Thursday, March 18, 2010

Dieting Tip #1

The Gourmet Principle: Use Flavor to Keep it Interesting, Not Quantity

I have found, again and again, that I can be satisfied on far less food if it is interesting. I like to think of it as the "gourmet principle" because it is like going to a good restaurant, where the portions are very small, but the flavors are true--bright, fresh, balanced, and interesting.

Some basic already-have-around-the-kitchen flavor enhancers (that are used in small quantities) that have worked for me:
  • Fresh ginger
  • Horseradish
  • Sesame oil
  • Lemon (zest, oil, juice...)
  • Lime
  • Garlic
  • Shallots
  • Scallions 
  • Fresh pesto
  • Toasted nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, etc)
  • Fresh herbs
  • Soy sauce
  • Buttermilk
  • Parmesan cheese (the real stuff, please)
  • Feta cheese
  • Chiles
  • Cinnamon
  • Curry powder
  • Cilantro
  • Fennel seed

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