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vespawoolf profile image

vespawoolf

Joined 18 months ago from Peru, South America. Last activity 16 hours ago.

Vespa is an educator and freelance writer who lives with her husband in South America. An amateur baker and home chef, her dishes are influenced by a Midwestern upbringing and fifteen years spent in the various regions of Peru. Her home is often filled with friends eager to sample freshly baked breads, homemade jams and savory meals crafted from locally available, fresh ingredients. All recipes have been tested repeatedly and garner rave reviews!

Vespa belongs to the team of "Friends of Cook's recipe testers" for Cook's Illustrated magazine.

Vespa may receive revenue from Amazon and Google via ads and affiliate links.

Vespa's articles are copyright protected. If you'd like to feature one of her articles on your blog or website, please contact her via e-mail.

 

 

My Content: Hubs, Answers, and Forums

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  • Food and Cooking (1)
  • Health (3)
  • HubPages Tutorials and Community (13)
  • Travel and Places (1)
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  • Family and Parenting (3)
  • Fashion and Beauty (1)
  • Food and Cooking (7)
  • Health (3)
  • HubPages Tutorials and Community (6)
  • Religion and Philosophy (1)
  • Technology (1)
  • All
  • Food and Cooking (70)
  • Health (2)
  • HubPages Tutorials and Community (1)
  • Travel and Places (1)
  • 49

    Frosty Pisco Sour Drink Recipe

    3 weeks ago

    Learn how to make Pisco Sour, the national cocktail of Peru! Try either the Authentic or Quick & Easy Pisco Sour recipe. Also included: substitutions and how to find ingredients in the United States.

  • 100

    Quick Microwave Brownies in a Mug Recipe

    6 weeks ago

    If you crave a quick dessert, microwave mug brownies are just the thing! This recipe uses ingredients you have around the house: Hershey's kisses, chocolate chips or chocolate bars. Enjoy!

  • 44

    Sacha Inchi: Source of Vegetarian Omega 3's and More

    2 weeks ago

    Learn about the health benefits of Sacha Inchi or Savi Seed. This article includes suggestions for adding Sacha Inchi to your diet and beauty regimen.

  • 38

    Chicha Morada: Peruvian Purple Corn Drink That Lowers Blood Pressure

    4 weeks ago

    Peruvian purple corn, or maiz morado, offers numerous health benefits. Learn how to make chicha morada, the refreshing purple corn drink.

  • 26

    Purple Corn or Maiz Morado: Health Benefits

    8 weeks ago

    Purple corn, or maiz morado, offers numerous health benefits including prevention of diabetes, obesity and hypertension. Learn how to make purple corn extract for daily health benefits.

  • 92

    How to Make Smoothies Without Yogurt

    3 days ago

    The richest, creamiest smoothie is also quick and easy to make. Full of healthy ingredients it is gluten-free, raw, vegan, dairy-free and can be salt and sugar-free. And best of all, it's economical!

  • 59

    Frosted Sugar Cookie Recipe

    7 weeks ago

    Learn how to make soft sugar cookies with fluffy buttercream frosting. Keep extra cookie dough in the fridge for fresh cookies anytime! Also included: easy cookie decorating ideas.

  • 38

    Exotic Wild Berry Sauce Recipe

    2 months ago

    Wild berries are a common summer sight all over the world, and are often free for the taking. Learn to make quick and easy berry sauce, a delicious and elegant accompaniment for many desserts.

  • 48

    Vanilla Panna Cotta Recipe

    8 weeks ago

    Are you looking for an easy but elegant dessert? Pannacotta is fast and easy to make, yet simply delicious. Dress it up with fresh fruit or chocolate shavings. Why not try panna cotta today?

  • 81

    Mango Cheesecake Recipe

    4 weeks ago

    One bite of this tangy, creamy mango cheesecake will transport you to tropical paradise. Tips included for perfect cheesecake every time.

  • 72

    Deluxe Cinnamon Toast Recipe

    6 minutes ago

    Do you really need a recipe for cinnamon toast? Learn what makes this cinnamon toast "deluxe".

