![Exploring the Date Groves with Natural Delights]()
by Yvonne Maffei | Oct 29, 2015 | Halal-Certified Products, TRAVEL, USA
I was recently given the unique opportunity to attend the 2015 Natural Delights Medjool Date Blogger Summit in Yuma, Arizona– and what an experience that was.
It was one of the most unique places geographically that I’ve ever been, and on the food and agricultural side, one of the most interesting and mesmerizing due to the sheer size of the trees and the story of how they were planted and grown there (more on that in a minute).
Entering the date groves in Yuma, Arizona
There are over 30 date varieties but the most common are the Deglet and the Medjool. Medjool dates is the variety grown here and the climate and geography couldn’t be more perfect, subhanAllah. The Medjool provide a natural sugar that your body recognizes, which is probably why they’re so effective to eat after a long day of fasting in Ramadan or other times of the year when they slowly raise your body’s blood sugar levels without over-doing it.
At the time of the trip, the dates were ready to be harvested. Of all the places around California, Arizona and even Morocco where I’ve been, I’ve never quite experienced the harvesting process like I did here. Most of the time the dates are just low hanging fruits or they are falling from the trees and onto the pavement or ground along the streets. Obviously in a controlled environment where the dates are grown for processing, the fruit has to be collected and these bags that you see (above) are how they begin to do that. 
Here’s me and my friend and fellow blogger JoAnn MacDonald of Woman in Real Life getting geared up to go up and into the trees so that we could try our hand at harvesting. Next, we’re lifted up and into the trees to open up the bags and let out the ripened dates– now those tasted absolutely incredible. Silky soft and delicious. 
And these trees are so tall and majestic. I’m sure most people know that, but once you stand underneath one, you can really grasp the sheer magnitude of their size. 
Here in Yuma where there are thousands of acres of groves, the trees are offshoots of palms originally coming from Morocco in the 1940’s. The trees were diseased and the Moroccan government asked if growers in the US would try and save a healthy species by propagation here. They were originally planted in Nevada since Arizona or California wouldn’t take them since they could infect other plants there. Once they were strong enough and disease-free they were eventually moved to Yuma (Bard Valley) where they began to thrive. 
We had lunch and dinner with the various growers of these dates on several occasions which were great opportunities to learn more about their individual and collective passion for growing and harvesting the fruits. Just about every dish we ate had dates in it- from our drinks…
to desserts…
To the gourmet salads at dinner…
I personally learned a lot from them on the agricultural side of the things, which grew my appreciation for the trees and their fruits that I’ve already loved without a doubt- for example, in the Bard Valley where the dates of Natural Delights come from, there is no need for pesticides because the trees don’t really have any predators that eat away at the fruits. The fruits are so high up into the trees that the risk for losing the fruit is low, therefore they never have to spray with any chemicals in or around the groves. Some of the dates are labeled as organic due to the certification they’ve received, but the rest of the groves are also pesticide-free (and non-GMO, halal and kosher-certified).
We were also given a tour of the processing facility, which was great (you can see more photos and video of this on my Instagram feed). It was interesting to see how the fruit is plucked from the trees, washed and then packaged beautifully and tightly into those red or green or yellow labeled boxes you find at places like The Fresh Market, which is where I get mine at home. The dates are a fresh fruit, not dried, so they are merchandised at room temperature. They can last up to six months in the fridge and when you freeze them (which is a great way to preserve them), they do not become rock solid. If you start to see any white stripes or dots on the fruit, it’s most likely not anything harmful like mold, but just the natural sugars coming out of the fruit.
Even on my way out of Yuma back to Phoenix, there are beautiful spots to stop and look at the majestic palms, however Yuma is unique in it’s organized way of growing and harvesting the dates but also in its valuable collection of growers who are dedicated to bringing the best quality dates to consumers. They’ve always been a favorite of mine, I just never knew who grew them or where they came from, particularly in the United States.
Special thanks to Beth Atkinson and her wonderful team for organizing one of the best blogger events I’ve ever visited.
They took great care of us and made sure the experience was awesome- educational, fun and interesting. I had a blast!
![The Culinary History of Algerian Pastries + Algerian Food in Chicago]()
by Yvonne | Sep 3, 2012 | Food History, Restaurant Reviews, USA
Have you ever planned to spend a theme-filled day out? I seem to do it a lot of this in Chicago since there are so many great neighborhoods to explore. For example, there are some great Swedish places to visit in Andersonville (delis, clothing stores, museum and cafes); the Pilsen neighborhood for some Latin flavor; Greektown for the cafes & sweets; and Devon for a taste of Indian food.
Halal Merguez Sandwich at Pomera Grill (more…)
![Cherries and Sunsets on a Wisconsin Peninsula]()
by Yvonne | Sep 18, 2011 | TRAVEL, USA
It’s been a long time since I’ve taken a spontaneous trip, one that’s planned the day before heading out for a long weekend to a place I’ve never visited.
Art gallery on a pier and a gorgeous wooden sailboat rocks gently in the wind next to it in Ephraim, WI.
