The 3rd Annual Tasting Brooklyn

Posted on February 21, 2013 by amandamactas

Last year, I had the pleasure of attending a great foodie event, Tasting Brooklyn. This year, the 3rd Annual Tasting Brooklyn will take place on April 16th from 6:30-9pm at The Green Building. Tickets just went on sale February 19th, so if you want to partake in this delicious and filling event, purchase yours quickly – it has sold out in advance both previous years, and it is worth it!

Picture courtesy of Donny Tsang from Tasting Brooklyn 2011

What can you expect at Tasting Brooklyn? Food, food, and more food! Brooklyn’s best restaurants will feature tasty dishes for guests to try, including hot spots like Allswell, Dassara, Fort Reno, The Saint Austere, and many more. Need something to wash it all down with? No problem! Drinks will be provided by brands like Brooklyn Gin, Sixpoint Beer, Cacao Prieto, Clover Club and more.

Picture courtesy of Donny Tsang from Tasting Brooklyn 2011

Tickets can be purchased here for $50 ($75 for VIP; includes exclusive preview from 5:30-6:30pm and gift bag of locally made Brooklyn treats). Proceeds from the event will benefit the Brooklyn Recovery Fund, which supports local nonprofit organizations working with communities and individuals affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Crocking Away…Tasty Turkey Chili

Posted on February 20, 2013 by kam0605

Hello all! I am Katrina, and have been writing since I was 17, and have been interested in food since I was 15, and got my first “real” job, working in a bakery down the block from my high school. I however, like to cook and eat healthy 24/7. Yes, I will grab a slice of pizza every now and then, but why bother, when I can make my own on whole wheat dough, with low-fat cheese, low-sodium sauce, and turkey pepperoni? You catch my drift…I love food, and love to cook and bake…healthy…at home.

I am in love. With my crock pot. Not what you thought I was going to say, right? Well it’s true. I discovered this hidden gem in my kitchen cabinet not too long ago, and have been whipping up tasty turkey chili for my whole family ever since.

The machine literally is fool-proof. You prepare a meal in the morning, toss it in the slow cooker (crock pot, as I grew up calling it), and let it simmer all day until you get home from work. Because let’s be honest: who wants to cook chili after working an 8 hour day?

And that is just what I did today. I had to be at work at 9:30 so I got up a little after 7:30AM and sauteed my turkey chop meat in 2 TBS of olive oil on the stove. I broke it up with a fork, and then poured in a little bit of cumin and S+P to my liking. When that was almost all cooked, I transferred it over to the slow cooker, which I had plugged in and set to “Low for 8 Hours.”

I went back to my stove and poured another TBS of olive oil, and chopped up two small cloves of garlic, one small onion, and one green pepper and tossed those into the pan on the stove. Then I added in a can of cannelloni beans, a can of low-sodium diced tomatoes, and one can of low-sodium chicken broth. I let these ingredients simmer in the pan for about 5 minutes, before transferring it over to the crock pot.

Once I poured in the remaining ingredients, I mixed them together with the turkey chop meat. Then….that’s it! I put the lid on, and left for work, and left my trusted Hamilton Beach crock pot do the rest of the work. Now some people, (like my cousin) are convinced leaving a crock pot on all day while you go to work, is a sure way to start a fire. And yes, I was worried about this too at first. But then you realize, it will be fine. It is meant to be fine. And just for safe measure, I always clear the space around it, so it is the only appliance plugged into the wall at that particular unit, and I make sure no other appliance is rubbing up against it…give the crock some space

And viola! You come home to a nice meal, that only took you 25 minutes of your morning to prepare. So dust off your cookbook, and invest in a crock pot. I guarantee soups and chili will never taste the same!

#SCBD February Fun Foodie Favorites

Posted on February 12, 2013 by smallchickbigdeals

February is well underway and I’m here to report some of my favorite foodie products.

