Saw this idea at allrecipes.com and thought it would be good tonight with the wife working late. Kids loved it.
It was a nice combination of flavors, and went together real quick and easy. I'm sure the kids will want it again.
Laser Tag to go to the big room!
Hasbro sent out a press release about the upcoming NERF LaserTag line, and I can't wait! Pairing via BlueTooth with your smartphone will allow you to use the phone as a heads-up display for your game, including locations of virtual targets, and shot information versus human opponenents. Out in the real world, you will be able to play versus friends and versus randomly matched opponents. Forget spending $10 a game at laser port, now you can play anywhere! Its on now boys!
Here is the text of the press release:
LAZER TAG 2012 PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONS
From the makers of the popular NERF blasters comes the revolutionary LAZER TAG system, combining the power, precision and excitement of live-action blaster battles with the high-action, strategic, augmented reality gameplay of traditional video games. To experience the LAZER TAG game, players download the free LAZER TAG app to their iPhone or iPod touch device, connect their device to their LAZER TAG blaster, and find themselves immersed in a world where video games and real life connect. Using either single or multi-player mode, players can engage in a LAZER TAG match featuring either real life worlds or virtual opponents. Each LAZER TAG blaster equipped with a device has a virtual firing range of over 250 feet and contains a 'Heads Up Display', or HUD, which allows players to keep track of their gear and remaining power, while also providing a view of the augmented reality targets and enemies in the area. A virtual leaderboard keeps track of each player's profile and, with every successful mission, players will gain in-game access to upgradeable attacks, missions and gear. With LAZER TAG blasters, the stakes are high, the game is real. Don't just play it, live it.
The 2012 LAZER TAG product line includes:
LAZER TAG 2 BLASTER Set
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $69.99/Available: August 1, 2012)
Get into the game with the ultimate LAZER TAG 2 BLASTER set, brought to you by the makers of the NERF brand. Set includes two LAZER TAG blasters. For enhanced augmented reality gameplay, simply download the free LAZER TAG app to an iPhone or iPod touch device and then connect the device to the blaster to activate the immersive gaming experience. When in multi-player mode, blasters are equipped with a virtual firing range of over 250 feet and an on-screen 'Heads Up Display' which, for the first time with LAZER TAG, allows players to see the lazer and keep track of their gear and remaining power. In the solo campaign, the blasters provide a view of the augmented reality targets and enemies in the area. Performing well in combat and mastering levels will increase players' stats on a virtual leaderboard, as well as unlock upgrades for attacks, missions, gear and firepower. Game may be played in single-player mode, or in multi-player mode with up to 24 people. Players can also play LAZER TAG without a device using the blaster's classic multi-player mode. Each blaster requires 6 AA batteries, not included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
LAZER TAG Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: August 1, 2012)
Live the mission and conquer opposing forces with the innovative LAZER TAG blaster, from the makers of NERF products. For solo campaigns, players begin the game by simply downloading the free LAZER TAG app to an iPhone or iPod touch device and then connecting the device to the blaster. Players are then immersed in a live-action virtual gaming experience like no other. The on-screen Heads Up Display reveals virtual foes and targets in single-player mode and real-life worlds in multi-player mode, all while keeping track of remaining power and hits. Playing the LAZER TAG game as a single player allows players to use skill and strategy to master levels of increased difficulty, earning points and rewards along the way. Multi-player mode pits players against enemies in an epic competition where ability, energy and instinct rule. LAZER TAG blasters boast a virtual firing range of over 250 feet! Game may be played in single-player mode, or in multi-player mode with up to 24 people. Players can also play LAZER TAG without a device using the blaster's classic multi-player mode. Available in either white or yellow; each sold separately. Each blaster requires 6 AA batteries, not included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
New innovation keeps coming
Just when you think everything great has already been invented, we get reminders that there are still those among us with the ability to create things we never thought of. From self-cooling beverage cans (I hope beer companies get this together NOW) to polymers that protect your electronics from the elements, here is an article from Smithsonian.com highlighting some great things coming.
What will they think of next?
Bacon Night! - Bacon Pie
I know I am posting this late, but I was a bit under the weather this week and didn't get things posted that I should have. I found this recipe online and adapted it to be better for those with wheat and gluten problems.
Quick and easy prep made this a great meal, and it drew rave reviews from the family. Cheese, Bacon, eggs and onions combine for great flavor and make for an awesome meal anytime. I did it for dinner this time, but I can see taking it to brunches as well. We may even do this in the fifth wheel the next time we go camping.
