Bella's Blog

Oh, The Humble Tortilla!

2011-12-10T09:14:00.000-08:00

My little brother was allergic to gluten long,long ago, before it was fashionable. As a result the family used corn tortillas for many things including pizza crusts. In fact, I didn't know that flour tortillas existed until I was a teenager. The warm toasty smell of a tortilla being fried for hamburger tacos, or the taste of the crispy-cheesy-almost-burnt edges of a pan of enchiladas tumble me back in time to favorite growing up flavors.

So there I was watching PBS on a Saturday and Rick Bayless takes my television and myself first to the streets of Mexico city where people are making these amazing tortillas filled with all kinds of goodness, then through the magic of televsion I'm next in his home kitchen where right before my eyes he whips out tortillas, quickly, gracefully, and with an ease that immediately challenges me to do the same. So, I try it.

They are delicious. They are easy. They are infinitely more wholesome than the factory made tortillas.

To make them you can use Masa Harina (corn flour) and mix 1 cup masa with one cup water including the juice of 1/2 a lime and some salt. Mix together in a bowl, it will seem a bit on the dry side. Let it rest. Then roll it out - a golf ball's worth makes an appropriate sized tortilla. OR you can check at your local grocery and see if you have fresh masa available; ours is sold in a 2# bag and is next to the Mexican cheese in the refridgerator aisle. This is our favorite of the two. The texture and flavors of the fresh masa are just richer than the dry masa.

Possibly the coolest part of the whole process, is that you get to use a device to make them - the tortilla press. An elegant and simple tool that uses the mechanical advantage of Archemides' lever to help press out a quick stack. Bella has them for you. I put a plastic bag on each side as a no-stick liner, place the golf ball of masa in the center, give it a squeeze, open, rotate, give it a second squeeze then onto a medium hot steel pan to toast for a couple of minutes, flip until it starts to pillow on the second side. Then into a kitchen towel to steam while I work on the next one. For absolutely the best in quesadillas: after you are finished toasting your tortillas; put a sprinkling.handful of your favorite cheese on the hot toaster pan you have been using and place the tortilla directly over the top of it all - push down a bit to help melt it evenly and when it is appropriately gooey and crusty, use a spatula to peel it all up and off. Really, really good.

The Basics

2011-03-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

When our younger son, Brian, was in the Horticulture program at BSU, he took great pride for living simply. Really simply. He rented a converted garage for $100 per month. It was cozy but had no running water. He had permission to use the decrepit house that was attached for the bathroom facilites and water.

We bought an electric wok at a thrift store and gave him our old rice cooker. That was his kitchen. After a few trips into a dumpster, he talked to the produce guys at the Coop and convinced them to leave their unwanted veggies in a box by the back door rather than toss them into the dumpster. He had a big bag of rice, a bunch of canned beans and a pretty well stocked pantry of spices and sauces from yours truly.

He rode his bike. Everywhere. He had a car that actually ran but preferred the bike. Even in the rain. This apple fell pretty far from the tree in that respect.

So, on a typical day, he would ride his bike by the Coop on his way back from schol and pick up some veggies. He would mix the veggies with rice and beans or pasta and whatever spices sounded good for that day. Brian ate pretty well. Much better than the average American in terms of health bennies. If you don't count the beer, that is. He was not deprived and got through his studies with a minimum of parental cash outflow.

The lesson, I guess, is not how to live on a dollar a day but how a basic pantry will serve you well. The best foods are not necessarily the most expensive and can provide the foundation for a rich and healthy diet.

Brian is now a farm manager at an organic farm in Portland (Hippie Capital of the World), still rides his "fixie" bike, and continues to develop his cooking skills. We could not be more proud.

Customer Service God(dess) Needed

2011-02-02T17:14:00.000-08:00

We have had such amazing luck with our employees. Jan, Ardie, Sunnie, Odos, Debra, Amber and Kate. Not just job monkeys. All of them charming, friendly, helpful and hardworking people whom John and I also call our friends. They have raised the bar. Want to join us?
Job requirements:
* This is a long term, part time job. If you are hoping for something until you find full time employment, please do not consider us. It takes a long time to learn the inventory and practices and we really need someone who is looking to work part time for a long time.
* Customer service experience is good but a genuine desire to provide a great shopping environment is better.
* Must be able to lift 40 pounds, stand for long periods, carry boxes, reach high shelves, bend to low shelves and walk up and down stairs.
* Cash handling and light bookkeeping.
* Proficient with email, EXCEL and WORD
* Must be self-motivated. This position is often unsupervised and requires a mature, responsible and self-directed individual.
* Light housekeeping, dusting and vacuuming.
* Bella compensation starts at $9.50 per hour DOE. After training, pay increases to 10.50. Pay increases will follow with performance reviews.
Please email us with your resume/application at lisa@bellakitchen.com. No phone calls please.

Own Your Own Time Machine!

2010-10-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

Nothing Less Than Magical...

Wild Morel Risotto: 7 minutes

Cheesecake: 12 minutes

Black Bean Soup: 20 minutes

Venison Chili: 20 minutes

"Green" Cooking at it's Finest

Free in-Store Demonstrations

Saturday, October 9th

Featuring Fagor Pressure Cooker and Induction Cooktop

Pressure Cooking Class

Tuesday, October 12th

6:30 pm

Cost $25 Sign up Today!

634-4730

Easy as Pie... my pastry brush!

2010-09-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

Pastry: Magical, mysterious, tempermental, and oh so necessary for making pies! My first attempts resulted in doughs that were so delicate, so studied, so put together that they melted away to nothingness when baked - subsequently resulting in 15 years of pie baking fear. I was a long way from creating that flaky-kissed-by-an-angel experience.

Then Lee Baily came to the rescue. He has a bombproof pastry dough in his cook book "Cooking for Friends" that has been my go-to for many dishes over the last several years.

With an adjustment to the amount of sugar, the addition of nuts, the mixing of whole wheat flour, blending in of spices, this basic pie crust has been used for tarts, pies, quiches, smoked salmon savory pasties - really for whatever your pastry crust needs could be.

Basic Pastry Dough

Ingredients:

1 cup flour (i'm a big fan of using 1/2+ whole wheat - I like the rustic texture and nuttiness)

1 stick frozen butter

1-2 TBL Sugar

pinch of salt

1-3 TBL ice water

Method: Put your dry ingredients (flour, salt, sugar, nuts, spices) in a food processor with the plastic dough blade , then add your frozen butter (cut into pieces) and pulse. The goal here is to get the mixture to resemble course cornmeal in texture and appearance. Don't over work. When the mixture is corn meal-like in texture you are ready to pull the dough together. turn your processor on, and add ice water a table spoon at a time until it all comes together forming a ball in in your processor. Wrap your new ball of pie crust in plastic and put it in the fridge to let the butter chill. Each ball will be enough for one crust+ a little extra.

It is that easy and quick. Pro tips: 1) Keep your butter frozen 2) use the plastic dough blade 3) let your pastry chill back up before rolling it out.

Easy as pie.

Bella Kitchen Saves Brunch - America breathes a sigh of relief!

2010-09-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

"We aren't sure how or when it happened, but, well, the waffle iron stopped working."

A seemingly innocent weekend morning should have started like so many others with the family waking up to a leisurely brunch where Dad makes waffles, Mom reads the paper over a cup of freshly brewed French Press coffee and the kids don't come to breakfast until their rooms are tidy and the laundry put away.

But NO. As this reporter understands the story, all was poised for the perfect weekend morning when all of America's best intentions went awry with the failure of the waffle iron. Scrittchhhhh!

Bella to the Rescue: Due to the recent addition of Waring Pro and Cuisinart small appliance, proprieters Lisa and John were on the scene to witness the saving of Brunch first hand.

