Shaky shake shake

Every time it gets chilly outside, I wish that I was once again 7 years old and sitting in mama's kitchen while she cooks up a storm. I remember all the banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes) we'd make during snow days, or the bun and chao (rice porridge) on cold rainy days. To this day, every time it gets cold I wish I could get my hands on a sizzling pan, some pork, shrimp, and a head of lettuce to pour myself a banh xeo or two.

Since moving down to Houston, I've tried to spend more time in the kitchen. Cooking is something that I love, but can never quite find time for. Although this week may be one of the busiest weeks I've had so far, but then again every week seems to get busier than the last, I was determined to leave work early enough to cook a nice homemade meal instead of bumming off of Matt, sitting down at a restaurant, heating up soup, or just making a sandwich.

Tonight I decided to go with shaky beef. This is a recipe from my second favorite (mother is the first of course) source of recipes for my all time Vietnamese favorites: Ravenous Couple.

It's a relatively quick and easy dish with a lot of ingredients that can be found in the refrigerator, or easily substituted.

Spinach quiche has also been a quick favorite (although horribly unhealthy), hummus and guacamole and tzatziki are easy snacks, and I'm anxiously awaiting my clay pot so I can perfect my Ca Kho To (Vietnamese braised fish). I'll have to try harder to document future feats in the kitchen.

Next up, cheese and chocolate fondue. So stay tuned...