The Cheap Gourmet

HURRY! Flirty Aprons is Having a Flash Sale

My favorite vendor, Flirty Aprons, is having a flash sale on two of their flirty 'Marilyn' aprons offered in Mint-a-liscious and Strawberry Shortcake.  If you're tired of plain, boring aprons act quick and take advantage of this flash sale.  If you hurry, you can take 50% off your order!

There are a limited number of aprons available, so if you want one do not procrastinate. The Flirty Aprons flash sale ends Tuesday, September 27th at midnight (MST).  To receive the discount enter the code of STRAWMINT at check-out. To order Marilyn aprons click on the underlined link below.

Two Apron Flash Sale, code STRAWMINT, expires 9/27

 

 

 

Disclosure: The Cheap Gourmet earns an affiliate commission for Flirty Apron sales generated from this blog. Thank you for shopping with our trusted vendors and helping to keep this food blog available to everyone at no charge!

Announcing the Goya Foods Birthday Bash

The Cheap Gourmet was recently contacted by Goya Foods with a request to let you know about their exciting Birthday Bash. The company is celebrating their 75th birthday and want to invite you to join the party!

The Goya Birthday Bash consists of a mega cash prize of a whopping $75,000. This promotion can be played four ways. There's an online game, an on-pack game, mail-in sweepstakes, and Goya's Greatest Fan video/photo/essay contest. Participants have 10 different opportunities to potentially win $75,000.

In addition to the Goya Birthday Bash promotion, participants can receive  the 75th Anniversary Series GOYA Recipe Booklets featuring cuisine from Mexico, Caribbean, South America, Central America, Spain, and Latin Fusion. These cookbooks can be yours at no cost by mailing in 75 UPC codes from Goya products. All participants will be entered into a drawing to receive 1 of 75 digital cameras.

I was introduced to Goya Foods years ago while working at a health food store. We used their beans, rice, and condiments in nearly all of our recipes. My personal all-time favorite is Adobo Seasoning. I use it on pretty much everything, but it is particularly tasty on chicken. It adds a hint of color and a delightful seasoning that eliminates the need for salt.

Goya carries over 1,500 products from every region of Latin America and Spain. Some of the more popular include: beans, seasoned rice mixes, green olives, olive oil, nectars and juices, tomato-based products, spices, hot sauces, and salsas.

The Goya website offers a wide range of delicious recipes including: Starters and Salads, Main Dishes, Side Dishes, Desserts, Drinks, Quick Meals, Affordable Meals, New Classics, and Latin Fusion. Visitors can setup their own recipe box which allows them to personalize each recipe, add notes, and create customized meal plans.

Visitors can subscribe to the Goya Foods mailing list to receive regular newsletters consisting of cooking tips, brand new recipes,  special promotions, and money-saving coupons.

I have been enjoying playing the Goya Birthday Bash online game. All that is required is to put in your birthdate, hit the pinata until Goya products fall to the ground, and click on a product to reveal a number. Collect all numbers in your birthday and you could win $75,000.

I hope you will take a few minutes to check out the Goya Birthday Bash and Goya product line. These are great products that will infuse your meals with flavor and pizzazz!

 

Disclosure: The Cheap Gourmet received the Special Edition, 75th Anniversary Series Goya® Recipe Booklets as a thank you for sharing the word about their products.

Great Summertime Gift Baskets from Red Envelope

The marketing agent for Red Envelope invited me to share some product updates and let you know about their summertime sales and newly updated line of gift baskets. I was introduced to this unique gift store years ago via the Oprah Show and have been a fan ever since.

One thing I particularly like about Red Envelope is their philosophy is all about giving. I also like that their product line is unique and offers something for everyone. Even better, everything can be purchased from the comfort of home.

A really unique feature of Red Envelope is their vibrant red packaging. Gifting items in red envelopes is the ancient Chinese tradition of Feng Shui. These traditions are of great interest to me and have been part of my lifestyle for years.

The timing of contact from Red Envelope couldn't have been better. July is one of my biggest gift-giving months and I'm always struggling to find the perfect gift. This month I need 3 birthday gifts, 1 anniversary gift, 2 "gifts for her," and a couple of gift baskets for business associates. Fortunately, I can get all those at Red Envelope.

Of course, I headed straight to the Gourmet Gift Baskets section and nearly drooled all over myself. Some of my favorites gourmet goodies include the plump strawberries enrobed in dark chocolate and rolled in nuts, and the chocolate mousse love torte. I might have to order that chocolate torte for my very own July birthday.

I'm certain my friends will love any of the chocolate candy, gourmet cakes, and cupcake samplers. For business associates, I'm going with deluxe snack packs consisting of nuts, trail mix, and sesame sticks or baskets filled with fruits, dried meats, and cheeses.

Finding anniversary gifts is usually my biggest challenge, but Red Envelope has saved the day. I found a great picnic backpack that contains everything you need but the food. My friends will be celebrating their 25th anniversary and the one thing they love to do more than anything is go hiking.  Talk about the perfect gift!

Red Envelope has a ton of great anniversary gifts ranging from cuff links to pocket watches and diamond generation necklaces to dainty pearl drop pendants and earrings.

Two of my favorite anniversary gifts include: Legendary Love Letters; a gift box of 14 reproduced love letters from famous people, and Story of a Lifetime; a kit to record your family tree and memoirs.

It's going to take awhile to decide which gifts to order, but regardless of what I end up buying I'm sure the recipients will be pleased. If you're in need of unique gift ideas, I hope you'll stop by and support our featured merchant.

Before you head to their website, stop by Facebook and like RedEnvelope Facebook Page. You'll receive a 20 percent discount when you become their fan.

Last, but not least, if you're in need of gift ideas, check out the Red Envelope Blog. It's packed with tips for personalizing items, gift giving suggestions, and ways to add flair to summer gatherings.


Disclosure: The Cheap Gourmet received a monetary stipend from Red Envelope in exchange for this blog post. The opinions expressed reflect the true feelings of the author. She has been, and will continue to be, an avid supporter of Red Envelope products.  

Mark Your Calendar for HSN Cooks Spring Weekend Event

Have you heard about HSN Cooks Spring Weekend Event? If not, take a moment to mark your calendar for Saturday, March 26th and Sunday, March 27th to take advantage of amazing savings for cooking gadgets and gourmet foods.

In partnership with Bon Appétit, the HSN Cooks Spring Weekend Event features new and top-selling brands from celebrity chefs such as Wolfgang Puck, Emeril Lagasse, and Padka Lakshmi. Viewers will also be introduced to the Lee Brothers; known for their Southern cooking cookbooks, boiled peanuts, and barbeque sauces, as well as Chef Ken Hom; a Chinese-American chef and author known for his signature wok collection and line of ready-cooked meals.

Another featured chef appearing on HSN is Jacques Torres; affectionately known as Mr. Chocolate. Chef Torres offers an amazing selection of decadent chocolate concoctions including chocolate marshmallows, chocolate covered espresso beans, and chocolate covered Cheerios and Corn Flakes. Who knew chocolate covered cereal tasted so good?

Throughout the HSN Cooks Spring Weekend Event, viewers will be introduced to new culinary delights including Aunt Ida Baked Goods and Leonetti's handmade authentic Italian Stromboli Sandwiches.

During the holidays a friend sent me Aunt Ida's 'Chocolate Babka' which is a traditional-style Russian coffee cake filled with chocolate chips with a drizzle of chocolate on top. It was beyond heavenly, it was downright addictive! I'm excited that HSN will be selling this product line because I have been thinking about Chocolate Babka for 3 months!

Leonetti's was featured on 'Unwrapped', an introspective food show on the Food Network that chronicles how foods are manufactured. Leonetti's Stromboli sandwiches are the creation of Leonetti's founder, Richard DiPietro, Italian mother.

Every day, Leonetti's prepares handmade dough for their prized sandwiches in their Philadelphia manufacturing plant. Selections include Italian Stromboli's, Calzones, and authentic Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches.

If you haven't visited the HSN website in a while, you might be surprised to know they offer an amazing recipe collection. Visitors can print recipes from famous chefs such as Tyler Florence, Todd English, Andrew Lessman, Debra Murray, Emeril Lagasse, and Wolfgang Puck.

Throughout the HSN Cooks Spring Weekend Event, viewers can take advantage of special event pricing, select free shipping, value-packed bundles, and HSN card offers. Additionally, Bon Appétit will provide special offers on subscriptions, plus tips and solutions from Editor Dede Wilson.

