Gourmet Christmas Appetizers That Will Wow Your Guests

< Back to Guides and Tips

Gourmet Christmas Appetizers That Will Wow Your Guests

As Christmas festivities draw near, it’s time to plan a menu that sets the mood and tantalizes the taste buds from the first bite. There’s nothing like impressing your guests with a selection of gourmet appetizers that add sophistication and flavor to the table. This year, elevate your holiday entertaining with these creative starters that are easy to prepare, stunning to serve, and utterly delicious. These appetizers — baked brie with cranberry sauce, goat cheese-stuffed figs, and mini smoked salmon blinis — are perfect for starting the holiday feast with flair.

Cranberry Ham Baked Brie: A crowd-pleaser that is both rich and festive, baked brie topped with cranberry sauce is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet. This appetizer is easy to prepare and looks beautiful on the table with its glossy red topping.

Goat Cheese-Stuffed Figs with Honey and Pistachios: For a sophisticated yet simple appetizer, goat cheese-stuffed figs deliver a delightful burst of flavors. The creamy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the figs, while a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of pistachios add an extra layer of texture and taste.

Image credit:simplyhealthykitchen.com

Mini Smoked Salmon Blinis with Dill Crème Fraîche: For an appetizer with a bit of elegance, mini smoked salmon blinis are a perfect choice. These bite-sized treats are easy to assemble, and they offer a burst of savory flavor with the addition of dill crème fraîche and fresh herbs.

Image credit: receipetineats.com

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Balsamic Glaze: These elegant bundles are simple yet packed with flavor. The salty, savory prosciutto complements the fresh asparagus, while a balsamic glaze adds a hint of sweetness and acidity. This appetizer is quick to make and makes a beautiful addition to any holiday table.

Image credit: 7emptyplates.com

Truffle Mushroom Crostini: These truffle mushroom crostini are earthy, creamy, and loaded with flavor. The truffle oil adds an indulgent touch, making them perfect for a holiday gathering. Serve them on toasted baguette slices for a simple, yet elegant, appetizer.

Image credit:inspiredtaste.net

Pomegranate and Ricotta Crostini with Honey: For a refreshing, slightly sweet appetizer, try pomegranate and ricotta crostini. These are light, beautiful, and bring a burst of color to the table. The creamy ricotta pairs wonderfully with the juicy pomegranate seeds, while a drizzle of honey adds just the right touch of sweetness.

Image credit:joyfulhealthyeats.com

With these gourmet appetizers, you’ll kick off your Christmas celebration in style. Each of these recipes offers a unique flavor experience, and together, they create an unforgettable spread for guests to enjoy. So go ahead, add a little extra flair to your holiday table — your friends and family will thank you for it!

TikTok Trending Recipes Part 2

< Back to Guides and Tips

TikTok Trending Recipes Part 2

In our previous article, we explored some of our favorite TikTok recipes and highlighted a few to avoid. Now, we’re back with more viral sensations from the TikTok culinary world. From croffles to matcha martinis, these trending recipes offer a variety of flavors and fun for your kitchen experiments. Here’s a breakdown of our new favorites and which ones you might want to skip.

Croffles

Croffles, a delightful fusion of croissants and waffles, have taken TikTok by storm. This recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of croissants with the crispy texture of waffles. Making croffles is simple: just press croissant dough using Waffle Maker and cook until golden brown. Top with your favorite ingredients like fresh berries, whipped cream, or Nutella.

Verdict: Must Try!

Croffles are a delicious treat that’s easy to make and versatile enough for any time of day. They’re a great way to impress guests or simply enjoy a luxurious breakfast.

Recommended Product
Cuisinart Waffle Maker

@vancouverfoodie

1. Leave frozen par-baked croissants (got mine at @Whole Foods Canada) to proof in a warm area till they have doubled in size 2. Plug-in and pre-heat waffle maker 3. 5. Place proofed croissants inside waffle maker and cook for 3 mins till golden brown! #croffles #croissant #waffle #croissanttok #wafflemaker #croffleviral #dontbebasicfornobody🔥😜

♬ original sound – anastasia

Air Fryer Fried Oreos

This recipe is a healthier twist on the classic fried Oreos, using an air fryer instead of deep frying. To make them, dip Oreos in pancake batter and cook them in an air fryer until crispy and golden. The result is a warm, gooey dessert with a slightly crunchy exterior.

Verdict: Must Try!