Enjoy the picture, and you can find my version of the recipe here.
Dash - The Smartphone Radio
Kickstarter has become a force to be reconed with in a world where individuals mean more than Venture Capital. I love looking at the great ideas people come up with, and the genrosity of people who catch the idea and the passion of others to help them realise their dreams.
Dash is the latest to catch MY attention, and I can't wait to see it come to market. The idea is a dedicated head unit for your car that uses your iPhone as the control. It accesses the audio output and plays it through your speakers, giving you access to all of your navigation, audio and other applications without needing to learn a new interface.
The idea is a great one, and the crowd-sourced funding is going to allow it to come to market pretty quickly.
Sphero has arrived!
When Sphero was first announced I thought it was an interesting idea, but didn't know if it was something I could really love. Now that it has arrived, I can't stop wondering what these guys will come up with next. I'll be playing around with them more tonight when the kids get home, but here is a quick rundown.
Sphero is a remote-controlled ball. I know, not very exciting at face value.
The thing that makes Sphero great are the applications. Golf, where you use the iPhone or iPod Touch as a virtual club. Sphero, which is just a simple remote control to play around with it. SpheroCam, which lets you shoot video and pictures of your Sphero in action. Draw&Drive let's you draw a path on the screen of your iDevice and watch the Sphero follow the path.
The exciting thing is what could come next. I can think of tons of applications. I would detail them here, but then I wouldn't be able to sell the apps.
Stay tuned for video and fun with the kids tomorrow.
Slow Cooker Lechon Asado (Cuban Pork) and Yellow Rice
Going to college in South Florida, I learned to LOVE cuban food. One of the regular parts of my diet became Lechon Asado with yellow rice. A juicy, tender pork seasoned with citrus and garlic. The slow cooker is a great way to cook it unattended. For a more authentic texture and flavor, sauté the meat after removing it from the slow cooker. A great Gluten Free and Wheat Free meal.
Cuban pork with yellow rice
The rickness of the pork is broken up a bit by the citrus, and the spices help round out the flavor. The mixture has always been perfect. I always eat it with cuban bread or tortillas as well.
Find my slow cooker version of this Cuban classic here.
Bacon Night! - Bacon Pancakes!
We love breakfast around here, and we love bacon even more. So combining the two into a delicious pancake is a no brainer. I love crispy edges on my pancakes, and the best way to get that texture and flavor is to fry the pancakes in plenty of hot bacon grease. This recipe just makes the process easier, and I think tastier. It worked great tonight, and we will definately do it again. Recipe is here!
The mixture of bacon and maple inside the pancake meant that even I didn't need to add butter or syrup to make these taste perfect. Nice fluffy texture an perfect flavor. I was a bit worried that the wheat-free flour mix would make these a bit denser than normal wheat flour, but they really were perfect.
Cooking with Beer Wednesday: Pot Roast!
Perfect Pot Roast!OK, everyone loves a GOOD pot roast. Unfortunately, everyone HATES a bad pot roast. Anyone who has had a dried out piece of boiled beef knows that it can go horribly wrong. There is a secret to perfect pot roast every time, and the biggest part is how you cook it. I've had a few failures, but none of them have been when I used a slow cooker. The lower heat and extended cooking time has never done me wrong. The second mistake people often make is not taking the time to brown the meat before cooking adding the liquid. After years of experimenting, I think I have got the recipe down perfectly, so I present to you here, my perfect pot roast.
Leftover Magic: Frito Pie
The wife made chili Saturday night, and there were about two bowls leftover in the fridge. I decided I would make the kids one of my favorite foods from college with the leftovers. It seems like a guilty pleasure, but Fritos are actually pretty healthy compared to other snack chips, and using the homemade chili meant I didn't need to worry about high fat or strange preservatives.
Frito Pie. A Frito crust, a fair bit of leftover chili, and a pound or so of cheddar cheese later, Frito Pie was ready for the oven. After it baked at 350 for 45 minutes in a deep casserole pan, dinner was served.
It disappeared too quick for pictures, but it was perfect for a cold rainy Oregon evening.
Bacon night!: Bacon-cheeseburger Nachos
Kids wanted something different tonight, and I thought Bacon Cheeseburger Nacho's were a great sounding combo.
I took a pound of bacon diced before cooking, and 1 pound if 85/15 Ground Sirloin. I browned them up together to get the flavors combining a bit. I then took this mixture and put it over Fritos Scoops on a cookie sheet. I topped this with a pound of grated Tillamook Medium Cheddar and baked at 300 degrees until cheese was melted.
