electric grill

Celebrating Thanksgiving (Canada): A Feast of Gratitude and Tradition

Celebrating Thanksgiving (Canada): A Feast of Gratitude and Tradition

Thanksgiving is a special holiday celebrated in Canada, marked by gatherings of family and friends to express gratitude and enjoy a festive meal. Similar to its American counterpart, Canadian Thanksgiving is traditionally observed on the second Monday in October. It is a time to reflect on the blessings of the year and appreciate the bountiful harvest. 

In this blog post, we will explore the essence of Canadian Thanksgiving and recommend some delightful recipes to make your celebration even more memorable.

What is Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday in Canada where people come together to give thanks for the blessings of the year. It originated from the European customs of celebrating the harvest and has evolved into a national holiday. During Thanksgiving, Canadians take the opportunity to appreciate the abundance of food, share joyous moments with loved ones, and express gratitude for all the good things in life.

The Thanksgiving Feast

A key part of the Thanksgiving celebration is the sumptuous feast shared among loved ones. Let’s explore some mouthwatering recipes that will make your Thanksgiving truly memorable.

1. Roast Turkey with Herb Stuffing

No Thanksgiving feast would be complete without a juicy roast turkey as the centerpiece. Begin by preheating Ventray Countertop Convection Oven Master to 350°F (175°C). Rub the turkey with a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then stuff it with a delectable blend of breadcrumbs, aromatic herbs, celery, and onions. Roast the turkey until golden brown, and enjoy the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen.

2. Maple-Glazed Roasted Vegetables

Celebrate the flavors of the autumn harvest by preparing maple-glazed roasted vegetables with Ventray EL-GRILL Electric Indoor Grill. Toss a colorful array of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes in a combination of maple syrup, melted butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. Roast them until tender and caramelized, creating a delightful side dish that perfectly complements the turkey.

3. Butternut Squash Soup

Warm up your Thanksgiving gathering with a comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. Start by sauteing onions and garlic in Ventray EL-GRILL Electric Indoor Grill until fragrant. Add diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, and a touch of cinnamon. Simmer until the squash is tender, then blend until smooth. Finish with a drizzle of heavy cream and a sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg. Serve with a crusty bread and enjoy the delightful flavors of fall.

4. Cranberry Sauce

No Thanksgiving feast is complete without cranberry sauce. Start by simmering fresh cranberries with sugar, orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon in Ventray EL-GRILL Electric Indoor Grill. As the cranberries burst and release their natural sweetness, the sauce thickens and develops a tangy and vibrant flavor. Allow it to cool and serve it alongside the turkey and other savory elements of your Thanksgiving meal.

Conclusion

Canadian Thanksgiving is a cherished occasion where families come together to celebrate and give thanks. With these delicious recipes and the assistance of Ventray kitchen appliances, you can create a memorable feast that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving. These dishes are sure to delight your loved ones and create lasting memories. Embrace the warmth and joy of Canadian Thanksgiving as you gather around the table and share in the abundance of food and gratitude. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Our Recipes

Caribbean Jerk Chicken

Caribbean Jerk Chicken

A classic Caribbean dish that’s full of flavor and spice. Grilled to perfection, the chicken is juicy on the inside with a spicy, smoky crust. Serve with rice and peas for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 lime, juiced

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Combine jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

2. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 2 hours.

3. Preheat your Ventray EL-GRILL Electric Indoor Grill.

4. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

5. Serve with rice and peas for a traditional Caribbean meal.

Make This Recipe With

Our Recipes

Caribbean Coconut Shrimp

Caribbean Coconut Shrimp

These crispy, golden shrimp are coated in shredded coconut and fried until golden. Served with a tangy pineapple dipping sauce, they’re a tropical treat that’s perfect as an appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 cup flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 cup shredded coconut

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. Combine coconut and breadcrumbs in a bowl.

2. Dredge shrimp in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat in the coconut mixture.

3. Heat oil in a Ventray EL-GRILL Electric Indoor Grill.

4. Fry shrimp until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.

5. Drain on paper towels and serve with a spicy dipping sauce.

Make This Recipe With

Our Recipes

Caribbean Plantain Chips

Caribbean Plantain Chips

Thinly sliced plantains are fried until crispy and lightly salted. These chips are a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips and are perfect for dipping in salsa or guacamole, or simply enjoyed on their own.

Ingredients

• 2 green plantains

• Vegetable oil for frying

• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Peel plantains and slice thinly.