Air Fryer Fried Oreos are a fun and slightly less guilty pleasure. They’re perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the mess and excess oil of deep frying.

Recommended Product
Cuisinart Digtal Airfryer Toaster Oven

@foodnetworkit’s ~always~ fair season with air fryer fried oreos 🤤 (recipe linked in our bio)♬ original sound – Food Network

Crispy Feta Eggs

Crispy Feta Eggs are a savory dish that has captured the hearts of many TikTok users. This recipe involves cooking eggs in a hot pan with feta cheese, which becomes crispy and adds a rich, tangy flavor. Serve with a side of toast or avocado for a complete meal.

Verdict: Must Try!

This recipe is a game-changer for breakfast or brunch. The combination of crispy feta and soft eggs creates a unique texture and flavor profile that’s incredibly satisfying.

Recommended Product
De Buyer Choc Alum Non Stick Fry Pan

@graceelkus 5-minute feta fried eggs: you’ll thank me next time you’re hangry 🍳 Inpired by Ali Slagle’s potato, egg, and cheese tacos 🧀 Heat small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Crumble in feta around perimeter. Crack egg into center; season w/ black pepper & red pepper flakes (no need to add salt, the feta is plenty salty) Cover pan and cook until white is set, yolk is still runny, and cheese is unbelievably crispy. Serve atop toast, w/ hash browns, or my personal fave: in a charred tortilla with avocado & lime. You can oil the skillet, esp. if you’re not using nonstick, but I find the cheese gets crispier w/o More tips on my IG @graceelkus #friedeggs #feta ♬ Midnight City – M83

Matcha Martini

For those who enjoy cocktails with a twist, the Matcha Martini is a refreshing and elegant option. This drink combines the earthy flavor of matcha with the smoothness of vodka and a hint of sweetness from simple syrup. Shake it all together with ice and strain into a martini glass for a vibrant green cocktail.

Verdict: Must Try!

The Matcha Martini is a sophisticated drink that’s perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering. Its unique flavor profile makes it a standout cocktail.

Recommended Product
Nachtmann Vivendi Martini Stemglass

Pizza Skulls

Pizza Skulls are a spooky and fun way to enjoy pizza, especially around Halloween. Using a skull-shaped mold, fill it with pizza dough, sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then bake until golden and bubbly. The result is a spooky and tasty treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Verdict: Must Try!

Pizza Skulls are a creative and playful twist on traditional pizza. They’re perfect for themed parties and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Recommended Products
Nordic Ware Halloween Skull Cakelet Pan

@byhilaryrose The most delicious cheesy pizza skulls! Ingredients: ▢ 14 oz of pre-made pizza dough ▢ 1 cup pizza sauce ▢ 2 cups shredded mozzarella -marinara for dipping -bake at 400 degrees F for 16 to 20 minutes #pizzaskulls #halloweenrecipes #halloweenrecipe #halloween2023 #easyrecipes #halloweenpartyfood ♬ This Is Halloween – Hairy & Scary Creatures

Viral Egg Boil

The Viral Egg Boil is a unique recipe that involves boiling eggs with a flavorful blend of spices and seasonings. The result is a savory, spicy snack that’s packed with protein. While the process is simple, the flavor is anything but ordinary.

Verdict: Skip

While the Viral Egg Boil is an interesting concept, it may not be for everyone. The intense flavors might be overwhelming for some, and the preparation doesn’t offer much versatility.

Recommended Product
Mastrad Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl

These trending TikTok recipes offer a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and creative options.  Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a new culinary adventure, these recipes are sure to add some excitement to your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Chew to A’s: Brain-Boosting Foods Every Parent Should Serve

< Back to Guides and Tips

Chew to A’s: Brain-Boosting Foods Every Parent Should Serve

Get ready for a tasty adventure as we explore brain-boosting foods that will turn your kitchen into an exam success factory! From snacks that make them smile to clever cooking tips, we’ve got the recipe for smart, happy, and confident exam-takers. Let’s dive into the world of food for tott (I mean, thought)!

Berry Blast Brain-Boost Smoothie

Get ready to charge your child’s brain with the Berry Blast Brain-Boost Smoothie!

Simply blend together 1 cup of blueberries, a ripe banana, a handful of spinach, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of magical chia seeds, and a splash of almond milk.