This event is a great time to stock up on culinary necessities, entertaining supplies, prepackaged foods, cookware, dinnerware, outdoor grilling supplies, small kitchen appliances, bakeware, and cookbooks.

Kickoff starts at 6 am ET on Saturday, March 26th and ends with a grand finale hosted by Padma Lakshmi at 11 pm ET on Sunday, March 27th. A complete HSN Cooks Spring Weekend Event schedule is published at the HSN website. 

DISCLOSURE: The Cheap Gourmet received a $10 HSN Gift Card as a Thank You for helping to promote this event.

Last Minute Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

In need of last minute Valentine's Day gift ideas? If so, consider shopping with the following vendors. Each merchant is offering special discounts, but you need to get orders in today to ensure fast delivery.

I've selected 6 last minute Valentine's Day gift ideas that are suitable for any budget. Simply click on the banners for each vendor. Valentine's Day shopping has never been easier!

Valentine's Day Chocolate Gifts

NutsOnline.com: This is one of my favorite places to shop for chocolates, nuts, herbs, and spices. Not only does NutsOnline offer deeply discounted prices, they also have an astounding collection of products. I highly recommend the Valentine's Passion Gift Tin packed with passion chocolate strawberries, milk chocolate cashews, passion chocolate cherries, and milk chocolate almonds.

 

 

Click here to order this Delicious, super-discounted, Treat for your sweetie for Valentine's Day

 

 

 

M&Ms Personalized Candies: Everybody loves M&Ms, especially when they contain personal messages of love. Create your own Valentine's Day 'melt-in-your-mouth-not-in-your-hand' candies and let your loved ones know how much you care!

Valentine's Day Gifts for the Man in Your Life

ClubsofAmerica.com: Nothing says I love you more than an ongoing Beer of the Month Club subscription. Your man will love receiving 12 bottles of fresh microbrew beers month after month. Select from 1 to 12 month Beer of the Month Club subscriptions.

Valentine's Day Flowers

OrganicBouquet.com: Eco-Elegant Valentine's Day roses and flowers will certainly put a smile on your Valentine's face (and probably a tear in their eye). Organic Bouquet offers traditional Valentine's Day flowers including red, pink, and white roses. If you're thinking outside the traditional floral arrangement, Organic Bouquet offers roses in any color you desire, as well as tulips, blue iris bouquets, white lilies, and any kind of flower you want to send. Flower bouquets start at $29.95. However, order today because this special expires on Feb. 12th.

Kiss the Cook Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

FlirtyAprons.com: If you think aprons are ugly and boring, think again! Flirty Aprons offers sensual and sexy aprons for all the cooks in your life!

Valentine's Day Jewelry and Collectibles

BradfordExchange.com: Renowned for offering high-quality and affordable jewelry and collectibles, as well as installment plans, you're certain to find elegant and exquisitely-crafted gifts for everyone on your Valentine's Day shopping list.

Black Friday Deals: Gourmet Food, Gift Baskets, Kitchen Gadgets, and Holiday Gifts

Black Friday has arrived and it's time to save money from the comfort of home! As an affiliate for the leading merchant program, Commission Junction, I'm happy to offer exceptional deals and money-saving coupons for gourmet food, gift baskets, kitchen gadgets, and holiday gifts.

Many of the Black Friday deals extend through the weekend, while others extend through the end of November. Don't delay though, because some of these holiday gifts are certain to sell out quickly.

As a CJ affiliate, I will earn a percentage of the sale from the vendors below. This does not cost you anything and will help offset the operating costs of The Cheap Gourmet blog. Thank you for shopping with these select vendors and helping keep this food blog free for everyone.

Click on the banners or highlighted links to take advantage of these great Black Friday deals!

Happy Holidays!

Clubs of America: Give the gift that keeps on giving. Beer of the Month, Wine of the Month, Flower of the Month, Fruit Gift of the Month, Cigar of the Month, Coffee of the Month, Chocolate of the Month, and Pizza of the Month. You can't go wrong with this great holiday gift!

Adagio Teas: Loose leaf teas, teapots, tea infusers, tea chests, electric teamaker, glass mug teapot, and tea stocking stuffers.

My M&Ms: Personalized M&M candies for all occasions including birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, sporting events, weddings, bridal showers, and birth of new babies. Fabulous selection of gifts!

Dan's Chocolates: Boxed chocolates, chocolate truffles, personalized chocolates, chocolate bars, chocolate chips, chocolate towers, and chocolate business gifts.

ZChocolat: Gourmet chocolates, gift boxes, gift packs, holiday gift baskets, French chocolates, truffles, and pralines.

Dale and Thomas Popcorn: Gourmet popcorn tins, popcorn sampler gifts, specialty gourmet food gifts, and holiday business gifts.

Mrs. Beasley's - Hollywood's Favorite Bakery: Gift baskets, holiday cakes, cookies and brownies, gift boxes, towers and tins, gourmet foods, wine gifts, and corporate gifts.

Flirty Aprons: These are my all-time favorite aprons. Sexy, stylish, unique, and functional! Click the highlighted link and save 30% off any purchase at Flirty Aprons, code ""CYBER30"", valid 11/25-11/30

 

 

 

BudShop: Gifts for the home bar, personalized coolers, sports, racing, and outdoors.

The 2011 Entertainment Book: Money-Saving Coupons for restaurants, movies, and local businesses.

The Bradford Exchange: Unique holiday gifts, beautiful jewelry, heirloom toys, villages and trains, decor and decorations, coins, collectibles, clothing, and more!

 

Discovery Store Channel: Toys, games, clothing, electronics, tech gadgets, T-shirts and clothing.

Holiday Travel Savings from Expedia:

Black Friday Deal: Get a $50 pre-paid debit card with a 3+ night stay at select Expedia hotels! - Valid 11/26/10 - 11/29/10

Holiday Travel Savings from Travelocity:

Introducing Shari's Berries Chocolate Covered Gifts (Money Saving Coupon Code for The Cheap Gourmet Readers!)

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Shari's Berries and provide you with a money saving coupon code exclusively offered to The Cheap Gourmet readers. Shari's Berries is part of the ProFlowers group that offers an exquisite line of unique gifts, along with topnotch customer service and fast home delivery.

Shari's Berries product line includes hand-dipped chocolate covered strawberries, caramel apples, and cherries, along with cookies, cakes, cheesecakes, cupcakes, and brownie pops.

Shari's Berries is the perfect place to purchase chocolate gifts for all occasions. They offer baby gifts, romantic gifts, birthday gifts, anniversary, thank you, get well, sympathy, business, wedding, and holiday gifts.

Shari's Berries Thanksgiving Gifts

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, you can fulfill your gift giving needs with a variety of Thanksgiving gifts. Shari's Berries offers hand-dipped autumn berries, swizzled berries, fancy berries, brownie pops, cheesecake trio with hand-dipped fancy berries, autumn chocolate and vanilla cupcakes, Mrs. Fields autumn bites gift basket, hand-dipped football berries, red velvet cupcakes, Tiramisu Classico cake, cognac pumpkin cheesecake, gourmet chocolates, and much more.

According to Shari's Berries website, "The Pilgrims and Indians actually had berries at the very first Thanksgiving Dinner. Giving gifts of food at Thanksgiving has been a treasured tradition since that time. Thanksgiving has always been about sharing food and spending time with family and loved ones, and being grateful for the friends and family that we have."

As we head into the holidays, Shari's Berries makes it easy to express your gratitude and love. They offer the highest quality chocolate and freshest berries money can buy. Impress your family and friends with decadent gifts they are certain to love. And save money in the process.

Shari's Berries has graciously offered The Cheap Gourmet readers the opportunity to save 20-percent off all orders over $29, not including shipping and handling. To take advantage of this generous offer visit www.Berries.com and enter the Promo Code of "DAKQ" upon check-out.

Shari's Berries sister site, Cherry Moon Farms offers a bountiful selection of fruit baskets, snack baskets, fruitful birthday gifts, organic fruit baskets, gourmet popcorn, hand-decorated cookies, and a gorgeous array of Thanksgiving gifts.

Both Shari's Berries and Cherry Moon Farms provide exquisite and unique gifts that are certain to tantalize the taste buds of everyone on your gift list. Both allow you to shop from the comfort of home and relax knowing that whatever product you order is of the highest quality and carefully shipped to arrive in perfect condition. 

I wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving and greatly appreciate you taking time to visit The Cheap Gourmet blog. Take a moment to subscribe to our mailing list by entering your email address in the "Get the Scoop" subscription box on the right sidebar. We do not rent, sell, share, or trade your information and only contact you to provide additional money saving offers and easy-to-prepare recipes.

 

 

Coupons.com: Tips for Stretching Your Household Budget

Coupons.com has become one of my favorite sources for stretching our household budget. In today's economy it has become a necessity to find ways to save a buck whenever possible. Even those who have plenty of money have made it chic to be frugal.

There is no fee to join Coupons.com, but you will need to install the print software which allows you to print coupons from the comfort of home. What I like about this website is you can chose as many coupons as you want. If you don't need them right away, save them for a later date. Just be certain to check the expiration date so you don't miss out on savings.

Another great feature of Coupons.com is you can choose from manufacturer coupons, local coupons, and obtain coupon codes. In the Coupon Codes section you'll find special deals from a variety of stores such as Walmart, JC Penney, Old Navy, Barnes and Noble Bookstore, Ace Hardware, 24 Hour Fitness, Adidas Store and much more.

Coupons.com can help you save a bundle of money on school supplies, backpacks, shoes and clothing. You can also save money on healthy snacks and foods for brown bag lunches. Last week I shaved $20 off my grocery bill by spending less than 15 minutes printing coupons at Coupons.com.

New coupons are added daily, so take a moment to subscribe to the weekly SuperSaver mailing list and be the first to receive notification of new coupons and sale offers. Click on the banner below to start saving money on school supplies, pet supplies, groceries, clothing, restaurants, movies and more! Happy Saving!

Flirty Aprons: Look Great and Stay Clean!

I recently discovered Flirty Aprons, a company that sells the coolest cooking aprons. If you're like me, chances are you end up with some of your favorite meal attached to the front of your shirt or splattered on your shorts or jeans.

Flirty Aprons aren't your normal, run-of-the-mill blah and boring aprons. Instead, they are sexy, trendy and practical. Flirty aprons offers aprons for women, men and children.

Styles for women include 14 different designs including the original Scarlet Blossom which is black and red with wild flowers, red and white polka dot trim, a black and white striped ruffle and ribbon tie. There is a really hot looking Scalloped Chic Teal apron and a sizzling Scalloped Sassy Red that are officially on my 'must-have' list of cooking aprons.

Flirty Aprons for men are available in black or red and emblazoned with sayings such as, "My Grill is Hotter Than Yours", "I Like Cougars Medium Rare" and "I Like Big Buns." Talk about a great gift idea for the griller man in your life!

The Flirty Aprons for children are adorable. Not only are they great for cooking, but can also be worn when making craft projects, hand painting, gardening, and messy school science projects. My personal favorites include the Frosted Cupcake design, Luscious Lemons, and Sweet Sunshine.

Flirty Apron prices range from $24.95 to $39.95 and easily make up for the cost of dry cleaning or replacing clothing ruined by cooking spills. Not to mention, they make a fabulous gift for anyone who loves to cook or grill. Orders placed before 2pm EST are shipped the same day. Otherwise, orders are processed within 24 hours. Products are backed by a 100-percent money back guarantee.

Protect your clothes and look swanky while cooking with Flirty Aprons. Order one for yourself, husband, significant other, children or friends today!

Order Flirty Aprons Today at FlirtyAprons.com

10% off purchase of $30 or more at Flirty Aprons, code CJ10

The Perfect Mother's Day Gift: Gourmet Monthly Club Subscription

Looking for the perfect Mother's Day gift? If so, today is your lucky day! There's no doubt mom's are special and they deserve much more than a bouquet of flowers and afternoon brunch. The Gourmet Monthly Club recognizes the need to reward mom all year long and are currently offering exceptional discounts on gifts that are certain to please!

The Gourmet Monthly Club offers monthly subscriptions of chocolate, cheese, flowers, wine, beer and cigars. Now, I realize most moms don't smoke cigars, but if they do the cigar subscription is a great gift! Otherwise, keep this gift idea in mind for Father's Day.

Most moms love chocolate and the Chocolate of the Month subscription will provide your mom with ooey, gooey goodness for months to come! Each month your mom will receive a box of handcrafted chocolates made by world renowned chocolatiers, along with a newsletter detailing the origins of the cocoa beans, how the chocolates are made, and how to make homemade chocolate confections.

Cheese-loving moms will go ga-ga over selections provided in the Cheese of the Month subscription. Each month, mom will receive three, half-pound blocks of extraordinary cheeses crafted by traditional cheese manufacturers, along with an informative newsletter explaining the origins and how each cheese is made.

The International Wine of the Month Club provides mom with two bottles of award-winning international wine selections each month. Three wine subscriptions are available which allow you to select two red wines, two white wines or one red and one white.

As one who has sent of the month club subscriptions to family and friends, I can tell you that people love receiving a special gift each month. If you want to give your mom an extraordinary gift, consider ordering a monthly club membership from the Gourmet Monthly Club.

Order before May 10th and receive up to $20 off any prepaid subscription.

When ordering a 6-month or longer subscription use code MD10 and receive a $10 discount.

When ordering a 12-month subscription use code MD20 to receive a $20 discount.

Offer expires May 10, 2010.

Indulge friends, family and colleagues with exquisite gifts from six Gourmet Monthly Clubs

Disclosure Policy

Omaha Steaks Spring Clearance Sale

Attention Steak Lovers! Check out Omaha Steaks Spring Clearance Sale and save up to 68-percent! If the economy has forced you to cut back on meat intake, you will appreciate the savings offered through Omaha Steaks. In addition to saving money off your grocery bill, you will receive high-quality cuts of meat that will tantalize your tastebuds and satisfy your meat craving.

Specials offered through Omaha Steaks spring clearance sale include the American Collection, the Entertainer, and All Time Favorites.

Omaha Steaks American Collection includes:

4 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins
4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops
4 (4 oz. approx.) Boneless Chicken Breasts
2 (4.5 oz.) Stuffed Sole with Scallops and Crab
4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers
8 (3 oz.) Gourmet Franks
8 Potatoes au Gratin

Regular cost of the American Collection is $180.00. Sale price is $64.99 for a whopping savings of $115.01!

Omaha Steaks The Entertainer Collection includes:

4 (5 oz.) Bacon-Wrapped Fillets
4 (5.75 oz.) Stuffed Baked Potatoes - filled with generous portions of whipped potatoes, sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon bits and chives.

Regular cost of The Entertainer is $78.00. Sale price is $39.99 for a savings of $38.01.

Omaha Steaks All Time Favorites Collection includes:

2 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons
2 (9 oz.) Boneless Strips
2 (6 oz.) Top Sirloins
2 (1 lb. pkgs.) Sirloin Tips
6 (4 oz.) Gourmet Burgers
4 (5.75 oz.) Stuffed Baked Potatoes
1 (4 in.) Carnegie Cheesecake

Regular cost of All Time Favorites is $204.00. Sale price is $89.99 for a savings of $114.01.

Nearly every Omaha Steak product is on sale. All products are backed by Omaha Steaks Unconditional Guarantee. If you aren't happy with your order, Omaha will gladly replace your purchase or refund your money. You have nothing to lose and money to save! Click on the banner below to begin your shopping journey.

Omaha Steaks Overstock Sale!

Disclosure Policy

Hard to Find Spices Available through The Cheap Gourmet

I recently discovered a plethora of hard to find spices and wanted to share my resource with you. Located in North Branford, CT, Cooking Enthusiast is a gourmet cook's dream come true. In addition to offering hard to find spices, this company also offers an abundant selection of cookware, cutlery, cook's tool, hand-painted pottery, gourmet coffee and tea, cookbooks and a host of BBQ gear.

Unique and hard to find spice offerings include:

Windward Island Seasoning - an exotic island spice which complements seafood and chicken. This is a fabulous seasoning blend for crab legs, boiled shrimp and lobster tails and tastes fabulous on boiled red potatoes. 

New Orleans Seasoning Blend - a combination of spices, garlic and onion with a hint of natural essential oils. A great seasoning blend for Rock Shrimp Stuffed with Asiago Cheese and Jalapenos.

