The Sac Chef Holiday Poem

 

Twas the time before Christmas, and all thru the town,

BNI members everywhere are getting stresses and feeling down.

The holidays are here with so much to do.

Shopping and cooking for the party at dear Aunt Sue.

 

So I need your help with Christmas no near.

I can bring the food, and Kat will bring the “Mad Kat” beer.

With time a passing in such a fluffy,

all the world is in a mad pack hurry.

 

So when you are out to buy that perfect gift.

Remember it’s time for “Giver’s Gain”, so other’s spirits will lift.

The checkout lines, however are so long in the mall,

as shoppers ransack the shelves and grab it all.

 

But the SacChef can help you with your shopping mess,

with homemade chocolates gifts, guaranteed to impress.

I have boxes of truffles: Dark chocolate, Milk, or White

and hand dipped strawberries for that special night.

 

Another referral for me which is bewitchen,

is to have me help you in your kitchen.

 

Who do you know that can’t stop to rest,

their’ kitchen is a disaster, just look at the mess.

She burned her hand, and now it is stinging,

as red wine drips on her dress while the microwave is dinging.

 

With the guests now arriving but the dinner is not done,

her dress is soiled with butter and crumbs.

She runs from the kitchen in terror and pain,

screaming that the holidays are making her insane.

 

Not knowing what she is doing and what is that smell?

Oh no! It’s the cookies, they are burned all to hell!

She hates to admit it, she made a mistake,

she put them on “broil”, instead of on “bake”.

 

So if you know someone like this, you now know what to do,

fill out a referral slip, It’s so easy online too.

She is a great referral for me, so have her give me a call.

So she can relax and enjoy her party, letting me cook it all.

 

Are the holidays getting to you, are you feeling “Stressed”?

Just spell it backwards for my cure for those depressed.

To all my friends here in BNI,

I hope these tips help you find great gifts to buy.

 

Is your office having a party to celebrate the seasons?

I’m the perfect choice, do you need anymore reasons?

What is another great referral I want you to know?

Who is heading up to Tahoe to play in the snow?

 

They will be driving all day to get up to the cabin.

I can make pre-made meals with the kids will be grubbin’

Easy to travel, quick to reheat.

More time to enjoy skiing, now that’s a holiday treat.

 

Do last minute party invites make you feel stuck?

No time to cook something for your after work potluck.

I have lots of quick recipes on SacChef.com

or just call me to cook for you, and your contribution is done.

 

I hope you have enjoyed my holiday story, and know what to do.

I’m Brian, the Sac Chef, I’ll dirty my kitchen so you don’t have to!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chicken with Pear Sauce

Here is a recipe inspired from the Courtland Pear Fair using Pears and Bacon. Serve this over rice.

Classic Tiramisu

This classic Italian dessert is made with ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese in a trifle bowl or a springform pan

Click on photo for recipe

Boston Baked Beans

A wonderful old-fashioned baked bean flavor. This recipe tastes great served with fresh cornbread or biscuits and honey. Although you need to allow time for soaking and simmering the beans, this recipe is still quite easy.

Click on photo for recipe

Order your Handmade Chocolate truffles today for the Holidays

Order your Handmade Chocolate truffles today for the Holidays.

Order your Handmade Chocolate truffles today for the Holidays

Handmade Chocolate Truffles as a great Christmas Gift

Select your choice of flavors: White Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, or Dark Chocolate

Select your fillings: Chocolate Fudge, Caramel, or Chocolate with Nuts

(OR ANY COMBINATIONS OF THE ABOVE)

Select your size below

The “Santa” Box

A round box of 8 select truffles

1 lb weight

Only $20

the “Holiday” Box

A oval box of 4 select truffles

1/2 lbs weight

Only $10

The “Season’s Greetings” Bag

A gift bag of 2 select truffles

only $5

Brian is taking orders NOW through December 22nd in the greater Sacramento Area

Call Brian to Order at 916-879-4611

Sean T. Boyd, CPA, CFP, CVA

Money Metamorphosis is a 13-week intensive, participatory program that will literally transform your financial life.