Why it’s Amazing:
Blueberries are the star players here, packing a punch with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and promote sharper cognitive function. Bananas bring vitamin B6 for neurotransmitter production, while chia seeds unleash omega-3s that boost memory and learning abilities. Greek yogurt offers probiotics that support a healthy gut-brain connection, ensuring your child’s brain functions at its peak!

You may find these useful:
Kitchenaid Cordless Handblender
Zyliss Measuring Cups

Credit: thecollegehousewife.com 

Salmon Quinoa Bowl

Begin by preparing cooked quinoa. Then place marinated salmon pieces in a heated skillet until it is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. For an added nutritional boost, top the dish with vegetables and avocado. See the recipes here: How to cook quinoa, Salmon quinoa bowl.

Why It’s Amazing:
Imagine the brain as a superhero headquarters, and omega-3 fatty acids are the trusty sidekicks boosting its power. Fatty fish like salmon enhance neuron communication, nurture brain cell growth, and keep inflammation at bay. Avocado swoops in with healthy monounsaturated fats that aid in better blood flow to the brain. Quinoa, the energy powerhouse, ensures steady glucose supply for sustained focus!

Storage tips:
If you are on meal prep mode, store each component of the dish separately in the fridge. Consider using smart food boxes and get automatic notifications to remind yourself when it’s time to eat what’s inside before their expiration. 

You may find these useful:
Lacor Stainless Steel Mesh Strainer (for washing quinoa)
Zebra Estio Pro II Stainless Steel Sauce Pan (for cooking quinoa)
Nordic Ware Aluminium Steel Texas Skillet (for cooking salmon)
Mastrad Stor Eat Smart Food Boxes 

Credit: thetakeiteasychef.com

Spinach Omelette with Whole Grain Toast

Overwhelmed by exam stress? Here’s a secret weapon: dark leafy greens. Take charge by incorporating this nutritional powerhouse into your kid’s diet!

To start, cook a handful of spinach leaves and set them aside. Whisk 2 eggs and spread it on a non-stick frying pan. On one side of the egg, add in spinach and some cheese. Allow the omelette to gently release from the sides of the pan before folding it in half. Slide this masterpiece onto a plate, and it’s now ready to be served with whole grain toasts. See the whole recipe here.  

Why It’s Amazing:
Spinach, the guardian of antioxidants, bolsters cognitive function and fends off stress. Eggs harness the power of choline to boost memory and neurotransmitter production. And as for that whole grain toast, it’s the unsung hero of sustained energy, ensuring stable blood sugar levels and giving your child optimal focus and mental clarity.

You may find these useful:
Zyliss Forged Aluminium Non-Stick Frying Pan
Dreamfarm Whisk – Flisk 
Dreamfarm Spatula – Chopula

Credit: ohsweetcultureshock.com

Nutty Energy Bites

This is the perfect snack for those who like to nibble on snacks as they cram for exams!

All you need are dates, almonds, and coconut oil. Put them into a food processor and pulse until it’s crumbly. Form little balls, and you are done! See the whole recipe here.

Why It’s Amazing:
Almonds are your child’s brain’s secret weapon! They’re packed with healthy fats that make your brain run like a well-oiled machine, vitamin E as a protective shield for brain cells, protein for turbocharged brain messaging, magnesium to keep the cognitive gears turning, riboflavin as personal brain energy booster, fiber to keep energy levels steady, and L-arginine to supercharge memory! These little wonders are like a brain party in the mouth!

You may find this useful:
Kitchenaid 7 Cup Food Processor

Walnut Butter and Banana Sandwich

Spread walnut butter on a slice of bread, top it with banana slices, and finish with another slice. Want to take it up a notch? Discover how to make your own walnut butter.

Why It’s Amazing:
This snack is like a rocket booster for brains: creamy walnut butter brings brain-boosting omega-3s to the table, while banana provide instant energy without the sugar crashes. Together, they’re the ultimate dynamic duo, keeping those young minds sharp and ready to conquer those tricky exam questions!

Storage tips:
Use an airtight jar for storing homemade walnut butter. An airtight container helps prevent air from getting in, which can cause the walnut butter to oxidize and spoil more quickly. It also helps maintain the flavour and freshness of the walnut butter for a longer period. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator to further extend its shelf life, as nuts and nut butters can go rancid if left at room temperature for too long.

