Dying to Lose Weight, But How To Start

By Henry John

When you look in the mirror in the morning and then wish you hadn't, then it's time to start to think about doing something about the large tyre that has appeared round your middle.

Getting started in anything is always the hardest thing to do. A good idea is to sit down and examine what you are doing that made you put on all this extra weight in the first place.

If you're serious about losing weight it is going to take resolve on your part. Losing weight is not something that happens by magic, it has got to be worked at. Are you prepared t make the effort? If not then you will be wasting your time embarking on the project.

If you have a sweet tooth you are going to have to give up the candy bars and the sandwiches, the full fat cheese and all those delicious cakes. You have to make yourself aware of all the things you think have contributed to your weight gain and cut them out.

Have you any idea of the number of calories you eat every day? Have you any idea of the number of calories you burn every day? These are two very important pieces of information you need before you start.

What you do not want to do is to just reduce your calorie intake because you believe it's what you need to do. This course of action will prove to be disastrous. In fact it is very likely to result in you actually putting on weight rather than taking it off.

What about exercise? Do you know how much you take? Do you take any at all? Exercise, if it is to be of any use to you at all, has to be 'intentional' exercise. Exercise that makes a difference and actually gets your blood flowing.

Exercise is very important because it burns calories. It's also very good for you. We were not meant to sit around looking at television or playing computer games. Our bodies were meant to be used. It is certainly true that if you don't use it you lose it - something to remember! Losing weight effectively is about learning new habits, new slim habits that will help you to change. If you don't change, and are not prepared to change, no amount of dieting will ever result in permanent weight loss.

About the Author:

To be able to say goodbye to diets forever is something all dieters think. Henry John, a writer, speaker and authority on permanent weight loss and behavior change, has been involved in a new weight loss system that delivers permanent weight loss. Find out how to lose weight and keep it off. Click here.

Healthy, Wealthy and Wise

By Henry John

They say that health is wealth. It's a very true statement. Most people would give all their wealth for good health. Some take health for granted - until something goes wrong and then they regret past excesses or lack of attention to diet and exercise.

When we are young we don't give health a second thought. Looking after ourselves is something we don't worry about. We live life to the full. It's only when something goes wrong that we are brought up short and forced to think about the way we behave as far as our health is concerned.

What we eat when we are young is mostly up to other people. All we try and do is to avoid green vegetables and anything that is said to 'be good for us'. Things that are 'good for you' you believe taste awful. You far prefer candy and cola.

Only when we reach our teenage years do we take more note of the way we look. Now we notice if we're fatter than our friends. It starts to matter.

Parents often have a difficult job convincing their children to eat green vegetables. At an early age, we are not the least interested in what is good for us. We rebel against what we don't like, and in far too many instances parents lose out to headstrong children. The resulting diet in those crucial years is often not as good as it should, or could be.

To be overweight in your early twenties is not a good thing to be. You are probably not aware of what made you overweight and you have very little idea of how you are going to change matters.

With loads of bad habits, many of which will have been deeply engrained, it is difficult to make change. It can come from developing an awareness of what needs to be changed. Many of the habits will have been learned in childhood and will be a challenge to break.

To make a real and lasting difference it's not diets that are needed, but a more fundamental change in behaviour. The only really successful way to do this is to learn new habits, slim habits, that will enable lasting change to take place.

About the Author:

To be able to say goodbye to diets forever is something all dieters thinkof. Henry John, a writer, speaker and authority on permanent weight loss and behavior change, has been involved in developing a new weight loss system that delivers permanent weight loss. Find out how to lose weight and keep it off. Click here

Lobster And Shellfish: Taste Adventures Made Easy

By Shannon Linnen

Enjoying a delicious dinner of fresh shellfish is a pleasure that nobody should miss. It is easiest to do this, of course, if you live on the coast or nearby. However, if you live inland and don't have good access to seafood, there may be a specialty shop or a restaurant in your area that can sell you fish that were flown in that day. Of course the best place to get fresh seafood is from a reputable online vendor. With the introduction of overnight delivery from Fedex to the continental US, there is absolutely no reason for you not to enjoy a fresh seafood meal on a regular basis. Frozen fish is a poor substitute.

The king of seafood is of course, lobster. Whoever first decided to try and eat one must have had courage. In fact, they were not popular for a long time. Did you know that what to us is a pricey delicacy was once the food of commoners? It's true; however, that piece of trivia will probably be small comfort when you?re shelling out $11.95 a pound in stores or $29.95 in a restaurant. Often times ordering online is the best way to ensure you are getting the freshest lobster possible. After all, this way you can order it directly from a coastal area and have it shipped to you, even if your in the Arizona desert.

When preparing lobster at home purchase one live and kicking from your local fish market or seafood counter and bring them home. Be certain not to store them in fresh water as that will kill them, just seal them up in the fridge and plan to at them that evening as lobster doesn't keep very well.

This is the hardest part. Each lobster, sadly, will have to give its life for your meal, and you are the one who has to make it happen. To do it humanely, you can drop them into water that is at a violent rolling boil, or you can put them out of their misery first by inserting the point of a knife briskly between the head and the body, which kills them instantly. If you choose the second option, you can grill them. They can also be steamed in less water.

Serve your lobster with some butter and lemon, put on a bib, and don't stand on ceremony. There are tasty morsels of meat all throughout the shell. Green tomalley or red roe which you may find in the body is edible as well, and gourmets prize it.

This kind of ocean-themed meal needn't limit itself to lobster, of course. What about trying some fresh shellfish like mussels (just scrub them well and steam them in water, wine or broth)? What about steamer clams, which you steam and then dip in clam broth to wash any remaining sand from the beach? Oysters are popular fried, baked, and even raw. And then there's shrimp, langoustines, crayfish ? these are all delicious ways to enjoy the gift of the sea.

You can prepare your tasty and delicious seafood feast in an unlimited amount of ways, for starters just simply boiling or steaming your seafood choice is enough to create a tasty dinner for two or a group of friends. You certainly do not need to be a chef or attend any cooking classes.

If these kinds of seafood are all still somewhat frightening, there is another choice for the light hearted. The option of going into your grocer and purchasing a bit of clam chowder is always open. Fresh fish isn't bad either, but you'll still get that briny taste of the ocean. Serve with oyster crackers, a dash of cream and lots of ground black pepper. Lastly, enjoy and pretend your on the beach.

