Fran's Gray Salt Dark Caramels

Looking to cure yourself of your sweet tooth, even if it's only temporary? Here is something so chewy it might even pull that tooth out for you. I found a new caramel that is so good, that I have to let you know about it. This is one of the best plain caramels (not plain in flavor) I have had. It has the wonderful addition of having sea salt on the top of the caramel to accent the dark chocolate and burnt caramel flavors of this delicacy. You would expect the flavors to be strong since it's from Seattle. It does not disappoint. These are wonderful. You can get them online or at Whole Foods Market. So…they are Fran's Gray Salt Dark Caramels. They have a smoked salt version that is probably even better. I have to try that next! Will you beat me to it?

One Superbly Dark Belgian Ale.

Is your brain begging for a beacon of a Belgian beer? Have you found a magic place filled with so many Belgian beers that you feel like you might get weak in the knees seeing the exuberating glory of the mighty brew? But, there is that one voice in the back of your head that is asking you which one is the best, which one do you try first? 

I know for me, it seems more and more I am liking the Belgian beers that have a more dynamic palate, are less yeasty and less foamy. I really appreciate those that have both the heavy malty taste of wood and leather, yet the refined nuances of orchard fruit. 

I have found one that holds the crown in refinement and flavor with no compromises. This mighty ale is the Affligem Noel, by Affligem.

The alcohol content (8-10%) is higher than usual for most beers (3-5%), but on par for good triple Belgian ales. It has the combined flavors of the malty Affligem Double and the refined, almost champagne like flavors of the Affligem Tripple. A perfect combination in my book. This is the one to get and always have on hand for that special occasion when a good, make that great, beer is needed.

These are hard to find by the bottle and by the tap, but well worth the effort. Find one and if you finish the entire bottle yourself, don't be surprised to see in double.

Evil Brownie Sticks

Okay, these are evil. Don't blame me if you eat the entire pack in one siting. Upon shopping one day, I saw a small pack of brown sticks in the deli section at my local store. What are these?- I said to myself. When I picked the small pack up I realized they were small brownie sticks. They looked good, so I bought them. I opened them when I arrived home and was put into a coma of delight when I took my first bite. Wow. So Chewy, so dense, so rich in flavor! These things are evil! They are perfectly baked so they are slightly crunchy on the outside and nice and chewy in the inside. The Ultimate Walnut BrownieSticks are made by the Fine Scone Henge Bakery.

Go get them.