The Magic Base... For every (Persian) stew

The idea of cooking used to be very daunting for me.  The idea of cooking Persian meals was even worse until my mom taught me how to make the Magic Base, which is used in almost every Persian stew.  Now I make Persian stews with ease and even add my own twists to them.  

Eggplant and Zucchini Stew ... YUM!

Beef and Green Bean Stew (recipe coming soon)

Since the Magic Base has helped me so much, I'll share the recipe with you and in future stew series posts, I will refer to it as the Magic Base instead of going over its details again.  Enjoy the recipe and stay tuned for my stew series.  [warning:  your kitchen will smell amazing by the time you're finished with this base!]

Good luck!

The "[M]BD"

We've all heard that every girl needs the perfect LBD in their closet.  As a Persian girl, large sections of my closet are taken up by black clothes.  So, I have more than a few LBDs and they really are perfect.  I have had them for a while and they're simple enough that I can wear them year round and for various occasions.  If you're over 25 years old or if you're reaching your mid 20's, you also need the perfect MBD, Medium Black Dress.  The MBD is a more appropriate choice for those times when our professional life and social life co-mingle.  I found my perfect MBD not too long ago at Cache.  It's simple but the gold accents give the dress character.  It's also very flattering.  Look for other perfect LBDs at stores like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, and Loft.

It Smells Like Derby

One of the only things Kentucky is known for internationally is the Kentucky Derby (besides KFC, or Kentucky pollo as the Spaniards call it).  The fact that there is still snow on the ground makes it hard for me prepare for or even think about the Derby.  There is just so much to the Derby experience.  One of my friends has continued to invite me to Derby with his family.  They spend their Derby at the Jockey Suites, which is where you would touch elbows with local politicians, athletes, or maybe even a celebrity.  There are tasty cocktails, great conversations, and the chance to win (or lose) some cash.  I usually make bids based on my favorite horse names because frankly, I know nothing about all the stats in booklets.  I carry around the booklets with me like I know what I'm doing but the reason I'm really there is to people watch.  Let me rephrase:  The reason I'm really there is to outfit watch.  I love love love seeing all ladies in their pretty dresses, shoes, and hats.  Picking out a Derby outfit is serious business.  Most ladies here pick their hat first.  Last year, in honor of my alma mater, Louisville winning the basketball national championship, I wore black and red.  As the countdown to the Derby continues, I'll make a few other posts about Derby culture, Derby fashion, and Derby on a budget.  For now, I'll share a picture what I wore the past couple of years.  If you're not a local, I hope you'll consider joining us for the Derby this year!