2. Heat oil in the Ventray EL-GRILL Electric Indoor Grill.

3. Fry plantain slices until golden and crispy.

4. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.

Make This Recipe With

Our Recipes

Sleepover Party Food Ideas That Kids Will Adore

Sleepover Party Food Ideas That Kids Will Adore

Summer vacation for kids isn’t complete without the joy of sleepovers with friends or cousins. A sleepover party, an evening packed with laughter, games, movies, and snacks, is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating events. To create the perfect sleepover party, delicious and kid-friendly food is essential.

In this blog post, we’re sharing delectable sleepover party food ideas guaranteed to keep the kids entertained and satisfied.

Delectable Sleepover Party Food Ideas for Kids

1. Marshmallow Dip

This sweet and tempting marshmallow dip can be made in just 10 minutes.

First, blend softened cream cheese and yogurt using the Ventray MK37 Tilt-Head Stand Mixer until well combined. Fold in whipped topping and marshmallow crème to create a lush marshmallow sauce. Kids can enjoy this with their choice of fruits or biscuits.

2. Fruit Fizzy Beverage

This easy-to-make, sweet fizzy fruit beverage is sure to be a hit.

Prepare an assortment of fresh fruits like blueberries, oranges, pineapples, strawberries, and other favorites. Cut them into small pieces and use the Ventray 809 Slow Press Masticating Juicer to extract their juices. Combine this fresh fruit juice with a carbonated drink such as Sprite or sparkling water to create a refreshing fruit sparkling beverage. The juicer’s efficient extraction process preserves the taste, texture, and nutrients of the fruits, ensuring a delicious drink the kids will love.

3. French Toast Skewers

1. Cut four slices of toast into quarters.

2. Combine eggs, milk, syrup, and vanilla extract in a shallow bowl and whisk until combined.

3. Soak each toast piece in the egg mixture for 10 seconds on each side.

4. Lightly grease the EL-GRILL Smokeless Electric Indoor Grill‘s plate and heat it over medium. Place the soaked toast on the plate and grill for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

5. Once cooked, transfer the toast to a cutting board. On metal or wooden skewers, alternate the French toast pieces with halved strawberries. Serve with extra syrup and strawberries if desired.

The resulting French toast skewers are not only innovative but also delicious, and are sure to be a hit with the kids.

4. Mini Pizza Cups

While many kids enjoy pizza, mini pizza cups offer a delightful twist. Their compact size makes them perfect for sleepover parties and they’re also super easy to create.

1. Preheat your Countertop Convection Oven to 375° and oil a baking tray with miniature muffin cup shapes.

2. Divide the dough into multiple portions and press them into each grid of the baking tray.

3. Fill each grid with pizza sauce, and sprinkle with onions, green peppers, pepperoni, and cheese.

4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Voila, your mini pizza cups are ready!

Conclusion

Delicious food is the cherry on top for any successful sleepover party. Make your next kids’ sleepover unforgettable with these tantalizing food ideas!

Our Recipes

6 Must-Have Solo Travel Cooking Gears for a Healthy Lifestyle on the Go

6 Must-Have Solo Travel Cooking Gears for a Healthy Lifestyle on the Go

Traveling solo provides a unique opportunity for personal growth and exploration. For those who prioritize a healthy lifestyle, being able to prepare nutritious meals on the go is essential. In this blog, we have curated a list of the best cooking gear for solo travelers who seek to maintain their healthy eating habits while embarking on exciting adventures. These compact and versatile appliances will make it easier for you to whip up delicious and nourishing meals wherever your solo travel takes you.

1. Mini Electric Grill: Ventray EL-GRILL Smokeless Electric Indoor Grill

For those seeking a high-quality electric grill, the Ventray Electric Grill is a fantastic option. With its compact size and adjustable temperature control, it provides an excellent grilling experience for solo travelers. The non-stick cooking surface ensures easy cleaning, while the even heat distribution allows for perfectly grilled vegetables and lean meats wherever you may be.

2. Portable Electric Kettle: Bodum Bistro Electric Water Kettle

A reliable and portable electric kettle like the Bodum Bistro is a solo traveler’s best friend. Its compact size, rapid boiling capability, and cordless design make it perfect for quickly preparing hot beverages, instant soups, or oatmeal while on the go.