"Brunch is near and dear to both of our hearts." John states. " We have enjoyed some of our most treasured dining experiences and lived through some of the most challenging of hells while either going out to brunch or serving them. So, to be on hand to witness the miracle of our local family (anonymity requested) walk into the shop and say 'That's the one (waring pro wmk 300A waffle maker) dear! I knew that they would have it - Brunch is saved!' well, it really made our day."

Thanks Bella! Thanks McCall! Thanks America! Until next time: Love, chaos, and dinner!

Pee-your-pants-funny

2010-06-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

Mikwright Greeting Cards

Funny? We think so.

Plugged In!

2010-05-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

How is Bella Kitchen like Bob Dylan?

Well, we're super cool, for one thing, but more interesting..

Bella is going from Acoustic to Electric!

We have partnered with Cuisinart to bring you the best in counter appliances.

Food Processors, Blenders, Waffle Makers, Toasters, Coffee Makers, Juicing Machines - Even a Meat Grinder!

Each has earned accolades for performance and customer satisfaction.

GET PLUGGED IN & ROCK THE KITCHEN

40% - 50% off! Spring Cleaning that's fun!

2010-03-03T08:37:00.000-08:00

Here comes a new season (yes Virginia, there really is a spring) and in the tradition of Spring Cleaning the world over, Bella Kitchen is tidying up our shelves by selling some of the old to make room for the new and has some really great pans that are discontinued and need to find new homes.

-from Lisa: "I don't want it to sound like a used car sale - ALL PANS MUST GO, BUY NOW AND SAVE, SAVE, SAVE! YOU WILL BE AMAZED!" So, instead of the car salesman pitch, the deal is that we have a few odds and ends from a line that we will be replacing and are offering our Kitchen Aid at really good prices. 40% off. Really good prices.

Open stock on Super Special:

Two 5 ply Kitchen Aid 10" saute. This is their Gourmet Excellence top-of-the-line and has been discontinued. Truly a delightful saute pan, even heating, good weight, easy clean-up. Regularly $92 now 40% off!

Two 5 ply 5qt. big ol' covered saute - perfect for coq au vin, stews, veal marsala as well as dishes that start on the cook-top and finish in the oven. These are also from their top-of-the-line Gourmet Excellence collection and have been discontinued. Regularly $210 now 40% off!

Two Circulon non-stick 6qt Infinite Circulon covered chef's pan from the marketing office at Circulon: "The sides of a chef's pan are gently sloped, just enough to round the edges of the pan. Getting rid of the sharp corners makes stirring or whisking more efficient. " Regularly $92, now 50% off!

Sets for sale:

-Kitchen Aid 10 pc. Stainless Gourmet Essentials set - Cooks Magazine "Best Buy" $200

-Kitchen Aid 10 pc. non-stick Red $150

Bella invites you to come in and visit - take a look at the pans, lift them, spin them, smack your hubby upside the head with them - see if they are the pans for you. Happy Spring!

Give a person a chocolate fish and they delight for a day...

2010-01-17T15:13:00.000-08:00

But teach a person to make their own chocolates and they get invited to all kinds of parties!

The inspiration for this truffle recipe comes from a candy making book given to me by Bill Eggleston, from all of us: thanks Bill!

Equipment needed:

A double boiler
Mixing bowl
Mixer
spatula
cookie sheet
plastic wrap
a plate
a bowl

Ingredients:

1 bag of Gold (12oz) Guittard semi sweet chocolate chips
1 bag of Silver (12oz) Guittard milk chocolate chips
1/2 cup whipping cream (one of those 1/2 pints is perfect)
1 tsp Cinnamon
1/16 of a teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tsp vanilla
1-2 TBL Kosher salt
Cocao powder

Method:

Scald the cream, set aside and let cool. (non-sticks are great for this step)

Melt both bags of chocolate chips in the double boiler until silky smooth.

Combine the scalded and cooled cream, the silky hot melted chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, and cayenne into a mixing bowl and mix for minimum 2 minutes until shiny and smooth. The chocolate will darken and absolutely glisten after two minutes of the mixer. If the chocolate looks all lumpy and has not come together, add a bit of milk or cream to it. It should smooth right out.

Pour the chocolate out onto a plastic lined cookie sheet or 1/2 sheet pan, and sprinkle liberally with the kosher salt and allow to cool until firm to the touch. A while. Perfect time to lick the beaters.

Set up your truffle station:

One bowl with cocao powder in the bottom, a smacker plate, and then the storage vessel.

When the chocolate has set up, cut them into bite size squares, roll them in your palms, until roughly round, then place about 8 truffles (depending on size of bowl in the cocao and swirl them around until covered with cocao powder. Next I drop them (with a touch of force) or smack them against the plate to knock off the extra chocolate. Then into the chocolate jar goes the finished product. Once you run through the production part of rolling truffles, you will get a good understanding of just what the perfect feel is for rolling. Too soft and they smear out on your hand, too cold and the chocolate all melts on your palms while you are rolling - definitely messy; tasty fun.

Pro tips: The 2 minute thing is very important. I have tried to trim the time and the result was an inferior truffle - not as light and silky. And that's just not right. You can add booze to the chocolates at the same time as the vanilla - Grand Marnier, or Tuaca, or Kahlua. You can get creative and toast some almonds and form the chocolate around them, or temper some semi-sweet chocolate and dip your truffles into a melted chocolate for that chocolate shell. Adjust the amount of cayenne to your liking. I love that little bit of heat on the end. VERY important: make sure that your cinammon and cayenne go into the chocolates - not as a last step onto the truffle. Imagine if you will the effects of inhaling a little cinnamon & cayenne as you take your first bite. Kevin and Lisa, please accept my gratitude for your assistance during the research and development stage.

Make chocolate truffles, share chocolate truffles, love chocolate truffles.

2010-01-05T13:22:00.001-08:00

SECOND STORY CONSIGNMENT

Rules of the Game

WHAT WE ACCEPT

Small furniture items i.e. occasional chairs, benches, desks, bookcases, end tables, small cabinets and the like in excellent condition. Home decor & Accessories: Lamps, Mirrors, Frames, Vases, Clocks, Rugs, etc. Designer (and faux) designer), name brand purses.

We do not consign items that need to be refinished or repaired, and they must be complete with necessary parts for assembly.

Upholstered furniture should look like new. (It must be clean, no fading, no stains, free of odors and pet hair, not worn / torn.)

Furniture should be of sturdy construction with solid wood (no particle board or wood by-products will be accepted).

WHAT WE OFFER

We offer a 60/40* consignment split; that is, for each item sold, 40% of sale goes to the consignment shop and 60% to the consignor. We have a 60-day consignment period where items can potentially be marked down up to 50% after 30 days.

WHEN WE ACCEPT CONSIGNMENT

Small to medium-sized furniture pieces can be brought in during regular business hours. For consideration of larger pieces, drop off a photo or email a digital photo to: lisa@bellakitchen.com Any information you can provide about the piece(s) i.e. Manufacturer, date of purchase, original purchase price, where it was purchased, etc. is very helpful.

If we feel your furniture piece is suitable for consignment, we will contact you so you can make arrangements to bring the piece in. Piece must be brought in at an agreed-upon date, as space may not be available at a later time.

PRICING

We will price you furniture items at a fair market value, while also offering value to our customers. It is our policy not to compromise the consigned price by accepting offers or bargaining. Furniture will be sold on a cash and carry basis; we do not currently offer pick-ups and/or delivery.

We accept payment with Visa and MasterCard in addition to cash and checks.

Located at Hotel McCall Courtyard

208.634.4730

SECOND STORY CONSIGNMENT

2010-01-05T11:19:00.000-08:00

SECOND STORY CONSIGNMENT

Unique, Fun, Funky, Pretty and Pretty Darn Affordable Small Furniture and Accessories.

