When we bought our home last year in December, the seller provided a home warranty. We hoped to never have to use it but recently our built-in microwave oven started making a loud grinding noise. After a quick online request, they scheduled a Sears field tech to take a look. He determined that the turntable motor needed to be replaced. We paid $55 for the call but the rest is covered up to $200. (It was an expensive model according to him). I was quite impressed with the way the home warranty worked and recommend it to anyone buying a home.

We finally found a good Mexican Restaurant. Case De Tamales is in Milwaukie, about a 25 minute drive from where we live but totally worth it. It is a casual dining place with reasonable prices – $27 for 2 meals, drinks and tip. Interestingly enough, when I saw that they sold farm-fresh eggs, I knew it was going to be good. Also in the true Mexican tradition, they have the big flan plate as well as Mexican coke with real sugar, Horchata and Jarritos. I had the Taco Plate which is mission-style and authentic. They were in little corn tortillas with spiked up pork, cilantro, onions and salsa. That’s it. Just like in Mexico or Southern California. Fue picante! Spicier than average but tasty. Marcel had the Nacatamal, a Nicaraguan-style tamale. Also very tasty! Check it out next time you are in SE Portland. They are also in some Farmers Markets but for some reason just not quite the same.

Last Christmas, I received a Pasta Maker as a gift. I was very excited so I went out and bought some Bob’s Red Mill semolina flour. I love pasta and making it myself would be the ultimate in culinary satisfaction. Last weekend, I tested it and although it came out a little on the thick side, I would definitely put the machine in good use .

The 2 ingredients are flour and eggs. 1 lb flour and 5 large eggs. For al dente pasta, I mixed half semolina and half unbleached flour.

First pass of the dough. About 10 times until it is the desired thickness.

Cutting to Fettuccine Strips.

Added olive oil, parmiggiano reggiano and Pacific NW albacore tuna. Yummy!