3. Portable Induction Cooktop: Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop

For those who enjoy cooking a variety of healthy meals, the Duxtop Portable Induction Cooktop is a fantastic choice. With its precise temperature control and energy-efficient design, it allows you to sauté vegetables, stir-fry protein-packed dishes, and experiment with different recipes while keeping the flavors intact.

4. Mini Slow Juicer: Ventray Essential Ginnie Juicer

To enjoy fresh and nutritious juices on the go, the Ginnie Juicer from Ventray is an excellent choice. This compact juicer efficiently extracts juice while preserving vitamins and minerals. With its user-friendly design and easy-to-clean components, the Ginnie Juicer allows solo travelers to create refreshing and healthy beverages from a variety of fruits and vegetables during their adventures.

5. Compact Slow Cooker: Crock-Pot 2-Quart Slow Cooker

The Crock-Pot 2-Quart Slow Cooker is an ideal cooking gear for solo travelers who appreciate the convenience of hands-off cooking. Its smaller size is perfect for single portions, and it offers both low and high cooking settings, along with a keep-warm function, ensuring you can enjoy flavorful stews, soups, and vegetarian dishes at the end of a day filled with adventures.

6. Mini Rice Cooker: Zojirushi NHS-06 3-Cup Rice Cooker

Rice enthusiasts will appreciate the compact and reliable Zojirushi NHS-06 Rice Cooker. With a capacity of 3 cups of cooked rice, a keep-warm function, and a non-stick inner cooking pot, this mini rice cooker ensures perfectly cooked rice for solo travelers, making it a versatile addition to your travel cooking arsenal.

How Can I Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle and Eat Nutritious Meals While Traveling Solo?

  • Incorporate local produce and fresh ingredients into your meals whenever possible.
  • Plan and prepare your meals in advance, packing healthy snacks and portable meal options.

Conclusion

Take charge of your solo travel adventures and prioritize your health with the must-have cooking gears for a healthy lifestyle on the go! Don’t let your healthy habits slip while traveling solo. Equip yourself with these cooking gears and savor the flavors of a wholesome lifestyle on the road. Start your solo travel journey with confidence and make your health a top priority. Get your cooking gears now and embark on a transformative and nourishing adventure!

Our Recipes

Back-to-School Tips for College Students Eager to Cook in Dorms

Back-to-School Tips for College Students Eager to Cook in Dorms

It’s that annual ritual – back to school season! Living away from home in a university dorm can present its own unique challenges. Among these, for some college students, is the predicament of cooking in the dormitory. In college, you’re responsible for managing your own meals daily, which can be a daunting task for those with a penchant for cooking. Given that university dormitories typically lack kitchens, deciding on the appropriate kitchen supplies can be a tough call.

This blog post aims to recommend some dorm-friendly kitchen utensils for college students eager to cook, thus enabling them to realize their dorm cooking aspirations.

How Do College Students Cook in Dorms After Returning to School?

1. Ensure Electrical and Food Safety

Primarily, cooking in the dorm necessitates the use of cooking appliances, requiring you to verify that your dormitory’s voltage can accommodate the voltage and power of the kitchen appliances you intend to use to prevent any electrical short-circuits.

Food safety involves being mindful of potential cross-contamination between ingredients. Always wash your hands before handling ingredients and avoid cutting cooked food on a chopping board contaminated with raw juice. If you’re cooking raw meat, ensure it’s heated to a safe temperature before serving.

2. Choose the Right Tools

Certain kitchen appliances can significantly simplify cooking in a dorm.

• EL-GRILL Smokeless Electric Indoor Grill

This electric grill allows for a healthy, hassle-free cooking experience in a college dorm. From breakfast bacon sandwiches to homemade BBQ or fondue, this versatile cooker facilitates quick and easy meal preparation. Its large 4-quart capacity ensures you can cook substantial quantities of food at once, making meal sharing with roommates a breeze.

• Dormify Deluxe Rapid Egg Cooker System

This egg cooker consistently delivers perfectly cooked eggs. Whether you’re in the mood for poached, scrambled eggs, or even mini omelets, it has got you covered. It can also be used to steam vegetables, ensuring easy, tasty breakfasts every morning.

• Dormify 6 Can Mini Fridge

A refrigerator is indispensable for cooking. To maintain ingredient freshness, a refrigerator is a must. This stylish and functional mini fridge may be small but it’s sufficient for smaller ingredients and a real space-saver in your dorm room.

• DW50 Portable Dishwasher

This portable dishwasher is an essential for anyone who loves cooking. With five wash programs, it meets your daily needs while consuming less water and energy. Its compact size is ideal for dorm use.