WE PAID CONSIGNORS $2000 IN DECEMBER! NEED A LITTLE EXTRA CASH

Accepting small furniture, desks, dinette sets, chests, bences, occasional chairs, pillows, mirrors & lamps.

RECYCLING HAS NEVER BEEN MORE FUN!!

Consignors receive 60% of the selling price.

Top Five Gadgets of the Year

2010-01-03T14:00:00.000-08:00

2009 was a year that trends definately took a turn toward the home kitchen. Fewer dinners out made us feel more responsible about our health and our wallets. Eating IN is the new Eating OUT. The Food Network helped us out by showing us the way back into our own kitchens. Bella Kitchen helped by having the MUST HAVE tools in the kitchen. These were and continue to be our favorites:

#5 - Joyce Chen red handled scissors - These little scissors are used in my kitchen, bath and at work. I grab them constantly; to open plastic bags, to get into the crazy overpackaged clamshell products, to cut the shells of crab, etc. Love them.
#4 - Microplane zester grater and rotary grater - revolutionary
#3 - Silicone tipped tongs - my second set of hands in the kitchen. Great for so many cooking tasks, safe for non-stick pans and heat resistant to 500 degrees.
#2 - Lemon squeezer - our almost favorite tool of the year. Makes juicing lemon and limes effortless. There is no juice left behind.
AND... DRUMROLL...THE NUMBER ONE TOOL/GADGET OF THE YEAR
#1 - Poach pods - The best thing since eggs benedict. Perfectly poached eggs. Easy as Pie.

Cookie Decorating with Kristen DiGarimore

2009-11-20T10:33:00.001-08:00

Bella's 7th Birthday Sale!

2009-10-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, it’s that happy time again. As always, 15% off everything in the store, including sale items (almost free).This is such a great time to take advantage of our bi-annual sales event. The shop is full of lovely fall and holiday gifts, & home décor to get us all in the mood.
Not that mood, silly. The holiday mood!
Cooking for family and friends – Shopping for family and friends …Feeling all warm and contented already, huh?
See ya soon!
Sale Ends November 15th

Super Soup

2009-10-03T08:52:00.000-07:00

September's sumptuous soup class - Another delicious cooking class brought to you by Bella Kitchen and her friends from First American Title. Chef Tom Steinberg joined us again to share his methods and secrets for 3 completely different soups; Thai Chicken, Clam Chowder, and Winter Squash. Very tasty, very informative, and as always, a great time!

Next up: Cookie Decorating Night (for adults) with Kristen Degarimore - Monday, November 23rd at 6:30. If you are interested please contact us at 634-4730. Time to get in shape for the Holidays! Cost...$35/person.

Second Story Consignment

2009-06-28T14:34:00.001-07:00

All the information you're looking is below if you scroll down a bit. Since our opening day of May 1, we have sold $5000 worth of recycled treasures and paid out $3500 in consignment splits.
We offer an unprecedented 70% to consignors!!
We are accepting small furniture, desks, dinaette sets, chests, benches, occasional chairs, pillows, mirrors, framed art & home decor accessories. Purses are HOT. Hurry.

Wild Mushroom Veggie Burger Recipe

2009-06-28T14:13:00.000-07:00

This spring has been crazy good for mushroom picking up here! Just yesterday I took the dog up to this fine place close to town and easily found enough boletus to make lunches for a few days. Boletus are plentiful and sooo delicious. They are the northwest version of the porcini. Look them up and then go looking. The brighter the yellow bottom, the freshest & tastiest. This is what we did with the boletus we found:

2 cups finely chopped fresh boletus mushrooms, stems removed. (Do not get these wet, just brush off with a paper towel)
1/2 package firm tofu crumbled
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic
2 cups brown rice, cooked
1 can black beans, mashed
salt, pepper
3 T worchestershire
1 T soy
bread crumbs to texture.

Sautee mushrooms, tofu and onions in olive oil on med to low for about 12 - 15 minutes. Add the rest and mix well. Sautee for just a few minutes to give the garlic time to soften. Cool. Mash with potato masher if necessary. Form patties and brown in an olive oil/butter combo with cheese of your choice (or not) until nicely browned. Yum. I stacked on wax paper and refrigerated for brown bag lunches.

Sushi with Tom & Julie

2009-05-27T14:59:00.001-07:00

Wow, this was a hard class! There was a lecture and lab, followed by a test. Tom & his fabulous assistant, Julie, from Buffalo Gal Restaurant hosted the seminar that began with an excellent speech on all aspects of sushi and rice. They then performed a practicum so that everyone could leave the evening with a new skill to add to their culinary portfolio. Kim Mott from Idaho Wine Merchant was guest speaker and gave us history of Sake complete with tasting of three varieties. She even snuck in a pop quiz element with some Japanese beer.

Our brilliant students all passed with flying colors. Thanks, Everyone!

Sunnie

2009-05-27T14:43:00.001-07:00

Sunnie walked in the door one afternoon and asked to be considered for our part time position. Her name is Sunnie! What could be better? Her name perfectly describes her friendly and helpful personality. Please help us welcome her on your next visit.

Want to Consign? Here's your info

2009-03-27T14:13:00.000-07:00

70 % SPLIT TO CONSIGNORS!!!!!!! TRUE.

WHAT WE ACCEPT

Small Furniture items i.e. occasional chairs, benches, desks, bookcases, end tables, small cabinets and the like in excellent condition. Household decor & Accessories: Lamps, Mirrors, Frames, Vases, Clocks, Rugs, etc. Designer (and faux designer), name-brand purses

Acceptable items must be in excellent condition.

We do not consign items that need to be refinished or repaired, and they must be complete with necessary parts for assembly.
Upholstered furniture should look like new. (It must be clean, no fading, no stains, free of odors and pet hair, not worn or torn.)
Furniture should be of sturdy construction with solid wood (no particle board or wood by-products will be accepted).

WHAT WE OFFER
We offer a 70/30* consignment split; that is, for each item sold, 30% of sale goes to the consignment shop and 70% to the consignor. We have a 60-day consignment period where items can potentially be marked down up to 50% after 30 days. Any unsold items not retrieved within 10 business days from the end of the contract period are forfeited to the Store.
WHEN WE ACCEPT CONSIGNMENT

Small to medium-sized furniture pieces can be brought in during egular business hours, 10:30 to 5:30 daily and 11:00 to 4:00 Sunday. For consideration of larger pieces, drop off a photo or email a digital photo to: lisa@bellakitchen.com Any information you can provide about the piece(s) i.e. Manufacturer, date of purchase, original purchase price, where it was purchased, etc. is very helpful.
If we feel your furniture piece is suitable for consignment, we will contact you so you can make arrangements to bring the piece in. Piece must be brought in at an agreed-upon date, as space may not be available at a later time.
Pricing
We will price your furniture items at a fair market value, while also offering value to our customers. It is our policy not to compromise the consigned price by accepting offers or bargaining. Furniture will be sold on a cash and carry basis; we do not currently offer pick-ups and/or delivery. We accept payment with Visa and MasterCard in addition to cash and checks.

Bella's Upstairs Consignment

2009-03-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

Bella's Upstairs Furniture Consignment

Opening May 1, 2009

Reasons to Shop & Consign Furniture

1. Make money on your unwanted items. We offer an intimate showroom, in a successful retail shop with high visibility and customer traffic.

2. People love a bargain. Today’s consumer is more economical and would rather buy furniture and home décor for a half to a third off its original price so they can have money to enjoy other things in life.

3. Surprising great name products as well as fun & funky items at a tremendous value.

4. Increased professionalism for this retailing format. Quality pre-owned items displayed in a trusted retail environment. We take pride in providing high quality merchandise and exceptional service.

