Brew Like a Barista: Craft Your Own Cold Brew Concentrate at Home

Summer's heat calls for cool, refreshing drinks, and what's cooler than a delicious iced coffee? Cold brew concentrate is a fantastic way to keep your fridge stocked with a base for endless iced coffee creations. It's surprisingly simple to make and offers a smooth, less acidic coffee flavor compared to traditional hot brewing methods.

Bean There, Done That: Choosing Your Coffee Beans

The foundation of any great coffee drink starts with the beans. For cold brew concentrate, medium or coarse ground coffee works best. Since the brewing process is less intense than hot brewing, using high-quality beans will ensure a full-flavored concentrate. Consider trying a medium roast for a balanced flavor profile.

Steeped in Perfection: The Brewing Process

The beauty of cold brew is its simplicity. Here's what you'll need:

• Freshly ground coffee beans (1.5 cups for a potent concentrate, 1 cup for a milder one)
• Cold filtered water (4 cups)
• Large airtight container
• Cheesecloth or coffee filters
• Fine-mesh sieve

1. Combine: Add the coffee grounds to your container and pour in the cold water. Stir gently to combine, making sure all the grounds are saturated.
2. Steep: Cover the container and let it sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours, depending on your desired strength. For a more mellow concentrate, opt for 12 hours.
3. Strain: Patience is key! Straining slowly is essential to avoid a gritty concentrate. Line your sieve with cheesecloth or coffee filters set over a separate container. Slowly pour the coffee mixture through the sieve, discarding the grounds afterward.

Frothy Finish: Enjoying Your Cold Brew

Now comes the fun part - enjoying your cold brew! Here are some ideas:

• Classic Cold Brew: Dilute your concentrate with water or milk to your preferred strength. Serve over ice.
• Cold Brew Latte: Combine cold brew concentrate with milk and ice for a creamy treat.
• Cold Brew Frappe: Blend cold brew concentrate with ice, milk, and your favorite flavors like chocolate syrup or caramel for a thick and icy beverage.

Top Tips for Brewing Success:

• Fresh is Best: Use freshly ground coffee for the most flavorful concentrate. Pre-ground coffee can lose its potency over time.
• Grind Matters: A coarse grind is ideal for cold brew. Finer grinds can lead to a bitter concentrate.
• Storage Solutions: Store your cold brew concentrate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

With a little planning, you can be brewing barista-worthy cold brew concentrate at home in no time. So ditch the store-bought stuff and impress your friends with your coffee-making skills!

While you are here check out these recipes for favorite homemade drinks.

Strawberry Peach Soda Pop

Blueberry Lime Soda

Bomb Pop Cocktails

Unique and Tasty Jello Shots

 Life needs a little jiggle sometimes, wouldn't you agree? And what better way to add a playful bounce to your step (or your party!) than with a vibrant, delicious jello shot? These sweet treats are the perfect blend of fun and refreshment, guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone's face.

Whether you're a seasoned party host or a jello shot newbie, this post is your one-stop shop for inspiration. We've got recipes to tantalize every taste bud, from classic favorites to boozy twists that will knock your socks off (metaphorically, of course!).

Be sure to click through the links to find the recipes you want to try.

Strawberry Cream Jello Shots by Fun Money Mom

These boozy little jello shots are just the thing for a summer party.

Easy Vegan Jello Shots by Cooking on Caffeine

This recipe makes for vegan jello shots so everyone can join in on the fun!

Pina Colada Jello Shots by Fun Money Mom

Give your tastebuds a tropical trip with these pretty pina colada jello shots.

Green Apple Jello Shots by Easy Party Cocktails

These jello shots have so much green apple flavor! These are awesome for a fall bonfire party.

Lemonade Jello Shots by Kimspired DIY

Give summer vibes with these incredibly flavorful lemonade shots!

Butterbeer Jello Shots by Simplistically Living

Adult fans of Harry Potter are going to want to cast a spell on you to get this recipe for butterbeer jello shots.

Peach Jello Shots by Organized Island

Pack a whole lot of peachy flavors into one tiny little cup with this recipe!

Champagne Jello Shots by Sugar+Soul

These champagne jello shots are just the thing for a celebration or New Years Eve.

Caramel Apple Jello Shots by Persnickety Plates

Having a fall gathering? Then you need to make a double batch of these caramel apple shots!

Cotton Candy Jello Shots by Princess Pinky Girl

These cotton candy jello shots are just so much boozy fun that you pretty much have to share them with your pals!

Strawberry Cheesecake Jello Shots by Cheesecake It Is

If you love cheesecake, then save this recipe for a boozy treat that feels so indulgent.

Creamsicle Jello Shots by Centsless Meals

These jello shots taste just like a summer staple with a kick! You will love these!

Rainbow Jello Shots by Balancing Motherhood

Layers of color make for a rainbow jello shot that is just the thing to brighten up  a rainy evening!

Layered Jello Shots by Surf and Sunshine

Layer these jello shots for a fun and pretty effect! These are going to be a hit at your next party.

Keto Jello Shots by Mom Foodie

This recipe makes for keto jello shots that are a guilt free way to let loose!

• Always use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Clearly label your jello shots, especially if you're serving them to guests who may not be familiar with their contents.
• Enjoy responsibly! Pace yourself and know your limits.

So grab your blender, dust off your shot glasses, and get ready to jiggle your way to jello shot fun! With these recipes as inspiration, you're sure to create sweet memories that will last a lifetime (or at least until the last shot is gone!).

Find more tasty cocktail recipes here:

Sour Apple Margaritas

Hill Billy Cider Cocktails

Bomb Pop Cocktails

Savory Fritter Recipes

 

Fritter Frenzy: The Savory Snack Solution You Crave

Fritters: the under-appreciated heroes of the culinary world. They're crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you're looking for a light appetizer, a vegetarian main course, or a fun way to use up leftover veggies, fritters have you covered.

In this post, we'll delve into the delightful world of savory fritters, exploring their versatility and offering tips to create your own fritter masterpieces.

A Global Fritter Feast

Fritters are a global phenomenon, enjoyed in countless cultures under different names. From Indian pakoras to Japanese tempura, these crispy treats showcase the incredible diversity of ingredients and flavors around the world.

The Fritter Formula

The beauty of fritters lies in their simplicity. At their core, they're a combination of grated or chopped vegetables, a binder (like eggs or flour), and seasonings, all fried until golden brown. But that's just the starting point!

Here are some of the BEST EVER FRITTER RECIPES TO TRY! Click thru the links to view the full recipe. You are going to want to pin all of these for later!

Ricotta Fritters by An Italian In My Kitchen

Spiced Sweet Potato Fritters by Mae’s Menu

Black Eyed Pea Fritters by Sense and Edibility

Sauerkraut Fritters by The Good Hearted Woman

Cheesy Zucchini Fritters by Tasty Oven

German Potato Fritters by Happy Kitchen

Beetroot Fritters by Go Healthy Ever After

Cheesy Cauliflower Fritters by Everyday Delicious

Okra Fritters by Global Kitchen Fritters

Crispy Corn Fritters by Small Town Woman

Caprese Zucchini Fritters by Cupcakes and Kale Chips

Corn and Zucchini Fritters by Three Olives Branch

Fritter Freedom: Endless Variations

The true magic of fritters unfolds in their endless variations. Here are some ideas to inspire your fritter creations:

• Veggie Bonanza: Courgettes, corn, sweet potato, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms - the list goes on! Embrace seasonal vegetables or clean out your crisper drawer.
• Cheese Please: Add grated parmesan, cheddar, feta, or mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
• Herb Haven: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, chives, or cilantro elevate your fritters with pops of freshness.
• Spice It Up: Don't be shy with spices! A pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, cumin, or curry powder can add a flavor explosion.
• Dip It Good: Serve your fritters with a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different palates. Aioli, sriracha mayo, chutney, or a simple yogurt dip are all excellent options.

Frittering Tips for Success

• Moisture Matters: Squeeze out excess moisture from grated vegetables to ensure crispy fritters.
• Rest and Rise: Let your fritter batter rest for 15-20 minutes before frying. This allows the ingredients to meld and the batter to thicken slightly.
• Oil is Key: Use an oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, for frying.
• Golden Goodness: Don't overcrowd the pan! Fry your fritters in batches to ensure even cooking and a beautiful golden brown color.

With these tips and a little creativity, you'll be a fritter-frying pro in no time. So grab your favorite vegetables, get ready to experiment, and embrace the delightful world of savory fritters!

Find more favorite recipes here:

Sauteed corn

Fancy Grilled Cheese Recipes

 Let's face it, summer nights can be a battle. The thought of firing up the oven and heating the whole house can be enough to send anyone running for the nearest ice cream tub. But what if you crave that warm, comforting feeling that only a delicious meal can bring? Enter the mighty grilled cheese: a summertime dinnertime hero in disguise.

There's something undeniably comforting about a perfectly toasted sandwich, the melty cheese oozing out the sides. It's a taste of simpler times, a reminder of childhood lunches and rainy day snacks. But the beauty of the grilled cheese is its versatility. It can be a blank canvas for culinary creativity, transforming from a simple cheddar and white bread combo into a symphony of flavors and textures.

Think about it: fresh summer tomato slices nestled between creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. Or perhaps thinly sliced grilled chicken adds a protein punch, balanced by the sweetness of fig jam. The options are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this classic to your specific cravings.

Here are some of my favorite grilled cheese recipes. Click through the links below to view the full recipes.

Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese by A Page of Positivity 

Grilled Cheese with Kale by Platter Talk

Pesto Grilled Cheese  by Quiche My Grits

Taco Grilled Cheese by Sugar and Soul

Havarti Chicken Fajita Grilled Cheese by Mooshu Jenne

Grilled Cheese Burgers by Girl Carnivore

Lamb Grilled Cheese by Pass the Sushi

Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese by Cooking School Dropout

Gourmet French Grilled Cheese by Delicious Table

Taco Grilled Cheese by Simply Stacie

Pesto Grilled Cheese by Chef Not Required

Roasted Red pepper Panini Grilled Cheese by Fearless Dining

Kimchi Grilled Cheese by in the Kitch

Bolognese Grilled Cheese by Gluten Free Stories

Rainbow Grilled Cheese by Amanda’s Cookin’

Plus, the beauty of a grilled cheese dinner is its simplicity. It requires minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and cooks up in minutes. This frees you up to spend more time enjoying the warm summer nights, whether it's stargazing on the patio, catching fireflies with the kids, or simply relaxing with a good book.

So next time you're staring into a hot kitchen on a summer evening, don't despair. Embrace the power of the grilled cheese. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest things in life can be the most satisfying.

Find more favorite recipes here:

Loaded Jalapeno Bites

Crab Cakes

Jalapeno Popper Spread

Savory Recipes Made with Soda

 

We've all been there: you open a bottle of soda, enjoy a refreshing sip, but life gets busy and it ends up languishing in the fridge, flat and forgotten. But before you send it down the drain, hold on! That "dead" soda holds hidden potential, and it's not just for baking cakes. Let's ditch the waste and get creative with some surprising savory uses for your leftover soda.

Beyond the Sweet:

Gone are the days of relegating soda to sugary treats. Its acidity, subtle sweetness, and unique carbonation can actually add incredible depth and complexity to savory dishes. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Glaze your meats: Flat cola makes a fantastic glaze for ribs, chicken wings, or pork chops. The sugars caramelize beautifully, creating a sticky, sweet-and-tangy coating that intensifies flavor.
• Deglaze your pan: Stuck-on bits on your pan are no match for the power of leftover soda. Use it to deglaze after sautéing or searing, creating a flavorful pan sauce that captures all those delicious caramelized bits.
• Marinate your tofu or tempeh: The acidity in soda makes it a surprisingly effective marinade for plant-based proteins. Try ginger ale for a slightly sweet and spicy kick, or club soda for a clean, refreshing flavor.
• Braise your veggies: Don't underestimate the power of flat soda in braising! It adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances out the richness of root vegetables, like carrots or onions, creating a complex and satisfying dish.
• Boost your soup: Give your next pot of soup a flavor boost with a splash of leftover soda. Club soda adds a subtle effervescence, while ginger ale or root beer can lend unique depth and spice.

The "Fizz"-tastic Factor:

Remember, even flat soda still retains some carbonation, which can play a fun role in your cooking. Here are some ways to leverage its bubbly potential:

• Make fluffy pancakes: Leftover soda, especially seltzer or club soda, can be used instead of milk or water in your pancake batter. The carbonation creates lighter, fluffier pancakes with a delightful texture.
• Whip up airy fritters: The same principle applies to fritters! Use flat soda in your batter for crispy, light, and airy fritters that everyone will love.
• Create a fun fizzy garnish: Don't just drink the remaining soda, use it as a playful garnish! Drizzle a small amount of flat soda over savory dishes like salads, tacos, or even grilled cheese for a surprising burst of flavor and texture.

Get Creative and Explore:

These are just a few starting points. Don't be afraid to experiment and discover your own unique uses for leftover soda! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and exploring new flavors. So next time you find yourself with a can of flat soda, don't despair, get creative, and turn it into a delicious and unexpected culinary adventure!

Here are some of my favorite recipes that use leftover soda. Click thru the links to view the full recipe.

Dr. Pepper Slow Cooker Ribs by The Magical Slow Cooker

Coca Cola Pork Carnita by 24 Byte

Cola Marinated Steak by Slow the Cook Down

Crock Pot Coke Meatballs by Crayons and Cravings

Dr. Pepper Baked Beans by Sugar and Soul

Dr. Pepper Pork Loin by Kitchen Laughter

Instant Pot Pork Rio Sweet Pork by Eating in an Instant

Brown Sugar and Coke Glazed Ham by When is Dinner

Crock Pot Dr. Pepper Ribs by Two Pink Peonies

Root Beer Smoked Ribs by Crave the Good

Find more great soda recipes here:

Homemade Strawberry Peach Soda

Strawberry Soda Syrup

Homemade Soda Recipes