Chipotle Espresso Rub - This must-have spice is phenomenal on grilled foods and adds an intense flavor of smoky chipotle and rich, robust coffee with a hint of garlic, spices and lime oil.

Red Bell Pepper Seasoning - A sweet seasoning perfect for soups, homemade salad dressings, pasta dishes, chip and vegetable dips, and scrambled eggs. 

If you love to spice up your food, you owe it to yourself to pay a visit to Cooking Enthusiast. Be certain to check out the Clearance section to obtain big savings on close-out items! Start your culinary journey by clicking on the banner below.

DISCLOSURE NOTICE: The Cheap Gourmet is a Cooking Enthusiast affiliate and earns a small commission on referral sales through this website. Thank you for shopping with our carefully selected merchants. Your purchases allow us to continue offering recipes, newsletters and contests at no charge.

It's Not Too Late to Order Valentine's Day Gifts

If you haven't bought your sweetie a Valentine's Day gift yet, don't worry! The Cheap Gourmet has you covered! One of my personal favorite places to order gifts when I'm short on time is Flower Delivery. Not only do they offer the traditional bouquet of roses, but Flower Delivery also has a fabulous assortment of gourmet food baskets, chocolate gifts, teddy bears, cookie baskets, wine gifts, live plants and gorgeous orchids.

At Flower Delivery, you can order Valentine's Day gifts for you mom, dad, husband, wife, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin, grandma, grandpa, neighbor, co-workers and friends. Flower Delivery has something for everyone at affordable prices.

Many of the Valentine's Day gifts can be delivered the same day you place your order. But, you can't procrastinate much longer considering Valentine's Day is Sunday. I highly recommend you get online now and order your Valentine's Day gifts today.

SAVE $10 - Use Coupon ID 'fd' on items $50 and over

One of my personal favorite gift baskets is the 'Francis Ford Coppola Loves Food and Wine Basket'. My husband proposed to me in Napa Valley after a day of winery tours. The Francis Ford Coppola Winery was one of our favorite places and it holds a special place in my heart.

The Francis Ford Coppola Loves Food and Wine Basket includes "Mammarella", a line of organic pastas and sauces honoring Coppola's mother, Italia Pennino Coppola, two bottles of Coppola wines and a Mammarella kitchen towel.

Another favorite is the 'Say it with Chocolate' Gift Basket which is filled to the brim with a variety of Ghiradelli chocolates, chocolate-covered sandwich cookies, chocolate-covered espresso beans, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate-covered graham dunk, and chocolate wafer rolls.

Regardless of your Valentine's Day gift needs, Flower Delivery offers something for everyone. Express your love with flowers, chocolates, gourmet food baskets, plants, balloons or teddy bears by ordering your gifts through Flower Delivery. But, hurry! Time is running out!

SAVE $10 - Use Coupon ID 'fd' on items $50 and over

Disclosure Policy: Thank you for shopping with our affiliates. The Cheap Gourmet earns commissions when visitors purchase from our carefully selected merchants. Affiliate earnings help offset business expenses and allow us to continue providing free recipes, giveaways, product deals and other fun stuff!

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: Copyright © The Cheap Gourmet and Kathy Browning 2010. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright and intellectual property rights. Reproducing or electronically submitting this article without written permission from the author is prohibited by law. Govern yourself accordingly. Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Bloggers, webmasters and social networkers are permitted to reblog by clicking on the button below. Attribution and a backlink to The Cheap Gourmet are required.

Beer of the Month Club Review

I purchased a Beer of the Month Club subscription as a Christmas gift for my husband. I ordered his beer subscription through Clubs of America, which is an affiliate program promoted through The Cheap Gourmet Blog.

This is the second Beer of the Month Club subscription I have ordered. The first beer subscription expired July 2009 and my husband has been going through "micro-brew withdrawal" for the past five months. He loved receiving his 12-pack of specialty beers each month and reading the informative newsletter that arrives with each order.

I am not a big fan of beer and couldn't tell you if it is good or not, so I asked my husband to provide a review of the brew he received. The following Beer of the Month Club microbrew review covers the four beer varieties he received in January.

Michigan Brewing Company

Celis Grand Cru – Grand Cru, refers to a type of specialty ale brewed in the Belgian-style, often served on special occasions or at festivals.  This is a style of beer that has very strong characteristics, and connoisseurs of the brew making art will appreciate the bold flavor.

Michigan Brewing's Celis Grand Cru is brewed with the vintage traditional recipe of fine malt and hops, Saaz (a Czech Republic aroma hop), and spices with citrus. Celis Grand Cru pours nicely producing an appropriate head with complex flavor that is true to tradition. This is excellent ale to serve with beef, wild game, or anything with accommodating bold flavors.

High Seas IPA – India Pale Ale refers to a type of ale that is very pale in color due to the malting process and because it could be transported for long periods of time, hence the name "India Pale Ale."  East Indian traders would transport this type of ale by ship to India, but it was also widely brewed and transported on ships traveling across the globe. 

Michigan Brewing's High Seas IPA is nice blend of complex malts and hops that pours nicely and follows with a light head.  Although I would refer to India pale ale as more of a light, yet complex and bitter ale, it truly has a flavor that discerning aficionados can appreciate.  This is an excellent beer to serve with poultry, fish, or hanging out just eating wings and watching the game.


Snake River Brewing Company

Snake River Pale Ale – A modern-style pale ale using domestic malts and hops best describes this common-man brew.  Today, this type of pale ale is very prevalent in the U.S. in terms of mass-production, but many micro-brewed pale ales use a more vintage recipe. 

Snake River Brewing's Pale Ale has a real Pacific-Northwest micro-brew vibe, with a smooth citrus flavor that finishes with a classic bitter tone.  This finely-tuned pale ale pours nicely with a light head, and beautifully clean color.  Common-man would fit the smooth flavor with this beer, as anyone would appreciate it.  This excellent ale compliments salads, fruit, poultry, fish, or anything with a light flavor.

Snake River Zonker Stout – Stout refers to a type of specialty ale that is extremely bold and complex.  It is also referred to as Porter because it was popular with the street and river porters of London. 

This is a style of beer that is not for the faint of heart and commands respect. Stouts typically use roasted barley, as well as chocolate and caramel malts, that produce an intense flavor with a dark black color. 

Snake River Zonker Stout pours nice and smooth, with a thick head and color.  The flavor is astonishing, yet it has a very complex flavor and finish only a true connoisseur would appreciate.  This is an old-world or foreign-type of brew and excellent to serve with smoked meats, wild game, pungent cheeses, chocolates, or anything with a strong and complex flavor.

If you are looking for a great gift, we highly recommend Clubs of America Beer of the Month subscription. Additional monthly clubs include: Wine Club, Flower Club, Fruit Club, Cigar Club, Coffee Club, Chocolate Club and Pizza Club.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: Copyright © The Cheap Gourmet and Kathy Browning 2010. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright and intellectual property rights. Reproducing or electronically submitting this article without written permission from the author is prohibited by law. Govern yourself accordingly. Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Disclaimer: The Cheap Gourmet earns a one-time customer referral fee for Beer of the Month Club sales generated through our marketing efforts.  Supporting our carefully selected vendors allows us to continue offering recipes to our visitors at no charge.

10 Things I Love About Real Simple Magazine

This month's giveaway is a one-year subscription to Real Simple magazine. Real Simple is one of my favorite publications because it truly does simplify my life. In the spirit of December countdown, I would like to share 10 Things I Love About Real Simple magazine:

10: Home and Organizing: New Uses for Old Things ~ Got rubber bands? Real Simple shows you how to use them to decorate Easter Eggs, open jars, bring order to your dishwasher or wrap a gift.  Have an old Twister game mat lying around? Use it as a tablecloth for a children's party (although grown-ups like it too!). Tired of searching for hair barrettes, scrunchies and ponytail ties? Use a… (click here for the answer).

9. Green Living: This section of Real Simple shows you how to recycle and reuse anything. Did you know you can use plastic grocery bags as knee pads, hand protectors, paint brush preservers, and rain hats? Discover more recycling tips and start the New Year off by being green!

8. How to Pack a Suitcase: Planning to travel during the holiday season? If so, you don't want to miss this great video on packing your suitcase. Learn the secrets of packing light and avoid expensive luggage fees!

7. Beauty and Fashion: Ever wonder what ingredients are in your skincare products? Real Simple provides a comprehensive list to help you determine what to look for and what to avoid.