5. Sell your previously owned items with greater security. Our consignment showroom eliminates having prospective buyers coming to your home after you run a classified ad.

6. It’s easy to consign. Compared to the work and time involved in preparing and conducting a garage sale. Plus we promote and display your items seven days a week.

7. Consigner gets more for items. We work with you to get the best price at fair market value. Our wish list matches customers’ wants with your items and we let them know if their special home furnishing piece comes in.

8. Shoppers know to shop often. Many styles and items to chose from as our merchandise changes weekly. Shoppers have increased awareness and check back often which increases exposure to your consigned items.

9. Local commerce. Items consigned belong to your friends and neighbors. Putting money back into their hands is putting money right back into our community, not sending it out for redistribution through national giant chain stores.

10. It’s fun. Really fun. When treasure hunting in our store, you never know what you may find.

11. Increased awareness of eco-chic recycling. Resale is possibly the oldest form of recycling known to man. People would rather consign or donate their unwanted or unneeded items than just add to the waste stream.

Economic Stimulus at Bella

2009-03-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

Our very own Stimulus Plan. 15% off everything in the store, including sale items!! A bail-out designed to give our loyal customers restored consumer confidence. We only have this sale twice a year, in the spring and fall.

New this Spring:

Silk Flowers! Nice quality silks at fantastic prices. Even better during the sale.

"Twist" A new line of fun and earth friendly cleaning products.

Our Sun Valley Connection

2009-03-07T15:47:00.000-08:00

Our oldest son, Brad, has made his home in Sun Valley/Ketchum. We try to visit him at least once a year but mostly cajole (read bribe) him to come home for visits because of the costs involved. This year we invited our great friends, Chris and Kay Trelease to join us and to make even it more special, made reservations at Sun Valley Lodge. If you've never indulged, this is a strong recommendation. We felt like royalty and were treated as such in this opulent, gracious lodge. Most of all we had fun.

Evenings in the lounge with the Paul Tillotson Trio. I could write a separate blog just for this

Soaks in the outdoor pool-sized hot tub.

Every convenience and accessory you can and can't imagine in the locker rooms

Saunas

Robes

Chocolates on the pillow

Shuttles to the mountain

Ski Storage at the mountain

Relaxation in the grand library

Apart from our amazing accommodations, we had a really fun, interesting, and so-so tasty dinner at the Rickshaw Restaurant in Ketchum. Go to the website (eat-at-rickshaw.com), read the menus and the reviews and for heaven's sake get there. So many beautiful flavors! These are small plates so we each ordered two and shared. So, we were able to taste ten varieties of flavors, textures, presentations, etc.

And to the folks at Rickshaw, thanks for so graciously seating us at 9:00 p.m. We are all from the restaurant industry and understand.

Oh, and we skied, too.

mikwright greeting cards

2009-02-19T15:41:00.000-08:00

Bella has a new line of greeting cards! A little naughty, a lot silly, a bit nostalgic and pee-your-pants funny. The girls from Oregon gathered around to share the fun and the funny.

We also have beautiful, hand crafted cards from Nancy Pape of Shooting Star Graphics. Whether you need a card that's hilarious or heartfelt, we may have the perfect card for the occasion.

SPECIAL OLYMPIC SNOWSHOEING

2009-02-07T15:04:00.000-08:00

Our little town is honored to host the SPECIAL OLYMPICS this next week. Wow! Three hundred athletes will compete at Ponderosa Park in Snowshoeing categories. Snowshoeing competitions will be held at Ponderosa State Park in McCall, Idaho, USA.

With approximately 385 athletes, coaches and officials representing 50 Special Olympics programs from around the world, Ponderosa State Park will host the Snowshoeing events offered at the World Winter Games including the 100 m, 200 m, 400 m, 800 m, 1600 m, 5 km, 4 x 100 m Relay, 4 x 400 m Relay and 25 m and 50 m.

WINTER WONDERLAND - AGAIN

2009-02-07T14:47:00.000-08:00

It's that time again! People from all over will visit our little town to see the magic of icy fun. Some of us will hide until the hoardes go home but lots of us will join the party. Fireworks right over your head, wacky parade fun, games of all kinds & incredible sculptures, both amateur and professional.

Evening Shopping Extravaganza

2008-12-02T12:52:00.000-08:00

4th Annual McCall
Evening Shopping Event

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5TH
4-8

We'll stay open late. We'll woo you with truffles & port wine.
We'll have special pricing to help save the economy & the world.
We'll play Christmas music. Quietly.
We'll do our best to make your holiday shopping fun, relaxed & social.

A festive evening guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit.

So much more civilized than the whole four o'clock in the morning crowd rush thing, don't you think?

Cookie Decorating Class

2008-11-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

An Adult Only Evening with Kristen DeGarimore

Martha is good but Kristen is better!

A just-for-fun class for the holidays. We will supply each participant with a package of tools of the trade for gorgeous holiday cookie decorating. We will learn the basics and not-so-basics of artistic cookie decorating. A great evening for friends to get together. Thursday, December 4, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. right here at Bella Kitchen. $24 per person. Call Lisa at 634-4730 or email at lisa@bellakitchen

A HANDBASKET (6th Anniversary) SALE

2008-10-19T13:59:00.000-07:00

We at Bella Kitchen hear that the economy is going to HELL IN A HANDBASKET!
So, we decided to put HANDBASKETS ON SALE.

Then we thought, what the heck, since it’s also our 6th anniversary - Let’s put it all on sale.

15% DISCOUNT ON EVERYTHING
including stuff already on sale!!
Together we can save the world - Or at least some hard earned dollars. Mention this blog! Sale expires November 5th, 2008

COOKING CLASS!

2008-09-24T14:52:00.001-07:00

Sweet and Savory Cheesecakes!

Kristen DeGarimore, a.k.a. Dusty Baker, will host a class with tantalizing recipes for the fall and holiday season. Desserts and Appetizers great for sharing with friends and family. And of course, we will serve wine, coffee and tea. Join us for a fun, entertaining and informative evening!

Thursday, October 2, 2008

6:30 p.m.

at Bella Kitchen

Located Upstairs at the Hotel McCall Courtyard

Call 634-4730 for reservations.

FRESH FLOWERS!

2008-09-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

The spirits of the Flower Merchant has moved us. We are offering fresh flowers at Bella! So, this is how it works...We send out an email with a menu of what's available. You order and prepay. The flowers are delivered within a couple of days and you pick them up at Bella.

If we don't store and have no waste, we can offer a great price. Interested? Send us a quick email and we'll add you to the list. Then we'll let you know when we are ordering. If you see something you like you can add to our order. Fun, huh?

A New Face at Bella

2008-09-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Meet Ardis (Ardie) Hewitt! Ardie has generously agreed to come to the store and help out a couple days a week. She is quickly becoming familiar with the store and you will love her kind and friendly manner. Ardie and her family moved to McCall a couple years ago, love the area and plan to make their home here. Next time you are in the store, please make her feel welcome.

Bella Loves Odos!! Lisa, John and Murray, too. Odos has been our partner at the store for over three years! Not one to meet a stranger, he has made many friends and return customers at Bella. We are so grateful for his help but more grateful for his friendship. He will still be around from time to time but mostly, finally retired.

Help Wanted!

2008-08-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are doing great in our new location and we are looking for just the right person to join us. This is a year around, part-time position approximately 15-20 hours per week. Starting wage is $10 per hour with increase after a short probationary period. Bella Kitchen is open seven days a week and you may be asked to cover for vacations of up to seven days.