Money Metamorphosis will teach you the building blocks of financial freedom, including:

Establish an emergency fund

Eliminate all debt

Save three to six months of expenses

Invest 15% of your income

Save money on your grocery bill by feeding your family for less.

Save for college

Pay off your house early

Build wealth and give!

What sets this class apart from the rest is the application of the principles. Each week you’ll not only learn about new concepts and workable strategies, but you’ll put them into action. Online support, accountability, group interaction and achievable goals provide the momentum and support to change your relationship to money – once and for all.

Money Metamorphosis graduates take part in complimentary reunion classes and enjoy an active online group where they can continue to support each other in reaching their financial goals.

Register Now.  You can register for one of our 2012 classes by calling (916) 483-8208, send an email to info@olsenpartners.com or byvisiting his website at http://www.olsenpartners.com

Extra, Extra…Get your Early Bird Tickets for Ivan Misner in Sacramento

“Early bird” tickets for Ivan Misner’s Sacramento March 22, 2012 “Business Networking and Sex” book event are now available online at BNI Central Valley! BNI’s Founder, networking expert and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Ivan Misner will be in Sacramento for ONE NIGHT ONLYThursday, March 22nd, 2012.  He will reveal the different ways men and women approach business networking, and as a result how they do business.   Click here to watch a brief video introduction to the book.   Click here to print the event flyer. The event is open to all.  Invite your friends and business associates to hear one of the world’s great public speakers! Buy your tickets online below, from a BNI Central Valley director consultant or call BNI Central Valley office at (916) 489-9302. Click here for Early Bird Tickets (until February 15th) – $12.00 ($17 after Feb 15, $25 at the door) Click here for Early Bird Tickets AND a copy of “Business Networking and Sex” (until February 15th) – $28.00 EVENT DETAILS: When: Thursday, March 22nd 2012. Registration: 6pm – 6:30pm. Program starts: 6:45pm Where: Sacramento Red Lion Inn 1401 Arden Way, Sacramento CA 95815 Click here for driving directions. Why: Hear a world renowned speaker, grow your business, network with business people from Sacramento and throughout northern California and have fun! See you there!  Contact the BNI Central Valley office with any questions. Ph: (916) 489-9302

Mediterranean Rice Salad

The bright flavors of this Mediterranean Rice Salad make it the perfect side dish for anything grilled.

Click on photo for recipe

Welcome to the NEW SacChef.com Website

Today launches a new recipe of my website.

When you came to www.SacChef.com today you may have noticed something…different about it. That’s because Brian’s entire website has finally been updated after nearly 2 years of the same site! New graphics to help us fit in with the re-branded look, new videos, better links to find my photos, my blog is integrated into the site like never before…and overall it’s just prettier. This has been lots of work and I want to thank Scott Seviour with Outback Solutions for the great job he did designing and implementing this site.

As I begin my new online phase, please help me out! Send me an email or give me a call if there is something that doesn’t work right, or that you think I should have on the site.

Let me know what you think

Brian Bentzen

The Sac Chef

916-879-4611

A silent tribute to the 9-11 memorial

Zucchini Squares

These savory and easy quiche style squares are a snap to prepare and bake, and they make a wonderful brunch or party appetizer. Serve with tomato salsa or marinara on the side for a fabulous snack or lunch.

Click on Photo for recipe

GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL

http://www.gilroygarlicfestival.com/

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Making the perfect scrambled eggs isn’t difficult. The key is whisking the eggs thoroughly and vigorously before cooking them. Whisking incorporates air, which produces fluffier scrambled eggs. And fluffier is better!

click on photo for recipe

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

Click on photo for recipe

Rainbow Fruit Sticks

Here is a great easy appetizer, snack, or dessert you will be PROUD to serve this weekend

 

Click on Photo for recipe

We Miss You Meeko

It’s been one year since she left our home, but not our hearts…

click on photo to see more.

How BEER saved the world (Part III)

How BEER saved the world (Part II)

How BEER has saved the world (part I)

 

Chicken Enchiladas

Super Easy, Super Quick, Super Delicious, and Gourmet too! This is another in my series of Quick gourmet recipes for busy people.

click on photo for recipe

Southwestern Rice

I created this zippy side dish after eating something similar at a restaurant. It complements any Tex-Mex meal wonderfully. you can add cubes of grilled chicken breast to the rice to make a meal.

click on photo for recipe

SacChef Catering does Brunch too!