3. Organize Cooking Storage

Consider procuring a large box or basket, ideally with a lid, and designate it as your “kitchen cabinet”. Store some ingredients and tableware inside and keep them well organized. This will ensure they remain mold-free and easy to locate.

Final Thought

Most back-to-school checklists neglect cookware, so hopefully, this blog post will add a touch of culinary color to your back-to-school routine. It’s time to bring some cooking joy to your college life with these back-to-school tips!

Our Recipes

Dating in Summer: Making Your Day Delightful and Cool

Dating in Summer: Making Your Day Delightful and Cool

Ah, summer is upon us! Have you made plans for this sunny season yet? The warm and pleasant weather invites the perfect opportunity for summer dating. Indeed, a multitude of fun and unique activities await, both outdoors and even indoors, promising an unforgettable summer date. This blog post will present a host of creative summer date ideas, ensuring you can fully relish the summer fun with that special someone.

Creative Summer Date Ideas:

1. Enjoy a Beach Date

There’s always an undeniable thrill to beach dates. They’re engaging, soothing, and set the stage for a memorable summer date. A romantic beach setting is sure to inspire joy and happiness in couples. Amplify the beach date experience by planning a dinner on the sand, having a casual chat while lounging, or partaking in an invigorating game of beach volleyball.

2. Embark on a Bike Ride

Few experiences compare to the tranquility of a leisurely bike ride along a picturesque trail. Summer offers the ideal setting for a bike date. Soak in the fresh air and brisk summer breeze while sharing this experience with your special someone. Add a charming twist to your bike date by stopping by a coffee shop, making the journey all the more memorable.

3. Organize a BBQ Night

A barbecue is synonymous with summer dates. It’s an opportunity to enjoy delectable food while fostering communication with friends and strengthening relationships. Set up a grill in your backyard and invite your friends for an enjoyable outdoor evening.

If unexpected rain threatens to dampen the spirit, don’t fret! The EL-GRILL Smokeless Electric Indoor Grill is an excellent substitute for an indoor barbecue. Its large 4-quart capacity lets you grill a sizeable quantity of food at once, while the 1200-watt power ensures quick, even heating sans the need for extra oil or butter. Simply gather some basic ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and sauces, plug in the grill, and you’re good to go. This grill promises a satisfying barbecue experience.

4. Plan a Road Trip

Road trips might seem basic, yet they are undeniably romantic summer dates. A relaxing drive with some packed food, interspersed with stops to admire the scenic vistas, can be incredibly calming. Additionally, you can visit the quaint shops, bookstores, and museums that you encounter along the way.

5. Go Camping for a Night

Setting up a tent, igniting a bonfire, and roasting marshmallows until late at night embodies the charm of a camping date. Camping allows you to escape the city’s hubbub and enjoy some tranquility. For nature enthusiasts, daytime exploration of the surroundings near the campsite is recommended, followed by an evening around the fire, soaking in the night view while enjoying a delightful meal.

Final Thoughts

Whether you seek an exhilarating or a relaxing date, these summer date ideas are guaranteed to craft lasting memories. So, why hesitate? Go ahead and relish the summer season with the person you desire to date. Enjoy and make every moment count!

Our Recipes

Savoring National Lasagna Day in Style

National Lasagna Day banner

Savoring National Lasagna Day in Style

Just imagine, an evening table gleaming with candlelight, silverware clinking softly, and the tantalizing, comforting aroma of a rich, baked, layered pasta dish teasing your senses. Yes, we’re talking about lasagna, the dish that reigns supreme, uniting food lovers across the globe. But did you know that this universally adored meal has its very own dedicated day on the calendar? A day that transcends borders, celebrates tradition, and indulges the tastebuds. 

Welcome to National Lasagna Day!

An annual epicurean event, National Lasagna Day has a fixed date on the 29th of July, a day that has been eagerly marked on foodies’ calendars year after year, be it 2023, 2024 or 2025. This date calls for a grand feast, where everyone, regardless of their culinary prowess, is encouraged to whip up, dig into, and most importantly, savor the diverse flavors and styles of lasagna.

Why We Celebrate Lasagna Day?

But why, you may ask, do we celebrate Lasagna Day? The answer is as layered as the dish itself.