Recently we had a long weekend and wanted to go towards the fresh air and open spaces, new adventures and new places. I always feel more alive after something like that. Nature has that sort of no-need for caffeine effect on me–and for those who know me, coffee is more a part of my life than I’d like to admit.
(more…)
![Snow in Arizona]()
by Yvonne | Feb 23, 2011 | TRAVEL, USA
Everyone around here is more than ready for spring– tired of seeing snow and of the cold. It may make you feel a teeny bit better to know that even the places like sunny Arizona get their fair share of real wintery weather. The only difference is that most people there make the conscious decision to go towards that kind of weather- for fun. We don’t particularly have that choice in Chicago.
A few months ago we flew out t to Arizona to visit family. Our plans were to get out of Phoenix and head straight up to the mountains to experience winter in the high altitude. Most people found it quite odd that we would leave winter in Chicago, head out to the west where they were enjoying perectly warm weather, only to go directly up to the mountains for more snow and cold weather. I’m not one to enjoy the heat, so for me it made for a nice getaway.
flowers drying naturally out in the wildnerness
I love the mountains and all its serenity. I’m intrigued by the wildlife and botany, some of which is commonly found in the Midwest and others you just can’t find here at home. Perhaps it’s because I grew up in a rather flat area and always wondered what it would be like to be surrounded with such an entirely different atmosphere as the mountains out west. Besides, these log cabins look like something straight out of the Smoky Bear cartoons of my childhood.
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![Chile Relleno Tacos at Las Asadas]()
by Yvonne | Jan 13, 2011 | Restaurant Reviews, TRAVEL, USA
I absolutely love Mexican food. Having lived and studied in Mexico during my college days and since traveled to both the Yucatan Peninsula and the Jalisco area since those times, I’ve really experienced a great variety of Mexican cuisine. Each region has such a diverse culinary culture- the coastal areas are naturally endowed with the freshest fish; inland there are more meat, cheese and even plenty of vegetarian dishes. Somehow, everywhere you go, food is put into a corn or flour tortilla to make a beautiful taco, topped with white onion, fresh cilantro and a plethora of freshly made salsas.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any (that I’m aware of) halal Mexican restaurants in my neck of the woods, so whenever I go to a any Mexican restaurant, I choose the vegeterian options and ask about the type of oils used to fry with (read about why this is important). I also ask the cooks to clean off any pans or grills used before preparing our food.
Chile Rellenos (or Stuffed Poblano Peppers) are stuffed with a Mexican cheese, breaded and deep-fried. Definitely not everyday food, but since there are few, if any, other items that are deep fried in Mexican restaurants they’re a good option for anyone worried about food being fried in shared containers.
Poblano peppers are not spicy. They’re also one of the larger peppers commonly used in Mexican cooking. Stuffed Poblanos are really special because they take some time to make and can be pretty messy.
Chile Relleno Taco | Salsa Verde
The photos I’ve taken here are one of my favorite dives, or local homemade Mexican fast food joints. Las Asadas is located in Chicago’s Northwest suburbs, frequented by locals and almost always busy, especially during lunch. A friend said it was one of the best places to find this dish and suggested we try it–which we did. Ever since, it’s been a family favorite and one we drag our friends and relatives to whenever they’re open to this kind of food.
Frijoles Refritos Con Queso (Refried Beans with Cheese on Top)
If you’d like to visit the place, go early and scope out a table- since they’re often full, it can be hard to find a seat at times. It’s a sit-down restaurant but there are no servers. Order as you walk in and take your tray to your seat. Las Asadas closes early sometimes, so be sure to call for their schedule. You need not speak Spanish to order (though it’s quite helpful), so don’t be intimidate by the large amount of Mexican locals who eat there– which is a sign that the food served is authentic.
Need some tips on finding out about the {halal} ingredients in Mexican food? Find that and more here.
Las Asadas
356 Lee Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016
(847) 298-3393
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![Good Eats in San Diego]()
by Yvonne | Oct 25, 2010 | Restaurant Reviews, TRAVEL, USA
I recently had a wonderful five day trip to one of my favorite places in the world: La Jolla, California.
In between preparing to cater an at-home pre-wedding dinner I still managed to visit a couple of really great restaurants for their super fresh seafood.
Granted, I visited the same digs on my last visit to La Jolla two years ago, but this time I was able to nab some really great photos to share with all of you, because I only re-visit restaurants I’m really impressed with.
The restaurants featured in the photos below are just two of my favorites in the area, so at the end of this post I provide information and links to other restaurants, halal meat markets visited as well as favorite hotels and gift shops in the La Jolla-San Diego area.
Roberto’s Taco Shop is in Mission Beach, California at 3202 Mission Blvd (between Mission Bay Dr & Ventura Pl) in San Diego, CA 92109 Tel. (858) 488-1610
This tiny taco place is a real beach-goers dive. Passersby include tourists and locals alike, especially surfers. It’s literally a block from the Pacific Ocean so you’re bound to see people headed to and from the beachfront location. Skateboards and rollerblades are common methods of transportation here.