I love the scoops for nachos in place of traditional tortilla chips because they don't get soggy, an the meat and cheese settle into the bowl of the chip making them easier to eat.
There are no leftovers, so I think the kids agreed.
Apple Special Announcement - Education
Apple has just posted the video from this mornings event, and I'm watching it now. I think the barrier for entry for a lot of people is going to make it hard for iPads to get traction in schools, but certainly starting with the collegiate market can help speed that. Apple launched itself to the forfront of computing in the late 70's by getting their Apple II into schools, where it was a mainstay even through the 80's when I was in elementary and junior high school. If they can do the same with the iPad, they could really make a difference.
Making the tools available to educators to build course work into .epub files that can organize assignments and link to text books could be huge. I know my Son loves his iPad, and could probably be much more interested in reading and homework if everything could be done on his iPad.
The other great part of this is the fact that textbooks becoming digital will relieve so many students of the hulking backpacks they need to carry every day. In addition, allowing textbooks to become interactive in this way I think can really appeal to the internet generation.
I'll be playing around with the new applications released today, and will have a review of them up tomorrow. Stay tuned!
The video of the event can be found here.
Cooking with Beer Wednesday: Beer-braised pork shanks with Gluten-Free Sirloin Gratin
Tonight I wanted to stretch myself a bit, so I found a couple recipes that I thought would go well together, and adapted them to our dietary needs. Since wheat does not agree with me, making recipes wheat and gluten free can sometimes be a struggle. Using a gluten and wheat free flour substitute can change the flavor profile a bit.
I was afraid that doing the rue needed for the gratin (a fancier Mac and cheese using marscapone and parmesan cheeses) would stretch that to its limit, but it got rave reviews.
The seasoning in the braised pork added some great flavors as well. The use of cinnamon and cloves in the braising liquid really deepened the flavor profiles with flavors that you don't usually find in a meat dish. The kids didn't want to try it when they found out there was beer in the liquid, but Carrie asked for seconds, so I think it was pretty good.
Recipes can be found here.
Friday night out - Stanford's Restaurant and Bar
Carrie and I decided to go out for a bite and a drink tonight when she got home from work, and decided on Stanford's since we hadn't been our here in a while. I ordered the Sizzling Garlic Shrimp from their specials menu. It looked and smelled amazing. Shrimp came out sizzling and tasting great. The flat bread they served with it was undercooked and completely unappealing. It was served with a lime-chile aioli that tasted like a plain mayonnaise.
All in all a pretty disappointing meal for the prices they charge.
Bacon Night! - Slow Cooker Northern White Bean Bacon Chowder
Bacon, Beans, and Crock Pots - yes please!Ok folks, it's been cold and windy, so a nice soup sounded good tonight. I started with Northern White beans, and kicked them up with lots of bacon. Add some chicken broth, veggies, and seasoning then throw it into the slow cooker and forget it for 8-10 hours. Nice quick prep in the morning, then nothing left to do when you get home from work but add some milk to smooth it out and dish up dinner for the family. You can find the recipe here.
CES 2012 - The Lamest Show on Earth
Ok, we are at the last day of CES, and I am glad I didn't spend the money to go. The consensus from every report and podcast I've seen is there is nothing to see.
Yes, TV's are getting bigger and cheaper - no news there
Yes, everyone is trying to make a tablet to catch up with the iPad 2 or beat the Kindle Fire's price point- no news there
Yes, Nikkon announced a new camera to try and shift things back their direction after Cannon's last announcement - no real news or suprise here
When the biggest news is that Apple has called a press anouncement in NYC next week when millions of dollars have been spent setting up this wonderland of consumer electronics, we have a problem.
Cooking with Beer Wednesday - Beer Braised Irish stew w/ Colcannon
Beer Braised Beef - always a good start!Cooking with beer. Just makes you feel good to hear those words to start a post doesn’t it? This week I turned to AllRecipes.com for inspiration, and found a new go-to dish. I modified this recipe to make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free beer from 10Barrels brewing, and using an all-purpose gluten free flour mix from Bob’s Red mill. The only other change I made was to use red potatoes instead of russets.
Recipe is here for you to give it a try! The beef was as tender as anything I’ve ever made, it almost melts in your mouth. The Colcannon was what made this meal interesting. The little bit of crunch and slight bite from the cabbage and the richness of the bacon really kicked up the mashed potatoes. I had never heard of Colcannon before, but even the kids agreed it was great. I may never make mashed potatoes any other way again.
A nice big plate of Fat Boy Heaven right here!
