Mexican Made Easy

There is a great, new, Mexican cooking show on Food Network. Mexican Made Easy is hosted by Marcela Valladolid. She focuses on foods that are simple and bursting with authentic flavors. As a chef, she has an extensive background in the food industry. Her grandmother opened a cooking school and her grandfather was a chef. She studied cooking at the Los Angeles Culinary Institute as well as opening a catering company and writing a cookbook. The show airs on Saturdays at 9:30am PST. The first episode followed a brunch theme. The show featured Chilaquiles, Eggs Benedicto, and Mexican coffee. The host was charming and told wonderful stories about growing up and how the food reminds her of her family. The recipes were easy to follow and perfect for the home chef. All ingredients are available at your local market. Tune in and not only will you enjoy the show, but you will come away with easy Mexican recipes with authentic flavors.

Confirmed: Rick Bayless Coming To LA! Heading Kitchen At Both Forthcoming Red Onions

Confirmed: Rick Bayless Coming To LA! Heading Kitchen At Both Forthcoming Red Onions

Ma'Kai to Potentially Shutter, Two Red Onions On The Way

Ma'Kai to Potentially Shutter, Two Red Onions On The Way

Amazing Protein Brownies

These brownies are amazing. They are high in protein and high in fiber. They are sweetened with maple syrup, not white sugar. You could substitute carob for chocolate if you prefer.

They are perfect for snacks for mountain bikers or children who would never suspect they were healthy. They are dense and travel well.

Add the frosting and you have a dessert that you won't have any regrets about. Add vanilla ice cream, mint, and you're on your way to being an amazingly healthy gourmet.

Amazing Protein Brownies

1 15 oz can black beans

1/2 c whole wheat flour

1/4 c cocoa powder

1 tsp baking powder

3 egg whites

1/2 c maple syrup

2 tsp vanilla

1/2 c chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350* f

Spray lightly 8x8 pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

Combine all ingredients except chocolate chips in the bowl of a food processor. Mix until well blended. About two minutes. Add the chocolate chips and mix until just blended. Pour batter into prepared pan.

Place pan in the center of the oven.

Cook for 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the brownies completely. Cut and serve, or you can add frosting.

Frosting - Optional

1/2 c chocolate chips

1/2 tsp canola oil

4 oz neufchatel cheese (or cream cheese)at room temperature

Combine chocolate chips and oil in glass bowl. Place in microwave. Cook in 10 second intervals until just melted. Stir well to combine. Stir in the room temperature cheese. Combine until well blended. Spread over the brownies. Cut and serve.

Makes 12 servings.