Retail experience helpful but not necessary. Love of cooking also helpful but not mandatory. Will train someone with a pleasant, customer service-oriented personality. Must be flexible and able to work weekends. Basic computer skills - Word, a simple spreadsheet and email. Must be able to lift 35 lbs and stand for long periods. Previous experience with cash register and the ability to count change required.

Hours are 10:30 - 5:30 daily and 11 - 4 on Sunday unless a three day weekend in which case Sunday is treated the same as Saturday.

Job duties include but are not limited to: Greet customers, assist in shopping, unpack freight, price and place inventory, and manage inventory files. Wrap gifts and pack items for shipping. Operate cash register and perform credit card transactions. Light cleaning - dust, vacuum and mop. Sound like a fun job?

Please send resume to lisa@bellakitchen.com to apply.

The World

2008-07-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

The products of the world are at Bella Kitchen. While we can't get away to travel the world, we can get a small fix from shopping from importers of fine worldwide products. Take a look.

USA (LamsonSharp Knives), Canada (Accents de Ville), Mexico (Outdoor rugs), France (Comptoir de Famille), Germany (Waechtersbach dishes) Italy (Vietri Dinnerware), Poland (Polish Pottery), Czech Republic (Glassware), Spain (Olivewood spoons), Portugal (hand painted pottery), Turkey (Olive Pots), India (Linens), Malaysia (decorator bowls), Indonesia (Acacia Wood), Thailand (Brooms), Vietnam (Bamboo Bowls) Japan (tetsubin cast teapots), and yes, even China.

Our favorite TV show is Globetrekker. PBS, Monday nights at 8:00.

Your Ideas

2008-07-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

Until the website is updated please take a moment and see what's up at Bella.

A few thoughts that have come after the move...

Expanded Linens?

We want to offer more selection of table linens. Good idea?

Fresh Flowers?

Yeah, since we are in the space once occupied by the famous and much missed Flower Merchant, the subject has come up. We aren't florists BUT we thought we might be able to offer fresh cut flowers ala carte and by order. Kind of along the lines of, "Fresh Fish Friday". Pre-ordered from a menu. If we don't have to store them we could theoretically offer flowers at a great price. Interested?

Cooking Demonstrations?

Lots of interest in Cooking Classes. We are looking into it. Promise. Suggestions?

The Grand Re-Opening?

Probably schedule the last week of August. I understand from one of our reps that the vendors like to donate stuff for door prizes and such. Good food, fun prizes and always fun inventory. We'll make it an event. Suggestions?

How about greeting cards? Do you have a couple really great cards that are favorites? Take a peek on the back and email or stop in and let Bella know who your favorite card creators are. As you can imagine there are at least more the 23 different creators out there.

Suggestions?

A very big THANKS

2008-07-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

To all who helped make this move incredible. In fact we were the INCREDIBLES!! With a few extra cast of characters...

Tracy - Magnificent Colorist and Painteress. Three people, Five Hours - Total Transformation. Saved us hours and hours and dollars and dollars. Thanks for your expertise and really fun company.

Maria and Marv - WoW! Not only did Maria spend hours unpacking and stocking shelves, she has an eye for the dramatic and arranged the shelves with a fabulous flair. Then - get this - she and Marv GAVE us this beautiful antique wood stove. A perfect addition to the store. That's superhero stuff.

Gail - Gave up her precious Sunday off and spent the entire day helping us haul and unpack, haul and unpack. She worked her fanny off! She asked for nothing in return. Great company, too. Thanks so much, Gail.

Odos - Well, what can we say...He was kinda, mostly there in spirit. But his heart and physical self were more concerned with the planet Venus. We love ya, Odos.

Brock - Three very long days of hard work with a smile and song. So glad you came along for the ride. Thanks, Brock.

Beau - Most Valuable Player! with a Drill and Table Saw and a Router and a Bag of Levels. Unbelievable technical support. Made all the fixtures work and work in a most professional and aesthetic way. A pleasure to work with. Truly a superhero.

And my sweetie - John. Thanks for your love and support.

We did it three days. We didn't break a thing!! It was totally meant to be!

New Digs

2008-06-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

Here we are in our new space. We seem small because we are so faaar awaaaay. So much space - so many fun things to look at in a whole new light.

2008-06-06T06:39:00.000-07:00

We were a bit taken aback at the amount of well wishes we received after the announcement that we were moving. Wow. Thank you! It is humbling and heartwarming to live in a community with so much generosity.

We aren't advertising a "sell-it-so-we-don't-have-to-move-it" sale. We are just putting some items out on the sale table to sell quickly. So, stop by for unusually low prices and take advantage.

Do you have suggestions as to what you would like to see Bella carry? We would love to hear from you.

We are planning a Grand Re-opening after we are all settled to show off the new place. Thanks again. John, Lisa and Murray

MOVING UP!

2008-05-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Bella is growing up!! Remember the Flower Merchant? We will soon be moving our kitchen store to that space in McCall. So exciting!! We love the beautiful, light and airy space and think Bella will be very happy and prosperous there. This move will triple the size of our small shop. Lots of room to shop and browse. We look forward to seeing you soon. John and Lisa

Annual Spring Sale

2008-04-26T15:36:00.000-07:00

Whoever Has Been Doing the Snow Dance...Great Job!!
Now, Please Hold Still.

BELLA IS HAVING HER ANNUAL SPRING SALE
It's a Warm, Sunny Kind of Sale!
15% Off Everything, Including Sale Items. Almost Free!
Save $$. Feel Warm all Over
Sale Ends May 5th
Gift Wrap * Bridal Registry * Gift Certificates * Shipping
Hotel McCall Courtyard
http://www.bellakitchen.com/
634-4730

Estate Sale

2008-03-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone - This is a special collection of Mexican and Indian pots that belong to my parents. No, they haven't passed on but are de collecting some of their possessions. Whew!

These pots are all authenticated with the name of the artist, date of purchase, gallery where purchased and price paid. Most of them have current information regarding the artists.

They are on display at Bella Kitchen and will be advertised locally and on Craig's List. Please call or come by for more information. 208-634-4730

Georgetown Liquor Company, Seattle

2008-02-08T15:32:00.000-08:00

Don't we all love to find that little neighborhood spot off the beaten tourist track? This is one of those rare finds!! While at the Gift Show in Seattle, my host and hostess extraordinaire, Billy and Pegan Cook, took me to this great little dive bar. I use the term dive bar with affection.

The Georgetown Liqour Company is literally across the tracks. We actually waited for a train to go by to get there. A small, nondescript brick building - I don't remember windows but it was dark.

Inside it's dimly lit, with three booths and a few tables. Brick walls partially covered with cement. Funky punk art on the walls. Apparently the owner rents a few art studios upstairs and displays the artists work in the bar. It smells wonderful!! Fully expecting smoky or greasy, not savory wonderful. Hmmm

The menu is fully vegetarian with vegan options on most of the choices. The service was warm, genuine and efficient. Just two guys running the place, one of them cooking and the other serving and bartending. Billy and I had IPA and Pegan had a Stella.

Billy ordered two appetizers, Crispy Baked Polenta with Chutney and a Wonton Plate. Oh, my, the polenta was so rich, creamy and delicious. The sesame wontons are filled with goat cheese, tamarind adn steamed bok choy and served with lemon-ginger sauce. I have decided that this is one place that I will tell everyone about.

We ordered the enchiladas, the tamales and the special, an asian flavored dish. The dish presentation was so pretty and the flavors were just incredible. The enchilada is described as follows:
Two corn tortillas filled with sharp white cheddar, queso fresco, green onions and tomatoes topped with Spanish red sauce and served with Forbidden rice and gouse green salad.
The forbidden rice was a dark brown, very small grain rice that was very nutty. The green salad was comprised of field greens and topped with parmesan shavings. Very elegant. Are you getting all this? Amazing.