6. Health and Nutrition: Ready to shed those extra pounds? Real Simple provides 20 Little Ways to Drop Pounds, which includes smart tips for taking off and keeping off unwanted baggage.

5. Mind and Mood: Do you worry too much? Are you stressed out? Need more energy? Too wound up? Real Simple provides simple techniques to stay calm, become energized and stop worrying, along with 29 low-cost, make-you-smile ideas.

4. Money: If you're like most people, you're looking for ways to slash expenses. Real Simple shows you How to Save $5,000 in 2010 without cutting back on essentials.

3. Holidays and Entertaining: Need help planning a party? Real Simple has you covered. From weddings to birthdays and baking to buying gifts, you'll find everything you need to make every occasion special.

2. Food and Recipes: Looking for decorative tabletop ideas? Real Simple provides a gallery of 26 Beautiful Table Settings guaranteed to make your guests feel special and turn you into a decorating goddess.

1. Food and Recipes – It only makes sense that my favorite section is Recipes! This year I plan to focus more on healthy foods that provide fewer calories but offer a burst of flavor. Have you ever noticed that a lot of healthy foods taste like cardboard? Well, no more! Real Simple offers an entire section dedicated to Healthy Meals. Start the New Year off in the right direction by including these tasty, yet healthy, recipes into your weekly meal planning.

Learn more about Real Simple magazine at www.RealSimple.com. Order a subscription for yourself and a friend. And, while you're there be certain to subscribe to Real Simple newsletters to receive Weekly Tips, Daily Finds, Daily Thought and Daily Recipes.

Introducing Teavana "Gifts with Meaning"

As we head into the final days of holiday shopping, I'd like to introduce you to Teavana "Gifts with Meaning". If you are still searching for great holidays gifts, Tevana could very well be the last place you'll need to shop!

Teavana provides fresh, high quality premium loose leaf teas and exceptionally unique gifts. Tea selections include: white, black, green, oolong, herbal, rooibos, mate, blooming, decaf and organic. My personal favorites include blooming, oolong and rooibos.

If you've never experienced blooming teas, you MUST check these out. Blooming teas are round balls of tea which "bloom" as they steep. Most of Teavana's blooming teas include Jasmine blossoms, which can aid in relieving stress, anxiety and headaches. Aren't we all suffering from that about now?

TEAVANA "GIFTS WITH MEANING" COLLECTIONS:

Teavana Gifts with Meaning are theme gifts and include: Love, Friendship, Beauty, Happiness, Strength, Hope, Wisdom, Good Fortune and Longevity.

Love gifts include teapot sets, coasters and trivets adorned with Eastern symbols of Love such as a butterfly, dragonfly or lotus root. Love gifts range in price from $6.00 for Azteca Fire Herbal Tea (a blend of chocolate and strawberries blended with chili peppers) to $189.95 for an exquisite Butterfly Garden Bone China Tea Set.

Friendship gifts are adorned with pine needles, the Eastern symbol for friendship. Friendship gift prices start at $12.95 for a pine needle tea cup to $220 for a one-year subscription to the Classic Tea of the Month Club (six month subscriptions are available for $120). My personal favorite Teavana Friendship gift is the Heavenly Birds Bone China Tea Tumbler; a tumbler that includes a stainless steel strainer; allowing your friends to steep tea while on-the-go. It's ingenious!

Beauty gifts feature Eastern symbols of beauty including elegant cherry, plum and magnolia blossoms or the graceful swan. Beauty gifts include Eastern Beauty Oolong Tea, Queen of Babylon White Tea, Green Cherry Blossom Sushi Set, Bella Luna Tea Gift Collection, a gorgeous Grand Peacock Infuser Tea Mug and much more!

Good Fortune gifts are a great way to give loved ones wishes for a prosperous New Year. Decorated with Eastern symbols of good fortune and prosperity such as koi fish, peony flowers, grapevine and coins. Good fortune gift selections include a coins cast iron tea cup, Abundance teapot set, monkey picked Oolong tea, Magnolia blue bone china set, Prosperity Koi cast iron teapot and more.

These are just a few of my favorite things at Teavana. There are plenty more, but it's best if you visit their website and spend time browsing around. That's where I'm heading to finish my holiday shopping. Maybe I'll see you there?

Take a moment to leave a comment  on any blog post and you will automatically be entered into our December giveaway. One lucky winner will receive a one year subscription to Real Simple magazine. Find more holiday gift ideas at www.RealSimple.com.

Happy Holidays!

The Cheap Gourmet

Five Resources for Holiday Gifts Under $20

'Tis the season for holiday shopping! Today, I'd like to share some of my favorite resources for holiday gifts under $20. There is no reason to break the bank or rack up credit card debt. The season should be jolly, not expensive! I think you will enjoy these wonderful holiday gift ideas and wish you a happy shopping adventure!

Learn more about each company and the gifts they offer by clicking on the banner located under descriptions. Each will open into a new browser; allowing you to comparison shop and locate the best deals for everyone on your holiday gift list.

Five Resources for Holiday Gifts Under $20

Adagio Teas and accessories have been featured on HGTV's "I Want That", Food and Wine Magazine, Epicurious, Washington Post, Prevention and Time Magazine. Tea selections include: Black, Flavored, Chai, Oolong, White, Green, Herbal, Rooibos, Decaf, Blooms, Blends and Iced.

Adagio offers a wide range of unique gifts for any occasion. Popular holiday gifts under $20 include: IngenuiTEA; an easy-to-use teapot that makes brewing loose tea effortless, priced at $19 and the Holiday Teas sampler set of six one-ounce tins of flavored loose teas including: candy apple, candy cane, chestnut, cranberry, gingerbread and pumpkin spice, priced at $11.

Ghiradelli Chocolate has been offering gourmet chocolates to Americans for more than 150 years. Ghiradelli has created a "12 Days of Christmas" shopping guide, with 8 of the 12 gifts priced under $20.

Under $20 selections include: 2-pack Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas Squares Gift Pack;  4-pack Premium Ghiradelli Hot Cocoa; 2-pack Limited Edition Peppermint Bark Squares Chocolates; 2-pack Limited Edition Chocolate Pecan Squares Chocolates; 5-pack Limited Edition Milk and Caramel Latte Prestige Bar; 5-pack Limited Edition Peppermint Bark Prestige Bar; and 2-pack Limited Edition Holiday Assortment Chocolate Squares.

Mrs. Beasley's is known as "Hollywood's Favorite Bakery" and offers a wide selection of decadently unique gourmet goodies. Choose from eleven holiday gifts under $20 including: five varieties of chocolate coated apples (my personal fav is the Snowball Caramel Apple), Rum Raisin Cake, Mrs. Beasley's Holiday Cake, and Holiday Cookies, Goodies and Nuts.

I love Mrs. Beasley's gifts and could easily spend a small fortune, but their gifts are unique and are perfect for those hard-to-buy-for people. They also carry an excellent line of corporate gifts including towers, gift baskets, corporate logo and photo cookies.

Starbucks Store – Everybody loves Starbucks products and you'll find plenty of fresh, fun holiday gifts under $20 at the Starbucks Store. One of my favorites is the "Wish Kit Gift Set" which includes six 1-ounce packages of White Holland Mints, six Wish cards, and six Treat boxes. These are perfect for passing out to co-workers, neighbors, postal carriers, and stocking stuffers.

Other Starbucks gifts under $20 include Tea Sampler Gift Box by Tazo Tea, Powdered Cocoa Trio, Coffee Mug gift box with Starbucks logo mug, coffee sample and cookie, Coffee and Treats Gift Pack, and Caramel Macchiato Kit.

Superior Nut Store has more holiday gifts under $20 than you can shake a stick at. Discover a whole new world of chocolate covered nuts, nuts and mixed nuts gift tins, chocolate covered fruits, dried fruits, almond bark, nut butters, gummy bears and much, much more.

Superior Nut Store is a great year-round resource for gifts and household items. Many products are available in bulk and perfect for neighborhood food co-op's. Roasted nuts are certified Kosher and every product is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

The Cheap Gourmet November Winner and December Giveaway

The Cheap Gourmet is pleased to announce Roxanne of NewSmyrnaBeachMom.com as the winner of the November Giveaway. Roxanne has won the Holiday Greeting Card Gift Pack from DogCaptionsCards.com. Congratulations Roxanne! Please check your email account for information about how to receive your gift and thank you for being a loyal fan of The Cheap Gourmet Blog!