Good times and great food go hand in hand. A lobster and shellfish taste adventure is no exception to the rule. When throwing an extravagant meal such as this, everyone invited will be very impressed. Whether it is just your friends that attend, or your family members too, they will all have fond memories of the seafood feast enjoyed on that occasion. Just the thought of it will bring warm and soothing feelings to all involved. It will truly be a historical event.

About the Author:

You can easily get live lobster if you live on the Cape, but if you live inland, it may be much more difficult. Of course the best place to always get readily available seafood is from Quality Fresh Seafood.

Fresh Seafood Is A Great Way To Get Healthy

By Shannon Linnen

It has been known for many years that eating fresh seafood provides health benefits. However, no one has been sure of the exact reasons for this effect. Yes, fish and other seafood is high in protein and low in fat, but these basic properties do not explain all the benefits enjoyed by people whose diet is high in these foods.

There is some research that has been conducted recently that shows how wild caught fish may very well be the better choice than farm raised items. This is due in part to raised Mercury levels in fish that have been farm raised. It is really still too early to tell what the long term impact on an individuals health this will have, if any.

The good thing about wild caught fish is that they have been literally untouched by mankind. Crops and meat sources that are farmed have been manipulated by scientists in order to increase yields, lower growth time frames and make items easier to ship. Wild caught fish are not subject to these kinds of manipulation.

Following the introduction of new technologies, however, and the discovery of omega-3 fatty acids and their key role to various aspects of human health, the benefits of enjoying a diet rich in, for instance, lobster meat or other kinds of fresh seafood suddenly became far more visible and clear.

The almost magical activity by the omega-3s starts as early as on fetal stage of human development. Docosahexaenoic acid, commonly found in fish, crab and lobster meat, is an essential component for building brain and nerve fetal tissue as well as the retina. Consequently, research suggests that higher consumption of fresh seafood low in mercury by a pregnant woman is beneficial for infant cognition.

Studies indicate very positive health advantages from ingesting omega-3, including the reduction of asthma development and other respiratory ailments such as airway inflammation in young children. Good sources of omega-3 can be found in live lobster and king crab, which can be enjoyed and ingested into adulthood.

Eating fresh seafood was shown to lower the rates of depression in post-partum women as well as lower their risk of breast cancer. Consuming Omega 3s also protected against a number of heart diseases, prevented strokes, and improved eye and neurological functioning. Lastly, they were shown to stop mental deterioration in later years, therefore saving the contented fresh seafood afficionados manifold the expenses of their hobby.

Furthermore, fish contains more than just one advisable substance. Vitamin D they are also rich in offers potent anti-cancer and bone-building properties, while Astaxanthin, a powerful anti-oxidant found in salmon and giving it the characteristic orange color, confers a host of documented health advantages.

To conclude, eating natural ingredients found in most food items is nearly the same as the practices of most modern medical trends and the thought that it is much easier to prevent a disease than it is to cure it. Basically - eat right and stay healthy.

About the Author:

You can easily get haddock if you live close to the coast, but if you live inland, it may be much more difficult. Of course the best place to always get sea-food is from Quality Fresh Seafood.

Interesting Points About Chocolate Truffles

By James Fisher

For ages, chocolate gifts have been the best gifts for all events. Any special event, from holidays to weddings to birthdays, is a welcome occasion to give and receive these presents and a high percentage of individuals across the nation has given or received chocolatess at some point in their lives. The industry has become a multibillion dollar giant and income continue to grow each year.

Many people have a favourite type of chocolate truffles because each brand's product tastes slightly different. This is due to the secret formulas that the companies use to craft their different products. Because of the quantity of different items that can be added to the base cocoa to craft the many different types available, there are an infinite number of formulations that can be used to craft a unique brand to sell to consumers. If an individual indicates a preference for a particular type of chocolate truffles, that should be the kinds that is given to them. There is always a reason that an individual may like one variety over another and he or she may not enjoy the texture of a different variety. To ensure that the recipient gets the most pleasure out of the gift, it should be a variety that they enjoy.

If the type of chocolate truffles that the individual prefers is not known, then the person should choose a variety that they themselves enjoy. People that have a lot of similar interests can often have comparable tastes as well. While this is not always a fool-proof method of choosing the right flavor, more often than not the individual is happy with the choice and the thoughtfulness that went into choosing the gift.

The number of shops that have chocolate gifts available is staggering to consider. A recipient can purchase some type of these items at almost any store that sells food, gifts, or specializes in candies. Some shops have very extensive product lines that take up huge areas of their shops, while other shops have a limited selection located on several shelves to choose from.

One of the most popular places to purchase chocolate gifts is shops that only sell sweet items such as chocolates and candies. These shops can generally be found in large shopping centres and small independent stores in larger retail areas. The items available at these shops are generally more costly than those sold in other shops, but the quality is often higher than what is carried at other shops.

Some of the shops that specialize in items such as Belgian chocolate are branded with a single candy maker's brand. These shops only have the items that were created in the company's shop and will often have an extensive selection of different products because that is what the company focuses on. All of the items available at these shops may have been crafted using the same chocolate formulation, making the texture of the chocolate consistent for all of the items.

Another place where many individuals choose to get chocolate gifts is mass merchandise shops. These shops will generally have a limited inventory of items varying from fair to top of the line. Many of the individuals that choose to get their confections here enjoy the fact that they have many different brands available covering a wide price range and the consumer can pick which item has the quality and price that meets their needs.

Another reason why many individuals choose to obtain their chocolate truffles from mass merchandisers is because it enables them to compare several other brands at a single time, compared to the single brands for sale at most stand alone shops. This allows them to buy varieties that they have never sampled before and experience them for an inexpensive price. A large number of individuals find their favourite variety by experimenting with the different brands available at mass merchandisers.

There are also numerous companies that will let consumers to purchase chocolate truffles by mail, call-in, or online. Companies that sell their inventories in this way typically have a large and loyal consumer base that selects their products over other similar items. Using these shops can be very convenient when buying gifts for other persons because several gifts can be mailed to many addresses with the push of a button.