Roberto’s is open late and the night time crowd does attract a younger, more robust clientele so if that’s not for you, just try to get there during the day. Take your tacos outside for some real people-watching. It’s a sport at this corner.
Now, the reason we’re talking about this place: the food. Of course the meats are not (dhabiha) halal, so I obviously chose the fish tacos. I say, since you’re so close to the ocean, this is the place to get ’em, regardless.
They do serve tacos, burritos and dinner plates that come with rice and beans. The seafood items include camarones (shrimp) or pescado (fish), which is breaded and fried crispy. On a taco, which is how I ordered it, it comes with lettuce, tomato and onion. Simple- you can taste the fish. Then, decide which of the many types of salsas you’d like to pour on top.
The frijoles (beans) that come on the dinner plate are made with aceite vegetal (vegetable oil), so no need to worry about manteca (lard) being used in the cooking. The staff speaks English, so don’t be intimidated by the authenticity of flavors, smells and sights. It’s worth the adventure outside one’s comfort zone.
Fish Tacos at Roberto’s Taco Shop: Doubling up on the Tortillas
The next place on my list of Good Eats San Diego is Crab Catcher in the coastal town of La Jolla, just a few minutes north of Mission Beach. Follow the coastline and you’ll head right into the heart of downtown La Jolla. Park your car and walk along the main strip. Nestled inside of what looks like an outdoor plaza, you’ll see stores and restaurants with their fronts facing the street and their backs facing the ocean- for your viewing pleasure. Crab Catcher is just one of those places with one of the best views in town. Dine at sunset and ask for a window view. This could be what you enjoy with your food:
I’ve eaten there for appetizers, dessert and lunch so I can honestly say that not only are the views breathtaking, the food is fresh and flavorful. The staff is highly professional and caters to their customers’ needs. I like that it has the whole package. It’s as though they understand everyone’s excitement and attention towards the Pacific, leaving windows open to waft in the smell of salty ocean air mixed with scented pine from the trees brushing up against the building. What could be nicer?
Calamari Steak Sandwich at Crab Catcher
My lunch was a really unique (to me) calamari steak sandwich served inside a hearty bread on a bed of lettuce, tomato and flavored mayo. On the side came a fresh cabbage slaw salad and a choice of either blue cheese red potatoes or Parmesan fries. I felt physically satisfied by the food and emotionally, if not spiritually satisfied by the experience of the place. Just being there was calming and refreshing at once, simply to be surrounded by the beauty and splendor of the place.
Potato sides at Crab Catcher, La Jolla
Crab Catcher is located at (858) 454-9587 • 1298 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037
Desserts at Crab Catcher, La Jolla
San Diego is no small city and there are scores of amazing things to do and see there. This post is just an overview of my multiple short, but memorable experiences there. Below are a few additional recommendations and tips based on those past trips. I hope they’ll help you find a good time, too.
Halal Meat & Grocery
North Park Produce is located at 3551 El Cajon Blvd. in San Diego, CA 92104-1548. Tel. (619) 516-3336. Large selection of meats, produce and prepared foods.
Additonal Restaurants
Roppongi Sushi
- Incredibly fresh sushi
- Warm edamame is a great appetizer
- Eat outside at night for a lovely fireside ambiance
Must-Sees
Old-Town San Diego
- Wonderful Mexican food
- Artist lovers will find interesting handicrafts. I personally love the pottery shops
- Festivals at select times of the year
Coronado Island– take a drive to this small island if you have even just a couple extra hours
- Watch surfers ride the waves at some of the local beaches
- Get ice cream or have lunch at a nearby cafe
- Visit the Hotel del Coronado to see one of the world’s finest hotels
Shopping and walking around La Jolla
- At La Jolla Cove- watch sea lions, kayakers, swimmers and snorkelers or participate in water activities yourself
Drive out to Del Mar
- About a 10-minute drive from La Jolla. Follow the coastline north for one of the most spectacular ocean drives in California. Park your car and walk or jog along the beach just north of the center of town.
- For an eclectic overnight stay in Del Mar, I love Les Artistes Inn. My personal favorite is the Japanese room, but there are plenty of others to choose from. Don’t forget to check out their gardens in the back- it’s a good sampling of the amazing foliage that grows in the area and probably the closest experience to actually living there as possible.
Hotels
La Jolla Inn
- My favorite hotel in town. I’m definitely a repeat customer
- Excellent rooftop breakfast included with hotel stay
- Quiet area, feels private
- Top-notch customer service that makes you feel personally taken care of
- Small convenient store attached to the hotel just in case you forget anything or just want a local newspaper with your breakfast
La Jolla Cove Suites
- Breathtaking balcony room views
- Top-notch breakfast scenery on the hotel’s rooftop (food is standard continental breakfast fare)
- Some rooms have kitchenettes
- Wedding receptions can be planned to take place on the roof
- Rooms near the north end of the hotel will often come with the sound of barking sea lions…for much of the night (which can be a little annoying if you want total quiet).
But of course, this is what everyone comes here to see:
