winter Archives - Page 3 of 3

Recipe February 26, 2016

New! Fresh! Spicy!: 10 fun ingredients for chili

With winter dragging on, the traditional stews and soups of the season are most likely growing tiresome. Here are 10 snazzy ways to spice up your palette. Add any of these odd ingredients to a typical vegetarian chili for a special, and delicious, twist.

While you are cooking, why not use the remaining tomato juice to make a Caesar. Nothing makes cooking more fun than a little bit of juice from the fun flask.

Jalapeno Peppers or Chipolte Peppers found in Adobo sauce.

Block out those grey skies by adding Jalapeno peppers to spice up the chili and give it some colour. Chipolte peppers are a great alternative and are EXTREMELY spicy. They can be found in local grocery stores in adobo sauce.

Espresso for a jolt

Espresso is a fun ingredient that can enhance a chili, adding a jolt to the slow-cooked stew. Espresso adds a unique quality to the dish, deepening the taste and making the eater buzz.

Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder is a popular ingredient for alternative chili lovers and can bring out unsuspecting flavours in other ingredients. It also adds a smoky and earthy flavour to the dish, which will reduce the acidic taste tomatoes tend to cause. Be careful not to add too much cocoa powder — a smidge will make a stellar difference.

Beer

Beer is a great addition to chili because each type of beer creates a specialized taste relative to an individual’s pallet. Dark beers add a smoky quality to the dish and hoppier beers add a bit of a spicy kick. The beer evaporates the alcohol content so the dish is safe for kids, but the delightful taste of a good craft beer is left behind for the parents.

Spicy Chocolate

Spicy chocolate (or chili chocolate) works well and can be found at local grocery stores. A darker chocolate will deepen the taste and add a pleasant and surprising spicy sweetness. It also pairs fantastically with red wine.

Sriracha Sauce

Sriracha sauce gives chili a spicy Asian twist. For those who love typical hot sauce, Siracha will take your experience to the next step. Add soya sauce for a true Asian flare. Make sure to have water or corn bread on hand because Sriracha runs HOT!

Arrowroot Powder and Sour Cream (vegan or otherwise)

Arrowroot can be difficult to find, but it is a staple in many southern dishes, including the classic, Gumbo. Adding the spice and sour cream (vegan variations are available and delicious!) turns the average chili into a southern frenzy. Many of us northerners have never tried REAL Gumbo, so this would be an adventurous option for a winter dinner party to warm the heart and soul.

Quinoa

Quinoa! Quinoa! Quinoa! Everything tastes better with this protein packed and intensely healthy grain. It also makes a great additional ingredient to chili because it thickens any recipe and will fill you up in a healthy and satisfactory way. It has a light taste, but pairs well with any spice, absorbing it easily.

Veggie Dogs

A less healthy, but yummy, alternative is to thicken your chili and pour it on top of veggie hot dogs. Turning boring chili into chili dogs will cheer up anyone with winter blues — plus it’s a really fun dish for kids. Worried about the mess? Veggie hot dogs can also be cut up and put into the dish for younger children. No need to worry about getting chili on the floor.

Curry Paste

Curry adds to any dish, giving it a spicy and cleansing flavour while still remaining delicious. Curried chili is a simple mixture and is affordable. Pairing curry paste with coconut will give the chili a rich and spicy flavor, making a smoother chili option.

With these new and fun ingredient options, enjoy your Friday night cooking and remember to have a drink on me.

Living February 19, 2016

Layers — the solution to this crazy Canadian climate

Dear Canadians,

We live in a wonderfully weird country where the snow falls in the morning, the sun blazes in the afternoon, and the wind howls in the evening. One day it could be -28 degrees outside and then the next it will feel like a balmy autumn afternoon.

There are no other words to describe it: the weather in Canada is frustrating, annoying, and just plain crazy.

The challenge becomes this: how to dress for your workday when the temperature can change at the drop of a hat. The solution, dear readers, is layers.

Coats, Jackets, and Cardigans

The key to layers is putting together an ensemble that is warm and professional at the same time. A long-sleeved cardigan paired with a sleeveless printed shirt is the ultimate winter professional look. You can also try a long-sleeved shirt or turtleneck with a blazer — both cover your arms and it makes it easy to shed a layer if the heat in your office is blazing.

