Beurre Blanc Sauce Recipe

Beurre Blanc (pronounced, "bherr blohn(g)") aka French White Butter Sauce -- one of my favourite things to eat/cook at home!

I LOVE trying to cook new and different cuisines at home. Just keeps things exciting. And out of all of them, I think the two cuisines that really have me captivated for quite a while is French and Filipino food. Love it!! Still new, so I'm taking baby steps in these two directions.

That's why I want to dedicate this post to my dear, dear friend, Marie-Anne, that hails all the way from Bordeaux, France! A true friend that I've been so privileged and grateful to know through blogging. (Bonjourrrr!! Hope this recipe makes you proud haha).

I mean, I LOVE French food. Every experience that I've had with French food has been amazing. But in Australia, you almost only find them in fine dining restaurants. Too expensive so that's why I've decided to try and learn to cook more French food at home WOOP WOOP =]

I enjoy eating pan-fried fish a lot at home, especially on my "ugh-so-sick-of-meat" days haha. Crispy skin fish (with moist, perfectly cooked meat), a salad and some easy Crash Hot Potatoes on the side... My kinda dinner! Before this, I always pair it with some herbed burnt butter sauce. I like it a lot but I wanted to try make something that's just as simple, and just as delicious. Like this sauce! And it's now become one a staple in the Chua household everytime I cook fish (lol), so I highly recommend it.

SUPER easy recipe. Done in a jiffy and nothing technically challenging too. Also, the sauce tasted amazing. Smooth, thick, buttery... Utterly delicious! This picture really was the best salmon dinner I've ever had at home. You can chuck in any herbs you like as aromatics too at the beginning, but I didn't cause I had fresh Dill at home. Totally optional. Hope you try it too. Am sure you'll love it as much as I do! =D

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Beurre Blanc Sauce

(taken from this recipe from Taste.com)

Ingredients:

60ml (1/4 cup) white wine vinegar

60ml (1/4 cup) dry white wine

2 purple eschalots (peeled, finely chopped) *

5 whole black peppercorns

180g unsalted butter (chilled, cubed)

Salt and freshly ground pepper

* Can be substituted with 1/2 small red onion

Method:

Place the vinegar, wine, eschalots and peppercorns in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to boil. Boil, uncovered, stirring occasionally until liquid is reduced to about 2 tablespoons. Liquid will be thick and syrupy (approx 4 - 5 minutes).

Strain the vinegar mixture through a fine sieve into a small frying pan. Discard the eschalots and peppercorns.

Place frying pan over low heat. Add the butter, 1 cube at a time, whisking continuously. When butter almost melted completely, add the next cube of butter until all has been completely incorporated. Remember to use chilled butter otherwise it's hard to incorporate and very likely to split.

Once all butter is incoporated (approx 8 minutes), remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper. ENJOY! =D

Ouuuu yeahhh~~~ Can't wait to make this again ;p

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On a side note:

I'm Day 2 into my Live Below the Line Challenge... Okay honestly, no matter how much I eat, I still SO feel hungry after 2 hours. Harder than expected!!

If you'd like to follow updates on the challenge, follow me on Facebook: Here

If you'd like to donate to this cause, you can do so: Here (thank you!!)

Challenge to: LIVE BELOW THE LINE

Hi guys!

How are we all doing? If you follow me on Twitter, you would've heard me say this already, but I've just signed up to Live Below The Line...!!!

For all of you who don't know what it is, it's basically an event organised to raise awareness and funds for people all around the world who are currently living in extreme poverty. That means that there are 1.4 billion people living under the poverty line and have to pay for all their daily expenses (such as food, accommodation, health, transport, education, etc) with only US$1.25 or AU$2.00 per day.

So, the Challenge for participants is to live on $2 a day for food for 5 days, from 7th - 11th of May (i.e. Next Monday to Friday). It doesn't even come close to what they're going through each and every day, but hey, it's a start.

