use it in winter only. The low-carbon steel which is rust-resistant guarantees its enduring capacity. It withstands the contrast of humidity and climates all-year round. Besides, it is small in size (15.35” x7.87”)  and light (13.8 lbs) thus easy to carry around. So anytime you feel like setting off, just grab and go.

Resilience

The heat generation doesn’t rely on gas or propane, instead the wooden branches on the campsite will do. It works for long hours. No ashes is produced during combustion to make sure that your date is not going to be spoilt.

No hassles, no complications but it may be an unforgettable, or an unprecedented experience for both of you.

Remember the way to show LOVE is not about how much you spend, but how far you are willing to go.

1. Rocket Stove Circular	2. Rocket Stove Square

If you hate seeing your winter utility bills, you are certainly not alone. Rapidly increasing costs of fuel and energy have made many people redouble their efforts to cut power usage and save money. Rocket Stove is happy to provide you with these important tips for helping your budget this winter.

1. Let In the Sun

A great way to ease your energy burden during sunny days is to keep your curtains open. Helping sunlight enter your house will take some of the pressure off of your heating unit. Just remember to close curtains again at night to protect against heat loss.

2. Bring Outside Habits Inside

Many of our Rocket Stove customers love camping. You can take some of the habits from your time outdoors to improve your energy usage indoors. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, this is a great way to warm the room that you are in without having to heat the entire house, similar to a campfire. Additionally, keep your temperature lower by layering blankets just as you would camping.

 You can watch the following video on how to use the stove

3. Find and Seal Leaks

One of the major causes of inefficiency when it comes to keeping your home warm is the loss of heat through cracks and drafts. Investing a little bit of money in things like weatherstripping is a great way to save more in the long term. For drafty windows, window film is cheap and easy to apply. Spending some time and effort at the beginning of winter can lower your heating bills.

4. Save on Cooking Energy

If you want to save money on your energy bills, seeking out alternatives to traditional cooking can put some extra dollars in your pocket. Perhaps pick a night each week to cook outdoors with your Rocket Stove. This can be a fun family event while requiring only a bit of wood. What’s better than saving money while spending quality time together?

5. Close Off Unused Rooms

Your heating bill is proportionate to the size of your home, so why not use this trick to make your home “smaller?” If you have a guest room, storage room, or other places that you don’t use, close the doors, and shut the vents inside these rooms. This will reduce the effort (and energy) it takes for your HVAC to heat the rest of your home.

Final Thoughts

Winter is a wonderful time but also one when heating bills and fuel usage tends to spike. Hopefully these tips are valuable in helping you prepare for winter power cuts and more efficiently use your energy. As always, follow Rocket Stove for more interesting and helpful information.