Primarily, we celebrate to pay homage to the rich history and culinary craftsmanship of this beloved Italian dish. From its humble beginnings in Naples during the Middle Ages to its prominence on global dining tables, lasagna’s journey is one to be respected and revered.

Furthermore, it’s an opportunity to highlight the importance of gathering around the dinner table. In a world where life whizzes by at breakneck speed, lasagna day serves as a gentle reminder to slow down, share a hearty meal, and enjoy some good ol’ fashioned togetherness.

How Can We Observe Lasagna Day

Observing National Lasagna Day is as delightful as you’d imagine, with options that cater to everyone:

1. Cook a Family Recipe

If there’s a cherished family lasagna recipe handed down through generations, now’s the time to whip it out.

2. Experiment with New Recipes

Traditional Lasagna

For the adventurous ones, try out a new spin on the traditional lasagna. Be it vegan, seafood, or even dessert lasagnas, the culinary world is your oyster.

3. Dine out or Order In

If you’re not up for the kitchen challenge, support your local Italian restaurants. Treat yourself by dining out or ordering your favorite lasagna.

4. Share the Love

Why not share the joy of lasagna day by delivering a homemade dish to a neighbor or donating meals to a local shelter?

History Of Lasagna Day

The origins of National Lasagna Day are somewhat elusive, much like the exact origins of lasagna itself. However, its recognition as a holiday coincided with the rise of food-themed celebrations and has since established itself as a yearly culinary highlight.

The earliest lasagna recipes date back to medieval Italy, specifically Naples, where the dish was first documented in the 14th century cookbook, “Liber de Coquina.” Since then, lasagna has evolved, with each Italian region adding its unique touch, eventually capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of people worldwide.

Theme for Lasagna Awareness Month 2023: Celebrating Lasagna Traditions

As we look ahead to the Lasagna Awareness Month for 2023, we eagerly anticipate the chosen theme: Celebrating Lasagna Traditions. This theme invites everyone to delve deeper into the roots of this dish, explore the variations in different Italian regions, and appreciate the amalgamation of culture, tradition, and, of course, mouth-watering flavors that lasagna represents.

Whether you’re a lifelong lasagna lover, a budding chef, or simply someone who cherishes a hearty meal and a chance to celebrate, National Lasagna Day is for you. So, mark your calendars for the 29th of July, roll up your sleeves, and let’s honor the layers that tell a story – the delectable story of lasagna!

Our Recipes

Different Ways to Celebrate Independence Day

Different Ways to Celebrate Independence Day

Independence Day holds immense significance for Americans as it commemorates the day their nation gained sovereignty. As such, it has become a cherished American tradition to celebrate this holiday. Now, as Independence Day approaches, we invite you to delve into the meaning of this day and explore different ways to commemorate it.

What is Independence Day and When is it Celebrated?

Known as the Fourth of July, Independence Day is observed annually on July 4. It marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence’s publication in 1776. On this day, Americans celebrate their freedom with patriotic displays and family events across the United States.

How Can You Celebrate Independence Day?

1. Dress in Red, White, and Blue

The American flag’s colors—red, white, and blue—are a common sight on Independence Day. Americans often dress in these colors as a show of national pride. So, consider assembling an outfit featuring these three colors as a way to join the celebration.

2. Watch Fireworks

Fireworks displays are an integral part of Independence Day celebrations. You can either purchase fireworks for a personal display or attend a public fireworks show. Choose the ideal spot, gather with family and friends, and create memorable moments under the shimmering lights.

3. Host Barbecues

Barbecues are popular during Independence Day festivities. If rain threatens your outdoor plans, consider an indoor barbecue. The EL-GRILL Smokeless Electric Indoor Grill offers the perfect solution for such situations. All you need are some basic ingredients—meat, vegetables, sauces, or marinades. Plug in the grill and start barbecuing. The compact design and non-stick grill pan provide a smoke-free grilling experience, letting you enjoy your barbecue despite the rain.

4. Attend a Parade

Parades are a favorite American pastime, and Independence Day is no exception. On this day, floats, horses, cheerleaders, military units, and marching bands fill the streets of towns and cities across the U.S. Spectators waving flags and receiving candy from participants add to the festive spirit. Joining a parade offers a vibrant way to soak in the atmosphere of the holiday.

Final Thoughts

Independence Day is not just a day off; it’s a celebration imbued with deep historical significance. As you partake in the festivities, take a moment to reflect on the stories and struggles behind the holiday. Here’s wishing you a Happy Fourth of July!

Our Recipes