Hire me for your special brunches! Makes a great Birthday or Mother’s Day gift

Call Brian to Schedule at (916) 879-4611

Click here for possible menu ideas:

Happy Mother’s Day

Please take time today to pamper all the mothers in your life

How to make Eggs Benedict for Mother’s Day

Hot buttered English muffins, Canadian-style bacon, and poached eggs are topped by a heavenly drizzle of hollandaise sauce. Wonderful for Easter, Mother’s Day, or anytime you want to treat yourself to the best brunch in the world! Serve with roasted potatoes for mopping up the extra egg yolk and hollandaise.

Click on Photo For recipe

Chocolate-Banana Phyllo pillows

Store-bought phyllo dough, sliced bananas and rich chocolate transform into a heavenly chocolate dessert. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and/or whipped cream.

Click on Photo for recipe

Poached Pears with cinnamon and cranberries

Click on photo for recipe

May 5th is Cinco de Mayo

Vamos a celebrar! Today we commemorate the history, culture, and ancestry of Mexico. Cinco de Mayo is primarily celebrated in Mexico, but celebrations also take place in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean Islands.

Cinco de Mayo has been a celebrated holiday since May 5, 1862 after the unexpected victory over the French Army. The Mexicans were considerably outnumbered during this battle and the French were significantly better equipped. Secondly, this was the first battle since the Battle of Puebla that a country in the Americas was invaded by an army from another continent.

Join Mexico in celebrating its unity and patriotism by attending a parade, listening to mariachi music, and practicing folk dancing! You could even host a Cinco de Mayo fiesta complete with colorful decorations, Mexican cuisine, and of course, margaritas!

May 3rd is National Teacher Day

Teaching is the profession of shaping young minds into the future leaders of the world. Teachers work hard to challenge their students and bring out the best in them.

Have you ever had a teacher who has had a great influence on your life? Did this teacher go above and beyond the standard to increase your personal growth and development? If you have ever had a teacher like this, today is the day to show them that you appreciate all that they have done for you.

According to the National Education Association, Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt in 1944 about the need for a day to honor teachers. Mrs. Roosevelt was able to convince Congress to proclaim it a national holiday in 1953.

To celebrate National Teacher Day, send a custom eCard to say thank you to your current or former teachers for all of their hard work and patience!

Referral of the week = Send out Cards

Make your own cards to send out to special people for Mother’s day, Birthdays, etc…! They are easy to create and send right from your computer!

Call Ralph for more information

Ralph Carlson

Independent Distributor

(916) 671-0641

https://www.sendoutcards.com/52683/

Click here to view today’s blog postings for more tips and recipes

Click here to send a FREE card

Classic Rolled Chocolate Truffles

Here’s an easy truffle recipe.

Click on photo for recipe

May 2nd is National Chocolate Truffles Day

 

Click on photo for recipe

Truffles are a delectable type of dessert! They made with a chocolate ganache center that is then coated in chocolate powder.  What makes a truffle so delectable is the creamy ganache center. The cocoa powder coating only adds to the decadent nature of the truffle. Once coated in chocolate powder, the confections resemble a fungus, called a truffle. – talk about a piece of chocolate heaven!

The chocolate truffle was invented in 1895 by M. Dofour in Chambery, France. This dessert’s popularity increased dramatically after the Prestat Chocolate Shop opened in London in 1902.

Today there are three types of chocolate truffles: All of these types of chocolate truffles differ in look, taste, and shelf-life. Europeans, the Swiss and Americans have their own way of making truffles, by using various ingredients from butterfat or syrup to dairy cream. Truffles gained popularity in the 1920s.

The American truffle was invented in the 1980′s by Joseph Schmidt. This half-sphere shaped truffle is made of milk chocolate and butterfat.

The European version of the chocolate truffle is made of syrup, cocoa powder, and milk powder.