To be honest, I've been contemplating whether or not to participate for more than 3 weeks now, ever since my dear friend Leaf tweeted about the challenge. I can't tell you how conflicted I felt because I really, really wanted to take part! But after much deliberation, I decided that I wasn't going to do it because there's NO WAY I could feed myself for 3 meals a day for under $2, especially cause I eat a lot. But this thought never left my mind.

But just last week, my friend Jade told me that she was taking up the Challenge too and shared that you could get AMAZING deals at Aldi. I immediately went to Aldi that evening straight after class to suss it out for myself. I spent more than 40minutes there just to carefully plan to see if it was possible. And it was, it really, really was! I was so incredibly happy because that trip to Aldi really gave me hope! Thanks, Jade!!!

Anyway, both Leaf and Jade has really inspired me to take up this Challenge to do this for a good cause. Best part about it is that I won't be alone and am doing it with my fellow blogger friend, Bryan aka "Fatboo" (of Let's Get Fat Together), so exciting...! Bryan's created a team, called "Food Lovers Collective" and all of you are more than welcome to join!

So I do hope you will join us on this journey, and support us if you can. I honestly mean it when I say that any amount, big or small, is highly appreciated =).

And to make things more exciting... I will be keeping you guys posted on my progress throughout the challenge on my Facebook Page, so do check that out for photos and updates, it'll be fun!

To send me a donation, you can click on my profile: HERE

And if you're feeling generous, please support my friends Bryan and Jade too, because we're all doing this together! Hope you're all doing well on your end.

Thanks for everything!

Winston =)

Reading Room Cafe, Footscray

Reading Room Cafe... Not your usual "uni cafe", no!

Honestly, I don't know what I like more. The fact that Reading Room Cafe is a uni cafe, or that for 8 weeks, they're donating a fraction of their proceeds to charity. Having been involved with Engineers Without Borders for a good part of my uni life, I think I'd go with the latter because community development is something that I have always fully supported.

After hearing so much about this new Pop Up Charity event at a uni cafe for few weeks now, I'm so glad I finally went last Saturday! The weather was perfect, we had a nice big group (with 8 of us + 1 toddler), so off to Footscray we went...

We felt almost just as good and comfortable sitting inside as we would if we sat outside. Just because all four walls was almost completely made of glass with lots and lots of light coming in. I like it.

Can't believe everything was prepared from this tiny little kitchen! #impressed

Good stuff.

A very "Zumbo" looking barrista, kidding... ;p He made great coffee, though!

HAVE to come back to try their cold drip coffee, looked AMAZING!

Soy Piccolo

AWESOME coffee! The milk was just the right consistency and it still had the fullness and creaminess I enjoy (which can be quite hard for soy milk). The Chompy blend by Sensory Lab I had was delicious. Definitely having the Chompy again next time I'm here.

Latte

How pretty is the coffee art? Nice touch that definitely puts people in a better mood... =)

The BFG -- $14.50

Brioche French toast with a generous serve of crispy bacon, candied walnuts and maple syrup

Really good! The candied nuts were great. I was expecting candied bacon too but glad they didn't do that. It was regular bacon but neither salty nor candied, so the BFG was quite a perfectly balanced sweet (from the nuts and syrup) and savoury dish on its own! So much so that it was hard for me to classify it as sweet or savoury... Really interesting, I like it! The thick brioche was soaked all the way through and moist, which made it soft to eat too.

Definitely one of their most famous item in the menu =)

Fritter's Lane -- $14.50

Sweet corn, pumpkin and coriander fritters, poached eggs, avocado, tomato chutney

Only had a small taste of this but the chutney was delish! Full of spices and flavour. I liked the creaminess the pumpkin gave to the fritters. Another specialty of the cafe.

Crackle & Pop -- $16.50

Roasted pork belly, apple and zuchini remoulade, coriander, chilli jam and toasted flatbread

LOVED THIS!!! My favourite dish of the day, actually. First, I really liked how they served it with flatbread instead of baguette because I find the latter tough to eat, more often than not. The pork belly that day was fantastic as well. Meat was so moist and the crackling was thick and crunchy (but not hard), just the way I like it. MMMmmmMMMmmm...

DELICIOUS chilli jam and flatbread!

Another closer look at the pork belleh... Yeahhh~

Also, all the condiments went REALLY well together. The chilli jam was amazing, sweet and punching in flavour. The remoulade was SO good too. Now, imagine... Pork belly, chilli jam, remoulade and flatbread... All in one bite. Killer combo and so delicious. YUMMM...!!

Step 1: Slather some chilli jam on flatbread

Step 2: Top generously with remoulade

Step 3: Grab chunky piece of pork belleh and ENJOY!!

Repeat Steps 1 - 3 to your heart's content

Patas Bravas -- $7.00

Light spiced fried potato with garlic aioli

Man... I cannot begin to describe to you how cute it was when my friend's toddler got so excited as soon as the Patas Bravas hit the table. Murmuring words of excitement, clapping and all... Who doesn't love fried potato? WHO?! Let's just say that "the young one" and "once young"enjoyed this all the same... =]

Overall, I think the owners, Eleena and Michael, did everything right when it came to setting up this Pop Up For Charity Cafe. From getting the right chef, to designing the right menu and even marketing it to the right people (influential bloggers et. al). But, credit where credit is due because they did do a great job in every aspect. Well, I'm saying this based on my experience anyway. It is for that reason that every single table (both indoors and out) were completely occupied by the time we finished our meal. It's always even better too when the owners are such friendly and approachable people, which they are.

To cap it off, the food was generous and it was tasty. Coffee was really good too. And how many times have you come across a place that serves both good food and coffee these days? Plus, I feel like I've only just scratched the surface because there's SO much more food I want to try from their menu and those on display. Had my eyes set on some delectable goodies on my way out. Anyway, I'm definitely coming back to Reading Room Cafe very soon and I do hope that they continue their weekend menu even after the Charity event is over (which I'm sure they will, given the amazing response).

So why not you join me and eat for a good cause? There's about 3 more weeks (I believe?) to give back to the community so do try it soon! Peace! =)

Cacao Green, CBD

Cacao Green's newly opened Bourke Street store

Last Sunday, I attended a food tasting session with a few fellow bloggers at the new Cacao Green store on Bourke Street. They were introducing a whole set of menu items to their outlets, beginning with this store, and we were basically invited to try and give our honest opinion on each of them. Even though most of these were breakfast items, they are sold throughout the day (and night).

I was happy to go because I thought it'd be a good opportunity to FINALLY pay Cacao Green a visit and try their Fro-Yo after hearing about it from so many people. Seriously, the Swanston Street store has been open for so long and yet, I was probably one of the last few people who still hasn't been. Sad...

And I must say, I really like the interior of this new store. We were indoors but it has quite a "garden feel" to it with the little potted plants/flowers, wooden accents and ample natural lighting. I felt quite comfortable being in the store. Plenty of seats too.

Parfaits:

Mixed Berry; Tropical Parfaits -- $6.90

First, I thought it was quite interesting how the crumble tasted like blended granola (with hints of oats and seeds) which gave it a natural crunch. Compote (that was made themselves) wasn't too sweet and the froyo itself was pretty good. It was light, smooth and acted as a good vessel to all the other ingredients in the parfait.

Ahhh... Was glad I finally tried their froyo for myself and it was thankfully delightful =)

Organic Yogurts:

L - R (from top): Fruit 'n Crunch; Apple 'n Passionfruit; Orange 'n Honey Yogurt -- $6.00

It was good to know that they only used 100% Organic Yogurt here in the store. I think out of the 3, my favourite would have to be the Orange 'n Honey. I just liked the combo of tartness of the fruit against the sprinkled cinnamon. The others were a bit simple and straightforward.

Bircher Muesli:

Mixed Berry; Tropical Bircher Muesli -- $8.00

Now, the birchers... I LOVED. First, I liked how they used finely rolled oats which made it easier to be soaked and eaten. Also, the flavours were much more exciting because they were soaked in orange (and a bit of lemon) juice instead of milk, apple juice or what not. Interesting... Enjoyed the Tropical more because it had dried fruits and organic chia seeds too. The whole bowl just felt so healthy, mmm...

