Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cast Iron Skillet March 08 2016

Cast iron skillets are a staple in just about every chef’s arsenal. But if you don’t properly take care of them, you’re in for a rude awakening - and some lousy-tasting meals. In order to extend the lifespan of your skillet and enjoy mouthwatering cuisine follow the care and maintenance tips below:

First and foremost, you need to understand that cast iron should NEVER be placed in the dishwasher. Although it may take a bit more effort, hand wash and dry your skillet every time - even before the first use. The heat of the dryer setting and detergent used in the dishwasher can damage the coating and cause excessive rust.

Secondly, it’s vital to season your cast iron prior to the first use and after each cook moving forward. To do this, rub with a light coat of vegetable oil after each wash. A little bit goes a long way when it comes to seasoning, so use just enough oil to restore the sheen.

When it comes to washing your skillet, you don’t need to use soap. Consider that cookware can reach 400°F in 4 minutes on medium heat and becomes sterile at 212°F. Refrain from using scouring pads and abrasive cleaning products - warm water and a soft cloth or sponge will do the trick. See some rust? Don’t panic. This is normal and can be washed away with some extra elbow grease.

When taste is everything, La Flor is all you need to transform your next skillet recipe into an extraordinary culinary delight. Shop our selection of spices, herbs, and blends on the web - keep it spicy, America!

Healthy Comfort Food Options February 17 2016

What comes to mind when you hear the words “comfort food?” Fried chicken, ice cream and let’s face it - anything with bacon probably comes to mind. And we’ve all been told hundreds of times how “unhealthy” our favorite comfort foods are and that we should avoid them at all costs. But when you’re feeling a little sad, tired or depressed there’s nothing better than grabbing a fork and digging in - and now you can make those “unhealthy” foods a bit more waistline-friendly.

Beef Enchiladas: Reduce a classic beef enchilada recipe containing 730 calories, 22 grams of saturated fat and 2,155 milligrams of sodium down to 343 calories, 5.8 grams of saturated fat and 540 milligrams of sodium. Recipe here: http://bit.ly/218Z3Ee

Philly Cheesesteak: The classic style cheesesteak comes packed with a big punch - a punch to the stomach that is. We’re talking 1,151 calories, 27.3 grams saturated fat and 1,480 milligrams sodium. Cut it down to 397 calories, 4.9 grams saturated fat and 637 milligrams sodium with this recipe: http://bit.ly/1U8lhEk

Chicken Fingers: Who doesn’t love a nice crispy chicken finger with honey mustard dipping sauce? Instead of batter-coated and deep-fried, try this recipe instead. You’ll save nearly 400 calories, 500 milligrams of sodium and 9 grams of saturated fat. Recipe here: http://bit.ly/1U8lG9R

Fried Chicken: Now we get into the heavy hitter, fried chicken. Here’s how you can spare about 800 calories, 60 grams of fat and 25 grams of saturated fat: http://bit.ly/1U8lPdk

Clean Up Your Diet For 2016 February 09 2016

Can you believe we’re already about a month and a half into 2016? That means it’s time to check up on your New Year's Resolutions and see how they’re holding up. In case you've already missed a handful of days in the gym or you just want to clean up your diet this year, we’ve got a few tricks to help you stay on track.

For The Sweet Tooth: instead of grabbing a handful of candy, choose your favorite fruits instead. Even though some fruits contain high amounts of sugar, it’s a more natural option than candy and fruits have a plethora of additional benefits that candy doesn’t have.

For The Salt Lover: too much salt can lead to dehydration along with a number of other unhealthy side effects. This is especially bad if you’re keeping up with your daily gym regimen. Herbs and spices will likely satisfy your desire for salt and they can make your meals much more tasty. Don’t forget to check out La Flor’s vast collection - we’ve got everything you need!

For The Butter Hound: put down the butter and slice open an avocado. Try it on toast, with eggs or use its oil to “grease” up the frying pan.

For The Carboholics: instead of eating bread and pasta, try mixing it up with a banana. Bananas contain tryptophan which can regulate your moods, help you relax and make you feel happier.

Even if you can’t get to the gym as often as you’d like, you can still make a great choices when it comes to your diet. We’re not saying you have to cut out the pizza and ice cream for the rest of your life, simply try to make a few healthier choices each week - you’ll thank us later!

Winter Grilling Tips February 05 2016

Did you know that more than 60% of all backyard chefs grill year ‘round?  Why let cold temperatures and snow stop you from searing up a filet or putting the perfect amount of char on a bbq chicken? Throw on a few extra layers and get out there! Your family is counting on you.