The Swiss truffle is made with melted chocolate, dairy cream, butter, and cocoa powder. Swiss truffles have the shortest shelf-life compared to the other truffles and should be eaten within a few days of production.

To celebrate National Truffle Day, head over to your local candy shop to enjoy all of the different varieties of truffles! But, you don’t have to run out to the local chocolate specialty shop to celebrate National Truffles Day. Just call me to get my special homemade Chocolate Truffles at 916-879-4611.

Click here for my special handrolled Chocolate Truffle Recipe!

Justice is Served

Bin Laden is dead!

Chocolate Parfaits

This is great and rather fun to make with the kids. How can you go wrong with whipped cream & chocolate

Click on photo for recipe

May 1st is National Chocolate Parfait Day

May 1 is National Chocolate Parfait Day!

Parfait is a French word meaning “perfect” that began to reference a layered, frozen dessert back in the 1890s.

American parfait desserts are normally made by layering cream, ice cream, flavored Jello, yogurt, puddings, or other similar ingredients.  Fresh fruit, whipped toppings, syrups and fruit liqueurs can also be incorporated into any basic recipe.

Normally, a parfait is created in a tall clear glass, making all the layers visible.  There are even special parfait glasses used for the ice-cream sundae versions. Click here for my special “Kids in the Kitchen” recipe for Chocolate Parfait.

May’s National Food Month

National Asparagus Month

National Barbeque Month

National Chocolate Custard Month

National Egg Month

National Gazpacho Aficionado Month

National Hamburger Month

National Salad Month

National Salsa Month

National Strawberry Month

April 29th is National Shrimp Scampi Day.

Click on photo for recipe

Hey y’all. It’s  shrimp scampi day.  Scampi, is a butter/wine/garlic sauce, usually poured over shrimp and tossed with pasta.  Lip smackingly good. I think this is one of the very best dishes I have made for this blog thus far, and dead easy. This would be great dinner party dish. The scampi sauce starts out with a nice citrus kick, and then finishes with smooth butter.

Chipotle Shrimp Scampi

The perfect blend of tangy and savory makes this dish a true standout.

click on photo for recipe

Order your Handmade Chocolate truffles today for Mother’s Day

Handmade Chocolate Truffles for Mother’s Day

Select your choice of flavors: White Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, or Dark Chocolate

Select your fillings: Chocolate Fudge, Caramel, or Chocolate with Nuts

(OR ANY COMBINATIONS OF THE ABOVE)

Select your size below

The “Big Momma” Box

A round box of 8 select truffles

1 lb weight

Only $16

the “Four my Mom” Box

A oval box of 4 select truffles

1/2 lbs weight

Only $9

The “Just Mommy and Me”

A gift bag of 2 select truffles

only $5

Brian is taking orders NOW through May 7th in the greater Sacramento Area

Mom has Pampered you all your life, now is the time to Pamper her!

Call Brian to Order at 916-879-4611

April 28th is National Prime Rib Day

Prime rib is a delicious meal that can be enjoyed at any occasion! Just thinking about prime rib gets your mouth watering. And of course, the only way to correctly celebrate National Prime Rib Day is to enjoy a big, juicy cut of it cooked your favorite way!

It all starts with the grade of the meat. Real prime rib is graded USDA Prime, and can be quite difficult to obtain. Other grades of meat in the United States are Choice, Select, Cutter, and Canner. The best type of meat to use for prime rib is Prime, but Choice meat will work as well

Once you have the meat, then you just have to trim the fat, add whatever types of seasoning or sauces you like, and cook it! The heat should be applied slowly, steadily, and evenly until the internal temperature of the meat reaches a specific degree.

After it’s cooked, just carve and enjoy! Happy National Prime Rib Day!

Click here for my Prime Rib Cooking Chart

Click here to learn what size roast to purchase

Click here for the perfect prime rib roast recipe:  How to roast prime rib

Perfect Prime Rib Roast Recipe – How To Cook Prime Rib Roast:

Click on photo for recipe

Prime Rib Cooking Chart:

Click on photo for more information

The chart below is only a guide. You must rely on an accurate Meat Thermometer and start taking temperatures about 45 minutes before the end of the estimated roast time.