Honey Bread:

Honey Bread with Mixed Berries -- $8.00

Well... I thought this was just okay. Was the same compote as earlier, which I liked and the almonds were toasted really well. But, it was just a bit thick so it was still chewy in the middle. And so the sides weren't toasted enough for my liking too.

The toast was also drizzled in agave syrup, which they seem to use in quite a few of their other items as well. Good because this means that Diabetic people wouldn't have to worry about cane syrup or any other harmful sweeteners. We had a small spoonful of this to taste too, lol...

Gourmet Waffles:

Blueberry Almond Waffle -- $9.00

Hmmm... Personally, I've never really preferred waffles with fruits in general. Still like to have them with peanut butter, chocolate, Nutella or something along those lines. The waffles itself could have been a tad sweeter but overall, it was alright.

Quinoa Pudding:

Warm Quinoa Pudding with Strawberries -- $7.50

First, I'm glad that they're getting with the program and have quinoa in their menu too. I mean, Quinoa really is everywhere these days (not that I'm complaining). I like the stuff and it's such a versatile ingredient too. But what I loved most about this is that it's made with coconut milk and palm sugar, aka "Gula Melaka"! Blame my Asian palette and upbringing. Still, this was delicious and I enjoyed it a lot also because it was warm and comforting.

The final shot of the "crime scene". So, so much food!

Another thing I noticed was that the owner really knew the facts of his products and ingredients inside and out. He knew exactly what he wanted in each dish and why, which is always reassuring to customers. Also, I particularly enjoyed listening to his ideas and inspirations behind each dish.

By the end of it, we felt SO stuffed to the brim but was glad to be able to sample all of the new items at Cacao Green. Though, we felt quite bad because we barely finished half of it even though we tried, sorry! We really were just being served and eating non-stop which was fun haha...

I think Cacao Green's new expansion towards a health-centric and breakfast driven crowd is a good direction for the brand. At this point, I think most customers still go for Froyo-to-go but there were quite a few things that I particularly liked (namely the Bircher and Quinoa). That said, this is definitely a place I'd return more often from now on. Also makes for a great place for healthy dessert option, which is not something you get every day ;)

Finally, just want to thank Josh and Jesse again from Cacao Green for attending to us the whole time and being such wonderful hosts. Had a great afternoon chatting with you both and wish you all the best with the launch of this new menu and store!

So tell me, what do YOU normally like to get when you're at Cacao Green? =)

Disclaimer: Winston attended the Cacao Green Tasting as a Guest. All opinions are honest and based on own personal experience at the time.

Kuala Lumpur Restaurant, Carnegie

A fair amount of good Asian restaurants in this Southeastern suburb and close to Monash Caulfield too

NOTE: Glad I'm FINALLY getting around to introducing a new series of posts featured on this blog, called "Wince's Faves", beginning with this post. Basically, it's just a compilation of places that I absolutely LOVE to eat at around Melbourne. Most of which, I've honestly visited more than 10 times in my 4 years here and can still never get tired of. That's how much I love it. Hope you enjoy! =D

Hey guys! How are we all doing?

Can I just start off by saying how excited I am about sharing this place with you guys today?! Whenever my parents visit Australia, the last thing that they'd want to eat is Malaysian food. Only because they don't see the point of eating the same food that they can get back home (for muuuuuuch cheaper too) and probably why they have VERY high standards for it. Let's just say, that out of all the Malaysian restaurants in Melbourne, Kuala Lumpur Restaurant in Carnegie is the only place that can get them to make a rare exception, because it's THAT good. And all for ONE specific dish. Mmmmm....

You see, my cousins are total foodies and rely on word-of-mouth and experience more than food blogs for good food. A lot of places that they've recommended to me have become some of my ultimate favourite places to eat, and this is one of them. I've been hooked since the first time they brought me here for a family dinner in my First Year back in '08.

And the ONE DISH that me, my parents and relos all come back for is the Claypot Curry Fish Head (!!!!). It's seriously delicious and let me tell you why...

