YOUR HOME FALLPOTSMAGAZINE®THEBEST&PANSFLAVORSINNOVATIVEKITCHENTECHTheKitchenIssue Compliments of MARTY PECORARO & CHRISTINE PECORARO Marty: 716.602.5988 | Christine: 239.910.1180 marty@mprealtygroup.com | mprealtygroup.com Realtors® and Luxury Property Managers
Real Estate Experts and Luxury Property Managers Certified Negotiation Experts Certified Property Managers PRODUCERTOP EXPERTMARKET COMMUNICATOR HONEST Our Story......
Hello Friends and Neighbors! Welcome to another amazing edition to our very special, Your Home Magazine! Many times we are asked how we got into real estate, where we are originally from, was it easy for us to relocate, and why did we choose SW Florida. We love all these questions because it’s a story about our journey and we would like to share that story with you.…
If your home is currently listed, please disregard this as it is not intended to solicit another
AWARD WINNING REALTORS ® MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCERS
Originally from Buffalo, NY, Christine and I both had the good fortune to enjoy successful business careers with myself as a business owner, broker, and sales leader, and Christine as an owner and operator of a professional sports and entertainment event company. After we married, we combined our business skills and built an empire together in the wholesale and retail industry over a span of 12 years. During that time we became part time residents of Estero, FL and fell in love with the lifestyle and family feel of Southwest Florida. Eventually we made the decision to sell everything in Buffalo, our businesses and home, and move to where our family really wanted to be. Christine accepted a position as Manager of Events and Real Estate Marketing for the developer of Miromar Lakes Beach and Golf Club and her success soon led to new opportunities and she became the General Manager of a luxury real estate agency, bringing the agency from $37M in annual sales to $120M annually in 3 years with just 8 agents. Christine was soon known for her expertise in real estate marketing, while I took my passion in real estate and expertise in sales and negotiations and became one of the top producing Realtors in Southwest Florida. Together our efforts have brought us many awards and accolades, including Realtor of the Year, President’s Award, and Top 1% Realtor in Southwest Florida Despite the financial rewards that come with success, our passion for real estate has never been about the money. We pursued careers in this industry because of the many challenges we faced when we moved with our two children to Southwest Florida. The community in which we wanted to buy in did not have available inventory, so we opted to rent in the meantime. We learned quickly that most Realtors had little interest in helping us find a rental, or the brokerages they worked for did not allow agents to manage rentals. We had to find a home to rent on our own so our children could attend school while we shopped for homes in gated communities we couldn’t get in. The obstacles with renting and buying as a new family to the area were steep. It was then we said, “We need to open a concierge real estate company and give people a better experience when they move to the area.” And that is exactly what we did! We worked hard and diligently to become experts in our field and I am proud to say that as of today, MP Realty Group has sold over $200M in new construction and resale homes, and currently manages 97 rental properties. We live by our hashtags, #MakingDreamsComeTrue and #BecauseYouDeserveIt, because we believe in what we do and we believe in the people we work for, which are our clients, their families and their goals! MP Realty Group, is equipped with a team of industry experts including home inspectors, insurance agents, lending professionals, interior designers, tradesmen, and our own white glove property management service. No matter what your real estate needs are, MP Realty Group has you covered!
Marty & Christine Pecoraro broker’s Marty: Christine@MPRealtyGroup.comChristine:Marty@MPRealtyGroup.com716.602.5988239.910.1180
listing.
#BECAUSE YOU DESERVE IT MP REALTY GROUP SELLS RIVERCREEK Contact us today to be added to the VIP list and receive updated information on RiverCreek – Marty@MPRealtyGroup.com Prices, terms, plans, elevations, dimensions and materials are subject to change without notice. ACADIA - $544,900 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Den, Great Room, Screened & Covered Patio, 2-Car Garage 1,904 a/c sq.ft. | 2,659 total sq.ft. CANYON - $574,900 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Den, Great Room, Screened & Covered Patio, 2-Car Garage 2,135 a/c sq.ft. | 2,833 total sq.ft. DENALI - $634,900 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths, Loft, Great Room, Screened & Covered Patio, 2-Car Garage 2,909 a/c sq.ft. | 3,660 total sq.ft. BISCAYNE - $644,900 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths, Loft, Great Room, Screened & Covered Patio, 2-Car Garage 3,004 a/c sq.ft. | 3,776 total sq.ft. OLYMPIA - $719,900 4 Bedrooms, 5 Baths, Den/Optional 5th Bedroom, Loft, Great Room, Screened & Covered Patio, 3-Car Garage 3,694 a/c sq.ft. | 4,701 total sq.ft. SEQUOIA - $719,000 5 Bedrooms, 5 Baths, Loft, Living Room, Family Room, Screened & Covered Patio, 2-Car Garage 3,882 a/c sq.ft. | 4,601 total sq.ft. CASCADE - $774,900 5 Bedrooms, 7 Baths, Family Room, Living Room, Formal Dining, Loft, Screened & Covered Patio, 3-Car Garage 4,397 a/c sq.ft. | 5,114 total sq.ft. Christine Pecoraro, REALTOR ® Cell: Christine@MPRealtyGroup.com239.910.1180 Marty Pecoraro, REALTOR ® Cell: Marty@MPRealtyGroup.com716.602.5988 SAVE $10,000 Towards Options Plus $7,500 on Closing Costs And Receive a 4-Point Inspection With Your New Home!! Call us for details: 716.602.5988 RIVERCREEKESTERO,FLORIDA
MAINTENANCE COORDINATION
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE - We personally inspect each property with the tenants upon arrival and departure for your protection.
TENANT PROCUREMENT & SCREENINGMP Realty Group confirms background checks are performed on all potential tenants to protect your home.
GLOBAL MARKETING EXPOSURE - Your home will be marketed on all the major vacation rental websites nationally and globally.
RENTAL & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
PROVEN MARKET RATE ANALYSIS - Our highly skilled team analyzes the rental market daily to make sure you receive the highest possible income.
SECURITY DEPOSITS - We require tenants to provide security deposits in case of damage or overages and manage the damage claims for you.