1. Go Organic NYC

Go Organic NYC, a food delivery service bringing boxes of fresh, organic produce to homes and offices in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, is now expanding to northern New Jersey. Consumers in Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Union counties can sign up to customize their own boxes of produce, or choose to receive a preset selection of fruits, vegetables and seasonal produce, delivered straight to their doorstep. There are no commitments, upfront fees or contracts, just boxes of fresh, organic, high quality produce delivered to consumers at intervals of their choosing. I received a box from Go Organic NYC a few months back and loved it! It was great having the best quality of produce delivered to your door! Go Organic NYC is offering all new customers a 20% off discount when they place their first order, here. To claim the coupon, enter GOORGANICPROMO upon checkout.

2. Eight O’ Clock K-Cups

I love good coffee and was thoroughly impressed with the Eight O’ Clock K-Cups. I feel that most k-cups aren’t as strong as regular coffee but these are definitely an exception. I even came up with my own Cafe Mocha recipe that works great with them.

Cafe Mocha

Ingredients:

Eight O’ Clock K-Cup
Hot cocoa mix

Instructions:

In a large mug, make Eight O’ Clock K-Cup in Keurig machine.
Add hot cocoa mix of choice– add milk or sugar if needed.
Top with whipped cream.
Enjoy!

3. Wawa Single Serve Cups

I grew up in Central Jersey kind of near the shore and Wawa is a staple down there. So when I was home for the holidays I had to pick up the Wawa Single Serve Cups. I love the Wawa brand and there is nothing like their coffee. Since there are no Wawa’s near me up in Bergen County these definitely conquer my craving and they are so cheap– only $10! If you don’t live near a Wawa you can also buy them online, here.

4. Love With Food Box

I came across Love With Food when I was looking at a HARO email a few months ago so I had to check out for myself. I got the holiday box sent to me in the mail awhile ago and it is perfect. It was filled with fun holiday snacks, some flyers and a note from Love With Food. Love With Food is the easiest way to discover what’s tasty, delivered to your door! Every month, Love With Food members will receive a curated box of unique, hard-to-find tasty bites which varies based on seasonal themes. Say goodbye to boring grocery selections and HELLO to a monthly tasty surprise! Join Us on this tasty journey.

At Love With Food, they are passionate about helping the more than 16 million children in America who are at risk of hunger. For every box sold, they donate a meal to several food banks such as the Feeding America Network and Share Our Strength – No Kid Hungry. Join Us to help end childhood hunger one meal at a time!

5. Santa Teresa Rum

During the storm this weekend I was able to open up my bottle of Santa Teresa Rum– the Santa Teresa Rum 1796 bottle. This is a great artisanal rum, best served on the rocks. It’s an aged, dark, delicious rum. Cheers!

6. Crave Jams

Sisters & best friends, born and raised in the birthplace of the grass roots, Artisan Foodie movement, Brooklyn, NY. They currently live and work in the heart of the Garden State and are riding the crest of the current Food Entrepreneur/Small Business wave!
They specialize in creative twists and takes on traditional favorites! Each batch is lovingly prepared, using the freshest seasonal produce and finest quality ingredients & flavorings available. All Crave products are handmade, in small batches, from market fresh ingredients and canned with care.We source locally whenever possible and are very passionate about the quality of what you crave. All of their jars & labels are all made of recycled materials and we compost! Crave jarred products have a shelf life of 12 months unopened; please refrigerate and consume within 3 months of opening.

Here’s a peak into the Crave varietal menu (7oz jars – $10.95):

Balsamic Fig
Blueberry Mojito
Blackberry Bliss
Caramel Apple
Chunky Vanilla Pear
Cran-Marnier (Best Seller – Limited edition thru New Years)
Morning Glory Marmalade (Best Seller)
Strawberry Lemon Poppyseed (Best Seller)
Texas BBQ Sauce

To place an order or for more information:

cravejams@gmail.com or call 732.443.0843

Those are just a few of my foodie favorites for this month!

Stay tuned for more of my favorites next month!

#SCBD Quick & Easy Breakfast Burrito Recipe!

