Puerto Rico .. HOOO..

The next few weeks are going to fly by. I can already feel it, wedding rehearsal and moving next weekend. Then Julnette's wedding the week after. Can someone tell how it is already June 2010?

Today would have easily been a lazy Sunday, except that today was also Julnette's bridal shower. A few weeks before we all decided on everyone bringing in one caribbean dish. (Believe it or not, Julnette is Puerto Rican). By the time I read over the list, there was only one item left - fried plantains and sour cream. I wasn't too worried, but couldn't help but wonder why someone would choose to grill chicken kabobs over frying a bunch of bananas.

Now that I have made them, I can atest that this is the easiest dish to prepare AND grabs the most attention at any potluck. However, if you do not have much patience then you just might have a problem.



Ingredients:
6 lbs ripe plantains
2 cups vegetable oil (depending on the width of the pan. just make sure the bananas are halfway submerged)
2 cups sour cream

1. Slice bananas lengthwise into four pieces (first down the middle - repeat)
2. Heat oil in a deep frying pan (medium high)
3. Fry banana on each side until deep brown
4. When done, let the bananas drain on a paper towel
5. Serve with sour cream

Like a Pro

I just made 69 red velvet cupcakes for Karla's bridal shower.

No sweat.

Can I call myself a baker now?

Sheesh.





Cream Cheese Frosting
Adapted from Magnolia Bakery(New York City)

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened and cut into small pieces
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and cut into small pieces
1 1/2 tspns vanilla extract
5 cups confectioner's sugar, sifted

1. Combine cheese, butter, and vanilla in a large bowl and mix on medium speed until smooth, about 3 - 4 minutes.

2) Reduce mixer speed to medium low and add sugar 1 cup at a time. Scrape bowl often.

3) Once all the sugar has been added, beat until fluffy (3-6 minutes)

4) Store in airtight container and refrigerate for at least two hours before use

This recipe was more than enough to frost my entire batch of cupcakes! I used clear extract so that the frosting would still be white and I added about 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream.

*When I was in NYC I kept hearing about Magnolia Bakery, but didn't have time to stop in and check them out. But I was able to visit Sugar Sweet Sunshine .