About: Ericka

Ana’s note: One of the things I love most about embracing different Latin American holidays is the abundance and creativity of the variety of foods associated with the celebrations. Bread seems to be a common theme in Mexican traditions and it’s never lacking symbolism. On January 6th — the official last day of the holiday festivities — we celebrate el Día de los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day) across Latin America and Spain. In Mexico the tradition includes family andRead More ...

There is something very romantic about the sweet, comforting smell of burnt sugar and vanilla that permeates a kitchen while cooking flan. The preparation process can be simple but takes a few tries to master the perfectly beautiful and distinct amber color of the caramel.  It took several disasters for me to feel comfortable enough with swirling sugar and water in slow motion without stirring, carefully but in rhythmic pace.  Sometimes causing me to gyrate my hips without even realizingRead More ...

Warm bolillos smothered with refried beans and cheese are a staple in most Mexican families.  Molletes are one of the simplest, inexpensive and most delicious breakfasts you can have.  It’s perfect in every way because kids love them, no silverware is needed and you can customize them with your favorite toppings.  Today, I chose the traditional method by topping them with pico de gallo.  Kids can enjoy them with mild chorizo, small pieces of ham or roasted veggies for aRead More ...

Dia de Muertos is a very special holiday for us.  We spend the week prior setting up an altar for my grandparents, searching for cempazuchitl (marigolds), papel picado, making sugar skulls and preparing a mole dinner while we reminisce the joyful times we lived with my grandparents. This year is very special to us because my son is now at the age where he can participate in many Dia de Muertos activities and begin to understand the meaning of thisRead More ...

Amaranth is a tiny-little seed full of protein.  It is mainly used as the base ingredient in the Mexican candy known as Alegrias or “joy.”  Alegrias are rich in fiber, protein, amino acids, calcium and iron. And yes… they are also full of joy!  Children love to get their hands on this sticky-sweet dessert.  It is a healthy, energy-replenishing snack for kids that fit perfectly in their lunch box. It can also be used as a crunchy topping on theirRead More ...

There is absolutely no reason why your kid’s lunch should be a boring one.  Cute cooking has become a full-blown craze that has captivated pop culture to the fullest.  Bento boxes, meaning “convenient” in Japanese are an attractive way to encourage picky eaters to enjoy their lunch while at the same time, reducing waste because a reusable container is customarily used. A bento box lunch uses inexpensive ingredients and are a healthier choice than fast food or restaurant kid’s meals. Read More ...