It’s in Ji-Pan where I first come across kouign amann (KWEEN-ah-man; KOO-ine ah-MAHN).

Thin but sizable slivers of black truffle blanket the precious package beneath like a sheath of jewels, albeit more fragrant ones.

Never even looked at another pan until I saw this…

Note: The following post is written from the viewpoint of my 6-year old daughter, Boo, who was with me when I chanced upon some butternut squash at a local supermarket.  Point of view notwithstanding, I thought it would be noteworthy to illustrate to you how my family witnesses my truly food-obsessed moments.

It’s a muffin and the other one is a cake.

“Er, what exactly is a butter bar?” I ask.

"Some say there is an art to great coffee. I don't care how artistic you are; there are too many factors in play. You need the technology." -- Bob Stiller, Chairman & Founder of Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Can we get that creamer question out of the way first? Part 1 here

I bend over the cup, dip my tasting spoon in and slurp the dark liquid. It’s too hot! My throat is electrocuted by the scalding liquid coursing down it.