Trends for 2010...

I found this list and more on Carol's Culinary Cues... check it out for more 2010 trends (all for the better I think).

McCormick (the spice company) Top 20 Flavor Pairings for 2010

[1] Roasted Ginger and Rhubarb: Exciting layers of spicy and sour, with warming notes and a powerful tang

[2] Thai Basil and Watermelon: A colorful study in contrasts offers a sweet, refreshing balance

[3] Caraway and Bitter Greens: An unmistakable spice tames the bitter bite of bold greens

[4] Bay Leaves and Preserved Lemon: Slowly coaxed flavor worth the wait, an aromatic mix of bitter, salty-tart and bright

[5] Almond and Ale: The bittersweet character of both ingredients makes a congenial, cozy and hearty match

[6] Turmeric and Vine-Ripened Tomatoes: Earthy and naturally sweet, this colorful, healthful blend is always in season

[7] Pumpkin Pie Spice and Coconut Milk: This lush, warm pairing reconnects with its tropical roots

[8] Roasted Cumin and Chickpeas: This globetrotting Mediterranean duet delivers warm, earthy flavor harmonies

[9] Creole Mustard and Shellfish: A vibrant pair that brings Gulf Coast gusto to any part of the country

[10] Chives and Fish Sauce: Savory fusion of French and Asian cuisines

McCormick also offers these insights on general food trends:

[1] In is the New Out – Big flavors and new definitions of “dinner party” bring the best of restaurant meals home

[2] Always In Season – Preserving the peak of ripeness for year-round enjoyment, fresh at the ready

[3] Meatless on the Menu – Mixing up the center of the plate

[4] Ethnic Sizzle – Tastes of the global grill, appearing in a backyard near you

[5] New Comfort Cuisine – A renewed appreciation for the integrity of ingredients and cooking techniques

[6] here the Cocktail Meets the Kitchen – Shaken or stirred, tasteful inspiration takes on new forms

BOB's RED MILL...

Bob's Red Mill is giving away a copy of the Gluten-Free Recipes Book.
Check it out on their website.

I love their whole 10 grain mix cooked with a little oatmeal added in hot milk. Delicious! My cholesterol went from 220 to 155 this year! I think it was from the whole grain each morning, along with hot green tea. YUM YUM

1/4 cup 10 grain
1/4 cup oatmeal
2 cups milk - heated
2 packs Splenda
heat the milk stir in the grains/oats and splenda let sit 10-15 minutes. Makes 2 servings

PB & J Challange

Welch's Jams and Jelly has a contest going for those that are connoisseurs of the PB & J sandwich. Go here to vote for your favorite. Sponsored by Food Network. I also joined RecipeZaar. (another cool recipe site) We're here to help you stretch your dollar with inexpensive recipes, make-ahead freezer meals (OAMC) and penny-pinching menus. Our community forums are full of savvy shoppers sharing tips on Scoring at the Store, Saving Money at the Supermarket and Living Better 4 Less which is our Topic of the Month for January. CHECK IT OUT!

Gingerbread house contest...

Gingerbread House contest from This Old House. Go and add your vote.