About the Author:

Authors Details: Hugh Roberts has 20 years quality food advice. For chocolate gift more exciting tips chocolate truffels

Have A Love Affair With Chocolate Covered Strawberries

By Strawberries

A common gift as a tasty desert is the classic chocolate covered strawberries. Everyone who has had them no matter who you are or how old you are loves the taste of sweetness. There is a wide variety of chocolate used, anything from milk to dark and even white chocolate. No matter how you like it, nothing will replace the juicy flavor of a classic chocolate covered strawberry.

These sweet confections are especially popular around Valentine's Day. Slightly less run-of-the-mill than a regular box of chocolates this gift exhibits a certain degree of style and sophistication along with an appreciation for romanticism.

Chocolate covered strawberries are commonly used in gift baskets, some with wine, and other fine foods like cheese and crackers. These kinds of baskets are great for a nice picnic or long night of watching the stars. Many stadiums and outdoor venues will even allow you to bring a wine basket in with you.

Nothing is more important to the success of this dessert than the choice of the strawberry. Not only should the fruit be large, it must be garden-fresh, flavorful and ripe. If the strawberries do not possess these qualities, the dessert itself will cause disenchantment and regret. Undersized, bland berries are responsible for more distress than one may be aware of! When the strawberry possesses all the essential characteristics that together make up perfection, one berry is all that is needed for dessert.

The choice of chocolate to accompany the berry is also of major significance. The store brands found in most supermarkets are woefully inadequate and should be bypassed. Fondue chocolate, however, which is creamier and more intense, is oftentimes a good choice for dipping. Using dark chocolate imparts a somewhat refined taste that many find appealing while substituting white chocolate creates an entirely different taste sensation. In addition, recipes for making chocolate abound and can be used to great effect.

The preparation of the masterpiece will have a great affect on making it appealing to the eyes, for one must be visually stimulated by the appearance, before taking a chance at exciting the other senses. Using a long stemmed, perfectly-shaped strawberry that is dipped perfectly is of the utmost importance. The dip should only cover about 75% of the berry, leaving the top quarter and stem unblemished.

It should then be placed carefully on a sheet of waxed paper which will allow it to cool without sticking. Once the berry has cooled, an additional layer or two can be added. A drizzle of white chocolate perhaps. Even a design of some sort; for instance a tuxedo pattern is popular and charming. Ultimately, the taste of this confection cannot be separated from its initial impression. Without the considerable impact of a precise dip and a perfect shape, the unique and exceptional quality of the treat is compromised.

About the Author:

Another great holiday to give chocolate strawberries as a gift is Mother's Day. After all, what mother wouldn't want something that says "I Love You"? Actually, you can surprise your wife or your mother with chocolate baskets or food gift baskets filled with impressionable delicacies.

Learn About the Excitement Surrounding Chocolate Gifts

By John Read

For ages, chocolate truffles have been the gifts for all occasions. Any special celebration, from holidays to weddings to birthdays, is a welcome occasion to give and receive these treats and many individuals across the world has given or received candys at some point in time. The industry has become a profitable giant and income continue to increase each year.

Many persons have a favourite type of chocolate gifts because each company's product tastes slightly different. This is a result of the secret formulas that the companies use to create their different selections. Because of the number of different ingredients that can be mixed in to the base cocoa to create the many different varieties available, there are an infinite number of formulations that can be used to create a unique flavour to sell to consumers. If a friend indicates a preference for a particular type of chocolate gifts, that should be the variety that is selected for them. There is always a reason that a friend may select one variety over another and he or she may not like the flavor of a different variety. To make sure that the recipient gets the greatest pleasure out of the gift, it should be a variety that they like.

If the type of chocolate gifts that the recipient likes is unknown, then the person should choose a variety that they themselves like. People that have a lot of similar interests can often have like tastes as well. While this is not always a solid method of choosing the right gift, more often than not the recipient is pleased with the choice and the thoughtfulness that went into choosing the gift.

The number of shops that have Belgian chocolate available is staggering to consider. A person can purchase some type of these items at almost any store that sells food, gifts, or specializes in candies. Some shops have very extensive product lines that take up large areas of their shops, while other shops have a limited selection located on several shelves to choose from.

One of the most popular places to purchase chocolate gifts is shops that only sell sweet items such as chocolates and candies. These shops can generally be found in large shopping centres and small stand alone stores in larger commercial areas. The items available at these shops are generally more expensive than those found in other shops, but the quality is often higher than what is sold at other shops.

Some of the retailers that specialize in items such as chocolate truffles are branded with a specific candy maker's brand. These retailers only offer the varieties that were created in the company's factory and will often have a broad of different products because that is what the business focuses on. All of the products available at these retailers may have been crafted using the same chocolate formulation, making the texture of the chocolate consistent for all of the items.

Another place where many individuals choose to get chocolate truffles is mass merchandise retailers. These retailers will usually have a limited choice of items that range from fair to top of the line. Many of the individuals that choose to get their confections here like the fact that they have several different items available covering a wide fee range and the individual can pick which item has the quality and price that meets their needs.

Another reason why many persons decide to obtain their chocolate gifts from mass merchandisers is because it enables them to compare several differing brands at the same time, compared to the single brands for sale at most stand alone shops. This allows them to buy brands that they have never eaten before and experience them for an inexpensive price. A large number of persons discover their favourite variety by experimenting with the different varieties available at mass merchandisers.

There are also many companies that will allow consumers to purchase Belgian chocolate by mail, call-in, or from the internet. Companies that sell their inventories in this way usually have a large and loyal consumer base that chooses their products over other similar choices. Using these shops is often very easy when selecting gifts for other individuals because numerous orders can be mailed to many recipients with the push of a button.

About the Author:

About the author: Hugh Roberts has 20 years gourmet food skills. For chocolate gift get free details on chocolate truffels

Delectable Gourmet Gift Baskets

By John Bear

Giving gourmet gift baskets have gained tremendous popularity and are well appreciated. The mere word of beautiful gift baskets makes eyes pop out and evokes a craving that is hard to resist as delicacies pleasing to the palate have been one of mankind's greatest pleasures.

Consisting of the finest and exotic food and beverages, gourmet gift baskets are hugely popular as ideal gifts. You can always find a suitable gourmet gift basket whatever the occasion is, be it Christmas, Valentine's Day, Father's Day, or Mother's Day, etc. They are also great as sympathy gift baskets and housewarming gift baskets.