- We keep your property in its best condition by handling the ongoing maintenance and upkeep so you don’t have to. LICENSED AGENT SHOWINGS - Your home isn’t just being shown, it is showcased by a licensed Realtor who manages your property and your tenants throghout the lease term. PROFESSIONAL STAGING - We professionally stage your home before photographing the property for the highest quality of online digital marketing. We know what creates the highest revenue for your property. CONCIERGE SERVICES - MP Realty Group provides customized services to your guests such as airport transportation, house cleaning, and social events. MP REALTY CALLGROUPUSTODAYFOR A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION ON YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY 239-910-1180 Marty: Christine@MPRealtyGroup.comChristine:Marty@MPRealtyGroup.com716.602.5988239.910.1180 AWARD WINNING REALTORS ® MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCERS CONTACT MARTY PECORARO | 716.602.5988 | MARTY@MPR ealtyGroup.com | www .MPR ealty G roup . com
MP Realty Group provides white glove property management services to the scenic Southwest Florida region and has earned a reputation as experts in high-end property rentals. Our property management services go above and beyond client expectations to ensure renting your home is stress free and profitable. When it comes to luxury vacation home rentals, we not only find the best renters for your property, we manage your tenants and your property from check-in to check-out so your investment is always protected. Call us today and let us show you how we give you peace of mind so you can sit back and relax while your profits roll in! 239-910-1180 or 716-602-5988.
ONGOING MARKETING - Our proprietary marketing is why we are a leader in our industry with 100% fill rate.
G ENTLE GULF BREEZES beckon residents and visitors alike to the friendly town of Bonita Springs. Those fortunate enough to live here, like the owners of a luxurious high-rise condominium in Altaira at The Colony at Pelican Landing, enjoy all of the treasures this relaxing area presents. The spacious 3,573-square-foot 17th-floor sky home showcases three bedrooms and a den, 3-1/2 baths, and an enormous great room with open kitchen and glass walls, perfect for viewing serene sunrises and sunsets. Custom window treatments and wallpaper, a striking black stone island kitchen, Thermador appliances with gas cook top, French oak doors in the master bedroom and den, exquisite lighting in every room, and custom closet build outs are just a handful of the attractions that comprise this extra-special home. Building amenities include a 24-hour concierge, an inviting infinity-edge pool complete with pavilion and cabanas, a 3,000-square-foot social room, fire pit, and rooftop terrace. Add to those conveniences Bay Club waterfront dining, a 34-acre island beach with boat shuttle, kayak/canoe park and availability of equity golf. Diana Hall, president and lead designer of Diana Hall Design in Naples, teamed up with her associate, licensed designer Elizabeth Manchego, to create tthis ideal redesign.
How much more extravagant can you get than a private elevator that transports guests and family in grand style? The entire foyer, leading from the elevator to the front door, is called a ‘jewel box’ by Hall and her team and features woodworking detail on all four walls of the entrance. “We applied a mica wallpaper that was sparkly, again capturing the owner’s whimsical nature, and custom designed a floating shelf that has a drawer,” says Diana Hall. The artwork, tranquil in shades of blue by Benson and Cobb, is flanked by two sconces by Fine Art Lighting. A stylish crystal ceiling chandelier, created by Elegant Lighting, adds another touch of glamor.
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BY ANDREA G. ROLLIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK BETHEM GOING UP
BREATHTAKING IN BONITA SPRINGS
BEACH TOWN FLAIR EXEMPLIFIED IN A STUNNING HIGH-RISE
“The owners wanted to customize every area of the home and maximize the potential that each area had to offer,” Elizabeth Manchego points out. “She wanted to make sure that her personality was reflected—she likes color and is whimsical—while he wanted to make sure the condo had a transitional look and that every area was cohesive with the other.” The end result was a transitional coastal home that maximized the potential of each area to the fullest yet customized the entire residence to their lifestyle. “We agreed to carry muted shades of blue with a neutral background blended with different tones of blue,” explains Manchego.
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LAID-BACK LIFESTYLE
Carrying the pastel and neutral color palette into the living room, a colossal, curved Vanguard sofa, chosen to maximize the space, encourages lively dialogue. A distinctive area rug, knotted with shades of blue, enriches the room with color, while a curved Vanguard sofa table beautifully blends with the lines of the sofa. The glasstopped end table, to the right of the sectional, was created by Bernhardt and combines wood and metal for a sleek, updated look. The swivel chair, called a ‘tipsy’ swivel chair, was designed by Fairfield with a wood plinth base. The TV console is by John Richards; vistas beyond, like Estero Bay, are unveiled from the outside main balcony. “The views are spectacular from the living room, so we wanted to create a design that complemented the views and didn’t take away from the natural beauty outside,” Manchego expresses. “By adding an upholstered cocktail ottoman, it makes TV viewing more cozy and comfortable.”
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DISHING UP DELIGHTS
Pastels comprise the décor in the contemporary, cheerful dining room. “A challenge for this dining room was to make sure that the lighting fixture was centered over the dining table,” Manchego points out. She and Hall designed a glittery, round, dropdown floating fixture, made by Crystorama, with LED up-lighting. The modern dining chairs, by Design Master, carry the same curvature as the circular dining table. Attractive accessories gracing the dining table were made by Global Views. By painting the accent wall of the dining room Stardew, by Sherwin Williams, the designers created drama and depth. A custom floating-ledge server maximizes the use of the space because of the small area while eye-catching Benson and Cobb artwork showcases all of the blues carried throughout the home.
REFRESH AND REINVIGORATE
The bar area, just off of the living room, is custom designed with floating shelves and a fridge compartment below for beverages and wine. Manchego and Hall continued the angle of the wall with the cabinet. “Even though we did a countertop area of Pompeii Quartz, we also did a short backsplash, which was unique to the space.” The cabinet is composed of maple with a custom finish that has a furniture glaze applied to it to make it look more like a furniture piece. Floating shelves above are finished with a slightly deeper glaze and have undermount LED strip lighting for effect. Splashes of blue are again visible in the artwork; the shimmery wallpaper creates interest and texture.
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The daughter’s bedroom (one of three bedrooms) is open and bright with its pastel color scheme and picturesque views of the outside landscape. Showcased are a wing-upholstered king-sized bed with faux blue accent pillows and upholstered benches at the foot for character. White raffia lacquered nightstands by Bungalow 5 are the perfect place to hold cube-shaped lamps of metal and marble by Port 68. Interesting blue artwork blends with the palette of the room.
WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF
ROOM WITH A VIEW
Enticing neutral-hued barrel chairs, manufactured by Wesley Hall, are set around a whimsical, “playful” mesh cocktail table in the sitting area, purposely designed to add character and not disrupt the room. Situated between the dining room and living room, the space spotlights a round pendant light fixture that drops, and swivel chairs with colorful pillows. The area rug brims with color shades of minty green and spa blue, with purple undertones. Nearby ‘Mermaid’ drink tables, called that for their mermaid color, are as interestingly iridescent as they are well-placed. One of Diana Hall’s favorite rooms, the fun factor here is apparent. A picturesque, panoramic view of the mangroves on Hickory Island and Estero Bay, with the Gulf beyond, is framed with draw draperies that traverse in a sheer fabric with a geometric pattern.