  • 50

    Mini Bundt Cake Recipe: Blackberry Lemon Bundt Cakes

    5 weeks ago

    These quick and easy mini bundt cakes, full of fresh berries & lemon zest, will make your guests think you've slaved in the kitchen for hours!

  • 20

    Quick & Easy Applesauce Recipe

    7 weeks ago

    A quick and easy recipe for delicious homemade applesauce. Learn which apples to choose for best flavor. Also included: applesauce variations and serving suggestions.

  • 40

    Easy Banana Bread Recipe:4 Tips For Moist Bread Every Time

    3 weeks ago

    Can easy banana bread really be moist? Learn 4 easy tricks for moist banana bread every time. Also included: optional variations and fancy streusel topping.

  • 52

    Easy Chicken Salad Recipe

    4 months ago

    Learn how to make easy chicken salad from garden fresh ingredients for a quick and healthy lunch! Serving suggestions and variations are offered.

  • 42

    How to Fry Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

    3 months ago

    Learn about the 3 steps to crispy, tender sweet potato fries. Also included: how to choose safe and healthy cooking oils and deep frying safety tips.

  • 82

    Recipe Index: Vespa Woolf's Favorites

    3 weeks ago

    An index for Vespa Woolf's recipes, organized in specific categories.

  • 50

    Moist Chocolate Cupcakes With Buttercream Frosting Recipe

    3 months ago

    This recipe makes 30 moist, chocolatey cupcakes with buttercream frosting. Learn how easy it is to pipe frosting for picture-perfect cupcakes. Also included: supplies you need to make the most elegant cupcakes you've ever laid eyes on.

  • 69

    The Best Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe!

    3 weeks ago

    This substantial and healthy soup is brimming with fresh vegetables, chunks of chicken and the most flavorful broth you'll ever taste. Also included, recipe variation for converting leftover turkey into tortilla soup.

  • 72

    How to Make French Fries: Crispy Homemade French Fry Recipe

    46 hours ago

    What's the secret to crispy, restaurant-style french fries? Learn how to choose the best potato for frying. Also included, step-by-step instructions and photographs for making tender, unforgettable fries.

  • 94

    Chewy Blondies Recipe: Blondies With Chocolate Chips & Salted Caramel

    3 months ago

    This rich and gooey dessert will be a hit with your family and friends! Plenty of photographs and step-by-step instructions lead you through the recipe for perfect blondies every time. Also included: tips for cutting blondies like a pro.

  • 32

    Best Restaurants in Cuzco: Review of Cicciolina Restaurant

    7 weeks ago

    If you're looking for upscale dining in Cusco, read reviews for Cicciolina and Baco restaurants. Plenty of colorful photos and suggestions for ordering are included.

  • 30

    Best Restaurant near Machu Picchu: Review of the Indio Feliz Restaurant

    7 weeks ago

    A review of Indio Feliz restaurant in Aguas Calientes, Peru near Machu Picchu. Find out what to order from the Franco-Andean menu.

  • 50

    How to Create Your Own Recipes

    7 weeks ago

    Can outlining help you create recipes? Learn about visualization, technique and how to stand out in the sea of food writers.

  • 98

    Why I Joined HubPages, Writing Online and a Big Thank You to My Fellow Hubbers

    2 months ago

    What are the benefits of writing on HubPages? Learn about residual income, technical challenges and the supportive community.

  • 32

    Making Your Own Recipes: How to Get Inspired

    6 weeks ago

    How are new recipes made? Learn how to educate yourself and find inspiration before you get started.

  • 64

    How to Copyright a Recipe: Recipe Attribution

    6 weeks ago

    How do you know when a recipe has been plagiarized? When can a recipe be called original? How can you create your own recipes? Find the answers to these questions and more in this article.

  • 50

    Quinoa Salad Recipe: Tabouli the "Super" Salad

    6 weeks ago

    Not only is this tabouli salad gluten-free and delicous, but it also boasts cold-fighting properties. Learn what makes tabbouleh the "Super Salad"!