Some of the most popular and unique gourmet gift baskets combine a generous assortment of fine gourmet treats with a look that conveys your good taste and sincerity. They can be crammed full of fine chocolates, nuts, gourmet cookies, cheeses, crackers, candies, truffles, flavored popcorn and other mouth-watering treats. You should not forget an array of gourmet meats; they can be fresh, smoked, grilled, stuffed, roasted, and cooked in different regional styles.

For Italian food lovers, you can put together Italian pasta delights in the gift basket. You can include in the basket pasta, champagne, and Italian salad that combines celery, bell pepper, mushroom, black olives, onion, garlic and oregano. A true Italian basket won't be complete without lots of tomato and sweet basil sauce mixed with savory vegetables.

Health conscious folks love gift baskets filled with fresh and organic foods. Load the gift basket with savory seasonal and tropical fruits such as apples, oranges, bananas, kiwi, nectarines, peaches, pears, mangos and papayas.

There are also gourmet tea gift baskets and gourmet coffee gift baskets that use coffee, tea and wine as focal points, too. You can opt for a gift basket with a selection of beverages: a bottle of wine or non-alcoholic sparkling cider as well as gourmet coffees and herbal teas.

Ordering gourmet gift baskets online or at your local gourmet store is always easy, but creating your own custom-made basket is special and lots of fun. Try to find out the person's favorite brands and specific items to help you decide what gourmet gift basket will best suit the recipient.

Quality ingredients are the biggest reason for the exceptional taste and presentation you can count on from fine gourmet gift baskets. A gourmet gift basket is always a pleasure to give someone and any recipient will be delighted to receive it. Free shipping is available on gift baskets delivered right to the recipient's front door.

About the Author:

John Bear has written more interesting stories about Free Gift Baskets Guide Get your free report now on Gourmet FoodsGift Baskets

A Clambake For Christmas - Making Christmas Parties More Fun

By Sherry Shantel

For over a hundred years now, clambakes have made outdoor parties more fun and enjoyable, thanks to the Native Americans who introduced it. They are more popularly known as New England clambakes. And, with the holiday season about to arrive, this great idea for an outdoors party with friends and loved ones would surely make it more exciting.

Originally, clambakes were prepared in a pit wherein a layer of stones are placed on the bottom of it. And on top of these very hot stones, a layer of potatoes, live lobster, clams, and corn husks were laid with fresh seaweed separating the layers.

In order to cook the fresh vegetables and seafood, Native American natives would have a huge fire above the stones and when the fire was reduced to hot ash, they would then start placing the seafood on top of these stones.

You can find many places to order your fresh shellfish for a healthy and enjoyable clam bake. Clambake orders generally come in two different varieties, the standard clambake and the super deluxe clambake. Both normally contain lobster bisque, clam chowder, and supplies you will need to prepare and serve your clambake. Shrimp, mussels, or other fresh seafood are added for the super deluxe clambake.

The super deluxe clambake for Christmas is typically for bigger gatherings as it has more types of seafood and many partygoers will be able to find something they would like to feast on. With this type, you will be assured that you will never run out of food.

Modern methods nowadays have indeed replaced the old cooking preparation of clambakes and it includes convenience as you can now have a clambake prepared over the stove or on the grill. But if you have a fire pit, that would be another good option as it follows the more traditional way which still makes the clambake meal very distinct and delicious at the same time. In addition, there will be less cleaning up needed when you opt for a fun outdoor party.

A clambake meal is also very nutritious and healthy as it not only contains low-calorie seafood but fat-free vegetables as well. This would surely make your guests clamoring for more as it is considered a better alternative to the not-so-healthy foods that party throwers often offer.

Talk about a real conversation starter - consider hosting a classic clambake for Christmas during the outdoor party season. The healthier clambake is in fact, superior to junk food or take-out and is definitely more interesting.

About the Author:

Seafood is preferred fresh over frozen, there are various ways to obtain jumbo lobster in the best form even if you live far from the in the North East. Quality Fresh Seafood is a great place to start.

Seafood Combo Meals: How To Start

By Shannon Linnen

Seafood combo meals are not only tasty but are also easy to prepare. The variety of seafood available is more and it is hard to go wrong in selection. All the ingredients which are necessary to prepare Seafood combo meals can be had from your local grocery store.

One of the best things about a seafood combo meal is that you get more than one item or type of seafood in your meal. The only thing better than eating lobster tail for dinner is to eat both lobster tail and Alaskan King Crab. Having both items in the same meal just makes the experience that much more satisfying.

It's easiest to prepare things you already like, as your cooking instincts will be more accurate. Of course, if you're not an experienced cook and your favorite combo is two pound lobster and scallops, it may be best to start with something easier and work your way up. If you're new to cooking it's best to start with simpler items, such as shrimp or fish fillets. If you're not sure what kind of food you'd like the most, try to find a fresh seafood sampler at your local grocery.

When preparing any seafood dish, the easiest cooking method is pan-fry. Start with your favorite pasta and a bag of cocktail, or frozen shrimp. It's fairly easy to find these pre-cooked, so you won't risk under-cooking the meal.One very easy starter dish is shrimp pasta.

Set out all the ingredients you'll use. First the pasta and a pot of water to boil it in, then the shrimp and a frying pan, and lastly your favorite oils and spices. For this dish, a good starting point is olive oil, basil leaves, and garlic powder. Start the pasta boiling and heat the frying pan. Pour a small amount of oil in the pan, and add the shrimp. Sprinkle the garlic powder and basil leaves on top, and stir the shrimp around the pan until they're lightly covered in oil and spices.

When the shrimp begin to sizzle you can turn the heat down slightly, so they quietly simmer in the pan. For added flavor you could add some vegetables, I often add chopped onions and tomatoes. While the pasta finishes the shrimp will simmer, absorbing the flavor of the oil and spices.

When the pasta has reached your preferred softness, strain it and put it on a plate. Add a side of garlic bread or a caesar salad and you've got a hearty, healthy seafood combo meal! There are an infinite number of seafood combo meals you could cook, the best way to learn is to keep practicing different kinds until you find your favorite! Pour the complete contents of the frying pan over the pasta, and mix them together.

No need to fret or worry about where to get your tasty seafood combo meal. The internet has brought online seafood vendors literally straight to your kitchen! Visit Quality Fresh Seafood to pick out your seafood combo meal. With such items as overnight delivery being such a readily available option, there is no reason not to be able to enjoy a delicious seafood combo meal.