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For $199, this unique and highly functional coffee maker brews coffee pods faster than the leading K-Cup machine, while also giving you the option to brew a super-rich coffee concentrate to create delicious lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, and other coffeehouse-style drinks.
Profitec Pro 300 Dual Boiler Espresso Machine
Splurge Worthy
Kitchen Items for Everyone Great appliances in the kitchen can help you whip up great new meals. From top-of-the-line ovens to fantastic fridges, or smaller items that save you time and make your day better, this issue takes a look at what’s new and what will actually improve your life in the kitchen. This is a space that can quickly become cluttered since so many items can fill your cabinets and pantries, never to be used again after their first time out of the box. There are also larger purchases that may or may not be worth the price tag, so we’ve compiled some of the most “worth it” items that we think should make their way into your kitchen.
Save Splurgeor
For an avid home barista or for someone wanting to learn how to craft the perfect cappuccino, the Profitec Pro 3000 by Clive Coffee is as stylish as it is functional. At $1,799, its larger price tag is worth it with an average of 4.9 stars and a list of happy customers. The Profitec Pro 300 makes competitive dual boiler performance more attainable with a minimalist design, small footprint, temperature control, and boilers that warm up in ten minutes. A perfect espresso machine for cappuccino and espresso lovers alike. Customizable with handmade hardwoods add to the beautiful design. www.clivecoffee.com
The Ninja features dual coffee makers for grounds and pods with multiple brew sizes. You can also select from four brewing strengths: Classic, Rich, Over Ice or Specialty. A built-in, fold-away frother turns hot or cold milk into silky-smooth froth and is removable for easy cleaning. www.ninjakitchen.com
Waking up to a good cup of coffee or sitting down to a lovely afternoon espresso and having the ability to make both in the comfort of your own home is a real joy. With so many to choose from, we have picked two that we think are worth their price tags based on reviews and functions. These two coffee/espresso machines will turn out a delicious cup, turning you into an expert home barista.
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Budget Friendly Ninja CFP301 DualBrew 12-Cup Coffee Maker
If you’ve never owned a double oven then you need to give it a try. GE’s budget-friendly double oven electric range offers the ease and consistency of convection along with a Power Boil Element and Fifth Element Warming Zone. This oven comes with a steam cleaning setting that cleans the oven cavity in a 30-minute cycle with less odor and heat. The fast preheat technology is great for when you forget to turn on the oven and the double oven lets you cook multiple items at the same time thanks to its large capacity. www.homedepot.com
The stars of the show, your oven and cooktop are integral to your success in the kitchen. Older ovens can struggle to heat evenly. There’s nothing worse than half your dish being cooked at a different rate than the other half in an oven that won’t heat properly. When it comes to the stovetop, again, you want something that will heat evenly and will get pans to a hot temperature so you can evenly sear and fry as needed. These two products are well-loved online and offer everything you want in an oven and cooktop at two different price points.
Splurge Worthy Viking VGR5486GSS Series 5 With almost 40 years of experience, Viking is a leader in high-end kitchen appliances. Their large collection of freestanding ranges means there is an option that will work for you and your home. A favorite in luxury kitchens, their 5 Series is an option that will take your kitchen to new heights. With Viking features like the VSH™ Pro Sealed Burner System, Porcelainized Cooking Surface, Gourmet-Glo™ Gas Infrared Broiler, and TruGlide™ Full Extension Rack, the 5 Series is a fantastic and stylish kitchen workhorse. Available for both propane and natural gas, the double oven gives you plenty of space to work as you turn out gourmet meals or the best frozen pizza you’ve ever had. www.appliancesconnection.com
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Budget Friendly GE 30 in. 6.6 cu. ft. Double Oven Electric Range
With over 27,000 reviews and 4.6 stars on Amazon, this much loved, compact air fryer comes in six colors and two different size options. Coming in at just under $50 for the smaller size option, this is the perfect fit for smaller kitchens or for someone who just wants to test out an air fryer to make sure it works with their cooking routine. The crisper basket allows for greater surface area inside, so food gets crispier, faster. This air fryer is energy efficient and won’t heat up your kitchen like a traditional oven.
www.amazon.com
Splurge Worthy Breville Joule® Oven Air Fryer Pro
The Cadillac of air fryers, the new Breville Joule Oven connects to an app for the ultimate, convenient cooking experience. The app brings the advantages of remote oven control with real time progress monitoring and gives you access to an expanding library of video recipes. The generously-sized oven also features 13 smart presets–including roast, air fry, dehydrate, and pizza. It boasts two convection modes, precise and even heating, and a built-in light for enhanced visibility. www.williams-sonoma.com
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Budget Friendly DASH Tasti-Crisp™ Electric Air Fryer
With all the hype surrounding them, air fryers can feel like a trendy option but they are a great appliance to have in your kitchen. Basically countertop convection ovens, they quickly and evenly cook almost everything from “hard boiled eggs” to juicy and tender steaks. Here are two great options to consider whether you’re adding an air fryer to your home or upgrading the one you already have.
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By Channing Spano |
The dramatic entry wall greets the family and their guests. This space was created to set the tone for the entire home, evoking a sense of sophistication and elegance. “I wanted this to feel like a gallery space since this couple loves art and has such a great collection of their own,” Rose says. The entry’s focal point is the unique wall of 24x24 inch tiles, individually set to create a pattern with organic movement. Rose placed a bench against the opposite wall as a nod to galleries and museum seating around the world, and hung two abstract pieces above with a splash of color to balance the metallic tone of the tiled wall.
STYLE
Another unique feature of the home was their focus on rooms other than the kitchen. “This is a space they use but they wanted it to take a backseat to the other main living areas, something that many people aren’t interested in doing currently,” says Rose. “The kitchen is still a fantastic space, but the focus is on the fabulous dining area and the great room. Both really showcase their excellent taste and eye for beautiful art and home decor.”
“We were working on the home during the height of the pandemic, so we had our consultations and picked all the finishes and colors over Zoom and FaceTime,” says Rose. “I would get samples and then send them to the owners so they could see them in person and make their decisions. It was challenging but we made it work and I think the end product we created speaks for itself.”
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A beautiful, new construction home located on Florida’s East Coast, the contemporary design found inside is a testament to what happens when a designer listens to a client and helps them masterfully tackle their vision. When the owners reached out to Clive Daniel Home Interior Designer Nubia Rosa, they requested a modern, comfortable design with clean lines and pops of shimmer and flashes of color. The couple had an incredible art collection to work with, so Rosa knew she needed to create a space with a gallery feel in order to showcase their much loved purchases. Each room has incredible backgrounds that showcase their favorite paintings, photographs, and sculptures.