Next, I'm excited to announce our December giveaway. This month, Real Simple magazine, a division of Time, Inc. Lifestyle Group is generously offering a one-year subscription to their amazing magazine.

I received a complimentary copy of the December issue and let me tell you, this magazine is packed with holiday gift ideas, health and beauty tips, fashion and party accessories, holiday decorating ideas, quick-and-easy recipes, and tons of money-saving coupons from a wide range of popular stores and manufacturers.

 Here are just a few items you'll find in the December issue of Real Simple magazine:

* 50 Gifts Under $50, plus stocking stuffers under $15 and inspired ideas for homemade presents

* 10 Sweet (and quick) Holiday Cookie Recipes

* No-nonsense Strategies for Better Winter Skin

*Easy Make-Ahead Hors d'Oeuvres

*How to Make Your Favorite Clothes Last Longer

* How to Save on Seasonal Decorations and Avoid Holiday–Air-travel Charges

*Party Accessories: 17 Dazzling Finds for $90 or under

* Happy Wrapping: 21 Inventive Ideas to Festoon your Presents

In sticking with the theme of Real Simple, the only eligibility requirements for The Cheap Gourmet December Giveaway is to leave a comment on any blog post. This giveaway is open to residents within the continental U.S. One winner will be selected at random on January 1, 2010. This prize is provided directly through the sponsor.

I encourage you to grab a copy of the December issue of Real Simple magazine. Not only will you find great gift ideas and deals, you will discover a plethora of unique vendors offerings exceptionally unique gifts. Real Simple is an fabulous gift idea; particularly for those on your list who are hard to buy for.

Learn more about Real Simple magazine by visiting their website at www.RealSimple.com. Take advantage of the Special 2-for-1 Holiday Offer. Buy one subscription and receive a second subscription for free!

Please support our sponsor whose generosity allows The Cheap Gourmet to provide exciting and exclusive giveaways to our readers.

Good Luck in December Giveaway and have a wonderful, love-filled holiday season!

ShopWiki: A Revolutionary Way to Shop

Have you heard about ShopWiki? If not, you're in for a real treat. But, before I expand on all that is offered, I would like to share something with you first. Considering we're in a recession, my New Year's resolution is to save more money. So, I've been developing a plan to spend less for items I buy. That's where ShopWiki comes in.

You see, I was doing a little holiday shopping last week (weren't we all??). I was looking for a stand mixer for myself. I recently created a recipe for Monkey Bread that is absolutely to die for! I'd share it with you, but my plan is to sell my mouth-watering creations to local restaurants and bakeries. If all goes according to plan, I hope to eventually open my own bakery.

Anyhoo, while searching for the various types of stand mixers, I ran across the ShopWiki website. What's cool about this place is it provides an abundance of info on just about any product known to man. Even better, you can easily find out who is offering the best price.

Before I discovered ShopWiki.com, I thought KitchenAid was the only company who offered the type of stand mixer I was looking for. Much to my surprise, I discovered there are several manufacturers including DeLonghi, Hamilton Beach, Jenn Air, KitchenAid, Sunbeam and Westbend.

Using the information provided at ShopWiki, I decided to invest in the KitchenAid Artisan Series. Although I originally wanted the pink stand mixer, I went with Empire Red because it is so incredibly sleek looking.

 

The beautiful thing about ShopWiki is the fact that they provide listings of all the stores that carry the product you are looking for. In my case, I discovered that this gorgeous KitchenAid stand mixer was sold at Home Depot. Honestly, I wouldn't have even considered shopping for mixers at Home Depot. I'd be more inclined to go to Williams-Sonoma or Cooking.com.

I swear there was some Divine Intervention going on because the day before I went on my shopping quest, my husband had received a $200 gift card to Home Depot from one of his relatives. Being the wonderful husband that he is, he gave me the gift card to purchase the mixer.

I've been whipping up my gourmet monkey bread for the past two days and can't wait to give these tasty treats to my neighbors and friends. Thanks to the KitchenAid, I can easily make my own bread dough -- the main ingredient in this decadent treat.

In closing, I highly recommend using ShopWiki before you head out the door. Doing so helped me make an informed decision and saved me a lot of dough (no pun intended!).

One more thing... Be sure to check out the Food Guide at ShopWiki. Here you'll discover a wealth of information on chocolate, cheese, spices, oils, vinegars, meat and much more. Once you spend a little time perusing the pages, you'll never have to worry about what to serve for dinner again. ShopWiki has definitely become my favorite place to shop and I'm certain it will help me achieve my savings goals for 2009.

Happy Holidays!!

My Toastmaster Toaster Oven - May You Rest in Peace

My beloved Toastmaster Toaster Oven died yesterday. To the best of my recollection, my sister gave me my Toastmaster as a housewarming gift nearly 15 years ago. As you can see, it served me well. In our household the toaster oven is an integral part of cooking, so I decided to snoop around online and comparison shop. I love being able to shop from home, don't you? Especially with the cost of gas these days!

I came across a website called Wize. This consumer research and product review site provides a wealth of knowledge on just about any type of product you could ever want or need. Wize.com provided me with 132 toaster oven reviews.

You can narrow your search by clicking on various parameters such as price range or manufacturer. The first thing I did was check to see if Toastmaster still offered the model that died. Unfortunately, they do not, but they do have a toaster oven nearly identical. The Toastmaster TOV200 offers convection cooking, which is a feature I have oftentimes said I wish the old unit offered.

The reviews weren't all that favorable on the Toastmaster brand, so I decided to see what other options were available. Being cheap, I started out by looking at toaster ovens in the "Less Than $40" category. This yielded 19 results, but none had a very high WizeRank.

Wize.com has a rating system and each product displays a button showing how consumers rank their product. According the site, a rank of 90-100 means you can buy with confidence. 75-90 means the product might meet your needs. I was looking for a toaster oven that fell into the 90-100 category.

After reviewing the various price categories, I noticed a "New Releases" link. I clicked and there it was... the perfect toaster oven! First of all, this toaster oven is manufactured by Cuisinart. I LOVE Cuisinart products and have never had a bit of trouble with them. This stainless steel beauty can bake, broil and toast AND offers the convection oven I longed for. It has room for six slices of toast, which is perfect for my family. Now I'll be able to toast bread for our BLT's and no one will have to eat cold toast ;-)

Once I decided on my toaster oven, I was provided with three places where I could buy it online. Prices ranged from $99 through eBay to $139 through Amazon. Which do you think I chose? I clicked on the eBay link, entered my info and poof, my toaster oven will be on its way next week.

Although it cost a bit more money than I anticipated paying, I feel I got a pretty good deal. The Cuisinart cost $123.19 including shipping. If it lasts as long as the last one, the amortized cost is about $8.20 per year. That's quite a bargain, eh?

It was sad to dump my Toastmaster in the trash can. I felt as if I should have given her a proper burial considering all the years of service. So, I placed her in a trash bag and tied the handles in a bow.

Next time you need a toaster oven or want to research a variety of products, check out Wize.com. It's a really cool community where you can chat with a live representative and ask questions about the products or leave a review of your own. Overall, I give it 5-stars and will definitely use the service again.

OliveNation.com ~ For Italian Food Lovers

Are you passionate about authentic Italian cooking? Then I have a resource for YOU! Olive Nation offers an abundance of authentic Italian Olive Oils, aged Balsamic Vinegars, Pastas, Sea Salts, cookbooks and gifts.

Several years ago, I worked at a 5-star Country Club, famous for their amazing desserts. We served a dainty dessert on Mother's Day that consisted of raspberries filled with balsamic vinegar and dusted with powdered sugar. Shortbread cookies, spread with fresh lemon curd were arranged along the edge of a china plate with the raspberries positioned in the middle. The flavor was out of this world and I practically begged the Chef for the recipe. He never would relinquish it.

While visiting Olive Nation, I discovered the recipe and nearly fell out of my chair with excitement! Olive Nation uses San Giacomo, a Balsamic vinegar that has been aged in barrels for 5 to 7 years. Imagine my surprise when I looked at the bottle and realized this is the exact brand we used at the Country Club.