About the Author:

Seafood is preferred fresh over frozen, there are various ways to obtain jumbo lobster in the best form even if you live far from the on Cape Cod. Quality Fresh Seafood is a great place to start.

How To Know The Ideal UK Hamper

By Bob Morris

UK hampers are gifts that are traditionally presented in a wicker basket. The act of giving a hamper has a long history in Western culture and, before, was done as a noble gesture, using the hamper to give food and other home necessities to the deserving. The basket the hamper was displayed in was also purposefully chosen as it was a helpful household item that could be used and reused.

In later times, hampers have come to be less presents of essentials and more presents of little indulgences, such as wine hampers for example. An emphasis is placed on quality items such as gourmet jams, expensive chocolates, exotic coffee beans, fine wines and other premium items that can be enjoyed as a indulgence and will store long enough for the recipient to take their time in using the hamper.

There has also been a growing tendency to produce specialist UK hampers - wine hampers that are filled with a different range and types of wine, chocolate hampers and bread and cheese hampers. Hobby hampers are an even more new development and are filled not with food but with essential and wanted items to please gardeners or DIY enthusiasts, for example. The contents of a hamper are only limited by your imagination!

The adaptability of hampers is why it makes such a pleasing present. They can be modified to any person and can be packed with whatever would satisfy the recipient. When picking the hamper you want to give, give careful thought to what items the recipient likes - are they a white wine connoisseur? Then wine hampers are a great idea! Are they a foodie? Then fill the hamper with premium food items. Are they expecting a baby? Why not give them a hamper filled with helpful baby items.

UK hampers can be given for any event - for birthdays, for hens nights or bachelorette parties, for weddings, for anniversaries, for an expecting mom-to-be and, most popularly, for Xmas.

The Xmas hamper has become popular and, in an intriguing twist, customers are buying Christmas UK hampers to use for themselves instead of as a gift for other people. Often crammed with special Xmas luxuries such as shortbread, chocolate, wine, Xmas pudding and even turkey, they are bought by individuals to be used over the Xmas period. Many hampers are bought on a payment plan over the year and then used for the Xmas period, helping people pay for the cost of the well-loved Xmas luxuries desired during the holiday season.

There are thousands of businesses that concentrate in making hamper presents and many of them can be found quickly and simply on the web. Many of them will have pre-packed UK hampers - such as wine hampers or food hampers - and some may let you to modify a hamper and pack it with products of your choice. Many businesses will deliver your hamper, making it a convenient and thoughtful gift.

Of course, you don't have to use a business to create a wonderful hamper and it can be even more thoughtful to make your own. When making a hamper, give careful thought to what they might like. Focus on helpful products and luxury products that your special someone might not consider to buy for themselves, to make it even more of a treat. Hampers also work best when filled with products that won't go off easily, such as wine for wine hampers. If you do intend on filling in products that have to be kept cool or will spoil, then make sure the hamper is given as quickly as possible and make sure your special someone understands that the goods must be used as soon as possible.

About the Author:

Author details: Hugh Roberts has many years hamper management delivery. For hampers for more details on uk hampers

Creating The Best Clambake At Home

By Shannon Linnen

The best way to have a blast this summer is to have your family and friends over for dinner. A clambake would be a great idea - cool outdoor atmosphere, seafood cooked over a fire, exotic drinks, bright decorations, and beach music, sounds fantastic, huh?

But what happens when the weather is not good for outdoor partying? Would your plans of a great clambake be useless? Actually, no, because you can still have your clambake feast indoors! Yes, a clambake at home. It's just the perfect, fun, simple and healthy way to entertain your guests.

Instead of having the same old clambake, think of having a super deluxe clambake which will surely make your guests happy as it comprises a variety of foods. Just buy some fresh shellfish, clams, live lobster, mussels, shrimp and if you want, some crabs. You can also consider having clam chowder or lobster bisque with corn on the cob and some roasted potatoes.

Furthermore, besides the food for your super deluxe clambake at home, you will want to have a good supply of bibs on hand, claw crackers, lots and lots of napkins, and a good supply of pre-moistened towlettes. Seafood is delicious but it can mess things up.

A truly authentic method of preparing a clambake is through an open fire in a pit along the coast. So how would you cook the clambake indoors? It's pretty easy, for your super deluxe clambake at home, all the cooking will be done using indoor stove tops.

The only special equipment you need to complete the cooking is a stock pot. These are available in different sizes and some come with a steamer rack and basket. They can be found in many cooking supply shops and on the Internet stores. While looking for your stock pot on the Internet, why don't you run an additional search for an indoor clambake recipe that sounds good?

If you want your clambake preparation a lot easier, then think about purchasing clambake kits. These kits will contain a lot of things that will be very useful for your party like cloth napkins, claw crackers, and wet naps, with the seafood itself. Just shop for fresh vegetables to add for your clambake and you're all set to have the best seafood feast!

Just because you can't have your super deluxe clambake party outdoors, it doesn't necessarily mean that your party is bound to be boring. Simply use your creativity and you'll be sure that you and your guests will have the most fun clambake at home party.

About the Author:

Eating fresh sea-food such as fresh seafood can really make you hungry! You can often get seafood items from local stores and restaurants, but to make sure you are getting the best in seafood, visit Quality Fresh Seafood.

Simple Seafood Meal Ideas That Are Healthy

By Shannon Linnen

Considering the latest dieting crazes, seafood has in place in most of them. This is because seafood has nearly miraculous nutrition powers. To put it succinctly, whatever anyone says, seafood is healthy. Well, with some caveats: seafood fished from polluted rivers, city rivers, or contaminated lakes are far from healthy -- they may contain PCBs, mercury, or other harmful chemicals. But across the board the fish, shellfish and crustacean dishes you can find at restaurants or supermarkets near you all are nigh-guaranteed to do your body good. One way to ensure the highest of quality when obtaining your seafood is to purchase from a reputable online vendor. They can have your seafood shipped overnight from a coastal location where freshness is guaranteed!

Their entire body is lean muscle, the delicious seafood fillets that wind up on your plate.One of the reasons that seafood is healthy has to do with the biochemistry and lifestyle of the fish. Fishes, in order to breathe, must swim constantly.Compared to the chubby unattractive cow, the life of a fish is one constant streamlined marathon.