The tamales were equally impressive: Wild mushroom filled tamales topped with Spanish red sauce and queso fresco. The masa was spread on the plate, filled with the mushroom mixture, then gently folded over like a "C", with the red sauce ladled over the top. Lovely.

A great experience. I can't wait to go back. I have a copy of the full menu if anyone is interested.

Georgetown Liquor Company
5501-B Airport WAy S.
Seattle, WA 98108
206-763-6764

Gift Show Inspiration

2008-02-05T14:22:00.000-08:00

Seattle is home to the Northwest's premier trade show for Gifts and Housewares. It was my first foray to a show. What fun!! I am now inspired to have a grand sale and change out lots of inventory.

If you are a fan of Arte Italica, you are in LUCK! I am closing out the line and this fine Italian ceramic and pewter line is rarely found at a discount, so this is a great opportunity to save.

Also slated to be discounted and discontinued is the plaid and paisley line of serveware. Lovely shades of green, red, & gold in coordinating patterns, these are great for the holidays or any time of the year.

That's what's old. Here's what's new...

Two new lines caught my eye and I just know they will be a great fit for Bella - and your home and table.

COMPTOIR D FAMILLE
Inspired by antiques found in traditional country homes, these pieces combine solid construction with affordable elegance and fine styling.

Decorative and unusual yet pratical products that attract the eye and warmly welcome friends into your home. Linens, tableware, accessories and furntiture.

MARY CAROL HOME COLLECTION

Elegant and very affordable transferware. Gorgeous tableware and accessories. Can't wait!

Sale pending - stay tuned.

The White Saturday SALE

2007-11-29T14:05:00.000-08:00

Okay! here are the details of the SALE. 4 hours on Saturday, December 1, 2007 from 4 - 8 pm

15% OFF EVERYTHING IN THE STORE!!

Even more special....

15% off all Vietri in stock. Crazy, but fun.

All Christmas Serving Pieces from Demdaco (so beautiful!) 25% discount.

All bamboo cutting boards 15% discount.

All holiday table linens 25% discount

AND! We received these amazing oversized (very large) acacia wood salad bowls by mistake. They are sooo cool. I was only supposed to get one and you know how small the store is! So, the first two happy shoppers who mention this blog can have it at 50% off. ($80)

Oh, yeah!! There will be homemade chocolate truffles and port wine to taste while you shop.

2007-11-24T14:48:00.000-08:00

Tis the season...

Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 1st!! Plan to come out for the Tree Lighting Ceremony and stay to shop in the many stores that will stay open until 8 p.m. We will serve you delicious snacks and beverages and warm you up with special discounts.

Call it White Saturday! No crowds, a ten minute commute (tops), parking with ease and great gift specials. Why would you ever leave town? Join your neighbors and friends for this festive evening guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirits.

This is local shopping at it's best!!

Anniversary SALE

2007-10-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Bella is celebrating her 5th Birthday! OCT 25 THROUGH NOV 5! We are so thankful to this community for supporting us through our 5th year of business! This sale will be the largest ever! Everything in the store will be sold at 15% discount, including sale items. Take a look at a few of the items already marked down:

All last year's holiday items at 40% discount

Dinnerware - 48 pc set at 50% discount

Summer linens at 30% discount

Oilcloth tablecloths at 40% discount

Pink Fleur de li glassware at 30% discount

Pine Cone serveware at 25% discount

Selected home decor vases, pitchers and platters at 25% discount

Selected wall decor at 25% and 30% discount

The value will be amazing. See you soon!

Sleeping inn at the Modern

2007-09-23T22:04:00.000-07:00

1314 West Grove St. in Boise, Idaho is the site of one of the newest boutique hotels in Boise, and has one of the finest beds that I have ever slept in. Opened in June of 07, the Modern is a remake of a former Travel Lodge done with grace and lots of style. Very hip, very comfortable, with (again) remarkable beds, beautiful bathrooms, very friendly and engaging staff, the Modern Hotel and Bar should be on your Boise list for places to stay in downtown. Just blocks away from the downtown core, the Modern is in the Linen District of downtown Boise near galleries, special event centers, and a couple of blocks from the convention center.

We had the opportunity to test drive the Modern while in Boise for a friend's wedding, and found the accommodations very comfortable, the staff quite friendly, and the furniture and rooms just too cool. Walk-in showers, very mod free-standing baths - room enough for two - ipod docks, flat screens, coffee, snacks, croissants in the morning, hipster bar in the evening with old movies on the screen, record players with 45's to play while using the bathrooms, and a nice story about cowboys, confections, and the power of the press to open up the in-room service guide.

Not once did we get the typcial corporate spiel while talking and visiting with the staff. They have created a very cool place to work and share with the traveling public, and they truly seem to enjoy their jobs.

I have worked in and around hotels nearly all of my career, and have heard the statement, "all I need is a room to sleep in" about a zillion times. If that's all you need in a hotel, then you definitely should stay at the Modern. The only bed more comfortable that I've slept in, is my own. If you want to experience a hotel stay that is a little brighter, more fun, and less starchy than one of the national chains, then you need to call them up and join the growing family of Modernites.

Find them online at: http://www.themodernhotel.com/ Tell Elizabeth that John and Lisa sent you!

WHEW!

2007-09-12T15:31:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

The summer season is officially over! What a smokin' season - all puns intended. We are closing out a few items before we fill the shelves again for the new season. Really great buys on some high quality items.

TABLEWARE SETS - These "Jonathon Adler" designer sets started as affordable dinnerware. Now they are almost free. Four person place settings - Was $84. Now at 40% discount. $50 each.

OILCLOTH TABLECLOTHS - The hit of the summer. Retro colors and patterns, fun and oh so practical for the outdoor table. Indoors, they are super for children and crafts. All tablecloths 30% off. They'll be back next spring!

CANISTER SETS - Antiqued copper 4 pc set. Three sets left. WAS $76.50 Now $54. A 30% savings.
See you soon!

A Little Expansion

2007-09-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

Well, sort of. Bella is expanding her table linen selection. In response to your comments, we have a growing selection of tablecloths, napkins, placemats and runners. From affordable to extravagant. Come see what's new in these lines.

Bodrum Linens
Complements
now designs and Danica

"Dinner from Tuscany" Gift Baskets

2007-06-20T11:28:00.001-07:00

Beautifully Wrapped in a Lovely Bread Basket

Lined with Two Complementary Tea Towels

Imported Rustic Pasta w/Marinara or Garlic Basil Sauce

Chocolate Nut Popcorn

$52.50

Add ons:

Parmesan/Romano Cheese $7.50

Microplane Cheese Grater $13.25

Wood Pasta Server $5.75

Kit's Recommendation

Villa Antinori 2003 Toscana $21.95

Or Favorite Wine of Your Choice

A Specialty Gift Created for Any Occasion

Call or Email Lisa 634-4730 or lisa@bellakitchen.com

CUCINA CLOSEOUT

2007-04-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

All Fruits and Passion "CUCINA" home care products at closeout prices until gone. All hand soap, hand cream and dishwashing liquid at 40% discount. Choose Coriander and Olive Tree or Ginger and Sicilian Lemon. This excellent line of home care products is rarely offered at sale prices. So stock up now. These sink sets make a perfect housewarming, hostess and/or bridal gift. See you soon!

Spring Break in Thailand - or, at least an Asian themed Cooking Class!

2007-03-24T15:06:00.001-07:00

Celebrate the change of seasons with a cooking class for you and your friends! Join Bella Kitchen and The Lake Fork Design Center as they team up to bring you an Asian flavored April Cooking Class! We will be meeting at Kyle’s beautiful design center to create some delicious favorites like Panang, Beef with Basil, Pot Stickers, and explore the Asian Pantry.