The home is elegantly appointed with custom finishes, art, and furniture making it a truly personal space for the owners. “They love color and during the design process were very clear in their desire to have color in their home,” Rose explains. “Blue and red became the two dominant colors based on their personal preferences and you can see them both throughout.” Rose had to find a way to bring those colors together in a cohesive way while not overwhelming the eye with the rich colors. Her solution throughout was to focus on one color at a time and then add an accent of the secondary color into the room to bring in the couple’s personal taste.
Photography by Matt Steeves Art House
entrez-vous
contemporary seating
sleek surroundings
A functional and attractive space, the kitchen was designed to melt into the background of the home. “We chose high gloss white cabinetry to match the contemporary theme of the home but also to create a space that didn’t overwhelm the main living areas since this is an open concept floor plan,” explains Rose. A line of barstools add a hint of color and texture to the sleek space thanks to their chrome and silver combination.
In the dining room, classic lines and modern textures play together to create a beautiful space to entertain. The acrylic dining table is reminiscent of a long farmhouse table but the clear base surrounded by chrome and velvet chairs create a very contemporary scene. Blue velvet adds a beautiful amount of color and richness to the space while chrome and silver accents on the wall and in the linear chandelier add glamor to the dining room. Since this is a one story home, Rose created a reflective surface on the ceiling to help heighten and brighten the dining and great room. Light is bounced throughout the space and the reflection of the pool adds movement.
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modern life Just off the kitchen, the media room offers a more casual space for the owners and their daughter to relax. In this room Rose added pops of reds accompanied by gray and silver tones to tie in the other main rooms. “Almost all of the furniture in the home is custom so I had the ability to add fun details throughout, like the red piping you see here on the sofa,” says Rose. Rose took great care in making sure the furniture in the home was as beautiful as it was functional, picking things like the coffee table, a modular piece that can be moved around the room as needed. Against an accent wall of elegant wallpaper, a floating entertainment stand features an industrial texture in keeping with the modern theme of the home. A whimsical chandelier and an area rug with thin and organic lines finish the space.
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“I knew after talking to the owners that they wanted something really special in their master suite, so I approached them with the idea of doing a dark and moody color that would create a warm feeling in this large room,” says Rose.
On the ceiling, applied molding was added to both create visual interest and to break up the line of the dark color. “The room is large, so having much of the space painted in one color, any color really, could begin to feel like it was too much,” says Rose.
approachmasterful
The tone of the dark walls and ceilings were pulled from the subtle accent in the drapes as Rose worked backwards to create this cozy, yet glamorous space.
“Using molding adds one more great element to the room but also softens the color.” Layered textures and luxe fabrics, like those found on the crushed velvet covered arm chairs, keep the space both intimate and fashionable.
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accentscurated The master bath was kept sleek with mushroomcolored cabinetry, chrome accents, and muted, yet impactful, tile. Simple lighting and accessory choices help to create a cohesive space. Used throughout the room, the tile creates a seamless transition as the eye moves around the room while the different shapes and sizes of the tiles in the shower provide definition as well.
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Go With the Flow
If you’ve just moved into a new home or if you’re looking to upgrade the functionality of your current kitchen, making sure it’s properly set up is key. From how your pantry is organized to the way you move and flow through your kitchen day to day, there are a few steps you can take to give yourself a framework for success that will make your kitchen more enjoyable. For decades, the kitchen work triangle (a concept that says you should design your kitchen so the refrigerator, sink, and oven create a relatively even-sided triangle inside the space) was the holy grail of kitchen design. Stemming from a time when kitchens were more utilitarian and basically all the same size, the triangle worked. Now however, the concept of work zones has become more popular thanks to kitchens being an integral part of a home’s interior design and the varying size and layouts found in homes today. Here is a quick overview of what each zone entails and what items you should be placing in each zone to maximize functionality.
Organizing Your Kitchen by Work Zones
Define Your Zones
The items you use every day should be at eye level, easily accessible, and close to your cleaning zone. This category includes dishes and bowls, mugs, drinking glasses, and flatware. The key to creating a wellorganized kitchen is to maximize the vertical space in your cabinets and pantry. Look for shelf inserts you can place inside your cabinets to add another level of storage. This will double the amount of space you have and keep your important items visible so you can quickly access them. You can also add racks to your cabinets that will suspend your wine glasses, opening up shelf space for other items. For flatware and serving utensils, use drawer inserts to keep everything organized and in place for easy access. There are so many great options from clear plastic inserts to ones that will match the color of your drawers and they come in a range of prices to fit all budgets.
There are three main zones and two sub zones to think about when setting up a kitchen. The first is your prep zone. This, as the name suggests, is where you will be preparing your food for cooking so this space is usually the island or the largest area of countertop. This space should be kept clear of other small appliances and kitchen equipment and should be easy to clean. Make sure this zone has easy access to your oven and stove so you can quickly move chopped items to pans or filled casserole dishes into the oven. The second zone is cooking. Once you’ve prepped, it’s time to cook so this area will include ovens, your stove, and microwave. If possible, this will also be where you place things like a crockpot or air fryer when you use them to keep them out of your other kitchen zones. The third main zone is cleaning. Your sink and dishwasher should be housed here. The two subzones are your food storage, like your pantry and fridge, and non-food storage, i.e. cabinets where you store dishes and glasses.
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Store Items Accordingly Now that you know where your zones are, setting up your cabinets and drawers will be a breeze because you will put them away based on those zones. Cutting boards and knives go in the prep zone while pots and pans should be as close to the stove as possible. Things you wash everyday, like your dishes and coffee mugs should be put near the cleaning zone so you don’t have to trek across the kitchen each time you empty your dishwasher or drainboard. To help you make decisions on what items should go where, take stock of what you use regularly in each phase of cooking and cleaning and make sure those are the things most easily accessible. For example, you probably use your knives to chop and slice a range of food items more than you use your mandolin or food processor, so prioritize storage and placement for knives. Same for things like spices. You use salt and pepper daily, but probably aren’t cooking with cinnamon regularly, so keep that in mind.
Stay Organized Now that you’ve figured out your zones and where you will be storing your different kitchen items and products, it’s time to make sure you put the proper organization into place. There are clever solutions that will help you create user-friendly drawers, cabinets, and pantries.
Well Loved, Most Used
Prepping Zone
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Knives can be a challenge to store. If you keep them in a drawer, make sure they are secured and covered so you don’t cut yourself. Knife blocks are great, but for people with small kitchens, the space they take up on the counter can be too much. A great way to store your knives is on a magnetic organizer that hangs on the wall or inside the door of a kitchen cabinet. Keep them close to your prep zone for maximum efficiency. Cutting boards can take up cabinets and drawer space when laid flat so look into other options, like wire racks that store them upright or storage that places them on the back of your cabinet door. Wooden cutting boards can act as decor for your kitchen so consider storing some of your favorite ones on display hooks.