Posted on January 23, 2013 by smallchickbigdeals

Ever since 2013 began my latest breakfast obsession has been breakfast burritos. They are great to eat for breakfast or brunch and can make a breakfast lover out of anyone. Breakfast has always been a meal I eat daily because I know I work better with a little or in this case a lot in my stomach. Also, if you are on the run this a great portable breakfast that will make your stomach and taste buds a bit happier. There are a few different techniques to making them, in fact the first time I made them was with my boyfriend and our friend’s New Year’s Day but here is my most effective recipe.

Ingredients:

2-4 large eggs (depends on how many you plan on serving)
Salsa of choice
A pack of flour tortillas
Bacon (optional)
Salt & Pepper, for taste
Bag of shredded cheese (I prefer the Mexican Blend)

Instructions:

If you plan on including bacon in your burrito prepare that first in a frying pan to your liking and put pieces on a plate with a paper towel so they aren’t as greasy.
If you don’t plan on using bacon start by cracking eggs in a mixing bowl. Note: I use 2 eggs per burrito per person so if you are making for more than two people you may need to use between 6-8 eggs but its up to you.
Get out frying pan and spray with butter or olive oil spray, let it heat up for a minute or two.
Whip eggs in mixing bowls, add salt & pepper and about a tablespoon or two of salsa.
Pour egg mix into frying pan and scramble eggs to your liking.
Once eggs are scrambled put them into a separate bowl.
Spray pan with oil or butter spray again and heat tortillas over low heat to your liking.
Put more salsa (if you want) and shredded cheese into separate bowls.
Take your tortilla top with bacon, scrambled eggs, salsa and cheese to your liking.
Fold into a burrito and enjoy!

Next time you don’t know what to eat for breakfast or brunch think outside the box and try this breakfast burrito recipe, it’s delicious!

Happy Eating!

#SCBD Black Bean & Cheese Quesadillas Recipe

Posted on January 22, 2013 by smallchickbigdeals

I find the best recipes ones that use a few, simple ingredients. Growing up I was always a fan of quesadillas and still am to this day. This past week, I realized I had a lot of black beans in my pantry so I figured I should put them to good use.

Here’s my quick & easy recipe for black bean and cheese quesadillas…

Ingredients:

A bag of flour tortillas
A can of black beans
Bag of shredded cheese of choice preferably Mexican Mix
Salsa of choice
Oil or butter spray
Adobo Seasoning
Salt & Pepper, as needed

Instructions:

In a separate small pot prepare beans over heat for about 20 minutes. Feel free to put in Adobo seasoning and salt & pepper for more flavor.
Once beans are done cooking let simmer on low heat.
Take out a frying pan that can fit your flour tortilla on it, spray with oil or butter spray of choice and let it warm up.
Put tortilla on it and let it warm up to your liking for about a minute.
Add beans, salsa, and cheese on to tortilla and let sit for another two minutes.
Once the cheese has melted enough take one side of the tortilla over the other and flip so both sides are heated evenly. If you’d prefer to use two tortillas instead of one put another tortilla over the mix & then flip it.
Keep over heat for another minute or two.
Put it on your plate & enjoy!

This recipe is really easy and if you are not a fan of beans you can always substitute it with your meat of choice. Feel free to top it off with your favorite sour cream and guac if you’d like.

Happy Eating!

#SCBD ‘Spiked’ Adult Chocolate Milk Recipe

Posted on January 21, 2013 by smallchickbigdeals

Ever have one of those days when you need a nightcap? Bailey’s Irish Cream has to be one of my favorite liquors, it’s flavorful, creamy and can be used in many cocktails & desserts. It can also be used in cocktails like spiked chocolate milk.

Here’s my recipe for simple yet delicious ‘spiked’ adult chocolate milk…

Ingredients:

1 cup of Milk of choice (you may need more or less depending on your glass size)
1 shot of Bailey’s Irish Cream
1 teaspoon of Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup

Instructions:

In a glass of your choice pour milk, shot of Bailey’s, & chocolate syrup.
If you have a stirrer, stir to your liking if not use a spoon and mix it together so it looks like chocolate milk. Feel free to use or more less chocolate syrup and Bailey’s depending on how strong & chocolate tasting you like it.
Once it’s the way you like it– sip & enjoy!