A benefit to eating healthy seafood is that it is really easy to prepare and tastes great. Unlike other unpleasant "healthy" choices like algae goo and grass juice, seafood tastes absolutely wonderful. You can't go wrong preparing fish dishes. The simplest way to prepare salmon, for example, is to rub it with some spice - salt and pepper will do - and pan fry it in a quarter-sized drop of olive oil. First 6 minutes on the skin side and second 3 to 4 minutes on the flesh side should cook an average salmon fillet through.

Serve it with sautee'd or steamed vegetables, and you've got a healthy and filling meal. Lobster meat can by steamed by boiling lobsters in the shells, but dealing with fresh live lobster can be unnerving, and the best addition to lobster is drawn butter - not as healthy as pan seared salmon.

Another healthy substitution is to grill tuna steaks instead of greasy hamburgers, at your outdoor grill party.Your guests will agree that seafood is healthy, and it also seems classier than humdrum burgers, when arranged on nice plates with a colorful garnish - maybe grated carrots and a lemon wedge.They prepare exactly the same way.

Fish is an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, found especially in salmon. These fatty acids assist in clearing up acne, rosacea, and can improve the effects of aging on the skin. Also seafood can be a good source of beneficial fat and cholesterol. Vegetarians that rely on fish for protein are healthier than meat eaters.

To conclude, fish is utterly beneficial to your health. It is full of substances that are good for you, and unless the fish is from some unsavory source, it is free of substances that are bad for you.Eat some fish today, I know I will.Fish can be prepared very easily, and it takes little seasoning to make seafood taste good. Fish also has the added benefit of being classier than red meat or poultry.

It can often be difficult to locate a good source for fresh seafood, especially if you live a long way from the coast. This used to be a huge problem, and the only kind of seafood available would have been frozen. Not anymore though! With the introduction of the Internet and Overnight Delivery with either Fedex or UPS, you can now get fresh seafood delivered straight to you. Quality Fresh Seafood is one great choice for an online seafood vendor.

About the Author:

Seafood is preferred fresh over frozen, there are various ways to obtain jumbo lobster in the best form even if you live far from the in Cape Cod. Quality Fresh Seafood is a great place to start.

Don't Search for Maine Lobster Any more.

By WineBasketGirl

Big and fresh lobsters with large claws are mouth-watering, not to mention the ones you get from the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the finest dish that you'll get from the state of Maine. It goes well with wine gift baskets with a refreshing Chardonnay; the combination is so perfect that you would love it. Your visit to this exotic place will be incomplete if you don't have the meal of the yummy freshly boiled lobster and butter. The very idea of breaking the claws of the hard shelled lobster to devour the soft buttered meat will leave you licking your lips.

Do you want to have this delectable meal while sitting in an expensive restaurant wearing a plastic bib with a picture of a lobster on it? I think not! Especially if, like me, you've been known to try and dig out that last bit of succulent lobster meat hidden inside the shell and accidentally sent the whole lobster claw flying across the room. No, lobster should always be eaten outdoors.

A lobster dinner also must be preceded with fresh clam chowder, chock full with Maine clams in a creamy broth. A specialized gift basket complete with lobster bib would make a thoughtful gift. Clam chowder has been the staple on many a Mainer's table for many years. It is a delicious concoction of milk or cream, butter and plenty of Maine clams with their briny liquid. A sprinkling of oyster crackers and that is a making of a complete meal

Now that my rules are out of the way, lets talk about the lobsters themselves. They are sold by weight as a pound and a half or two pounds; the typical size for a delectable dinner. Larger size lobsters are good for stuffing, in casseroles, or for lobster stew. A gift basket lovingly filled with a cooked lobster makes a wonderful housewarming gift. Sometimes lobsters are sold with just one claw as a single claw lobster. Lobster meat is very rich and satisfying. A lobster over two pounds will typically be too much for one person to eat.

Many lobster pounds will cook your chosen lobster for you, to eat right there at whatever tables they have available or to take outside. Bring a gift basket with you to make transporting the lobster easier. You can also round out the lobster meal with other goodies from your gift basket. There are also wonderful establishments throughout Maine, called lobster in the rough dining.

The rough dining restaurants are mostly spotted near the ocean on a dockside. It contains a lot of small tables placed in the open air from where you could eat your yummy boiled lobster. A bottle of wine goes well with the rough dining. It is more comfortable to enjoy your lobster outdoor without being conscious of spilling and enjoying the beauty of the ocean.

Picture the scene. Rustic picnic tables are overlooking the sun-dappled harbor, covered in the napkins for the messy task at hand. Customers wearing the authentic lobsters bibs these places always provide. You can taste the saltiness of the Atlantic Ocean, as the ocean breeze flows over you, better than any air-conditioning.

About the Author:

A delicious glass of wine with your lobster meal will be the perfect combination. You should also consider wine baskets or other unique gift baskets to help add to the great flavors. These two seem to compliment each other very well. For more ideas visit www.thebasketspot.wordpress.com.

Have Your Own Connecticut Clambakes

By Sherry Shantel

With Connecticut clambakes, seafood parties can be great. Besides being the tasty food they are, clambakes can also refer to an outdoors gathering of people entertained by luscious and healthy seafood meals with fresh vegetables. It can be adapted into any formal or informal event - family reunion, corporate meeting, wedding party, or just a romantic dinner for two.

As it is a hands-on event, the clambake would be a great place to meet new friends because of its casual atmosphere. With summer as the perfect time to enjoy the beach and delicious seafood treats, clambakes are a whole lot of fun!

Traditionally, clambakes were prepared over a fire on the beach. But since beach fires are now prohibited, today's clambakes are usually cooked over a propane burner which is undeniably more efficient. Though it's quite the modern method, the traditional atmosphere still exists.

What foods are included in a clambake may vary. Some folks like to serve quahogs (hard shelled clams) just before the main course. Others prefer steamers (soft shelled clams) dipped in butter and salty broth to start. Mussels can be an additional or alternative shellfish and some folks like to get fancy and serve shrimp and clam chowder as well. Accompaniments include potatoes, corn on the cob, salads, slaws and cornbread. For dessert, ice cream is still the best. But whatever the supporting acts, the star of any clambake is the lobster bisque.

For that truly authentic clambake, you must first go to the beach and dig a pit two or three feet deep, line it with rocks, and tend a wood fire until the rocks reach 400 degrees F. The hot rocks are then thickly lined with wet seaweed and layered with potatoes, corn in the husk, and more seaweed. The pit is covered with a tarpaulin, weighted down with more rocks, and is left to steam for about three hours.