If it’s going to be a very cold day, you can always put a jacket over top of the cardigan, over top of a sleeveless shirt. This look can get a bit complex for the inexperienced, but I promise the outcome will be worth it. Keep the layers light so that if you are taking public transportation you don’t sweat through your clothing. One layer is sleeveless, the second is a light cardigan, and the last layer can be a something a little thicker like wool or cotton.

Long cardigan - true black — Gap Canada, $69.95

The knit sweater

Knit sweaters used to be something you hid in the back of your closet, but now it’s time to bring them out. Pairing a colourful sweater with a pair of dress pants and a white blouse as an under layer — collar showing above the neckline — can be a professional and transformative look. If it starts to get warm out, just remove the sweater and reveal the business-ready you!

Another option is to wear a tank top under a knit sweater with a pencil skirt and leggings.

Wrap a scarf around it

Sometimes, all it takes to stay warm is a good scarf around your neck. A thicker wool scarf can be paired nicely with both a winter jacket and a light sweater or cardigan in the office. Or change it up and wear a lighter scarf with a thicker sweater. The best part about scarves is that there is something for every outfit — whether you like silk, shine, matte, fringe, wool, patterns, or knit-wear, a scarf will always be there for you. They are the easiest of the layered accessories.

If all else fails, remember that it’s okay to bring an extra pair of shoes to leave at the office. No one wants to walk in 15 inches of snow with heels, or spend the entire day in waterproof boots that make their feet sweat. It’s okay to leave one “layer” at work while sporting the other on the road.

Do you have a favourite layered look? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Living January 15, 2016

These (heeled) boots were made for walking

Do you despise slushing through the miserable grey snow in the Canadian horror we call winter? Do you wish you could feel light as a feather and as chic as a French model during Mode à Paris?

Well, you are in luck. I’ve mastered the walk of the winter goddess and have decided to share my secret. It is called the high-heeled winter boot.

For many, it seems insane, maybe even stupid, to wear high-heels in the winter. This is an unwise assumption. The proper high-heeled boot is the smartest and safest way to rock the pedestrian look, not to mention you can manage a confident and sexy swivel while you traverse the terrors of Canadian terrain.

Every year I go on a shopping bonanza for the perfect winter boot. But, I don’t buy just any boot! First and foremost, the boot must have a thick heel. I don’t want to see any women with skinny eight-inch-heels. They will snap on the ice in -30 degree weather. You will die. A sturdy thick heel doesn’t just look sleek, but it also lifts the buttocks, makes your legs look awesome, and maintains your personal safety.

The boots must also be constructed of thick materials such as pleather (a cheaper and more animal friendly alternative to leather). You must also ensure the fabric is waterproof. I also recommend getting insoles to further protect your feet from the cold concrete. Insoles are usually sold at most shoe stores. One of the best arguments I can make for wearing heels in the winter is that the foot remains mostly elevated from the ground. This creates less contact with the snowy cold surface, therefore your feet stays warmer and the women in them stays much happier.

The other reason I love to wear high-heeled boots in the winter is because I can get a grip on the icy surface while I walk. Contrary to popular belief, the heel can actually stabilize the boot on a slippery surface because it hooks into the ice. Taking a tip from the majestic goat of the mountains, a hooked heel helps to be more grounded and stable, rather than slipping while wearing a flat toed shoe and ending up face first in a snow bank.

Finally, the boots look great. Especially if you purchase the protective spray that guards the boots from the winter salts that seem to be hell-bent on destroying nice footwear. Being able to strut down the street during a blizzard helps morale and warms the heart. During the tough winter months, this is a necessity. Happy winter perusing comrades — stay sexy and toasty.

Living December 10, 2015

5 stylish winter coats for the not-so-winter season

Tis’ the season for winter coats — well, maybe not yet. It’s been unusually warm in Canada this December, but I’m still dreaming of a white Christmas. Eventually, the temperatures will drop below zero and small white fluffs of frozen water will descend from the sky. Wouldn’t it be better to be prepared?

Winter coats, especially those made for typical Canadian winters, can usually look a bit frumpy. The sensible among us will get the thick overcoats that make us look like the Michelin Man. However, not everyone wants to feel puffy when heading to work or for a night out with friends.

Here are some good alternatives to keep you warm, and stylish, when winter finally arrives:

The toggles: My sister came home with a coat similar to this one last week. Apparently, toggles are the newest coat fashion trend. Rock the militarized look with multi-coloured palettes. Just make sure that the coat has a zipper underneath those chic button accessories. It’s important to make sure the seams can withstand snowfall.

The long and insulated: I am an absolute fan of the long winter coat. Not only is it fashionable, but it also provides the maximum protection from the cold. Don’t worry, this coat won’t make you look like the Michelin Man. The shape of the jacket pinches in just the right place to show off your curves, and the fur-rimmed hood adds a little colour and style.

The professional: This jacket is perfect for a business meeting or an interview. Tied at the waist, this coat will flatter just about everyone. One of the best features includes a shawl collar, which can be worn with a sweater or a turtleneck shirt for effect. It’s the epitome of the professional outfit.

The unique: There are a lot of coats out there that don’t meet the typical criteria for a winter jacket. These items are sleek, fashion-forward, and one of a kind, although they may not be as warm as the other options in this piece. This particular jacket, however, is multi-layered, which means that it is just as warm as it is stylish.

The faux-fur collar: Instead of fur-rimmed hoods, the trend is to have a full fur collar as an accent to a simply designed coat. Paired with some warm boots and leggings, this coat is perfect for a night out with friends. And you won’t even have to wear a scarf!

Do you have a favourite winter coat? What do you think of our choices above? Let us know in the comments below.

Living November 23, 2015

3 simple ways to wear a blanket scarf

It’s that time of year again; days where you choose to skip the gym and hide under big sweaters in the name of fashion (and cookies). Blanket scarves are the new trend this winter, but the size can definitely be overwhelming. With the right tips and tricks, you can turn this warm, versatile item into a work of art. Check out how to wear them below:

1. Be A Sophisticated Turtle

Wrap your blanket scarf around your neck once and let the two ends hang for a big, cozy look. Resembling a turtleneck that’s more ”I woke up like this” than ”grandma made me wear it,” this type of look goes great with a leather jacket and a pair of leggings. Be sure to contrast the colour of your outfit with your scarf to really make it pop! Make this look work-appropriate by opting for a blazer, some nicely tailored pants, and your favourite hand bag. Finally — a look that screams chic while still keeping you warm during the week!

MonicaxGuan blanket scarf leather jacket — Image by: Monica Guan

2. Baby, Let Your Hair Down

There’s nothing like a warm cup of tea and your favourite blanket after a long day at work. Throw on your favourite sweater and wear your blanket scarf like a shawl for the perfect outfit to lounge around in. For a more effortless look, let one side drape over your shoulder and the other side drape over your shoulder. Either tie the two ends together to keep them out of the way or let them hang in front for more coverage. It’s perfect for a night in with your friends or a quick date at the coffee shop. Embrace the blanket part of the blanket scarf without being caught! To pull it all together, wear this look with a pair of cute shorts or pull on a pair of leggings for those days you think you should be doing yoga, but decided not to. Don’t worry, we won’t judge.

MonicaxGuan blanket scarf square sweater heather grey crochet shorts-15 — Image by: Monica Guan

3. Make The World Your Runway

Straight outta Milan is what you’ll feel in this high-fashion look. Great for a day out in town or a stylish walk in the park, using your blanket scarf as a shawl or a batwing-style sweater is a sure fire way to turn some heads – if not all! Cover your shoulders with the scarf and let the fringed ends hang evenly down both of your sides. No knots or tying required! You can belt your scarf down to create an open-sleeved cardigan for a more put-together look. However, to truly master this outfit, it’s important to accessorize. Match your scarf with a basic top underneath and pair with a floppy hat and some thigh highs. Update your look for an extra chilly day by ditching your tank for a cute turtle neck, a pair of dark denims, and some ankle boots. Bam! The key to pulling this off is simple; confidence.

MonicaxGuan scarf poncho knee high wide brim hat-2 — Image by: Sandun Dissanayake

There you have it: three easy ways to wear your blanket scarf. Warm, fashionable, and cute. It’s like wearing a hug throughout the day! Have some other great ideas on how to wear a blanket scarf? Share them with us in the comments below.

Living November 3, 2015

5 boots to keep you warm and stylish this winter

Don’t be fooled by the warm weather this week. It’s fall, almost winter, and it’s time to start dressing like it. Get ready to throw away the light scarves in exchange for the thick-knitted one your mom made you. It’s time to store those sandals in the back of your closet and buy some fuzzy socks.

But, don’t worry. We know that it’s important to look presentable, even if the temperatures starts to drop. To help, here are five of the top boot trends for 2015:

The ankle-boot: I’m thrilled that the stylish and professional ankle-boots are back in style again. Nothing looks better with a good pair of skinny jeans and a blouse then the ankle-boot. They are also undeniably more comfortable than those black wear-every-day-to-work pumps.