This recipe is so simple and delicious, perfect for dessert or a nightcap. Next time you think of buying a bottle of Adult Chocolate Milk, think again, the recipe is simple and only requires three ingredients!

Cheers!

The Ideal Frozen Meal by Contessa World Cuisine & Coupon Giveaway!

Posted on January 20, 2013 by smallchickbigdeals

I don’t know about you but my ideal frozen meal doesn’t necessarily require a microwave. I think anyone like me who likes to cook, takes a little pride in seeing the ingredients come together to make a great dish. Well, you can do just that with Contessa World Cuisine’s Frozen Meals!

When I made Contessa World Cuisine’s Orange Chicken:

Here are some quick facts about these awesome meals:

18 unique, world cuisine-inspired flavors including two brand new varieties
Simple to prepare in ten minutes at home
No msg
No trans-fat
No artificial colors or flavors
No preservatives
Minimally processed
Multiple gluten-free options
Individually packaged sauce packets to allow for freshness, recipe variation and special dietary needs

I love the fact that they focus on fresh ingredients and let me tell you– they are delicious! My personal favorite is the Orange Chicken– it’s delicious, convenient, and fun to make. Check out the other flavors they offer, here.

Contessa will be giving away some free and $2 off coupons to the first fifteen readers to comment on this post with why you should try a Contessa Frozen Meal! The contest will end this Tuesday at 8:00 AM EST so make sure you enter today!

Note: This contest has ended.

Happy Eating!

*Disclaimer: The PR team sent me this product. I was not required to write about these experiences and my opinions are my own and unbiased.*

Christian & His Shumai

Posted on December 12, 2012 by dawnbirchtrani

Parents are often dissuaded from taking their young children to restaurants and justifiably so… Trust me, I understand it all too well. What is the mom of an energetic 3 year old to do when she wants a great meal out with no babysitter in site? The right restaurant choice, a smart reservation time and a small bag of tricks for your child can make a drastic difference between an enjoyable dinner and a disaster in the making. My son Christian sees a speech therapist 4 nights a week right after his pre-school program. Most nights we don’t walk in the door till 6-63:0 and its a nice treat to eat once a week.

Lucky for me, Christian has developed an affinity for Japanese food. Since Bay Ridge is much closer to his school, we would often travel in to Fushimi Bay Ridge. We would get there relatively early and the staff was very friendly… However, once it hits 6:30, the staff was quick to move you and attend to the VERY crowded bar space that begins to fill as early as 6pm most days of the week. Not to mention the blasting mega mix booming at the highest volume possible. Don’t get me wrong, I love loud music as much as the next but this was pumping at a club-like level.

Earlier this year, Fushimi opened another location in downtown Brooklyn, Williamsburg. Since we live in Carrol Gardens, we were thrilled. I was nervous to try it because we LOVE the food at the Bay Ridge location and we were afraid to be disappointed. I decided to go with Christian alone… For those of you who have a 3 year old, taking them out to dinner in a new place on a Thursday night at 7pm, you can understand my trepidation. Sometimes when you enter a restaurant with a small child you get “the look” from the wait staff. This was NOT the case with Fushimi. They approached Christian before they even greeted me and sat us immediately in a large booth in the front corner. Even though I came prepared with my usual kit of coloring book, crayons, water colors, paper and playdough, they offered Christian paper and pencil anyway.

I decided to order what Christian knows and ask the wait staff for a recommendation or two. Christian wanted the Shrimp Shumai which was the perfect amount of pieces of shrimp and dumpling taste, light and airy and perfect for him to practice his chopstick technique. I ordered the American Dream roll (Rock shrimp tempura inside, topped with spicy kani, spicy creamy sauce) which was amazing. I ordered one roll for fear that Christian may lose patience and begin to act up. I was grateful for my 45 minutes of sitting already! When the waiter returned to ask if I wanted to try a new roll, I explained that it might be pushing it… He told me I needed to try the Aquarium Sushi. I looked up at all the fresh fish in the prep area and gave in. An enormous tray of 12 pieces of assorted Sushi came out and like clockwork Christian became restless. I was just about to ask for the check and ask for it to be wrapped up, when the waiter came over with the hostess, took Christian by the hand, and walked him over to the sushi prep station… I was in shock. The hostess returned back to my table, winked and told me to enjoy my food. I will forever appreciate their hospitality.