A simpler method would have the shellfish and accompaniments steamed on a stovetop. You can also opt to place rocks in a large metal washtub across a couple of stovetop burners. Then layer it with clams and seaweed before pouring in a couple of gallons of seawater. Wait until it boils and then steam it for about twenty minutes to get the distinct clambake flavor.

If seawater and seaweed are just too much, just have the clambake prepared over hot coals on the grill. This will naturally help the live lobster and potatoes boil first as they take a really long time to cook. The clams and corn, however, will be cooked through the grill's heat.

And if you really want the simplest method of making Connecticut clambakes, put the clams in a pot and add to it chorizo and corn and maybe some aromatics such as shallots and saffron. Just steam it until the clams open. There are indeed many cooking methods to choose from. Whether you opt for the more traditional complicated one, or the much easier pot method, it's all really up to you. Just never forget to have a great time with your family and friends over the lovely Connecticut clambakes.

About the Author:

The king of seafood is the cape Cod lobster, to ensure you're getting the freshest, and to add lobster to your delicious meal. Visit Quality Fresh Seafood. Sit back and pretend you're on the beach.

Alaskan Smoked Salmon Gifts - The Best!

By Sherry Shantel

Alaska, with it's beautiful oceans and tree filled landscape, makes me think of natural beauty, as I'm sure you do. But it also brings to mind for me Alaskan smoked salmon. With an excellent taste and bold, beautiful colors, Alaskan smoked salmon gifts are sure to please even your most discriminating friends and family.

Alaskan smoked salmon is renowned for its amazing, rich flavors. It is also known for its bold colors. Nothing tastes the same as Alaskan smoked salmon. Smoked salmon is such an elegant, indulgent food, that anyone who receives it is sure to be pleased with your choice of gift.

When preparing your gift basket, you have many different choices. Your first is between two different types of salmon fillets, wild caught salmon, or farm raised salmon. Both are the Alaskan salmon that you know and love, but there are some subtle differences.

Fished off the coast of Alaska, wild caught salmon was allowed to grow and thrive in the crisp ocean. Some believe that this makes wild caught salmon a healthier choice for you and the environment, as this is the way salmon has always been fished.

Farm raised salmon maintains the superior taste and color of Alaskan smoked salmon, while having a lower cost. It also has the same health benefits as its wild cost cousin. The sole difference is that these salmon came to maturity in a tank, instead of the ocean.

You also have the chance to give many other exciting Alaskan smoked salmon gifts, along with fillets. First, there is canned smoked salmon. This will last longer than fresh fillets, while retaining the fantastic taste. It's also great for preparing a quick meal.

If you're often on the go, a smoked salmon snack stick may be the right option for you. It's protein-rich and provides that amazing Alaskan smoked salmon flavor. Smoked salmon spread are also a great way to enhance your chips or crackers with rich salmon taste.

Your Alaskan smoked salmon gifts can be as varied as the tastes and personalities of your friends. There's something for everyone, and each product captures the same amazing flavor and bold color that you can expect from Alaskan smoked salmon.

About the Author:

The author moves to presenting various kinds of salmon gift such as $34.95 Salmon Roe Caviar Special (4 -1.75oz Jar). For more mild-flavor, try a different recipe. When it is time to order, try: Smoked Salmon Gift Sets.

Find the Fun Surrounding Chocolate Truffles

By John Read

For ages, luxury chocolate have been the best gifts for all occasions. Any special occasion, from holidays to weddings to birthdays, is a welcome time to give and receive these treats and many persons across the world has given or received candys at some point in time. The industry has become a lucrative giant and income continue to grow each year.

Many individuals have a favourite type of Belgian chocolate because each company's product tastes somewhat different. This is a result of the proprietary formulas that the producers use to create their different products. Because of the quantity of different ingredients that can be added to the base cocoa to create the many different flavors available, there are an infinite number of combinations that can be used to create a unique flavour to sell to the public. If a friend indicates a preference for a certain type of Belgian chocolate, that should be the kinds that is given to them. There is always a reason that a friend may select one variety over another and he or she may not enjoy the texture of a different type. To be certain that the recipient gets the greatest enjoyment out of the gift, it should be a type that they enjoy.

If the type of luxury chocolate that the person likes is a secret, then the individual should choose a variety that they themselves prefer. People that have a lot of similar interests may often have like tastes as well. While this is not always a fool-proof method of choosing the right gift, more often than not the person is satisfied with the choice and the thoughtfulness that went into selecting the gift.

The number of retailers that have luxury chocolate available is staggering to consider. A person can purchase some version of these items at almost any store that sells food, gifts, or specializes in sweets. Some retailers have very extensive selections that take up huge areas of their retailers, while other retailers have a limited selection located on several shelves to choose from.

One of the most popular places to purchase Belgian chocolate is stores that only sell sweet items such as chocolates and candies. These stores can generally be found in large shopping centres and small free standing stores in larger retail areas. The items available at these stores are generally more costly than those sold in other stores, but the quality is often better than what is available at other stores.

Some of the retailers that specialize in items such as luxury chocolate are branded with a single candy maker's brand. These retailers only offer the varieties that were created in the company's shop and will often have a wide of different items because that is what the organization focuses on. All of the items available at these retailers may have been created using the same chocolate formula, making the texture of the chocolate consistent for each of the items.

Another area where many persons choose to get luxury chocolate is mass merchandise retailers. These retailers will generally have a limited choice of items that range from fair to outstanding. Many of the persons that choose to get their products here enjoy the fact that they have a number of different products available covering a wide price range and the customer can choose which one has the quality and price that meets their needs.

Another reason why many individuals decide to obtain their Belgian chocolate from mass merchandisers is because it enables them to compare several different brands at the same time, compared to the single brands for sale at most stand alone retailers. This allows them to pick brands that they have never tried before and experience them for an affordable price. A large number of individuals discover their favourite type by experimenting with the different brands available at mass merchandisers.

There are also many companies that will allow consumers to purchase Belgian chocolate by mail, phone, or from the internet. Companies that sell their inventories in this way typically have a large and loyal consumer base that prefers their products over other similar brands. Using these retailers is very simple when selecting gifts for other persons because several gifts can be sent to many recipients with the push of a button.