You may find these useful:
Cuisinart Expert Prep Pro Food Processor
Dreamfarm Spreading Knife, Kneed
Le Parfait Glass Preserving Jar

Kitchen Adventure: Effortlessly Easy Recipes for Little Chefs

< Back to Guides and Tips

Kitchen Adventure: Effortlessly Easy Recipes for Little Chefs

Welcome to a world of simplicity and fun, where spatulas become magic wands and measuring cups transform into vessels of creativity. This article invites you to explore recipes so wonderfully easy that even the youngest aspiring chefs can take the lead.

Image credit:mudmates.co.nz

Taste-Safe Sensory Foam

Teach your kids to make sensory foam that’s perfect for hours of creative play! All you need is a can of chickpeas, cream of tartar, and a hand mixer!

First, add chickpea liquid and cream of tarter to a mixing bowl. Then beat on high with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. And voilà!

Recommended product:
Kitchenaid 5 Speed Hand Mixer

Image credit: TasteofHome

Chocolate Chip, PB & Banana Sandwiches

Energize your day with this powerhouse snack!

Simply mix peanut butter, honey and cinnamon; stir in chocolate chips. Spread over bread. Layer 2 bread slices with banana slices, or use mashed banana for a different texture. Top with remaining bread, cut into bite size pieces, and bon appetite!

Recommended products:
BOSKA Monaco+ Spreading knife
Dreamfarm Masher – Smood Lite
De Buyer Fibreglass Cutters

Image credit: Kiwico

Make your own raisin

Make raisins at home with just one ingredient – Grapes!

Wash and dry grapes, then spread them on a lined baking sheet. Dry in a preheated oven for several hours until wrinkled and dry. Cool and store in an airtight container.

Recommended products:
Zyliss Non-Stick Baking Sheet
Le Parfait Glass Preserving Jar

Image credit: Myminichef

Cheese Quesadilla

Your child would love this calcium-packed delight that champions strong bones and flavours alike.

Warm a tortilla on a heated pan for 30 seconds, add cheese to one half, fold it over, and press with a spatula. Cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping it halfway through, until lightly browned. Let it cool briefly before slicing, and serve with your child’s favourite sauce. Yummy!

Recommended products:
Dreamfarm Spatula – Chopula
Kids Sauce Dish

Image credit: Cooking.nytimes

Smoked Gouda and Broccoli Flatbreads

Your child will have a newfound love for broccoli after making this!

In a large bowl, mix Gouda, broccoli, scallions and oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Lay out flatbread on baking mat, then evenly distribute the mixture on top. Roast for 8-10 minutes in a preheated oven – until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted and browned in spots.

Recommended products:
Zebra Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl
De Buyer Silicone-Coated Fibreglass Baking Mat
Cole & Mason Salt and Pepper Mills

Image credit: hellolittlehome

Tomato Avocado Sandwich

Prepare the dressing by mixing Greek yogurt, basil, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Spread this dressing onto the bread and arrange sliced tomatoes over it, lightly seasoning the tomatoes with salt and pepper. For the final touch, add sliced or mashed avocado on top.

Recommended products:
Danielle Family Set – Includes Kids Knife
Zyliss Mini Masher
Cole & Mason Electronic Salt and Pepper Mill

Image credit: Kitchenaid.com

Make Your Own Slime

Kids love slime, with some spending a fortune of pocket money on it! So why not get them to make their own using a stand mixer?

Mix chia seeds, water and food colouring together. Cover and place in the fridge overnight. Pour mixture into a stand mixer bowl and add corn starch gradually whilst mixing on speed 1 with the flat beater until you achieve your desired sliminess.

Recommended product:
KitchenAid Stand Mixer

Breakfast Ideas to Kickstart Your Mornings

< Back to Guides and Tips

Breakfast Ideas to Kickstart Your Mornings

Skip that boring sliced bread and fuel up your morning with some heartwarming breakfast. To inspire and remind you the importance of breakfast, try these easy recipes that will kickstart your day!

Image credit: feelgoodfoodie

Overnight Oatmeal

Too busy in the morning to prep a healthy breakfast? Overnight oats are the best breakfast meal prep that will change your morning routine for good. It takes less than five minutes to prepare and are packed with whole grains and fibre. Make a batch the night before and you are ready to go the next morning. Need extra antioxidants? Add in superfoods like chia seeds, flaxseed or your favourite berries!

Shop: Le Parfait Mason Jars

Image credit: marthastewart

Bacon, Egg & Toast Cups

Breakfast made in a muffin tin? Why not? Get a scrumptious breakfast by layering bread, egg and bacon, this classic American breakfast is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Tip: Loosely cover the pan with foil if the toasts are browning too much.