Claypot Fish Head Curry (!!!)

The ultimate HERO of every meal we have here. Even after growing up in Malaysia, I seriously have never tasted a Fish Head Curry that's better than this. Hands down. No questions asked. The flavours hit you instantly and you will know that this is no ordinary bowl of Fish Head Curry.

The sauce is exactly like how all Malaysian curries should be. Thick and flavourful, almost like a gravy, and we call it "kuah" in Malaysia. Not too mild, not too hot, this was absolutely perfect to DROWN your bowl of rice in. SO good...

Normally I drown it with even more sauce

Only fresh Rockling fish is used for the curry and anybody will tell you that it's because they're the most delicious fish heads to eat. Big, meaty and full of collagen. The point is to suck out all the skin and collagen from every single bone. Delicioussss~~~

I LOVE the eggplant and long beans in the curries too. Trust me, this dish does NOT disappoint!

Buttermilk Prawns

Another signature dish of the restaurant that you absolutely must try. Their Buttermilk Prawns really do surpass all else. First, they use the freshest Queensland prawns they can find and it makes a difference. It's huge, succulent and the wok fire really brought out the flavours of the prawns into the sauce.

Personally, I almost never, ever order prawns in restaurants Melbourne. Only because 90% of the time they're too tasteless, bland and artificially tender from being overladen with bicarb soda, I can't stand it. THANKFULLY, there's none of that nonsense here at all in this restaurant!

Now, the sauce... The ohhh sooo good and delectable sauce. Thick, slightly sticky with just the right amount of sweetness. Lip smackingly good! I highly recommend a plate of Roti to accompany soaking up the amazing sauce of the curry and prawns.

Crispy, flaky Roti. For your sauce-soaking pleasure

Sizzling Homemade Egg Tofu

A dish that I still enjoy eating even though the skin is slightly soggy. They serve it on a bed of spinach and mushrooms which is nice. Tofus are homemade too.

Sambal Kangkung

What I like most about this is that their kangkung dishes is that they're never overcooked and still crunchy. Also, the sauce is fantastic. More flavourful because the sambal is made with more "Belachan" aka "fermented shrimp paste" than chillies. One of the better Sambal Kangkungs in Melbourne, I say.

Deep-Fried Ice Cream

Oh man, if you haven't had Deep-Fried Ice Cream before, you're missing out. Perfect dessert to end a fantastic meal. Their batter is thick, soft but still crispy. As for the Vanilla ice cream, they've added shredded coconuts too, just to make it more Malaysian. Finally, the dessert is drizzled in a bit of honey which blends in so well with everything else. Love this.

Overall, we couldn't be more satisfied with our meal here. It's got all our hometown favourite dishes but done exceptionally well. Every time I bring people to eat here for their first time, our table always seems to be filled with moans and excitement from people going, "MMMmmmMMM" or "YUM!!!" it's kinda funny lol.

This restaurant thrives so well for a few reasons:

1) The food is seriously good and quality is consistent!

2) It's a small, family-owned restaurant where the Mum and Daughter still works the front of house every night

3) They take pride in using the best and freshest ingredients, especially the fish and prawns

This place is really somewhere my Family and I never fail to enjoy, and I'm so glad to be able to share it with you today. You know what, I've actually been back here the past two Sundays haha. With two different groups of friends, of course. Anyway, if you're looking for a really good Malaysian restaurant in Melbourne, look no further because this is it.

NOTE TO DINERS:

- Come here for Dinner

- Pre-booking of the Claypot Curry Fish Head is ESSENTIAL

- The pot of curry is big and feeds about 4 - 6 eaters

- There's a difference between Coconut Butter Prawns and Buttermilk Prawns (made this mistake before and the latter is the one you want!)

- The Claypot Curry Fish Head & Buttermilk Prawns aren't actually on the menu but written in Chinese on the menu on the wall. You have to order these dishes! Otherwise, you'd be missing out...

I hope you give this place a go one day because I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Have a good one, everybody. Peace!