Cooking Zone Keeping everything you need close to your oven and stove is vital for a well-organized kitchen. Pots, pans, cutting boards, baking dishes, and oven mitts—so many of these items are bulky and awkward to store. Using a few smart solutions will help you keep everything neat and easy to access. If you can, think about adding drawers instead of traditional lower cabinets. It’s much easier to retrieve a roasting pan or stockpot from a drawer rather than reaching back into a dark cabinet. There are also pull out shelves you can use to retrofit cabinets and these are easy enough for you to install on your own. Carousels are great for organizing and storing pots and pans. They also help you make the most of corner cabinets since items can get lost in the back of these cavernous spaces. As with pullout shelves, these carousels can be added later to a kitchen to create an ideal space. If you are storing sheet pans, stacking them makes the bottom pans hard to retreive, along with being noisy and unsteady—moving all those pans just to get to the one you need! Instead, use partitions to store your sheet pans on their sides, simply sliding them in and out of a cabinet like a book on a shelf. Another way to organize your kitchen is through canisters. Great for kitchens where drawer space is at a premium, canisters can hold the cooking utensils you use the most. They come in a wide range of sizes with colors and styles to match any home.
If you have a home office or a homework space in the kitchen, this area will also benefit from some baskets and canisters. Drawer organizers made specifically for offices will help keep pens and paper handy. On the desk, add a cord organizer to keep the smaller counter space uncluttered.
If you are unable to redo your pantry, don’t worry. Here are some great storage ideas that will help transform this important space with very little effort and money. Make sure your dry goods are visible. Store grains, pasta, coffee, and flour in clear containers so you can easily see what you have on hand before shopping. It also creates a more uniform look inside the pantry. Unlike the different shapes and sizes of the original boxes and bags, clear containers can also stack so you can utilize the vertical space. These airtight containers will also keep your foods fresher longer.
Don’t forget to organize areas that aren’t immediately categorized into a specific zone in the kitchen, like an office cubby or under the sink. These areas can get filled with junk, cords, paperwork, and cleaning supplies, so setting up a good organization system is helpful. Use crates and boxes under the sink to hold cleaning supplies—look for materials that won’t warp or rust when they are wet or if there is a spill or leak. If you keep your trash under your kitchen sink, consider investing in a pull out system that will help you keep recycling and trash separate. You can also use a rail to hang cleaning towels and baskets for sponges opening up the cabinet floor for more storage.
Use crates and baskets to house products that are commonly used together, like baking supplies or oils and vinegars. These items are difficult to stack, so placing them in their own bins helps keep your pantry uncluttered. Add shelf inserts so you have a variety of heights and can use more vertical space. As suggested for cabinets, freestanding shelves in your pantry can help you store more and keep your sightlines open for quick and easy access. There are also tiered shelves available so you can give your canned goods a “stadium view” which helps you quickly find what you’re looking for each time you open your pantry.
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The pantry is an area where organization and good setup is essential. From canned goods to snacks, paper plates to tea, pantries can serve as a catch-all for many kitchens and space is usually at a premium. You probably also store some smaller appliances in your pantry so it really is a multipurpose space. If your pantry has the original, builder-grade wire shelves, adding an organization system is going to create the best possible storage solution.
Ranging in price from $100 to a few thousand, something is bound to fit any budget. Stores like The Container Store and Home Depot offer DIY products while local companies will come and install your system for you, so keep the cost of installation in mind when you are shopping.
Miscellaneous Areas
Optimize Your Pantry
Another way to take advantage of the vertical space in your pantry is to hang things where you can. Add wall hooks to keep items like brooms and mops up and out of the way. You can also use rods with hooks to hang baskets above shelves to give you more storage space.
MESSERMEISTER OLIVA ELITE 6 PIECE MAGNET BLOCK SET
Every chef knows the quality of their knives plays an important role in the quality of their food. Dull knives will squash food, tearing the fibers which can create an uneven, almost grainy texture. They can also damage cell walls in your ingredients, changing the taste. Using dull knives to cut vegetables puts unnecessary stress on them and can lead to the loss of nutrients. Sharp knives reduce the risk of bacterial growth and keep your vegetables from softening before you have a chance to cook them. Before you prepare your next big meal, make sure your knives are ready for the job.
of nitrogen-treated, premium metal, this knife will become the star in your kitchen. www.madeincookware.com
28 | YOUR HOME MAGAZINE® A CUT ABOVE
This knife line is one-piece, hot-drop hammer forged, which produces the strongest blade from heel to tip, handcrafted in the historic cutlery capital of Solingen, Germany. The threestep, 15° Elite edge is hand-stropped on a cloth wheel, creating the sharpest possible cutting surface on an edged tool. The bolsterless heel simplifies all cutting, sharpening, and honing tasks, making use of the entire blade. The Messermeister Oliva
SHUN HIKARI 7-PIECE KNIFE BLOCK SET Named Hikari after the Japanese word for illumination, the masterfully crafted, award-winning knives in this set are distinguished by their stunning pakkawood handles and “hornet’s nest” pattern. Extraordinarily sharp with a long-lasting edge, the blades have micro-serrations that reduce friction for clean, effortless slices that enhance the flavor of the food. The set includes five essential knives, as well as a dual-textured honing steel and solid birch block for eye-catching display and easy access. 7-Piece Set includes a 4” paring knife, 6” utility knife, 6” chef’s knife, 8” chef’s knife, 9” bread knife, 9” honing steel, and an 8-slot storage block. www.crateandbarrel.com
MISEN ESSENTIAL KNIFE SET
Haruta-kyokuto Series is made with a V Gold core steel with 67-layers of steel composite folded and forged over the top, making for solid, tough knives. Along with a beautiful finish on the blades and a gorgeous oval pakkawood handle to truly complement the seamless finish. Damascus blades are made out of carbon steel with small amounts of chromium in the alloy. While high in carbon steel, the blade can show rust if not cared for. You should keep the blades clean and dry to avoid rust or staining. us.santokuknives.co.uk
SANTOKU HARUTA 67 LAYER DAMASCUS STEEL KITCHEN KNIVES
GLOBAL CLASSIC CHEF’S KNIFE
WÜSTHOF CLASSIC HOLLOW-EDGE SANTOKU KNIFE
Combining the duties of both a chef’s knife and a cleaver, this santoku is deftly proportioned for precision tasks like mincing and paper-thin slicing. The high-carbon steel blade has shallow oval-shaped depressions along the cutting edge that keep foods from adhering to it. They are also precision forged from a single piece of sturdy highcarbon steel that resists stains and corrosion. The blade’s hollow-edge depressions reduce friction and minimize sticking while Wüsthof’s Precision Edge Technology (PEtec) ensures a 20% sharper blade with twice the edge retention. The polypropylene handle is contoured for a comfortable grip.