The Aquarium Sushi

The Sashimi was unbelievable fresh and the presentation was amazing. I ate as much as I could and walked over to Christian who was now dancing in the entrance to lounge/bathroom area with our waiter. Think Mace and Puff Daddy: Mo Money, Mo Problems music video. I laughed the whole car ride home and even now, I’m cracking up at the memory.

Christian at Fushimi, Williamsburg.

Delicious food, gracious wait staff, hustling atmosphere, reasonable prices and patience for my 3 year old makes Fushimi Williamsburg one of our favorite places to eat. We will be back soon!

I have to mention that there is a Prix Fixe 4 Course Menu – $27.95: Sunday – Thursday! Check it all out at, here. Become a fan of Fushimi on Facebook!

‘Put Some South in Yo Mouth’ at the Brother Jimmy’s BBQ in New Jersey!

Posted on December 7, 2012 by smallchickbigdeals

Last Friday I had the opportunity to go dine at the Brother Jimmy’s BBQ that just opened by Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. I’ve been past some of the Brother Jimmy’s BBQ in the city but had yet to go while I was there. I was staying by my boyfriend Jason last weekend and figured since he doesn’t live too far from New Brunswick it would be the perfect opportunity to enjoy a great, post-birthday week night of food & drinks with to kick off the weekend and Brother Jimmy’s did not disappoint!

To start, I got the signature Carolina Cooler and Jason got a beer. The Carolina Cooler was great because it’s a mix of Skyy vodka, fresh lemonade, blue curacao, and muddled lemons. It wasn’t too sweet or sour so I enjoyed it. We also ordered some spinach & artichoke dip to start. I really loved how that it was heavy on the spinach, the flavors were right on point.

After fully digesting the menu, our waitress came around and we had decided on what entrees we’d order, our spinach and artichoke dip was almost gone. I decided to get the half rack of Northern Style Ribs with collard greens and Jason got the BJ’s Signature BBQ Burger with all the fixin’s and fries. The ribs are smoked then grilled with Brother Jimmy’s Original BBQ Sauce. The BJ’s Signature BBQ burger wasn’t just any burger, they actually have their Pat LaFrieda custom blend, which is really tasty. The burger is basted with their Chipotle BBQ sauce and topped with cheddar cheese & onion straws.

BJ’s Northern Style Ribs

BJ’s Signature BBQ Burger

I loved the Northern Style ribs, the flavor was perfect and had a little kick and Jason savored and devoured his entire burger. In fact, there is a little kick to all of the food at Brother Jimmy’s but I enjoyed it and so did Jason.

The Charleston A.P

I loved my first cocktail so much that I figured I might as well try another signature so I went with The Charleston A.P– Brother Jimmy’s boozy take on the classic, Arnold Palmer made with South Carolina sweet tea infused vodka and lemonade. Our waitress and some of the staff recommended it. I also looked around and the cocktails were flowing, the restaurant was crowded. As always, I had some leftover ribs to take back to with me, which were just as delicious the following day. I actually couldn’t wait to eat my leftovers!

Cheers!
Sipping on my Charleston A.P!

Our trip to the new Brother Jimmy’s was definitely a success. It’s a great addition to the dining scene in New Brunswick and is a new Jersey foodie destination, especially to those who may get to NYC often. The food is top notch, staff is friendly and accommodating, and the drinks are creative and won’t break the bank! I’m definitely a fan of the Brother’s Jimmy’s BBQ now and plan on taking a trip back in New Brunswick or NYC soon!

Brother Jimmy’s BBQ

5 Easton Avenue

New Brunswick, NJ

Happy Eating!

Cheers to the weekend!

