Lest We Forget - Cookies with Meaning

 April 25 is an important day in Australian history.

ANZAC Day is a commemoration of Australian troops landing on the beaches of Gallipoli on April 25 1915 and, after landing at the base of very steep cliffs, suffering significant losses and casualties. Despite the extraordinary loss of life that day, Australians recognize the day both in honor of those who gave their lives and as a testament to the enduring spirit, determination and bravery of Australian and New Zealand service men and women throughout history and into the present day.

ANZAC biscuits (actually a cookie but for historical reasons they shall always be called biscuits) originated during World War 1 and due to their long shelf life, were baked and sent to Australian and New Zealand troops serving overseas.

The recipe is rooted in the inclusion of rolled oats, unsweetened coconut and golden syrup (an ingredient that takes some searching to purchase in America but can be found in the "International" sections of many supermarkets). In fact, legally it cannot be called an Anzac biscuit unless it contains the ingredients true to the original recipe. The cookie has taken on a substantial personality and is inextricably linked to all that we honor on April 25.

As I am away from my homeland I chose to pay tribute today to the sacrifices of all armed services personnel (including my brother whose contribution is a continued source of pride for me) by baking a batch of ANZAC biscuits.

 

Take a moment with me to think of those who dedicate themselves to our service:

 

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.

 

 

Sometimes food is that much more special when it comes with meaning. Tell me about a food item that means something to your culture or family.

 

Cheers

 

Joo

Am I Allowed to Show Off a Little?

Well, look at this - since I was so depressed over the loss of my old mixer I apparently never posted the last post I wrote. Clearly I have no longer just graduated culinary school - I've in fact worked a variety of jobs since then. I'd still like to brag on myself just a little though so the old draft post is below.

Joo.

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Since I just completed culinary school, I am heavy with pictures of final projects and the like. This post is basically going to be some pictures of things I did as part of my studies.

Chocolate Showpiece - Abstract Flowers in Rocks

Boxed Candy Line

Croquembouche

Sugar Showpiece - Tea Service

Display Cake - Inspired by Kandinsky's Concentric Circles Paintings

Kandinsky's Concentric Circles

Cheers, 

Joo

Back from Oblivion

Well, it's been quite some time since I posted on here - and trust me there is a story attached.

I moved, from Seattle to Nashville and in the process my mixer was stolen. As of today I FINALLY have a replacement. And she is beautiful. So beautiful.

I mourned the loss of my old mixer a long time, but as they say, out with the old and in with the new.

My new baby
 

Suffice to say, as of this weekend expect new recipes and posts from me, and perhaps in the coming weeks, the option to buy some of the things I make.

See you soon!

Joo