Shop: Zyliss Non-Stick Muffin Tin 12-Cup

Image credit: bbcgoodfood

Classic Waffles

Make savoury or sweet waffles using this all-in-one batter mix. For even lighter waffles, whisk the egg white until fluffy, then fold through the batter. Wake up to warm, crispy golden brown waffles in the morning — or sleep in and have them for brunch or even dessert.

Shop: Cuisinart Waffle Maker

Image credit: hamiltonbeach

Reuben Panini

The Reuben sandwich is a classic American hot sandwich that’s loved worldwide. Made with delicious corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing served on rye bread and grilled to perfection, the Reuben is one sandwich that is packed with flavour. You can also swap out corned beef for pastrami. The iconic Cuisinart Griddler will get the job down in minutes! Its floating cover and reversible plates are easily removable, transforming the Griddler® FIVE from grill to griddle, making it an indispensable partner in the kitchen!

Shop: Cuisinart Griddler with Non-Stick Pan

Image credit: bbcgoodfood

Breakfast Smoothies

If you want a quick and healthy breakfast, smoothies are a great option when you have a good balance of ingredients. Be it a veggie, probiotic boost or fruity blended option, smoothies are versatile and delicious. Find tips for classic flavour combinations and added healthy extras like seeds and nuts.

Shop: KitchenAid Cordless Blender

Image credit: fifteenspatulas

Breakfast Tortilla Wrap

Have your breakfast ready in under 30 minutes! This warm tortilla is filled with flulffy scrambled eggs, cheese, avocado and bacon for added flavour and protein. This hearty wrap is the perfect way to start your day! The Lacor non-stick Crepe pan is perfect for tortillas and even sweet or savoury crepes. With non-stick features, you will do not need to be afraid of your tortillas or food sticking to the pan.

Shop: Lacor Black Steel Non-Stick Crepe Pan

Easy Sheet Pan Dinner Recipes

< Back to Guides and Tips

Easy Sheet Pan Dinner Recipes

Take the stress out of Christmas with these easy sheet pan dinner recipes. All you have to do is place your ingredients on the sheet pan, and let the oven do all the work. Reduce the number of utensils and dishes with just one pan to clean up!

Image credit: Foodnetwork.com

Rosemary-Garlic Pork Chops with Chickpeas

This One Pan Rosemary-Garlic Pork Chop is a quick and delicious meal that will become a solid part of your weekly meal plan. The beauty of it is that all of the ingredients are cooked in the same pan, reducing clean up time. Broil pork chops to achieve a crispy texture on the outside but maintain moisture inside. Ensure your pork chops are moist and not overcooked with the Mastrad Meat Thermometer. Grab a glass of vino and let Innovative bluetooth-enabled, wireless meat thermometer monitor your dishes completely wirelessly from distance.

Image credit: feastingathome.com

Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Dill Sauce

Searching for a low carb recipe? This Baked Salmon with asparagus and dill sauce is a great healthy 30-minute dinner recipe! The flavours of lemon and dill work beautifully to complement the salmon and asparagus. Alternatively, you can substitute the asparagus with any other fast cooking vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. Transfer your prized fish with the Atlantic Chef Large Fish Turner where its bevelled edge helps slide beneath delicate foods preventing them to fall apart.

Image credit: epicurious.com

Sheet Pan Grilled Cheese

A crowd favourite! A simple, easy-to-alter recipe for fast and delicious sandwiches. In 10 minutes, you will have ooey gooey, golden brown grilled cheese sandwiches ready to serve. Cut into smaller portions for cheeezy appetisers to entertain your guest!

Image credit: thedefinedish.com

Pesto Gnocchi

Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, this is what you get from your Pesto Gnocchi on a sheet pan. Gnocchi, an Italian pasta dumplings made with potatoes, egg and flour. Instead of boiling it, all you have to do is pop it on a baking sheet, skip the cheese and meat if you want to make it a vegetarian dish! Why not make a batch of homemade pesto and store them in these 3 piece La Parfait Jars . The jars feature the famous orange rubber seal which keeps the product air tight, allowing long-term preservation.

Image credit: dammdelicious.net

Shrimp Scampi

This is for busy weekday nights! Perfect for an appetizer, or as a full meal, this easy Shrimp Scampi sheet pan meal combines shrimp with garlic butter sauce. Served it up with rice pilaf or roasted broccoli! The  Cuisinart 4 piece Cooking Set will make cooking a breeze, from draining your broccoli with the slotted turner or turning your shrimps during cooking.