Exploring The Asian Pantry
A Cooking Class from
Bella Kitchen & THE LAKEFORK DESIGN CENTER
Saturday, April 14th 6pm – 9pm
$25/person
This class will be taught by John Wood, and will include some hands-on instruction, tips technique and lots of tasting! Seats are limited to the first 26.

Cost will be $25/person for Food & Beverages, camaraderie, friendship, and an evening out.
Call or come in to register at Bella today! 634-4730. Hurry, this class will fill fast!
Kyle—kmckeever@buildpros.com Lisa—lisa@bellakitchen.com

BELLA BAGS

2007-03-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

Is a new adventure specializing in connecting new homeowners with local businesses and merchants.

We wanted to get our product, Bella Kitchen, to every new homeowner. Now we want you to join us. It’s a smart, simple, direct marketing idea that is affordable for everyone. Each new homeowner will receive a lovely Bella Bag welcoming them to the McCall Area.

Bella Welcome Bags will be distributed to every new homeowner in the McCall. In 2006, there were 154 sales of existing homes in the McCall area. We will start with 40 bags. When 40 bags have been distributed, we will contact interested businesses and start again. Bags will available to renters as well. We will promote their availability through the property managers in the area.

It’s easy to participate and it’s a huge bang for your advertising buck! We will assemble beautiful gift bags and handle all the distribution. Just mail or drop your business promotion to Bella Kitchen along with a check for $80 ($2 X 40 bags). Bella will do the rest. Initial deadline is March 30, 2007.

New Kitchen Aid Cookware

2007-03-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

Bella has it all! In addition to our long-standing lines of Kitchen Aid 5ply Stainless Clad and Anolon Titanium, we now have two new outstanding and afffordable lines of KitchenAid Cookware.

GOURMET DISTINCTIONS

10 pc set $200.00

A distinctive way to cook. It begins with a set this perfect. Featuring a unique construction with a double full-cap base that's bonded to the pan. It starts off with an aluminum base layer, followed by copper, additional aluminum and is finished off with a stunning stainless steel. The result is superior performance that reduces hot spots, so you get great cooking results. With a larger top space and tapered side walls to facilitate stirring and whisking, while speeding up reduction of flavorful sauces. And polished, riveted handles provide a safe, confident grip. Plus, tempered glass lids that allow you to monitor foods, while locking in flavors and nutrients at the same time.

GOURMET ESSENTIALS

10 pc set $150.00
KitchenAid Gourmet Essentials Hard-Base Aluminum Includes: 1 Qt and 2 Qt Covered Saucepan, 8 Qt Cov ered Stockpot, 8'' and 10'' Open Skillets, 11''/4.25 Qt. Covered Sauté with Helper Handle

This cookware set is an exceptional value, including all of the pans needed to equip your kitchen with the most used cooking pieces.

Features

Cool grip handles - 18/10 stainless steel shaft encased in soft silicone rubber provide a soft cool, confident grip. Three-coat nonstick surface includes patented "Hard-Base" ceramic primer that hardens the inside of the pan providing exceptional food release and durability. Heavy gauge aluminum core guarantees fast and even heating. Tough porcelain enamel exterior is durable and easy to clean. Lifetime Limited Warranty

Ripped from the Headlines: The True Value of Shopping Locally

2007-02-01T20:58:00.000-08:00

In this morning’s Idaho Statesman, Rhonda Abrams posted an article focusing on the value of shopping locally. This article rings especially true with us at Bella Kitchen and our neighbors. The article titled, “Local Businesses Build Local Communities” focuses on several benefits of shopping locally.

Small companies have gotten smarter. In order to compete with the gazillion dollar operating/advertising budgets of national chains, we as small businesses have to compete with better services, products, competitive prices, and a real focus on customer service. Local businesses build local communities by creating local jobs and building the tax base, which pays for the future by providing more monies for schools, library, our firehouse EMTs, and countless other services.

Trying to practice what I preach, I took our typical Boise grocery list and kept it in the city limits. Not only did I find bulk almonds, wonderful coffee, Sriracha, loose-leaf green tea, skinny cat food for our 24lb. kitty and Murray's favorite non-allergenic dog food, but I also enjoyed the opportunity to be part of the moment and visit with our merchants who are also friends and neighbors. Compared with the five hours of drive time, the $40 in gas, and the challenges of traffic, I found many additional benefits in the way that I was spending my time including a chance to visit the library. A welcome interlude which would not have been possible with the Boise trip.

Please consider the following example: when I buy a new sauté pan at Bella instead of Boise, not only do I have the opportunity to save a tank of gas, those five hours of drive time, lessen my impact on the environment and free up time to enjoy friends, but I have a direct impact on the health of a local business. The $72 spent at Bella is a large percentage of Bella’s sales target for the day whereas that same $72 spent at Williams-Sonoma doesn’t have the same impact by a mile – or 111 miles for that matter. And, consider when Bella has a busy successful day, that success often translates into dinner out. An exponential local economic impact.

I realize that our community doesn’t have everything that we need to purchase. I encourage each of us to look locally first before jumping to any conclusions. McCall does have some fabulous merchants that work very hard to be competitive. We don’t have an automatic 5000ft tax, and quite often the price of buying locally is the same or less than Internet shopping + shipping. Our grocery stores have really expanded the specialty food items and have been very good about responding to consumer’s needs.

We have one of the very best wine shops in all of Idaho right here. Our outdoor sports stores are owned and run by actual enthusiasts and athletes that use the equipment, know the reps, and can help fit you to the boot. Or the ski, the bike, snow machine, the boat, and the jacket. They know which fly is hitting at what lake, and where the best sack lunch can be found.

Every purchase in McCall is an investment in McCall. Since we have made the decision to live here, we need to shop here whenever we can. Take a look around to become educated about the products and services that we have to offer. Explore your town. Whether you need a new drill press, a ski jacket, a remodel, or kitchen staging for one of our new condominium projects, all of the money that we spend here ends up circulating through the community from one end of our valley to the other, benefiting both sides of the equation.

Bella's Knife Sharpening Service!

2007-01-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

Sharp knives are worth their weight in tomatoes. The good vine ripened ones that actually smell like summer. In the interest of having our customers enjoy the two together, Bella Kitchen has just launched our professional Knife Sharpening service.

Bring in your dull and lifeless blades, leave them with us for a day or two, and in return you will get them back full of life, sharper of wit, and a lot more helpful in the kitchen! $5 per blade will get you a double bevel edge on your knife. The type of edge that we counted on in the restaurant. Slicers, carvers, utility blades, chef's knives, santokus, paring, and even sushi knives are treated with respect and individual attention at Bella's Knife Spa. Call us today!

Noteworthy Neighborhood Dining in NE Portland

2007-01-04T21:43:00.000-08:00

Tin Shed Cafe
1438 NE Alberta St., Portland, OR 97211
(503) 288-6966

Our culinary adventures in Portland went beyond Eggs Benedict at Mother’s Café. We did our best to sample cool street food (grinders at the Saturday Market), big city Thai, coffee and chocolate whenever we could.

For one evening’s dinner, we joined our son and his girlfriend at the Tin Shed Café in NE Portland. An easy train, then bus from downtown and a quick walk up Alberta brought us to a very comfortable and cool little eatery. The outdoor patio and general cool funkiness reminded both of us of Hyde Park in Boise’s North End.

The menu was vegan friendly; the bar poured liquor (one of the largest after dinner brandies I’ve witnessed) as well as wine by the glass and had an exciting selection of beers on tap. We enjoyed a delicious late dinner that featured curries, veggie burgers, a fun quesadilla with strawberry jam as the counter point to the jalapenos, and really yummy rice pudding. It was ‘70’s FM night on the house music, and I kept hoping that the sign that proclaimed, “spontaneous music happens” would prove to be true.