Maximum versatility, minimum counter space. These are the essential knives you need to start cooking better. The set comes in a 3, 5, and 7 piece option for all your home chef needs. www.misen.com
The stainless-steel handle is seamlessly constructed and textured for a good grip. Crafted to professional standards, this knife is lightweight yet perfectly balanced.
Made to the exacting standards of Japanese professional chefs, Global’s award-winning knives are an excellent choice for the discerning home cook. This knife’s long razor-sharp blade is suited to virtually any cutting task, from dicing vegetables to quartering a chicken. The stamped blades are made of exceptionally hard Cromova 18 high-carbon stainless steel and ice-tempered to resist corrosion.
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J. Sweet Construction worked with the owner not only on the style and decorative touches of the home, but also the architectural plans as well. With this project started and completed within the summer of 2021, supply chain issues presented many problems, but quick and creative solutions were always found to keep the project on track. The overall goal of the project was to take an outdated space that was dark and closed off, and open it up to the rich views of the Gulf of Mexico, allowing a graceful flow for the eye and body to wander. With its modern coastal design, this refreshed condo boasts a minimalist look with the beachy, cool-toned aesthetic of coastal styles. It incorporates whites and creams with accents of beach and sky blues and placement of minimal, yet intentional, décor items. As you move from room to room you will notice the continuity of colors, styles and textures, all tied together with the same large format tile flooring throughout. Each room has its own charm and appeal, but they all speak the same language. This theme interwoven throughout the rooms is a prime example of thoughtful design, which this home truly exemplifies.
L OCATED WITHIN THE EXCLUSIVE Marco Island Community of Cape Marco, this condominium in the Tampico was built in 1994. With a total of 3,153 square feet and 27 years of wear and tear, this unit offered an incredible opportunity to give this home a much-deserved face lift. Working very closely with the owners, the wonderful team at J. Sweet Construction completed the demolition and reconstruction in less than five months. “We have a very limited amount of time to work in condos,” stated the Job Superintendent, Brian Buckler. “We have a talented team of professionals who we can count on to do quality work within a tight time frame.”
The favorite design element is the style and openness of the floorplan. On one side of the kitchen, you have the entertainment room and sit-down breakfast bar, while on the other side an open dining room that leads to the wet bar and living area. From one end to the other, one enjoys a spectacular view of the beautiful island of Marco and the pristine beach and Gulf. It is a pleasure to cook in this open kitchen with friends and family all while experiencing the feeling of the beach as part of the living space. With more than 25 years of experience, J. Sweet Construction brings a vast knowledge of general contract work to each project they tackle. Specializing in custom new and single family home and condominium remodels, they’ve got what it takes to get the job done right and pride themselves on their range of completed projects in the Southwest Florida area.
Open & Airy In the great room, the new coastal look and feel was achieved by opening up sightlines and taking down the unnecessary walls that had been put up when the home was built in the 1990s. The new layout allows for views of the Gulf of Mexico and creates a modern home. The wet bar was added to create a sense of separation between the great room and the dining room while allowing light to flow through freely. Glass shelves keep the view open and the beautifully grained wood accent is repeated throughout the living areas for continuity. A waterfall edge counter maintains the contemporary coastal theme of the home. A wine refrigerator and large drawers give the owners a place to easily entertain from when they open their home to guests. A custom built-in with the same rich wood houses the TV and important coastal accents that bring the beachside into the home. The condo’s color scheme of blue and cream accented with warm wood tones and natural fibers is wellrepresented in this space.
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YOUR HOME MAGAZINE® | 33 Clean & Bright
The original kitchen floorplan remains largely unchanged, but the way the space is now utilized creates a totally different room, perfect for quick bites or elaborate meals. Thoughtfully placed cabinets offer much more storage than the originals and the larger island is topped with a matching stone counter with the bar in the great room for continuity. The wood used on the island also matches the dry bar in the great room. Above, the ceiling was modernized and squared off and recessed lighting was added to make the space more functional. A stacked microwave and oven offer more cooking space. Originally, a wall next to the refrigerator created an L shape between the kitchen and the dining room. That was removed to open the flow of the rooms making the space feel larger than the original layout.
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Cozy & Comfortable
The entertainment room is just off the kitchen, creating a cozy place for family to gather close to the hub of the home. J. Sweet Construction modernized the space by cleaning up the walls and painting them in a cool tone, and by adding beams to the ceiling for visual detail. Painted in the same refreshing color, the beams are coastal yet modern. Comfortable seating was added, along with accents, like the marbled rug, which bring in a pop of blue from both the outside and the great room. Stools with woven backs offer seating at the breakfast bar and tie the two rooms together. Thanks to the removal of the unnecessary and non-structural walls, the sightlines in the home are unobstructed from the entertaining space to the great room, offering beautiful views from every room
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Contemporary & Welcoming
The first of two guest rooms is a beautiful space with an impactful accent wall covered in modern wallpaper with a classic appeal. The blue botanical print is perfect for the condo’s coastal location and is a wonderful backdrop for the crisp white linen and wood bed frame perched on a simple navy and white striped rug. A pop of natural wood is achieved by the flanking nightstands and colorful, coastal art finishes the space.
Simple & Warm
The second guest room features a unique set of woven headboards placed against a slate blue accent wall. Attractive bedding complemented by earthy tones offers a relaxed feel, perfect for guests coming in after a day at the beach. Another navy and white striped rug has been used in this room, with contrasting design for a customized feel. Sliding shades open to reveal an outdoor space with comfortable seating. Simple furniture and nautical accents are perfect in this well-appointed bedroom.