  • 70

    Eggplant Dip: Creamy Baba Ganoush Recipe

    13 days ago

    A smoky, creamy dip perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike. Learn about a tasty and authentic alternative to tahini, a main ingredient in baba ganoush dip.

  • 75

    Moist Chocolate Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting & Cherry Ganache Filling Recipe

    2 weeks ago

    The perfect dessert for a special occasion, this moist layer cake is filled with chocolate-cherry ganache and finished with cream cheese frosting.

  • 44

    How to Make Basil Pesto: Pesto Sauce Recipes

    7 weeks ago

    Italian pesto is loved the world over. But have you ever tasted Tallarin Verde, or green noodles, the pesto of Peru? Creamy and mild, it is the favorite dish of many Peruvian children. Step-by-step instructions and photos are included for both pesto varieties, plus serving ideas.

  • 54

    Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe From Fresh or Canned Tomatoes

    3 months ago

    Learn the secret to thick, rich tomato soup from garden fresh or canned tomatoes. Serving suggestions are also included.

  • 57

    Savory Oven-Baked Pot Roast Recipe

    4 weeks ago

    Pot roast is a time-saving and economical choice for the home cook. Which cut of beef yields the juiciest, most tender pot roast? Which cooking method is the easiest and most foolproof? Also included: our favorite recipe for savory, succulent pot roast and ideas for using up leftovers.

  • 39

    Spicy Peruvian Aji Sauce Recipe: Yellow & Green Aji Sauces

    5 days ago

    Peruvian aji sauce transforms chicken and French fries into something special! Learn how to make this spicy, addictive sauce.

  • 53

    Fluffy Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

    4 weeks ago

    Chicken & dumplings are the ultimate comfort food. But is it possible to enjoy them on a gluten-free diet? Learn how to make gluten-free chicken & dumplings and whether or not they measure up to the traditional style.

  • 116

    How to Make the Best Homemade English Muffins

    46 hours ago

    Learn how to make authentic English muffins with chewy texture and plenty of nooks & crannies. The secret is in the method! Also included: a recipe for English muffin sandwiches and homemade blueberry English muffins, Wolferman's style.

  • 36

    Benefits of Sea Salt: Purest Sea Salts

    8 weeks ago

    Learn what's so special about Andean pink salt. Is it really better than table salt? How is it best used in the kitchen? Find out what's all the hype behind artisanal sea salt.

  • 96

    Dark Chocolate Bark Recipe: Dark Chocolate with Carmelized Nuts & Pink Salt

    7 weeks ago

    Are you looking for a gluten-free dessert, or perhaps a special gift for a friend who has celiac disease? Dark chocolate bark is easy to make and will end any dinner party on a sophisticated note. This candy boasts carmelized nuts for extra crunch and a flourish of sea salt for a burst of mild saltiness. Enjoy!

  • 26

    Restaurants in Cuzco: Review of Granja Heidi in Cusco, Peru

    7 weeks ago

    An independent restaurant review with plenty of photos for Granja Heidi, a Cusco restaurant serving European-style cuisine with a Peruvian flare.

  • 64

    Tangy Mango Lemonade Recipe

    3 weeks ago

    How do you make the best mango lemonade? Learn about a secret ingredient that makes this thirst-quenching beverage unforgettable.

  • 56

    How to Make The Best Limeade (Recipe)

    5 days ago

    What's the secret to the best limeade? Learn how to make summer's most refreshing beverage...with or without a blender! Also included: how to utilize the whole lime for economical limeade.

  • 62

    Best Authentic Guacamole Recipe

    10 days ago

    What's the secret of authentic guacamole? Learn which garden fresh vegetables to choose and how to combine them. Tips are included for choosing avocadoes and keeping guacamole green for several hours.

  • 118

    Best Authentic Pico de Gallo (Fresh Salsa) Recipe

    3 days ago

    Nothing says summer like Pico de Gallo, a delicious way to enjoy fresh tomatoes. Quick and easy, this step-by-step recipe with photos can be adapted to individual tastes. Variations are included, plus tips to ensure a perfect batch of fresh salsa every time.