About the Author:

The author: Hugh Roberts comes with many gourmet food advice. For chocolate gift get free details on chocolate truffels

Vary Your Seafood For The Spice Of Life

By Shannon Linnen

The Japanese have less heart attacks and cholesterol problems than many other nationalities. The Bengalis in India stay lean and healthy and they share a common feature with many other people staying near the sea. They love seafood and call them 'flowers of the sea'. Indeed, the oceans present us with a variety of delicacies that are also healthy. Just like the flowers, many fish and crustaceans are seasonal while some are perennial.

Seafood varieties ranges from fish like tuna, salmon and sardine to the slightly unusual like the blackened catfish cooked with pineapple or vegetable and herbs. Refrigerated and fast supply chain ensures that supermarkets and online vendors are able to provide fresh fish and any of the seafood variety. Only concern for consumers is the level of mercury and other toxins found in fish. Therefore, fresh fish are to be purchased only from trusted sellers.

Differences in fish species ensures that you can enjoy sauteed tilapia, pan-grilled wild salmon or bass and grilled grouper. Delicious, tasty, healthy, good for the heart and gourmet food are some of the words and phrases used to describe the delicacies and there's a reason.

Oysters, clams, crabs, lobsters, shrimps and scallops are only a small part of the seafood variety from which you can chose. Seared scallops, grilled shrimps or steam mussels will cause your mouth to water. With a doubt, however, the experience of eating Alaskan king crab legs beats it all. It is very simple to prepare; the leg meat can be purchased cooked and frozen. In order to experience it all you have to do is to thaw, rinse and steam heat the meat. Boiling and baking are also common methods of preparation.

King crabs come in red, golden and blue varieties, with red tasting the sweetest and blue yielding more meat. Golden is usually smaller than the other two. Relish the meat of alaskan king crab legs by dipping it in a bowl of hot melted butter, interspersed with sips of white wine to complete the delight. Then relax with contentment for such a delightful meal. But do try to wipe off that satisfied grin from your face.

Many people mistakenly believe stuffed quahogs are exotic dish. Quahogs are nothing but a type of clams with round shell. Various vegetables, herbs, sauces and even crabmeat can be stuffed into them and baked, steamed or sauted. Quahogs are also good as appetizers or as side dish.

So you are just starting to get into seafood, not a problem. Even the professional and experienced seafood connoisseur's will agree, there is literally no end to the variety of dishes that can be prepared when using seafood. One simple example of this is to take any dish that you have already prepared in the past and then just add a seafood item to it. If you had a dish of steamed broccoli with rice and then added some steamed mussels, your dish would instantly change into a high quality, exciting, and tasty seafood dish.

It is important to note that although a very large variety of seafood is available, it is often times difficult to come across items that are in season or may not do well once removed from the ocean. Shrimp is a prime example of this, when removed from saltwater a shrimp has a very short life expectancy. Due to this they are immediately cooked and then flash frozen so they can easily be shipped. Lobster on the other hand can be shipped overnight by any reputable online vendor. Quality Fresh Seafood is a prime choice when having your fresh seafood delivered overnight.

About the Author:

Enjoying a healthy meal of jumbo lobster is a pleasure that nobody should miss. To get more info and to checkout the products visit Quality Fresh Seafood.

The Marvelous Social Impact of Chocolate Gifts

By Steven Jones

For ages, chocolate truffles have been the perfect choice for all occasions. Any special occasion, from holidays to weddings to birthdays, is a welcome time to give and receive these presents and many individuals across the country has given or received these items at some point in their lives. The industry has become a lucrative giant and revenues continue to grow each year.

Many people have a favourite type of chocolate gifts because each brand's product tastes somehow different. This is a result of the proprietary formulas that the companies use to make their different items. Because of the number of different ingredients that can be used in the base cocoa to make the many different types available, there are an unlimited number of formulations that can be used to make a unique flavour to sell to the public. If a person indicates a preference for a specific type of chocolate gifts, that should be the type that is selected for them. There is always a reason that a person may prefer one variety over another and they may not enjoy the texture of a different type. To ensure that the recipient gets the maximum pleasure out of the gift, it should be a type that they like.

If the type of chocolate truffles that the individual prefers is not known, then the person should choose a brand that they themselves prefer. People that have a lot of similar interests can often have like tastes as well. While this is not always a perfect method of choosing the right flavor, more often than not the individual is pleased with the choice and the thoughtfulness that went into choosing the gift.

The number of retailers that have chocolate gifts available is staggering to consider. A person can purchase some type of these items at almost any shop that sells food, gifts, or specializes in candies. Some retailers have very extensive selections that take up huge areas of their retailers, while other retailers have a limited selection located on several shelves to choose from.

One of the most popular places to purchase chocolate truffles is stores that only sell sweet items such as chocolates and candies. These stores can generally be found in large shopping areas and small free standing stores in larger retail areas. The selection available at these stores are generally more pricy than those available in other stores, but the quality is often better than what is carried at other stores.

Some of the shops that specialize in items such as chocolate truffles are branded with a specific candy maker's brand. These shops only carry the products that were created in the company's facility and will often have an extensive selection of different flavors because that is what the organization focuses on. All of the products available at these shops may have been made using the same chocolate recipe, making the taste of the chocolate predictable for every one of the items.

Another place where many individuals choose to get chocolate truffles is mass merchandise shops. These shops will usually have a limited choice of items varying from fair to outstanding. Many of the individuals that choose to get their candies here enjoy the fact that they have several different products available covering a wide fee range and the customer can choose which type has the quality and price that meets their needs.

Another reason why many individuals decide to obtain their chocolate truffles from mass merchandisers is because it enables them to compare several other brands at one time, compared to the single brands available at most stand alone shops. This allows them to buy types that they have never tried before and experience them for an affordable price. A large number of individuals discover their favourite variety by experimenting with the different types available at mass merchandisers.

There are also many companies that will let consumers to purchase chocolate truffles by mail, phone, or from the internet. Companies that sell their inventories in this way usually have a large and loyal consumer base that chooses their products over other similar choices. Using these stores can be very easy when buying gifts for other persons because numerous gifts can be mailed to many addresses with the push of a button.

About the Author:

The author: Hugh Roberts has a wealth quality food advice. For chocolate gift get free details on chocolate truffels