TOP PICKS Cocktails are the perfect companion to great dinners, parties, or relaxing evening on the couch. Here are a few fun and practical items to add to your bar cart to make your next mixology session even better. cheers! 1 3 4 2
YOUR HOME MAGAZINE® | 39 1. MOROCCAN HANDCRAFTED RECYCLED GLASS PITCHER $39.50; potterybarn.com 2. BILLIE AMETHYST DOUBLE OLD-FASHIONED GLASS $10.95; crateandbarrel.com 3. RABBIT RBT WINE DECANTER $99.95; crateandbarrel.com 4. SIMPLE BRASS COCKTAIL SHAKER & BAR SET $138; food52.com 5. IVV ITALIAN RETRO GLASSWARE $55-68; food52.com 6. TAFT DECANTER $39.95; cb2.com 7. ALIR SHAKER, BRASS FINISH $88; burkedecor.com 8. MARRAKECH RED WINE GLASSES SET OF 2 $75; caskata.com 8 7 5 6
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CARAWAY BAKEWARECOMPLETESET Make healthier baking a piece of cake with this bakeware. The Complete Bakeware Set includes 11 pieces, all featuring a toxinfree ceramic surface, so you can get to baking goods without any of the bads. Their bakeware is free of PFOAs, PTFEs, PFAs,
www.fromourplace.com
The foundation of a good meal, the tools you use to cook with make all the difference in how the food turns out and how easy it is for you to create culinary masterpieces. Chef-quality pots and pans are now readily available to the public, so stocking your kitchen with great equipment is an easy task. The main problem is deciding what will work best for you and your cooking needs. Here are some recommendations that will help you curate the perfect collection of pots, pans, and bakeware whether you are an enthusiastic beginner or the most proficient home cook.
OUR PLACE ALWAYS PAN
Curated Cookware
This elegant pan features an exclusive non-toxic, non-stick ceramic coating made without materials like PFOAs, PTFEs, PFAs, lead, cadmium, toxic metals, and nanoparticles. Compatible with all cooktops including induction, this pan features nesting beechwood spatula and spoon rest, a stainless steel steamer basket, sturdy aluminum body for fast, even heat, lightweight construction, a modular lid to let off steam, and pour spouts for mess-free cooking.
Copper cookware is known for its superior conductivity, which is why you’ll find it in high-end restaurants. This Copper Rondeau features Made In’s signature performance details like a stainless steel cooking surface and an ergonomic design for maneuverability. Its superior responsiveness is due to its premium composition of 90% copper and 10% stainless steel. Whether you’re searing tough cuts of meat to braise, or frying the perfect milanese, the Copper Rondeau will take your most memorable meals from the stove to the table. www.madeincookware.com
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Offering the well-known durability and quality of All-Clad, this versatile sauté pan features a large surface area for searing, with straight sides to hold in liquid and prevent splattering. Classic triply construction, made with a responsive aluminum core bonded together with two layers of stainless steel for maximum durability and fast, even heat distribution. Compatible with all cooktops including induction, and oven/broiler-safe up to 600°F. www.all-clad.com
This beloved French porcelain bakeware just got a redesign. Made In uses a 202-year-old porcelain recipe, with natural non-stick capabilities, and high heat performance. They also teamed up with Chef Nancy Silverton to bring a unique design to each piece. This rectangular baking dish features a beautiful blue wave design. Durable, handdecorated, and produced from the finest raw materials in the world, this will be your new baking centerpiece. www.madeincookware.com
MADE IN COPPER RONDEAU
Smithey’s 12 inch skillet is perfect for pan-frying chicken, searing steaks on the range, roasting vegetables in the oven, and even baking biscuits. A daily companion in the kitchen, the No. 12 is also at home outdoors on the grill or over an open campfire. With their signature polished interior finish, the No. 12 is naturally non-stick when seasoned and free of chemical coatings. www.smithey.com
ALL-CLAD D3 STAINLESS 3-PLY BONDED
COOKWARE, 6-QT. SAUTÉ PAN WITH LID
MADE IN 9” X 13” BAKING DISH
SMITHEY NO. 12 CAST IRON SKILLET
GREENPAN™ RESERVE CERAMIC NONSTICK 10-PIECE COOKWARE SET
HEXCLAD HYBRID 8 QT POT WITH LID
42 | YOUR HOME MAGAZINE® CARAWAY 2.7-QT. FRY PAN
The HexClad 8-qt. Hybrid Pot with Lid is ideal for slow-cooking stews and soups, simmering stocks, and boiling pasta. It is one of the cornerstones of a well-equipped kitchen, and will surely earn a permanent spot on the stove. The hybrid technology allows for easy cleaning, durability, and even heat distribution. Their products have no harsh chemical coatings and are PFOA-free, dishwasher safe, oven safe up to 500°F, induction-ready, metal utensil safe, and backed by a lifetime warranty. www.hexclad.com
Proving that eco-friendly cookware can deliver sophisticated style, the GreenPan™ Reserve series pairs glossy black interiors with lustrous gold-toned handles. More than just attractive, these pots and pans are built to last. The Thermolon™ Diamond Advanced non-stick ceramic coating is diamond-infused for durable performance, and the armored exteriors are scratch-resistant to keep them looking new. Safe for use with metal utensils and the dishwasher, they are heat-resistant to 600°F and lids are oven safe to 425°F. The 10-Piece Set includes 8” and 11” fry pans, 2-qt. saucepan with lid, 2 3/4-qt. sauté pan with lid, 6-qt. casserole with spouts and straining lid, 8-qt. stockpot with lid. www.williams-sonoma.com
MISEN ENAMELED CAST IRON BRAISER Add a little color as well as a fantastic cooking tool to your kitchen with this braising pan. This sturdy and durable Dutch oven features a thick core, broad cooking area, and chipresistant enamel coating. The shallow and easy-to-use shape makes it perfect for everyday cooking. www.misen.com
This beautiful fry pan allows for healthy cooking in the kitchen without harmful chemicals. It is perfect for slide-off-the-pan eggs, sautéing veggies, and more. Featuring a non-toxic ceramic-coated interior, this durable non-stick pan makes cooking easier than ever, cleaning enjoyable, and adds a pop of color to any home. www.carawayhome.com
• Neutral oil, for the bowl and spaetzle maker
• 2 unsaltedtablespoonsbutter
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Heat until the butter melts and begins to brown. Add the spaetzle and saute until they begin to brown slightly. Season with salt. Transfer to a plate and serve!
Oktoberfest
In Germany, Oktoberfest starts in September and runs through the first part of October, so it’s not too early to start making some delicious German classics. Whether you’re making a full meal or just adding a couple fun elements to your weekly menu, these authentic recipes are tasty and well loved by people around the world.
• 1/4 nutmegteaspoon
• 2 large eggs
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• Whisk together the flour, nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few turns of black pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk together the milk and eggs in a separate bowl. Whisk the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Traditional Spaetzle
• Optional equipmentspecial : spaetzle maker (slotted spoon also works)
SERVES 4 • 11/2 cups allpurpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Working in batches, press the spaetzle dough through a greased spaetzle maker or slotted spoon (the slots should be on the larger side, about 1/4- to 1/2-inch), using a rubber spatula, into the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. When the spaetzle floats to the top, remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a medium oiled bowl.
• Place potatoes in a steamer basket set in a pot with about 1 1/2-inches of water. Bring water to a simmer over medium-high heat (if you don’t have a steamer, you can boil potatoes, then strain).