The service was solid and friendly, and the atmosphere very cozy. The Tin Shed really has a friendly neighborhood feel to it while reflecting a more worldly view with their menu. Breakfasts are rumored to be pretty awesome, we didn’t get the chance, but the dinner was a delight.

Fabulous Eggs Benedict while in Portland

2006-12-16T21:33:00.000-08:00

Mother’s Café & Velvet Lounge at Stark and 2nd in Downtown Portland.

I have always loved the Northern Exposure episode where Chef Adam waxes poetic (or obsessive) about the perfect harmony of the egg yolk mingling with the Hollandaise sauce creating a sensation that even angels go ga-ga for.

Face it, Eggs Benedict is a delicious culinary adventure. One of my all-time favorites. On our recent trip to Portland Oregon, we enjoyed very nearly perfect Eggs Benedict in a very cool downtown eatery. The place is known as Mother’s Café, and is located on Stark and 2nd. We were tipped off by a helpful clerk at the Rack while buying (yes, you’re correct) an umbrella to protect us from a wet Portland day’s weather.

There was quite a wait, all crowding the entry on that wet Sunday morning. We called from the store and asked to be put on the list, which cut our time jostling in the entry down considerably.

An old building with lots of mirrors everywhere, reflecting a very dedicated and pro staff that moved constantly. Service was savvy, prompt and quite pleasant. Mother’s featured a special brunch cocktail, a wonderful menu of sweet gooey things, some healthy things, and some traditional and not so traditional things. We had Benedict on the brain, though the berry cakes and malted waffles with piles of fruit that cruised by our eager appetites while waiting up front all showed great promise.

If you are in Portland, we strongly recommend a trip to Mother’s. It was a highpoint and fun to be in a restaurant that has the ‘feel’ as well as fabulous food!

What? The 45th is closed?! We love those coconut prawns!

2006-12-16T20:40:00.000-08:00

Just the other day, one of Bella's customers learned that the delicious Coconut Prawns were no longer available from the 45th Parallel Restaurant. 'Tis true, the restaurant has closed, but here is the recipe for you to enjoy whenever you want to:

45th Parallel CoCo Prawns

We used U12 shrimp- If your market doesn’t have them, I would recommend at least 16-20s.

The breading mixture is:
1 part Panko (Japanese Bread Crumbs)
2 parts Shredded Coconut (not the sweetened stuff)

Egg wash
Flour
Salt & Pepper to taste

Method:
Peel and de-vein your shrimp. Leaving the tails on or off is your call, depends if you want handles for your CoCo Prawns. Snip off the little beards at the ‘head’ if there are any remaining. These have a tendency to taste musty, and (added bonus) are a favorite with our kitty cat at home.

Set up your assembly line so that you can minimize the mess working from left to right, or vice versa. Set your line with salt & peppered shrimp, flour dish, egg wash, coco mixture, and then a platter to catch them all.
Pat the shrimp dry, and lightly salt and pepper. Dust with flour, shaking off excess, dip in the egg wash, and then cover with coco mixture, pressing it into the shrimp. Can be done up to a day ahead of time.

Fry in small batches in 350° F oil. Use a Dutch oven or deep fat fryer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, and remove to a drain towel. Serve with sweet chili dipping sauce.

Tuesday, December 12th - McCall Holiday Shopping Event!

2006-12-08T20:32:00.000-08:00

Bella Kitchen invites you to the...
2nd Annual McCall
Holiday Shopping Event

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12th
4—8 pm
Grab your friends and your holiday shopping list and let’s make this shopping season FUN!!! We’ll stay open late and offer great Christmas SPECIALS, SIPS, TASTES and other SURPRISES at your favorite shops in McCall.
So many advantages to shopping locally...

A healthy, HAPPY and safe alternative to driving to Boise.
Traffic? What Traffic?
Easy and FREE Parking.
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Make it a date. Make it a tradition!!
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Bella Kitchen, Razzle Dazzle, Willow, Gravity Sports,

Mountain Monkey Business, Rumpledinx,
Mountain Regatta Clothing Co., Sweet Peas & Mountain Skivvies, Granite Mountain Nature Gallery, Choices, Selectable Collectables

Easy and Elegant Chocolate Cups

2006-12-08T19:46:00.000-08:00

We opted for berry filled chocolate cups
as our dessert offering at a recent open house at Bella Kitchen. A very fun and rewarding option to the many pounds of cookies, baby tarts, bread-puddings, and fudges that are ever present (albeit good) at this time of year.

The process is pretty easy, melt your chocolate choice (I have used both bakers semi-sweet chocolate and my favorite brand of semi-sweet chocolate chips) in a double boiler, until glossy and tempered. Next, you will need a spoon and your silicon mini muffin 'tin'. I have tried painting the chocolate, pouring it, and spooning it into the cups. My favorite method is definitely the latter. With a spoon place a dollop of melted chocolate into the mold, and swirl it around until you get good coverage all around the inside of the cup. Continue to the next muffin cup and repeat until full. It seems like I used about 1/3 a bag of chocolate chips for a complete muffin mold. I would hold the mold up to the light to see if I had any apparent thin spots, then filled those in. The next step is important: take a frosting spatula or similar implement and scrape the excess chocolate from the top of the mold. This will help keep your chocolate from cracking when it shrinks as it sets. I would then place the whole thing in the freezer for 10 minutes or so, until firm and then gently press the cup from the bottom until the chocolate cup comes free. Then on to the next one. Being able to turn the silicon cups inside out makes for a handy method for setting all of those delightful little yum-yums free!

Next step is to eat all of the rejects, while preparing your filling-anything from a Kahlua mousse to fresh berries. Have fun!

Some inside skinny on Duck Fat-

2006-12-01T20:49:00.000-08:00

Chef Dunn always trimmed his duck breast fat quite a bit, and then scored the remaining fat cap to facilitate crisping. I adopted the practice with very satisfactory results. I find that duck breasts with all of the fat left on them have a tendancy to be not as crispy and in fact kind of gooey and less than stellar. It won't matter how yummy the sauce is, the gooey, chewy fat will tank the efforts.

When I score the fat cap, I run a sharp knife the long way diagonally just through the depth of the fat cap. I have seen Emeril then make the same cut the other direction creating a diamond shaped pattern. He claims that chilling the duck breast will cause the fat to then shrink a bit, resulting in a nice crispy finish for your duck breasts. I have to agree. By scoring the cap in a diamond shape, you give it the chance to render that much more of the fat off without over cooking your duck.

The Pro tip, then, is to save all of the trimmed fat, and render it off in a hot oven. Put the trimmed off bits into a pan and bake at about 375F for 20 minutes or so. You are done when all you have left is golden brown craklins and clear fat. Pull the craklin's and dry them on paper towels, and pour the rendered fat into a storage vessel. This is magic goodness for sauteed veggies (a favorite is Brussels sprouts) and the craklins are just delicious snacks. Or as a friend Chris suggests, a delicious garnish for salads. Duck fat is one of the secret weapons that restaurants use to make things that much richer.

"First, a little butter..."

2006-11-30T07:41:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Bella Kitchen's newest addition!

With only 500 sq feet, we had to expand somewhere! Keep visiting us here and you can look forward to all things Bella that we want to share with our friends and customers. Please let us know how we can build this page to better serve your culinary needs.

Coming soon:

Perfect Eggs Benedict in Portland
Elegant and easy chocolate dessert cups with your silicone muffin bakers
Christmas Penguin Platters

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, December 12th for some after hours shopping in beautiful downtown McCall. Participating merchants will be open to 8pm for your shopping convenience and will treat you with tastes, sips, and specials!