  • 58

    Easy Breakfast Sandwich Recipe

    8 weeks ago

    How often do you run out the door without breakfast? Do you frequent fast food joints for a breakfast sandwich and coffee? Are you tired of the same old, boring breakfast food? If you'd like a quick, tasty meal that's easy to make, grilled paninis may be just the thing for you.

  • 53

    How to Make Homemade Corn Tortillas With Dried Corn Recipe

    3 months ago

    Corn tortillas are nutritious and great for a gluten-free diet. Since some commercially-produced corn tortillas contain gluten, though, your safest bet is to make them at home. How do you make corn tortillas from scratch? Where can you purchase the right type of corn? What is lime? In this article you will find the answers to all your questions plus step-by-step instructions for making tortillas. Also included are recipes for using your delicious homemade tortillas.

  • 42

    Easy Calzone Recipe: Easy Cheesy Calzones

    7 weeks ago

    With store-bought ingredients, Italian calzones are quick and easy to prepare. Economical and versatile, they're great for families. And kids love to make them! Try this recipe for dinner tonight.

  • 16

    Spicy Szechuan Dan Dan Noodle Recipe

    3 months ago

    Dan Dan noodles are nutritious, delicious and easy to prepare. Learn more about sichuan peppercorns and how they will electrify your meal.

  • 40

    Gourmet Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

    5 months ago

    Made with plenty of blue cheese and bacon, this grown-up macaroni & cheese is Xtra cheesy, Xtra creamy and Xtra flavorful! Try it with a side salad and glass of wine.

  • 51

    Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe: 10 Easy Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes

    6 months ago

    Mashed potatoes are a family-friendly dish. But how can you avoid soupy, gooey, lumpy or dense potatoes? Learn 10 easy steps for creamy mashed potatoes every time!

  • 46

    Soft & Gooey Cinnamon Roll Recipe

    5 months ago

    Who doesn't love cinnamon buns? With a kiss of real maple syrup, these rolls are irresistable. Try them for breakfast or afternoon snack with a cup of hot tea.

  • 58

    Fried Ice Cream Recipe with Sopapillas & Pear-Honey Sauce

    4 months ago

    Fried ice cream came into popularity in the United States in the early 1980's, thanks to a Mexican restaurant chain. This extra special recipe includes a sopapilla "plate" and pear-honey sauce.

  • 118

    Homemade Ice Cream Maker Recipe: Horchata Ice Cream With Bananas & Salted Caramel Sauce

    6 weeks ago

    Inspired by the Mexican rice drink, horchata ice cream pairs well with bananas and butter caramel sauce. Try this silky ice cream sundae as the perfect ending to a spicy feast.

  • 38

    Ways to Prevent Food Poisoning: 15 Tips

    7 weeks ago

    With the increase of food-bourne illness, food safety is a concern of everyone. But how can we protect ourselves and our loved ones? Read about three simple precautions that could save your life.

  • 37

    How to Choose Healthy & Tasty Cooking Oils

    8 weeks ago

    Did you know that extra virgin olive oil, when used for high temperature cooking, transforms into a poisonous pool of free radicals that ravage the human body? Learn how choosing the right cooking oil can protect your health.

  • 92

    Cracker Barrel-Style Pancakes Recipe

    7 weeks ago

    Cracker Barrel's pancakes are light and fluffy with crisp edges. You can buy an expensive mix in their gift shop, but why not try making them at home? Learn about a secret ingredient and special method that will produce similar pancakes at home.

  • 25

    Tender Oven-Baked BBQ Ribs Recipe

    7 weeks ago

    At least 23% of Americans don't own a BBQ grill. Are you doomed to a bleak existence, void of the comfort of homemade barbecue? Learn how to bake succulent, fall-off-the-bone BBQ ribs in your oven.

  • 32

    Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipes: 5 Recipes by Region

    6 days ago

    Sample five smoky BBQ sauce recipes from the main barbecue regions of the United States. Also included, the origin of barbecue sauce and BBQ cooking methods.