• Add onions to skillet with drippings and cook 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
• While potatoes are steaming, cook bacon in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until crisp (about 6-7 minutes). Remove bacon, set aside and leave drippings in skillet.
German Potato Salad SERVES 6 • 2 pounds red potatoes or Yukon potatoesgold • 6 slices choppedbacon, • 2 choppedcups red onion • 2 mincedteaspoonsgarlic • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar • 1/2
chicken broth • 1 dijontablespoonmustard • 2 sugargranulatedtsp • Salt pepperandto taste • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley • 2 olivetablespoonsoil
• Add chopped potatoes, bacon and olive oil and toss. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Remove from heat, toss in parsley. Serve warm or chilled. If the mixture seems to be just slightly dry you can either toss in a little more olive oil or chicken broth. cup
• Cover pot with a snug lid and let steam until potatoes are tender, about 20-25 minutes (test for doneness by piercing potatoes through center with a knife, it should glide through). Set aside to cool just until warm enough to cut into chunks.
• Pour in chicken broth, vinegar, dijon mustard and sugar. Bring the liquid to a simmer and let reduce by about half for a minute or two.
Pork Schnitzel SERVES 4 TO 6
• Set up three bowls. First combine flour, garlic salt, paprika, and pepper in one bowl. In the second, use a fork to beat the eggs. In the third bowl, add panko crumbs.
• 2 lbs boneless pork chops, trimmed and sliced into ½-inch thick cutlets
• Lemon wedges to serve
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• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground • 3 large eggs • 2 cups panko bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon garlic salt, or sub with equal parts salt and garlic powder
• Dredge both sides of each pounded cutlet in flour then dip in beaten egg, letting excess egg drip back into the bowl before breading in panko crumbs. It helps to use a fork for the dipping process to keep your hands clean. Repeat with remaining cutlets.
• Line a cutting board with plastic wrap, place cutlets in a single layer on the board, then cover with plastic wrap (this prevents splatter). Pound cutlets with a meat mallet or the back of a heavy saucepan, until 1/4” to 1/8” thick.
• Once all cutlets are breaded, heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once oil is hot, add breaded cutlets a few at a time and sauté 3-4 min per side or until cooked through. Reduce heat if browning too quickly. Remove and place in a paper towel lined plate. Cut into one to check doneness; juices should run clear. Serve with lemon wedges.
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Olive oil, canola oil or any high heat cooking oil to sauté
• Thoroughly wring out the liquid in the grated potatoes by placing them in a colander and squeezing them with your hands or by placing them in a clean dish towel and wringing out the liquid.
eggs • 1/4
grated • 2
Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer) MAKES 6 TO 8 • 21/2
if needed) • 1
• Serve immediately while hot with applesauce, fruit compote, or powdered sugar. For a savory version serve with herbed yogurt, creme fraiche, or with meat and gravy as part of a meal. pounds raw, starchy potatoes, finely grated small yellow onion, finely large cup flour (or more teaspoon sea salt frying
• Place the drained grated potatoes in a medium-sized bowl with the grated onion, eggs, flour and salt and use your hands to work it into a tacky mixture. Add a little more flour if needed. Do not let the mixture sit for long before using it, cook immediately.
• Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and place 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the mixture (depending on size preference) in the hot pan and flatten into pancakes with the back of a spoon. Fry on both sides for 3-5 minutes until they are golden. Place them briefly on paper towels.
peeled and
• 1
all-purpose
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• Oil for
all-purpose
• Add the apple, broth, bay leaf, cloves, juniper berries, red currant jam, red wine vinegar, sugar and salt.
• Add more broth if needed. Combine the flour and water until dissolved and stir into the Rotkohl. Simmer for another minute.
• 1
• 2 tablespoons water
• Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Add more salt, sugar and vinegar to taste. Traditionally served with roasts, rouladen, sauerbraten and potatoes, spaetzle, or knoedel. Smith wine bay leaf sugar teaspoon salt tablespoons flour (omit if gluten-free/ paleo)
• 3 whole cloves • 3 juniper berries • 1 teaspoon
• Add the cabbage and cook for 5 minutes.
or other semi-tart apple, peeled, cored and diced • 1/4 cup butter or oil of choice • 2 tablespoons red currant jam, or cherry preserves (optional) • 2-3 tablespoons red
• Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and cook the onions until just beginning to brown, 7-10 minutes.
Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage (Traditional Rotkohl) SERVES 6 • 11/2 pounds red cabbage, very thinly sliced • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced • 1 large Granny
vinegar • 1/2 cup vegetable broth • 1
• 1
German Soft Pretzels (Laugenbrezel)
• 1/2 cup pale ale beer
• Pour the yeast mixture into the flour/butter mixture and mix everything until a shaggy dough is formed and water is absorbed.
• Sprinkle the pretzels with pretzel salt.
• Roll out each strip into a 30 to 33 inch long rope (about 3/4 inch thick), starting from the center and working toward the ends. To form the pretzels, make a “U” shape with the rope and cross the ends over, pinching at the bottom of the “U”.
• Pretzel salt for sprinkling
• Boil the pretzels, one at a time, for about 30 seconds or until they float. Transfer the boiled pretzels to the prepared baking sheet using a perforated spatula. Repeat with remaining pretzels.
• Preheat the oven to 450°F.
• Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rest and rise in a warm spot for 2 hours or until doubled in size. (Alternatively, you can bring the dough to the fridge overnight. The long, slow rise will help develop more flavor)
• 8 cups water
• Roll the dough out into a large (14-by-12-inch) rectangle and cut it into twelve 12-inch-long strips, about 1 inch wide.
SERVES 12
• In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast and barley malt syrup. Let it proof for 10 minutes or until foamy.
• In the stand mixer bowl, combine the flour and the salt. Add the pieces of butter and use your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse sand.
• 2 tablespoons barley malt syrup
• Bring the bowl to the stand mixer fitted with the dough hook and mix on medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 6 minutes.
• In a large pot, over medium high heat, combine 8 cups of water, the baking soda, beer and brown sugar. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
• Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
• 2 (1/4 ounce) packages rapid-rise yeast
• 6 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into small pieces
• Prepare 2 (or 3) large baking sheets by spraying them with nonstick cooking spray.
• 2 tablespoons coarse salt
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• Bake the pretzels for 5 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet and continue baking for 5-8 more minutes or until the pretzels get to a deep dark brown color.
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 cups warm water
CUSTOM.BOLD.STYLE. UNIQUE. 239.672.2232 | BlindsandMore.org SWFL
195 9 Trad e Center Wa y Naples, FL 34109 2 3 9 398.5423 dianahalldesig n co m d h Exceptional interior design Luxury high rises, single family hom pe y y