Image credit: tablespoon.com

Carrot Sheet Cake

Nothing beats a homemade carrot cake from scratch. With a golden, nutty browned butter cream cheese frosting, this irresistible cake is taken to new levels of yum. Transport this yummy treat to a party with the Nordic Ware Cakes and Cupcakes Carrier. Its flat side accommodates mini cakes and rectangular cakes, while the reverse side features cupcake holders.

Dad-Approved Cocktails to Mix Up On Father’s Day

< Back to Guides and Tips

Dad-Approved Cocktails to mix up on Father’s Day

Father’s Day is right around the corner, so it’s time to impress him with your cocktail making prowess! Not sure how to make your own signature cocktail, why not try out some fabulous Father’s Day cocktails from the classic Old-Fashioned to the modern Avocado Daiquiri! Raise a glass to dad with these festive Father’s Day drink ideas.

1.Espresso Martini

If your dad loves both coffee and martini, this cocktail will definitely be top of his list. This sophisticated drink, with its distinctive, frothy top layer, is sure to impress. The best part is how quick and easy it is to make, all you need are four easy ingredients and a cocktail shaker.

Shop: Nachtmann Vivendi Set of 4pieces Crystal Martini Stemglass

2. Old Fashioned

If you are looking to whip up something classic for Dad this Father’s Day, make it an Old Fashioned. The old-fashioned is one of the best ways to dress up your favourite whiskey without significantly altering the taste. If you’re a traditionalist, you might prefer rye whiskey. The bourbon old-fashioned is a popular choice as well; it was the go-to style of whiskey for this iconic drink for years. Whichever whiskey you pour, the sweet, bitter, and fruit flavors added to the glass will enhance it nicely.

Shop: Chef & Sommelier 6-piece Set of Lima Old Fashioned Rocks Glass

3.Frozen Mango Magarita

Beat the heat and shake up a refreshing citrus drink to go along with your Father’s Day menu . Made with mango, tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice, this cooling and thirst quenching drink is the perfect addition to any summer bbq. Tip: Frozen mango margarita could also be made ahead of time. Place it into a sealable container, store it in the freezer, and then just stir it every now and then to keep it slushy.

Shop: Arcoroc Signature Set of 6 Cocktail/Martini Stemglass

4.Avocado Daiquiri

This super-smooth blended avocado daiquiri is a fantastic way to put your super riped avocado to use. In order to prepare it, simple just blend all ingredients until smooth. The combination is then poured into a cocktail glass garnished with a lime wedge.

Shop: Arcoroc Set of 6 Hurricane Cocktail Glass

5. Strawberry Mojito

If you are tired of the classic Mojito recipe, why not mix it up? Fizzy, minty, slightly sweet and packed with strawberries and lime, this Strawberry Mojito Cocktail recipe is refreshing and easy to make with ToTT 4 piece Cocktail Set. It comes with a transparent shaker, muddler, citrus reamer and jigger. These barware tools allow you to craft professional-level cocktails at home regardless of your mixology experience.

Eggs Cooking Skills

< Back to Guides and Tips

Be an eggxpert in no time

The ToTT of being a Chef #1: The eggciting start

“What to cook first?” is a question that many will ask when they think about learning how to cook or planning to whip up a simple meal.

With our ever handy guides from gifting, equipment usage and even recipes, let us introduce you to our new series for aspiring chefs and bakers with “The ToTT of being a Chef”  Let us inspire you to Cook, Bake and Host from understanding the basics of creaming in baking to mastering how to perfect a soft boiled egg.  Not only will you get to enjoy hacks and tips from us, the series will recommend you the right tools to go along with your cooking or baking journey. 

One of the most basic ingredients in both cooking and baking is simply, the egg. This budget-friendly ingredient can be cooked in many ways and in this article, let us share with you the 7 most basic ways to cook an egg, ranging from oozy soft boiled eggs to a nice heartwarming omelette. 

The 7 most basic ways of cooking an egg

Don’t forget that these 7 ways of cooking an egg have varying levels of difficulty too despite being beginner friendly! Fear not, we have arranged them in order of difficulty, starting off with the 2 most basic ways of cooking an egg: Soft boiled and Hard boiled.