Reminder: Instant read thermometers are not meant to be left in the roast during the cooking process.

What Size of Prime Rib/Standing Rib Roast to Buy?

A full prime rib/standing rib roast is seven (7) ribs, close to 15 pounds, and enough to feed a crowd of 14 or more people (depending on how big of eaters they are). The term “standing” means the bones are included in the roast, thus the roast can stand by itself. A rib roast comprises of seven ribs starting from the shoulder (chuck) down the back to the loin.

Click on photo for chart

April 27th: Enjoy National Blueberry Pie Day With a Yummy Slice and Sweet Advice

There are dozens of delicious types of pies around the world – which can make it difficult for people to choose which one they want to eat! Today the decision is easy though because it is National Blueberry Pie Day.

click on photo for recipe

Blueberry pie is a sweet pie that can be filled with fresh or frozen blueberries, blueberry filling, or even blueberry custard. It is one of the more popular pie flavors in the United States. Blueberry pies are also quite common at summer picnics and July 4th celebrations when blueberries are in season.

Did you know that Maine produces more blueberries than any other state? In fact, Maine produces 25% of all low bush blueberries in North America. That makes this New England state the largest producer of blueberries in the world!

Head to your favorite bakery or make your own tasty Blue Ribbon Blueberry Pie to enjoy on National Blueberry Pie Day!

Blue Ribbon Blueberry Pie

Blueberry lovers are sure to enjoy this mouthwatering deep-dish pie

Click on photo for recipe

April 26: National Pretzel Day

National Pretzel Day celebrates pretzels of all shapes and sizes.

How do you like your pretzel? Thick or thin? Straight or twisted? Crisp and crunchy, or soft? Salted, unsalted, mustard flavored, perhaps? There’s no shortage of types of pretzels. If you are having trouble deciding which ones, we suggest you mix a bunch of different types of pretzels in a big bowl, and grab a handful, or two, or three, or…..

Did you know? Pretzels are believed to be the world’s oldest snack. Pretzels date back to 610AD in Southern France. Monks baked thin strips of dough into the shape of a child’s arms folded in prayer. Add a little salt, and Voila! …the pretzel industry was born.

Do you know how to celebrate National Pretzel Day? We thought so!

April 25: National Zucchini Bread Day

Zucchini bread is delicious type of quick bread that is sweet and moist. The primary ingredient in zucchini bread is of course zucchinis, but many other ingredients can also be added. Many people like to add dried cranberries, orange zest, or cinnamon to make the bread spicy. Many chefs agree that zucchini bread is a great recipe for beginner cooks because it is so easy to make.

Did you know that zucchini is actually just a small summer squash? They’re usually yellow or light green in color and are shaped like a cucumber.

In addition to being used to make zucchini bread, zucchini is great when grilled or incorporated into stir-fry dishes. You can steam it, fry it, bread it, or grill it. Any way you cook zucchini, it’s healthy and delicious!

Enjoy a slice of zucchini bread today in honor of National Zucchini Bread Day! here is my recipe

http://sacchef.wordpress.com/2010/08/04/spiced-carrot-zucchini-bread/

What to do with your leftover Easter Candy = Peeps?

Since Easter is now over, I am now way overstocked on my Peeps supply. So what can i do with all these Peeps

I love me some Peeps! Do you love Peeps, too?

I’ve gathered a few peep-a-liscious ideas in case you’d like to impress your peeps with your Peep skills .

Click below to learn more

HAPPY EASTER

The budding trees, the new flowers, and birds that sweetly sing,
whisper to me that it’s Easter. As you cook your ham and prepare for your special dinner, I want to thank you for all the support during the past year.

Here is wishing my warmth for you on Easter and always!

Happy Easter

THE SAC CHEF

Cherry Cheese Coffeecake Bites

This is one of my favorite recipes. I first made it years ago and i still get requests for it today. It is perfect for your holiday dessert table or for that special Brunch. It is so easy to make that your kids can make it for you for Mother’s day too! Just add fresh Blueberries for a 4th of July treat!

click on photo for recipe