Olive Nation offers a wide range of Balsamic Vinegars. This thick, sweet smelling vinegar is made from the unfermented juice of grapes and slowly aged in wooden barrels. True gourmet Balsamic vinegars are aged from 6 months to several years, whereas the ones sold in grocery stores are aged in stainless steel tanks for only a few months. Once you taste the authentic Balsamic Vinegars offered at Olive Nation, you'll never settle for less!

As you may already know, I am a huge fan of Olive Oil and use it in nearly all my cooking endeavors. Olive oil is made from olives. First they are milled to turn them into a paste. Next, they are put under pressure to extract their oil. Olive oils are graded based on their acidity level. Extra virgin olive oil contains an acid level of less than 1-percent and presents a rich and intense flavor. Virgin olive oil typically registers an acidic level of 1- to 3-percent.

Olive Nation offers a variety of olive oil from various regions within Italy. From the southeast region of Apulia to northwest region of Tuscany, you'll find mild, bold and fruity olive oils for every occasion.

Looking for authentic Italian pasta? You'll fall in love with the selection available at Olive Nation. From organic spaghetti, penne, eliche (corkscrew) and egg tagliatelle to corn ditalini and a corn pasta sampler, you'll be certain to find something to get your creative Italian juices flowing.

Sea salt is a necessary part of Italian cooking and Olive Nation offers a wonderful selection for all your cooking needs. Olive Nation sea salts are harvested by hand and dried under the Italian summer sun. No preservatives or chemicals are added to this gift from Nature. Once you try the real thing, you'll be hooked for life. The difference in taste is absolutely astounding!

Olive Nation has an entire section dedicated to Italian recipes. Here you'll discover authentic pasta dishes including Spaghetti with Lemon Cream and Peppers, Summer Pasta Salad and Penne Pasta with Zucchini and Pecorino Cheese. Other recipes selections include Oven Roasted Sweet Potato Fries, Roasted Shrimp with Garlic Oil, Coffee Macaroons and my all-time favorite Italian dessert, Tiramisu.

Currently, Olive Nation is offering FREE shipping on orders placed before February 11th. It's their Valentine's Day gift to you. Each product is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Gift certificates are available in amounts for $10 to $250.

Learn more about Olive Nation, shop in the online store and discover amazing authentic Italian recipes at www.OliveNation.com.

Linens-N-Things Special Warm-Up Promotions

I finally found the cordless Vacu-Seal I've been looking for since November. Believe it or not, I located it at Linens-N-Things. I had no idea they carried kitchen gadgets, gourmet food, Rachel Ray cookware, bakeware, cutlery and pretty much anything you need to outfit your kitchen.

What's even better is Linen-N-Things is having a huge sale. Current promotions include:

$10 Rebate on EuroPro 6 Quart Slow Cooker plus Bonus Little Cooker with purchase.
Details: Priced at $29.99 after rebate. Rebate by mail. Offer valid until 2/06/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

Save $30 on Cook at Home 16 Piece Hard Anodized Cookware Set.
Details: Regularly priced at $129.99. Offer valid until 2/06/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

Buy One, Get One 50% Off on sale priced Martex Deluxe Heated Mattress Pad.
Details: Now priced at $29.99-$59.99. Available in Twin, King, California King sizes. Offer valid until 1/27/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

$10 Rebate on EuroPro 6-Slice Convection Oven.
Details: Priced at $39.99 after rebate. Rebate by mail. Offer valid until 2/06/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up

Free Shipping Plus Save 50% Off Wireless Boom Chairs.
Details: Offer valid until 1/27/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

New! South Hampton 8-Piece Comforter Set, only $79.99.
Details: Set includes comforter, 2 shams, 2 Euro shams, bedskirt and 2 accent pillows. Set is available in 3 contemporary colors. Offer valid until 02/06/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

Save $40! Lexington 8-Pc Comforter Super Set.
Details: Regularly priced at $99.99. Offer valid until 2/06/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

8 Piece 450 Thread Count Cotton Sheet Set, $49.99.
Details: Available in queen - King, California King sizes. Offer valid until 2/06/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

Save 25% on Entire Stock Decorative Window Hardware.
Details: Offer valid until 2/06/08.  Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

FREE $50 Gift Card with purchase of Entire Stock Eddie Bauer Comforters.
Details: Gift card by mail. Offer valid until 2/06/08. Save on Shipping, Choose In Store Pick Up.

To begin your Linens-N-Things shopping experience click on the banner below. If you're cheap like me, you're going to love this blow-out sale!

 

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas from Black Hound New York

It's hard to believe Valentine's Day is just around the corner, isn't it? I don't know about you, but even though Valentine's Day has become exceptionally commercialized, I still love to indulge my family and friends with a shower of love-gifts.

In the past, I would spend hours making handmade chocolates, truffles, chocolate covered cherries and fudge. Unfortunately, I no longer have the time to make homemade goodies for Valentine's Day. Instead, I utilize the power of the Internet and do 99.9% of my shopping online. I have found many great deals online and wanted to share one of my favorites with you today.

Black Hound New York: Now, this place isn't cheap by any means, but it's still a good deal. When I make homemade truffles, I typically spend around $100 to make six dozen. That comes out to about $1.38 per truffle. Black Hound New York has a box of 20-25 assorted truffles for $25, making their cost between $1.00-$1.25 each. As much as I hate to admit it, Black Hound New York truffles taste better than my homemade truffles AND they are packaged in a pretty box.

 

If you want to go all out, Black Hound New York offers an amazing Chocolate Creation Basket. This completely edible chocolate basket is filled with a cornucopia of chocolate treats including bittersweet chocolate truffles infused with liqueurs, white truffles, milk chocolate truffles, chocolate almond bark and chocolate hazelnut clusters. I'm telling you, it's to die for! I bought two of these last year for Valentines gifts. One of my friends (sorry Jo!) didn't receive hers. Bet you can't guess where it went, LOL.

Black Hound New York also has this very interesting Chocolate Pyramid, which I haven't tried yet, but plan to do so in the near future. It's described on the website as, "Velvety layers of bittersweet chocolate infused with Grand Marnier, milk chocolate infused with Framboise, and white chocolate infused with Calvados buried inside a luxurious coating of cocoa dusted bittersweet Belgian chocolate." Grand Marnier is a liquer made from a blend of cognacs and distilled essence of orange. Framboise is a Belgian beer that is fermented using raspberries and Calvados is apple brandy. Sounds intoxicating doesn't it?

Black Hound New York has an entire section dedicated to Valentine's Day gifts. From cakes to cookies and chocolates to pastries, you're certain to find something that will satisfy the tastebuds of all those you shower with love-gifts. To visit Black Hound New York website, click on the banner below.

470 Crockpot Recipes

Since we've been sharing Crockpot recipes this past week, I wanted to let you know about a place where you can get all the Crockpot recipes you could ever want. Over at Crock Recipe Pot, you'll find a phenomenal bargain -- 470 Crockpot recipes in digital format for less than $20. You can download them instantly and start cooking today!

470 Crockpot Recipes provides a solution for those who have a hectic lifestyle. And, who doesn't these days? All you have to do is prep your ingredients the night before. The next morning, get up 10 minutes early and pop everything into your Crockpot. When you come home from work, your house will smell divine and dinner will be ready. Now, that's almost as good as having a private chef isn't it?

Crockpots can be used to cook soups, stews, casseroles, meats, poultry, fish, seafood and even desserts. With 470 Crockpot Recipes you'll never be bored with the same ole' weekly meal routine. You could try something new for more than a year and never eat the same thing twice.

But wait, that's not all... (sorry, I couldn't resist!)

The founder of Crock Recipe Pot is a generous soul. When you order 470 Crockpot Recipes ebook, you'll also receive numerous bonus cookbooks including: Chicken Recipes, Fish Recipes, Chocolate Recipes, Desserts, Soups, Stews and much more. In fact, you'll receive a collection of ebook cookbooks which provide more than 8000 recipes. Now that's what I call a great deal!

If you love Crockpot cooking, you'll want to invest in this amazing collection of Crockpot Recipes. Just click on this link to order your copy of 470 Crockpot Recipes TODAY!

Le Gourmet TV

Recently, I discovered Le Gourmet TV, an interactive gourmet cooking website packed with step-by-step cooking videos. What I like about Le Gourmet TV is not only can you watch how recipes are put together, you can also learn a great deal about cooking.

