Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Favorite Kosher Recipe: Potato Kugel Crunch Cups

Potato Kugel Cups


Recipe

Potato Kugel Cups
The best part about them is that every piece is a crusty corner piece, so nobody has to fight over that coveted crunch.

Times

  • Prep Time : 15 min min
  • Cook Time : 1 hour
  • Ready Time : 1 hour, 15 min

Servings

4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup olive oil, divided
  • 3 whole eggs
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper
  • 6 large Idaho potatoes
  • 1 large onion, quartered

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
  2. Liberally oil six (6-ounce) Pyrex glass dessert dishes or custard cups. Place custard cups in a 9 x 13-inch disposable pan.
  3. Place the pan of cups in the oven to heat.
  4. Place eggs in a small bowl and beat. Add salt and pepper, mix well and set aside.
  5. Fill a large bowl with cold water and, as you peel potatoes, place them in the cold water to prevent browning.
  6. Heat remainder of oil in a small saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat.
  7. Cut potatoes lengthwise into halves or quarters so they fit into food processor feed tube. Process potatoes and onions using the blade that creates thin, shoestring-like strips.
  8. Transfer potatoes and onions to a large bowl, add egg mixture and heated oil from stovetop, mix very well. Remove any large pieces of potatoes or onions that weren’t processed properly.
  9. Remove heated cups from the oven and spoon potato mixture evenly into hot, oiled cups.
  10. Bake at 425 degrees for 1 hour, or until the tops look crunchy and sides look golden and browned. Loosen edges with a knife, unmold and serve on a platter.

Tips

To make this as a potato kugel pie, bake in a 9-inch round glass baking dish for about 1 hour or longer, depending on desired crunchiness.

View original recipe here: JoyofKosher

Monday, March 17, 2014

Post-Purim Healthy Snack Ideas

We know you had a fun weekend but now it's time to get back on track! Try these delicious snacks before or after your next meal to give your stomach a break from all that hamentaschen:



1) An Apple & Skim Milk
This duo will give you 10 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber for just over 200 calories

2) Cottage Cheese-Filled Avocado
For 200 calories, you'll get 9 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber

3)Canned Tuna on Whole Wheat Crackers
For about 200 calories, you can enjoy 3 ounces of light tuna and 6 whole-wheat crackers—complete with 3 grams of fiber and 20 grams of protein

4) Sunflower Lentil Spread with Pita Bread
This savory recipe makes four 180-calorie servings, with 10 grams each of protein and fiber.

5) Warm Pear with Cinnamon Ricotta 
Each serving contains 8 g protein, 5 g fiber, and 170 calories. 


Check out more delicious, healthy snack ideas at health.com

Drink of the Day: St. Patty's Punch

Done partying but still want to be festive today? Try this yummy non-alcoholic green punch! 

St. Patrick’s Day Drink Ideas Non-Alcoholic St. Patty’s Punch

- 1 container of Lime Sherbet

- 1 can of pineapple juice

- 2 liter of Ginger Ale

Monday, March 10, 2014

How to Order Catering in 5 Easy Steps


Village Crown knows how hard it is to plan the perfect event. You don't have to do it alone, here are some important tips to help you when you're ordering:

1) What is your event? We know that seems like an obvious question but it's important for your caterer to know what type of event you are having. You may need more (or less) food then you planned depending on the time of day and style of event. This can prevent late guests from finding empty platters on their arrival or having a fridge packed with leftovers.

2) What time is your event? Don't forget it may take time to set up the food, especially if it's hot. Always take into account extra time to get ready so you won't have to rush when the guests start to arrive. If your building has strict security or a separate freight entrance that your delivery guy doesn't know about, your food could be delayed. Be sure to make a detailed note for your caterers so you won't be surprised.

3) What's your menu? Will you be snacking on hors d'oeuvres platters, filling up on a hearty meal or a mix of both? Know the flow of your event so your caterer can make helpful suggestions to ensure your guests don't fill up on heavy apps or overeat the main course. Splitting two meat entrees can be tricky since most guests will want to try both. This could leave some guests hungry in the end, make sure you plan accordingly.

4) What else do you need besides food? Catering is much more than just delivery. Do you need plates? Forks? Cups? What about beverages or a custom cake? Make a list from start to finish of what you will use for your event so that nothing is left out. If you are ordering beverages you might need an ice bucket. If you want your food to stay hot you may need chaffers and sternos. Let your caterer know how you plan to serve your food once you receive it so you aren't left with the wrong temperature item.

5) What is your budget? Catering can get expensive. If you have a tight budget for your corporate event we understand that your options may seem limited. Don't fret, we can help you choose the right items such as a heavier appetizer that will fill up your guests faster or a package deal that includes all the food you will need in one set price. On the other hand if you are catering to impress, be sure to ask about china dishware options. The extra charge is worth it in the end if you are entertaining important guests. A nice display goes a long way.

The more details you provide in your inquiry, the more we can help you! Let's work together to make this a memorable event.


Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Purim Party Inspiration!







Purim is just around the corner and we couldn't be more excited! Check out some of these fun festive ideas for your party:

Deliciously Decorated Masquerade Cookies!







Take Cake to the Next Level!



Keep it Classy with Hamantaschen Sushi!



Don't Forget to Add a Fun, Colorful Centerpiece!

OR Do it Big with an Entirely Purim Themed Table: 

 Share with us your favorite Purim food and decor! And of course: enjoy & celebrate!