Soft Boiled Eggs

Soft boiling makes the yolk in eggs runny yet creamy, and eating it along with the delicate and soft egg white just makes it such a simple way of appreciating the natural flavours of an egg. 

Basic equipment needed: Slotted Spoon, Saucepan
Recipe: How to Make Soft Boiled Eggs Recipe 

Hard Boiled Eggs

Love a good Egg Mayonnaise Sandwich? Hard boiling makes the yolks moist, deep orange and more solidified compared to soft boiled eggs. It also ends up with more chewy egg whites and a milder taste due to longer cooking times. It is crucial to not overcook hard boiled eggs as it may cause a reaction between the iron in the yolk and the sulfur in the egg whites which results in an odor. 

Basic equipment needed: Slotted Spoon, Saucepan
Recipe: How to Make Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs 

Image credit: tablespoon

Sunny-Side Up Eggs

Other than catching the beautiful sunrise on a monday morning, why not prepare some sunny-side up eggs to catch as breakfast too! The sunny style of cooking eggs packs an even more succulent flavour due to the frying factor. The egg whites are mostly fried while the yolk remains translucent and raw, forming a contrasting yet balanced taste. 

Basic equipment needed: Non-stick Skillet, Small Ramekin, Slotted Turner

Recipe: Perfect Sunny-Side-Up Eggs Recipe

Image credit: cdkitchen

Over Easy Eggs

Is this style of cooking an egg unfamiliar to you? You may have mistaken it for a sunny side up egg before. Over easy eggs are fried eggs cooked on both sides for a very short amount of time, until the egg whites are just about set and the yolk is still runny. Perfect to pair with toasts for your weekend brunch!

Basic equipment needed: Non-stick Skillet, Small Ramekin, Slotted Turner
Recipe: Perfect Eggs Over Easy Recipe

Image credit: epicurious

Poached Eggs

It’s getting slightly more difficult now as poached eggs take the 5th spot on this list. Poached eggs taste very similar to soft boiled eggs, however, its texture and appearance is on a whole new level. It has an extremely soft and delicate texture with a runny yolk. Pair your perfectly poached eggs with hollandaise sauce, ham and you get your very own homemade eggs benedict!

Basic equipment needed: Slotted Spoon, Saucepan,  Ramekin, Sieve
Recipe: Poached Eggs: How to Poach an Egg Perfectly 

Image credit: Recipetineats

Scrambled Eggs

Scrambled eggs, a classic and a popular egg dish that is both delicate and fluffy! With a light and custardy texture, its taste is the perfect balance between light and strong,  as the egg whites and yolks are cooked into one.

Basic equipment needed: Non-stick Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Whisk
Recipe: How to Make Fluffy Moist Scrambled Eggs

Image credit: thespruceeats

Omelette

At the end of the list, comes the omelette dish. It has the biggest room for customisation in terms of the ingredients used! Like scrambled eggs, an omelette also has the yolk and the whites combined into one  Omelettes are only folded at the end of cooking, which makes it more neat looking compared to scrambled eggs. Get ready to let your imagination run wild and experiment with different types of ingredients for this dish!

Basic equipment needed: Non-stick skillet, Silicone Spatula, Whisk, Mixing bowl, Chopping board
Recipe: How to Make an Omelette

Healthy Homemade Treats for your Fur Kid

< Back to Guides and Tips

Healthy Homemade Treats for your Fur Kid

Cooking homemade dog food can be as simple as 1-2-3 even if you are not a seasoned baker or cook. Pamper your fur kids with these wholesome and straightforward recipes, which are not only good for their gut but delicious too!

Image credit: ladypups.com

BIRTHDAY CAKE FOR FIDO 

What’s a birthday celebration without cake? Don’t pay exorbitant amounts of money at a Pet Bakery again. Instead, try this simple Meatloaf Birthday Cake recipe with a good balance of protein, vegetables and carbs. Top the cake with whipped potato and yoghurt frosting to make it look just like a real birthday cake!

Recommended Product: Jamie Oliver Mini Springform Cake Tin

Image credit: Nordicware

PEANUT BUTTER DOGGIE BISCUITS

Peanut Butter is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins B, and vitamin E for your pup. More importantly, dogs love them! This 4-ingredient Peanut Butter Biscuit recipe is simple to prepare and a nutritious treat for your beloved fur kid.