But before you throw on the layers and fire up the grill, there are a few things you should know. Even though the basic principles apply no matter what season it is, follow these tips to make your time outside and your food more enjoyable:

1. If you’re using a gas grill check the lines, burners and jets for blockages. Spiders and other insects are known to look for a warmer, dryer place to hide when the weather gets rough.
2. Throw on a winter hat, fireproof gloves and a toasty jacket. Just be sure not to wear a scarf or any other clothing items with tassels that could come in contact with the grill.
3. Are you a charcoal lover? It’s a good idea to have a few extra bags of briquettes or hardwood lump on hand. You may need to heat up more than normal when the temperatures are near freezing.
4. Even if it’s snowing or raining, never use your grill underneath an overhang or in a confined space. Keep your grill at least five feet away from all combustible materials.
5. Let the grill do the work. Your food may take a few minutes longer to cook, but don’t rush it. Constant fussing can lead to dry meat and overcooking.

Big Family Christmas Breakfast December 23 2015

When you have kids in the home (or adults, no judgement here), Christmas can be over before the morning paper hits your doorstep. Leaving nothing but a flurry of chaos and strewn about wrapping paper in its wake. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, you’ll need a good breakfast to fuel you through the rest of the day.

Keep the morning madness to a minimum! Here are some easy big family holiday breakfasts to keep everyone happy:

Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole - A hearty meal that is sure to impress.  Key ingredients include pork sausage, white bread, eggs, and your favorite La Flor spices! Try subbing hash browns instead of the bread to take it to the next level of breakfast awesomeness.

Sweet Potato and Kale Frittata - Trying not to overindulge before the big Christmas dinner? Here's a light and delicious egg dish that's so chock full of kale - it’s practically a salad.

Make Ahead French Toast - For French Toast that tastes like pecan praline, prepare this meal on Christmas Eve and allow to refrigerate overnight. Add some La Flor cinnamon, cloves, or omit the pecans entirely if your family prefers. For firmer toast, cut back on milk.

Christmas Quiche - Start the day with a savory & veggie-heavy dish. This Christmas quiche has been tried and tested and altered in any which way possible and still yeilds fantastic results.

Apple Cider Mimosas - Let's not forget the bubbly. This two-ingredient cider mimosa will have you sufficiently buzzed before the day begins.

Choose La Flor to make mouths merry this Christmas. Explore our wide selection of spices, herbs, and seasonings on the web or look for us in store. When taste is everything, La Flor is all you need to transform your everyday meal into an extraordinary culinary delight - keep it spicy, America!

Last Minute Holiday Gifts for Foodies December 21 2015

Some people are impossible to shop for while others are happy with just about anything. We’ve rounded up some gift ideas for everyone on your list - provided they love food:

Food Box Subscription - Give a gift that will make them love you more each and every month!

• HelloFresh: No more grocery shopping, no more food waste. HelloFresh is designed to bring you delicious and nutiricous home-cooked meals in under 30 minutes. Simply choose which recipes you like and HelloFresh will deliver pre-measured ingredients to your door so you can skip the trip to the super market. (Prices vary»)
• Carnivore Club: Meat lovers, rejoice. Each month, Carnivore Club members receive a curated box filled with the worlds finest charcuterie. Each edition of Carnivore Club is packed with 4-6 products, delivered in a faux-wood box and accompanied by the Meat Eaters Handbook. (Prices vary, gift cards available»)

Handy Kitchen Tools - Because who doesn’t like all in one gadgets for increased efficiency?

• Quench™ Bar10der The Ultimate Cocktail Tool: A zester, muddler, reamer, channel knife, jigger, stirrer, strainer, corkscrew, bottle opener, and knife—all in one. ($30; Bed Bath & Beyond»)
• All-In-One Kitchen Tool Set: Have a friend who struggles to find things in his overflowing kitchen drawers? Solution. This wine sized kitchen kit complete with a funnel, lemon squeezer, spice grater, egg masher, cheese grater, egg separator, measuring cup, and a grip for hard-to-open lids. ($40; MoMA Store»)

Cooking Essentials - Because without the basics, how do you begin?

• Non-stick Pans: Is there a new homeowner on your list this year? Or perhaps you’re tired of seeing dingy pans around your home. Look into a reliable, nonstick pot and pan set - like this 12 piece set from T-fal! Featuring T-fal’s Thermo-Spot Heat Indicator to show when the pan is perfectly preheated for cooking, the superior non-stick interior and exterior makes it easy to cook and clean. Plus, it’s on sale now - and available for December 23rd delivery on Amazon »
• Spice Kit: What’s the easiest way to add flavor —from meats to popcorn? Spices, of course! Give your favorite foodie the gift of flavor. Round up some of your favorite La Flor spices and seasonings in a gift basket with some other cooking essentials!

Choose La Flor to make mouths merry this Christmas. Explore our wide selection of spices, herbs, and seasonings on the web or look for us in store. When taste is everything, La Flor is all you need to transform your everyday meal into an extraordinary culinary delight - keep it spicy, America!

#FoodieFriday - Fall Harvest Foods October 23 2015

The leaves aren’t the only thing in transition come fall, your local produce stands are making a switch as well. Gone are the fresh fruits and berries of summer - instead you’ll find root vegetables and gourds a plenty.

Stock up on some fall harvest foods and try out the below recipes:

Pumpkin: Not just for pies, pumpkins can be used in a plethora of dinner recipes. A great source of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, pumpkins can be boiled, roasted or steamed, and turned savory for stews and other side dishes.