Durable replacements for your disposable cups
One of the great things about the internet and modern technology is the ability for quick-moving smaller companies to bring pop-culture icons to market quickly and well constructed. Along those lines, the Amazon Fairy delivered a couple of nice surprises Saturday, and I’m just getting a chance to post pictures.
First, an image that will be familiar to anyone who has visited New York City, or ever seen a TV show or movie set there: the iconic “Anthora” coffee cup. The New York City Coffee Cup
Red “Solo” Cup - now made permanent!
Another iconic cup, this time for cold beverages, has risen in popularity with the arrival of Beer Pong to the global stage. I can’t think of a single party when I was in high school or college that did not feature this cup with prominence. Now the Red “Solo” Cup
A ceramic “Red Solo Cup”? What would Toby Keith think?
For a little bit more, the same iconic “Red Solo Cup” can be had in an even more permanent ceramic version
Review - Buffalo Wild Wings (Tanasbourne)
Friday night Carrie, Andrew and I went to Buffalo Wild Wings for dinner. As always, I love the atmosphere in that place. Huge screens to watch any game that is on essentially wallpaper the room, adding a nice game-day feel.
Fried Pickles - awesome starterWe started with Fried Pickles as an appetizer. Nice crispy breading gave way to a still crisp yet warm pickle inside. Perfectly cooked, great flavor. When done right this is one of my favorite bar foods, and BWW did it right.
I love wings, but wanted a litte variety, so I went with the Ribs & Wings combo. I was going for flavor and not planning on drinking more than a single beer, so I went with the Garlic Parmesian sauce for my wings. Rather than normal fries I upgraded to their signature Buffalo Chips, a cross between a fry and a potato chip that was cooked to crispy perfection.
Essentially a kicked-up creamy Cesar dressing, the Garlic-Parm is usually well executed at BWW. This visit was no exception, and the creamy spice of the garlic sauce made the wings great.
The ribs, however, were a disappointment. Nice thick cuts, but little flavor and overcooked. I love a good rib, but a bad rib drives me crazy, especially in a restaurant that should know better. I tried to take a bite, and ended up with most of the meat coming off and falling to the plate. A well-cooked rib should yeild to the bite, but stay on the bone. It can happen sometimes trying to time several orders properly, but it was still a disappointment. 
A great looking plate, but mixed bag of flavors
The lack of flavor cannot be excused though. This is a chain whose bread and butter are great sauces, but the wasn’t even a trace of BBQ on these ribs. It’s almost as if the forgot to add and seasoning or sauce to the ribs at all. No dry rub, no sauce, no smoke……completely un-compelling.
Overall it was a good night, and great chance to spend time with our son, but definately not a heavenly meal.
Bacon, Bourbon, and Beef - It's Bacon night!
OK, as I said earlier today, I have decided that Thursday will be Bacon night from now on. So to kick it off, I went all out today.
Bacon and Beef Meatloaf
Bacon and Burger Meatloaf
2 lbs. 85/15 Ground Beef
1 lb Bacon (roughly cut)
1 medium onion, diced
3 tbs. Worshtishire Sauce
1 tbs. minced garlic
1 cup Oatmeal
2 eggs
1. Start by cooking the bacon in a saute pan untill cooked to desired color. Set Bacon aside to cool.
2. Saute the onion in the bacon grease, then remove, draining the fat.
3. Mix all the ingredients together and put into loaf pan.
4. Cook at 350 for 60-70 minutes until internal temp exceeds 170
Candied Bacon Yams
Candied Bacon Yams
Ingredients:
5 large yams
1 lb Thick sliced bacon
1/4 cup Brown sugar
1/2 stick butter
1. OK, the first step here is to candy the bacon. Lay the slices on a cookie sheet, then sprinkle with the brown sugar. Bake at 350 until bacon is a golden brown (20-25 minutes).
2. Let bacon cool, and then crumble.
3. Peel the yams and cut into medium sized chunks
4. Boil yams until fork tender
5. Drain
6. return to heat, adding bacon and butter
Gluten-Free Bacon Bourbon BowniesGluten-Free Bacon Bourbon Brownies
Ingredients:
1 pkg Betty Crocker Gluten Free fudge brownie mix
1/2 lb. Bacon
4 tbs. Bourbon
1 egg
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Fry bacon and then crumble.
3. Add bacon crumbles (with grease), Brownie Mix, and all other ingredients to bowl and mix well.
4. Spread (mixture will be pretty thick) mixture into 9x9 pan.
5. Bake for 23-25 minutes until toothpick comes out clean from the center.