Recommended Product: Nordicware Aluminium Puppy Love Treat

Image credit: Doggy dessert Chef

DEHYDRATED DOG TREATS

If your dog is prone to food allergies, a dehydrator is a must-have. Commercial dog treats are filled with preservatives and fillers that can be harmful to your dogs and aggravate skin allergies. Dehydrating treats gives you better control over the ingredients that go into your dog treats. You can dehydrate anything from vegetables, fruits or meat slices. Want to learn more about dehydrating treats for your pup? Check out this comprehensive guide from Kolchakpuggle.

Recommended Product: Excalibur Tray Dehydrator

Our favourite Tik Tok recipes and which to skip

< Back to Guides and Tips

OUR FAVOURITE TIK TOK RECIPES AND WHICH TO SKIP

Tik Tok came to our attention recently when a local Tik Tok influencer visited our parent company, Siahuat, and mentioned how it is the place to be if you want to meet hunky tattoo-clad Chefs. The post received 51.4K views, a modest number in comparison to the explosively popular Dalgona coffee fad but enough to leave our boomer board of directors bewildered. “What is this Tik Tok?” they asked. Well, we were happy to explain. Also, to clarify, ToTT has its fair share of hot Chefs visiting our stores now and then.

Tik Tok is not just a social media platform for Gen-Z and Millenials to showcase their dance moves, lip-sync to funny videos, or troll their friends. It also offers many ingenious food hacks and recipes. Who knew you could cook eggs to your preferred doneness in an Air Fryer? It is easy to see why Tik Tok food trends go viral and how it is changing food culture. However, with a plethora of food content posted daily on Tik Tok, it isn’t easy to differentiate which recipes are worth trying. Here are some of our favourite tried-and-tested recipes and which to skip.

Image adapted from @FeelGoodFoodie

FETA BAKED PASTA

The Feta Baked Pasta recipe is by far one of the best recipes on Tik Tok because it is so simple to replicate and taste delicious. Simply combine cherry tomatoes, a block of feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, and seasoning in a baking dish or a cast-iron casserole dish. Bake it in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 35 minutes. Once it is out of the oven, mix in a handful of herbs and ready-cooked pasta or cauliflower rice.

Recommended Product: Lava Cast Iron Roasting Dish

Image adapted from @simplefood4you

TORTILLA WRAP FOOD HACK

This culinary hack ensures maximum fillings with minimal leakage simply by strategically slicing a single cut from the centre of your Tortilla Wrap Hack to the bottom and folding it in quarters as you fill it with your favourite toppings. There are no right or wrong ingredient combinations; use any ingredients you prefer or leftovers from dinner. Fancy a Philly Cheesesteak wrap? Add sliced beef, cheese, onions and warm it up on a Griddler until it’s nicely toasted and oozing with melted cheese.

Recommended Product: Cuisinart Griddler

Image adapted from @dailysage

PANCAKE CEREAL

We love this Pancake Cereal recipe because it is too cute to pass up. This food trend makes coin-sized pancakes, which is brilliant because why have three pancakes when you can have 50 mini pancakes instead. And, it is the same amount of calories. While it was time-consuming to make mini pancakes and the texture was more crisp than fluffy, the Instagram-worthy shot we snapped afterwards made it all worthwhile. It helped that we used our Bruno Hot Plate for this culinary trend as it allowed us to make more mini pancakes simultaneously.

Recommended Product: Bruno Hot Plate

Image adapted from @keep_it_organised

AIR FRYER PASTA CHIPS

If you’ve got the munchies, this out-of-the-box Air Fryer Pasta Chips might be for you, but we are going to have to sit this one out. The pasta chip didn’t crisp up evenly, and it was too carb-heavy for a snack.  Instead, we recommend a healthier alternative by slicing carrots, sweet potatoes or zucchini with a mandoline, sprinkling a little salt or grated parmesan, and popping it into your Air Fryer.R

Recommended Products: Cuisinart AirFryer Toaster Oven and Mastrad Multi Slicer Mandoline

Image adapted from @Melissa Metrano

POTATO CHIPS MASH POTATO

The Potato Chips Mash Potato food hack involves boiling a bag of potato chips until it turns into mush, then you add ingredients as you would for a regular mash potato recipe. Unless you live in a post-apocalyptic world where real potatoes are scarce, and you have to survive on processed food for rations, this food hack is a hard pass. It tastes as outrageous as it sounds. We recommend using an old-fashion potato masher and cooking mashed potatoes the traditional way.

Recommended Product: Zyliss Quick Masher