*Disclaimer: The PR team paid for my meal. I was not required to write about these experiences and my opinions are my own and unbiased.*

Sandy may have hit but we will stand #JerseyStrong

Posted on November 17, 2012 by smallchickbigdeals

Last night, I’ll admit I watched Restore the Shore on MTV. No, I’m not a fan of the show Jersey Shore but I love where I grew up and it was the only way I could see some of the damage. I held back tears, the beaches may be gone but my memories will always have a special place in my heart. But it’s not just the beaches that have been hit, up where I live in Bergen County, Moonachie & Little Ferry have been flooded. Traffic and what used to be normal commutes have not been the same.

First, I want to start with good news! I hosted a Sandy Fundraiser mentioned in this post with fellow Bergen County blogger Boozy Burbs. Thanks to all the local vendors who graciously donated to our raffle and brought food to the event. You can see the full list & event details, here. View pictures taken by Bergen.com, here.

I’m proud to announce we raised a total of $4,216 that will go to the Moonachie Relief. Thanks to all who attended & donated to help with such a great cause! It was great to be part of such a great, successful event in the county I reside in!

But places still need help, so here is my handy guide of ways to help those affected by Sandy:

DINE LOCAL

I can’t stress it enough! Many businesses lost power which means they lost a ton of money, especially those in areas hit the hardest. Go to local restaurants & dine, don’t forget to tip well too!

DINNERS, EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS

“Sing for Hoboken” tomorrow night at Las Olas Sushi in Hoboken starting at 7PM. There is no cover but all proceeds that night will go to the Red Cross to help those affected by Sandy.

Interested in attending Brother Jimmy’s Hurricane Relief Party?
YOU MUST RSVP to vip@brotherjimmys.com

The Manzo brothers will be guest bartending at Village Pourhouse Hoboken this Tuesday and donating their tips to relief efforts! See more information in the flyer above!

On Thanksgiving Eve, Biggies Clambar will be donating a $1 from every purchase of any signature item to the Moonachie Fire Department.

The School of Rock Montclair will perform music from the classic film The Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Unitarian Church of Montclair (67 Church Street) on Friday, November 30, 2012 from 7 pm to 9 pm. Sponsored by Fairway Market, the live concert, originally planned for Halloween but postponed due to Hurricane Sandy, will benefit Toni’s Kitchen, a food ministry that serves low-income residents in the area. Each ticket buyer at the show will receive a goodie bag that’s filled with promotional items and special offers from such local sponsors as Proponent Federal Credit Union, Best Friend Photography, and Ah Pizz. There will also be prizes for the best “Rocky Horror” costume provided by The Bellevue Theater and a free raffle for a $50 Ah Pizz dining card. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door on the night of the show. For more info, contact School of Rock Montclair at 973-337-5296 or visit Montclair.SchoolofRock.com.

In addition, Fairway Market will hold a shopping night on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 in its Woodland Park store (1510 Rt. 46W) from 4 pm to 10 pm, with 25 percent of proceeds from registered shoppers also going to Toni’s Kitchen.

Session Bistro in Maywood, will be holding a Sandy charity dinner on Wednesday, November 28. It’s $30 a person, 3 courses beginning at 6:30pm. $5 of each meal will go to those affected by Sandy, there will also be a donation box at the restaurant that night.

RESTORE THE SHORE IN STYLE

The Jersey Strong design (above) represents how New Jersey is in our hearts and gives a little shout out to our beloved beach towns. We need to stick together and do whatever we can to help those in need! 100% of the profit will be donated to restoring and reviving our communities.

DONATE…

Those are just some of the many ways you can help those affected by Sandy in my home, the Garden State. Stay posted by following me @smchickbigdeals and stay updated & become a fan on Facebook!

Happy Donating

Sara Monica, Founder

At the young age of 23, Sara is the founder and head editor of Smallchickbigdeals.com aka #SCBD. Sara is a Jersey Girl raised by the shore, currently residing in Northern New Jersey. When she is not working, she is finding something new to post and share with her readers whether it be a new food product, recipe, restaurant review or another interview. Read her full bio, here. Read the full story behind #SCBD, here. When she is not writing for #SCBD she also contributes to Jersey Bites,Carter Int’l Concierge, & New Fork City. Follow her @SmChickBigDeals!