  • 67

    Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream with Homemade Waffle Cones Recipe

    6 months ago

    Homemade waffle cones and Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream. What could be better? Learn how to make both and you'll earn rave reviews from every member of the family.

  • 36

    Chewy Whole Grain Pita Bread Recipe

    10 days ago

    Whole grain pita is versatile, nutritious and easy to make. This simple recipe includes ideas for quick and healthy meals using pita bread.

  • 48

    Mini Breakfast Souffle Recipe: Bacon & Spinach

    3 weeks ago

    Soufflé, a classic French dish, needn't be intimidating. Modern techniques mean soufflés are easier to make than ever before. Versatile, delicious and perfect for brunch, they're sure to impress.

  • 77

    Bagel Recipe: Overnight Egg Bagels with Blueberry Cream Cheese

    3 months ago

    A recipe for egg bagels with an overnight rise in the refrigerator, which makes for ease of preparation in the morning. Just boil and bake. A great idea for Sunday brunch!

  • 40

    Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe

    7 weeks ago

    Pair the bittersweet richness of chocolate cookies with the velvety sweetness of homemade vanilla ice cream and you have a fudgy ice cream sandwich that's hard to beat!

  • 24

    Sweet & Smoky Mexican Mole Sauce Recipe

    3 months ago

    Mole, or Mexican BBQ sauce, has gained popularity due to the efforts of culinary genius Rick Bayless. This simplified recipe for red mole yields a silky, sweet, smoky sauce. A Scoville chart of dried chiles is included.

  • 46

    Coffee Ice Cream Recipe With Chocolate Sauce

    6 weeks ago

    Step-by-step instructions for making homemade espresso ice cream and chocolate sauce, followed by assembly of this sophisticated sundae.

  • 130

    The Best Homemade Mexican Salsa Recipe

    8 days ago

    This easy homemade salsa, made with canned or fresh tomatoes, comes with a disclaimer: once you’ve tasted authentic Mexican salsa there’s no going back. You’ll never again buy insipid jarred salsa!

  • 33

    Elegant Osso Buco Recipe

    2 weeks ago

    Osso buco, an elegant alternative for pot roast, will make your guests feel special.

  • 26

    Three Italian Side Dish Recipes: Meatballs, Chicken Cacciatore & Eggplant Parmesan

    6 months ago

    Discover three recipes that add pizzaz to homemade Italian tomato sauce.

  • 25

    Best Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe From Fresh or Canned Tomatoes

    5 days ago

    Learn the secret of sweeter italian spaghetti sauce without added sugar. Once you've tasted this homemade sauce full of garden-fresh ingredients, you'll never again buy store brands! US and metric measurements. Also included: how to choose the best canned tomatoes for spaghetti sauce.

  • 51

    Best Bircher Swiss Muesli Recipe

    5 days ago

    Looking for quick and healthy breakfast ideas? Muesli made with fresh fruit, yogurt and raw oatmeal was developed by Swiss physician Maxiilian Bircher to cure his patients. Delicious and nutritious, it will give your day a healthy start.

  • 42

    Nutty Whole Wheat Naan Bread Recipe

    8 weeks ago

    Naan bread is quick and easy to prepare with this special shortcut. Made with whole wheat flour, it's more nutritious than traditional naan.

  • 27

    Sultry Mulligatawny Recipe: Spicy Lentil Soup

    6 months ago

    Read about Mulligatawny, spicy lentil soup. Learn how to choose or make your own garam masala and follow an easy recipe that will transport you to the East!

  • 63

    How to Make the Best Chili con Carne Recipe

    5 days ago

    What's the secret of the best chili? It's all in the chili powder! Learn how to make or choose chili powder that will give your chili depth and complexity.

  • 133

    Homemade Butter Caramels with Pink Sea Salt Recipe

    3 weeks ago

    Learn how to make homemade caramels using fresh ingredients and finishing salts. Includes step-by-step instructions and photographs to lead you through the candy making process.

  • 91

    Best Blueberry Scones Recipe

    3 months ago

    Learn how to make tender, melt-in-the-mouth scones. Encrusted with dried blueberries, these scones boast intense flavor and delicious chewiness.

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