Butternut Squash: Whether you want to roast it, sauté it, or simmer it in a soup with your favorite herbs, this gourd should be a central component to your meals. It’s hearty, loaded with fiber and important vitamins A and C, and is extremely versatile!

Recipes to try:
Roasted Butternut Squash and Bacon Pasta
Slow Cooker Blissful Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut Squash, Kale, and Crunchy Pepitas Tacos

Sweet Potatoes: This sweet tasting starch hits its peak in the fall! Often mistaken for yams, sweet potatoes are in fact a fiber, potassium, and vitamin packed tuber of their own. They can be boiled, roasted, or baked and work well as part of a main dish (or side).

Recipes to try:
Sweet Potato, Ricotta & Arugula Flatbread
Loaded Sweet-Potato Skins
Sweet Potato Casserole

Brussels Sprouts: Best in the fall and winter, brussels sprouts are a good source of protein, iron and potassium. Simply roast some up to really enjoy this green veggie powerhouse.

Recipes to try:
Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese
Roasted Garlic Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Shredded Sprouts, Cider Short Rib, And Caramelized Shallot Pizza

When taste is everything, La Flor is all you need to transform your everyday meal into an extraordinary culinary delight. Shop our full selection of spices, herbs, and blends on the web - keep it spicy, America!

Tips and Tricks for Meal Prepping September 28 2015

When you are crunched for time, healthy eating is often the first thing out the window. We get it, you’ve had an exhausting day – and your hangry self is not about to come home and cook a meal.

But that doesn’t mean you have to resort to fast food and take out – all you need to do is set aside some time on one of your slower days to plan and prepare your meals ahead of time. Don’t know where to begin? Try some of these tips and tricks to get started:

Start slow - If you’re just jumping on the meal prepping bandwagon, start off slow. Trying to make and plan a full week’s menu can be overwhelming, especially if cooking intimidates you. Ease yourself into the process, prep a few meals ahead of time until you are comfortable to dive in the full 7 days.

Chop in advance - Avoid losing precious minutes during busy weeknights and pre-chop what you can. Prepping your vegetables in advance and properly storing them in plastic bags or tupperware can make cooking easier while keeping things fresh. Have a stir fry planned? Pre-chop all veggies and meat in individual containers. Then on the night you want to cook it, all you have to do is take out the containers and combine everything into a skillet!

Repurpose your recipes - Think of recipes that can be used as different meals throughout the week. For example, chili one night could mean tacos the next. Choosing meals that can be repurposed is a great way to add some variety to your week’s menu.

Invest in good tupperware – Look for tupperware with compartments that can separate food within the same container. Now you can easily store your meal and its side dishes in one convenient, grab-and-go, proper portioned container. You’ll also want to be sure your tupperware of choice is dishwasher and microwave safe (and BPA free).

Add some spice variety - One common problem meal preppers face - dreading the taste of the same flavors day in and day out. So spice things up! By using aluminum foil you can divide your pan to cook two or three variations of your meat at once! 

Not only does meal prepping save you time and money – but it can help you jump back on the healthy train too. Have some meal prep tips you’d like to share? Post it to our Facebook page!

When taste is everything, La Flor is all you need to transform your everyday meal into an extraordinary culinary delight. Shop our selection of spices, herbs, and blends on the web - keep it spicy America!

Infographic: Your Guide to Spices September 18 2015

When it comes to spicing up a dish - there really isn’t one “right” way to do so. Nevertheless, it’s always handy to have some recommendations. Check out our guide below and you'll be dishing out well seasoned meals in no time!

When taste is everything, La Flor is all you need to transform your everyday meal into an extraordinary culinary delight. Shop our full selection of spices, herbs, and blends on the web - keep it spicy America!

DIY Spice Infused Oil September 15 2015

Whether you’re looking to create an infused oil for personal use or are getting a jump start on DIY holiday gift planning, look no further than your pantry to create a delicious and flavorful spice infused oil! Not only are they easy to make, but they can quickly jazz up salad dressings, go great in a stir fry, and much more.

Generally, you will need about 2 tablespoons of spices per cup of oil you choose. Oil can be flavored using whole or ground spices, either on the stovetop or in the oven as detailed below:

• Stovetop: Heat your oil (like olive, peanut, grapeseed, or avocado oil) in a medium saucepan with selected spices for about 5 minutes - or until the mixture is slightly bubbling. Remove from heat to cool.
• In-oven: In an oven safe bowl or pot, heat oil and spices at 300°F for 40 minutes. Remove from oven and allow it to cool.

Once your oil mixture is cool from the above methods, strain it using a fine-mesh sieve lined with a cheesecloth, then funnel the liquid into your bottle. Infused oils should last about a month when stored properly(refrigerated) so if making for a gift, be sure to include use by date and storage instructions!

For some inspiration - try infusing your oil with your favorite La Flor spice, like crushed red pepper, achiote annatto seeds, anise seeds, coriander, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, or fennel seeds!