The suede heel: You can’t go wrong with a good pair of knee-high boots, especially in this chilled weather. Not only do they add an extra layer of warmth to your legs, but they look amazing with both jeans and tights. Just make sure you buy some protective spray for the material. We all know how wet these Canadian seasons can be.

Knit insides: Canada knows how to make warm and stylish boots. Most of the 2015 designs will have a knit layer inside the boot, and then pair it with lace and zippers to make it as stylish as it is weather appropriate. They are also the perfect casual boot—pair it with jeans and a light knit sweater, and you are weekend ready.

Fringe: We always seem to come back to the fringe-style: in the 60s, then the 90s, and now in 2015! I’ve always loved fringe, the way it swishes as you walk. Turns out, I’m not the only one. Most stores carry a few stylish and trendy fringe options, and they are worth checking out.

The totally Canadian winter boot: Come December, our cute boots may not be able to cut through the slush and snow. This boot, however, was made for a Canadian winter. A hearty waterproof sole, a plaid knit top, and a maple leaf on the back—just in case it’s not clear that we are Canadian.

Health & Fitness November 28, 2013

4 ways to beat Jack Frost and stay active this winter

At this time of year, the chilly embrace of Jack Frost can feel as unwelcome as a wet blanket, eating snow cones on a frozen pond or a long hug from your great aunt that you haven’t seen since you were five. It goes against human nature to deliberately turn off the fireplace, get out of your comfy clothes and into layers of moisture wicking, water proof gear so you can venture outside to the bone-chilling tundra, of which only polar bears and ice sculptors are acclimatized.

Perhaps I exaggerate just a smidgen but no one should minimize how biting Canadian winters can be. The trick is to take what Mother Nature offers and make the best of it by staying fit.

How do you break this cycle of not feeling motivated when winter has settled in across our Great White North with sub zero temperatures, and less sunlight? For some lucky mammals, they just hibernate. For the rest of us, we need compelling reasons to push ourselves out the door to go for that run or walk, hike or skate.

Living in Canada winter can be, however, an enjoyable experience with the number of activities we participate in like tobogganing, building a snow man, igloo or ice cave. Take advantage of a winter sport or activity like hockey and this will help you stay in shape during the cold months. Curling is another Canadian winter pastime which can lead you all the way to the Olympics if you’re good enough.

Winters are much more enjoyable when you’re dressed properly, which may be obvious to most but the ones who get sick or frost bite are still there to remind us. If you happen to be a fair weather runner like so many who love the summer sun, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover just how invigorating it feels to run on a crisp, cold winter day while getting your healthy dose of vitamin D in the process.

To help inspire you to get off your comfy couch and into the spirit of exercising outdoors, here are the top four ways to stay active during winter:

After each activity reward yourself by having a cup of hot chocolate or eggnog and then cozy up by the fireplace – the feeling being much more gratifying after a workout.

1. Build a snowman

Building a snowman can be fun for the whole family. All you need is your imagination. The bigger the snowman the bigger the workout you get. According to sources, every hour you will burn 285 calories. This is based on a 150 pound person.

2. Shovel the snow

Shoveling snow is a good workout activity and sometimes can be a chore. You can make it fun by having the family take part in the activity and having music play in the background. You will burn 273 calories per hour based on a woman who is 120 pounds.

3. Go snowshoeing

Snowshoeing – like cross country skiing – is a good cross trainer for running and an enjoyable outing for the whole family. Hit the trails or slopes and enjoy Mother Nature at her best. You can burn 380-plus calories based on a woman who weighs 120 pounds. Cross country skiing can help you burn over 400 calories. Ice skating can be fun for the whole family and is great for your core and upper body. Many community centers have ice rinks while some families enjoy the convenience of having their own backyard rink, depending of course on regional climate.

4. Play some hockey!

Ice hockey is Canada’s sport and what better way than to participate in it and burn calories while having fun?

No matter which activity you choose, you can be sure to feel more alive afterwards. Whether it be from having a snowball fight to finding a good hill for spending the afternoon sledding, your fun will keep you fit. If you’re a runner, mix up your routine by doing some snowshoeing or winter hiking.

winter

1. Build a snowman

2. Shovel the snow

3. Go snowshoeing

4. Play some hockey!

Follow Christine on Twitter at @ChristineRuns and YouTube at RunWithItCB1.

Check her out on the web at RunWithIt.ca