Le Gourmet TV also includes videos on how to choose the proper cooking equipment, how to pair wine and cheese with your meals, how to choose the proper type of beer and a "Field to Table" section which promotes Sustainable Living.

In addition, Le Gourmet TV offers a variety of channels with easy-to-understand videos. You'll find a channel for Baking, BBQ, Beer, Cheese, Coffee, Preserves, Whiskey, Wine and Tea. Other channels include the Chef Series, Cooking Gear and Roadside Menu.

Click here to visit Le Gourmet TV now or click the link below to continue reading this post.

Fingerhut Holiday Sale! Save an Extra 50% on Kitchen & Household Items

Psssssst... Fingerhut is having a HUGE Holiday Sale. For a limited time, you can save an extra 50% on already marked down Clearance Items. Many of the products are shipped directly from the manufacturer, so you won't be able to order anything from Fingerhut in time for Christmas. However, you can save a boatload of money.

The additional 50% discount is offered on all of Fingerhut's Clearance Items. This includes handy kitchen gadgets, housekeeping and organization products, apparel for the entire family, health and beauty products, home decor, indoor and outdoor furniture, and much more.

Simplify Your Life with Menu Planning Central

I recently discovered a wonderful place that is perfect for families on the go. It's called Menu Planning Central and they offer a unique service I believe you will appreciate. The founder, Christine Steendahl, has devised a system that delivers a menu plan, recipes and a categorized shopping list.

Menu Planning Central offers three menu categories including: Family Friendly Menu, Healthy Menu and Vegetarian Menu. As a member, you receive 4 weekly menus from each category complete with recipes and shopping list. Talk about simplifying your life!

As if that weren't enough, Menu Planning Central also offers a really cool "My Menu Maker" software program that allows you to create custom menus. You can use the recipes from the weekly menus provided by Menu Planning Central or enter your own.

Now, you might be thinking this service is expensive, but it's not. After all, you're talking to The Cheap Gourmet here. I wouldn't recommend an expensive product, now would I? Believe it or not, you can subscribe to Menu Planning Central for less than the cost of a fast-food meal for a family of four.

Using Menu Planning Central can save you a boatload of money in food expense; particularly if your family frequently eats out. And, you'll benefit from having family meals that everyone enjoys.

Last, but not least, Menu Planning Central is currently offering some really nice and beneficial bonus gifts when you subscribe to their monthly service. You'll receive Kid Approved Meals, which consists of 13 weeks of kid-approved breakfast and lunch recipes - with shopping lists, of course! Then, there's the Smart Mom Library, a collection of nine ebooks that help you be healthier, save time and money. Plus, you receive a free 30-day membership in the Menu Planning Club.

Organization is the key to cooking success. Menu Planning Central is a tool that can simplify your life, free up your time, save you some money, and help you prepare meals that your entire family can enjoy together. What could be better than that?

Click the banner below to learn more about Menu Planning Central and CLAIM YOUR FREE Menu Planning Basics Report. 

Win $1000 Worth of Free Steaks

Omaha Steaks is currently running a contest to win $1000 worth of free steaks. All you have to do is provide your email address and you will automatically be entered in the drawing. If you haven't shopped with Omaha Steaks before, you're going to be in for a real treat!

Omaha Steaks offer a vast array of steaks, seafood, poultry, veal, pork and lamb. Choose from incredible pasta dishes including lasagna, ravioli and fettuccine alfredo. Make dinnertime easy and delicious with frozen prepared meals including family style meals, premium beef meals, gourmet chicken meals, great start breakfasts and more.

The Ultimate Sampler normally retails for $201.00, but it's currently on sale for $59.99. That's a savings of $141.01. Additionally, Omaha Steaks is offering 4 free gifts with the purchase of the Ultimate Sampler, including: 6 Omaha Steak Burgers, 6-piece Cutlery Set, Cutting Board and a very handy Document Bag.

Omaha Steaks also has you covered on side dishes, appetizers, sauces and seasonings, and the most delectable desserts you have ever tasted!

As if that weren't enough, Omaha Steaks offers a nice selection of monthly or quarterly Gift Plans, along with cookbooks, wines and even pet treats.

Stop by Omaha Steaks website and enter your name in the $1000 Free Steaks drawing. While you're there poke around and see all that they offer. Their monthly Gift Plans are perfect for the person on your holiday gift list that is hard to buy for or already has everything.

If you're planning to entertain guests during the holidays, try the Ultimate Sampler which includes:

4 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons,
4 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins,
4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops,
8 (3 oz.) Gourmet Franks,
4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers,
10 portions of Potatoes au Gratin

Gourmet Italian Sausage

If you're looking for freshest homemade Italian sausage, pasta, sauces, and Italian specialties, than today is your lucky day! Landi's Pork Store is Brooklyn, NY offers their line of specialty products via their website. Landi's original rice balls were featured on "Road Tested"; one of the Food Network's programs.

Not only will you find a multitude of fine food choices, you'll also be privy to an assortment of recipes. My personal favorite is Sausage, Cabbage and Potatoes.

To learn more about Landi's Pork Store, visit their website at www.BrooklynPorkStore.com.

Ten Things I Love About the Food Network

If you love cooking as much as I do, chances are good you are familiar with the Food Network. If not, be sure to visit their website at FoodNetwork.com. Not only do I spend way too many hours watching their incredible line-up of cooking shows, I also spend too much time at their website.

The problem is the Food Network is addictive. There is an abundance of good stuff and from the look of things, they update their website on a regular basis. There's always new stuff to learn and new recipes to try. I'm certain you'll find an abundance of things to love about the Food Network too. To help you get started, I've compiled a list of my ten favorite things...

1. Bobby Flay - The star of "Boy Meets Grill" and "Throwdown with Bobby Flay". I love both these shows, but think Boy Meets Grill must be on hiatus because it hasn't been on for awhile. Bobby is just downright cute and fun to watch. Who knows, maybe someday I'll meet him in person??
2. Everyday Italian - Giada De Laurentiis is the hostess and she is adorable. She offers easy and delicious Italian recipes. You simply must check out her recipe selection on the Food Network website. Marvelous-O!
3. Ace of Cakes - Duff Goldman is the host, but his entire team of bakers are frequently spotlighted in the show. They create the most incredible cakes on the planet. Oh, to have that kind of talent!
4. Unwrapped - Marc Summers hosts this educational and entertaining show that takes you behind-the-scenes to see how stuff is made. They recently toured "Hungry Howie's" which is a pizza delivery company that we order from all the time. Unwrapped features all kinds of crazy stuff, so be sure to watch an episode or two.
5. Challenges - These shows are competitions between chefs who are competing for a large check -- usually around $10,000. The challenges have included gingerbread houses, theme cakes, cakes made from rice cereal, and sugar sculpture competitions, to name a few. It's amazing to see what these chefs and bakers are able to create out of food.
6. Tasty Travel - This section of the Food Network website is really cool. It contains listing of restaurants in major cities around the globe. On each city page you'll find information about various restaurants, travel tips, links to hotels, recipes and more. It's quite informative!
7. Kitchen Design - Currently, we're planning a kitchen remodel and I have spent hours exploring this section of the Food Network website. You can learn everything you need to know - from choosing the best paint color to installing a sink. You can watch how-to videos, read articles, and even purchase products online. It's a beautiful thing!
8. Cooking - Everything you could possibly ever want to know about cooking can be found in this section of the Food Network website. And I do mean EVERYTHING! From cooking with your kids to holiday baking, you'll find recipes, cooking videos, cooking encyclopedia and tons more. Even if you have never boiled water, the Cooking section can quickly turn you into a gourmet cook!
9. Contests and Offers - The Food Network is always offering some kind of cool contest or sweepstakes. The grand prize always involves something related to cooking. It might be a cooking vacation, an opportunity to meet one of the network's chefs, or winning a kitchen remodel or set of professional cookware. The prizes are always great and I hope to win big one of these days!
10. The Food Network Store - Here's an easy place to melt your plastic. Everything you could possibly want can be found in the online store. You can order products offered by your favorite cooking celeb. Love Emeril's spices? You can order them online. How about Paula Deen's recipes? You can order her cookbooks directly from the website. If you're ever stuck for a gift idea, hop on over to the Food Network Store and your shopping problem will be solved.

These are my top ten. Feel free to let me know what your favorite aspect of the Food Network is. I know there are a lot of you who love the network as much as I do. I'd love to hear from you!