Wednesday Links

Ever wonder how people eat in other countries? The Guardian U.K. interviewed 5 families to find out.

While Bob was in Germany a couple months ago, he ate lunch daily at his company's cafeteria - and really enjoyed the food. How often do you hear that about cafeterias in the US? Read Mark Bittman's take on the future of American cafeteria food.

Do you count your calories? Few Americans do it correctly, if at all.

Some new (to me) food blogs to add to your must-read list.

And speaking of food blogs, Saveur magazine's brief history of food blogs shares how it all began.

May seasonal food guide - and some ideas how to make the most of it.

What would make this list of links complete? News about Jamie Oliver!

Local News:

Spring has finally come to Michigan! Check out this list of spots in Metro Detroit that offer outdoor dining.

New restaurant chain Twisted Rooster emphasizes ingredients grown or produced in Michigan.

Great news for fans of Slows BBQ.

Favorite Cookbooks

Do you have favorite cookbooks you turn to again and again? Here are some of the ones that help get me back in the kitchen.

Barefoot Contessa - Ina Garten's show on the Food Network never fails to inspire me. Everything looks amazing and the most important part? Ina makes it look so easy and do-able. The cookbooks are all that and more. The recipes always work and the food tastes fantastic. But use your common sense; that Potato Fennel Gratin may be delicious, but all the heavy cream and cheese says 'special occasion' side dish to me. And I can't choose a favorite book - I love all 7 of them!

Wednesday Links

Did you watch Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution last night? What did you think?
Here's some backstory of Jamie's food fight with the LA schools.
The fiscal toll of treating 'lifestyle diseases' - more from Mark Bittman.
5 great pantry staples at Trader Joe's. Definitely check out the canned smoked trout, too. It's a great, sustainable alternative to canned tuna, especially if you're concerned about mercury levels.
How to share a cow. I've been meaning to look into this - anyone interested?

Local news:
Going out to eat this Easter? Here's a list of Metro Detroit holiday brunch spots.
Or maybe a home delivery service of locally produced food? Door to Door Organics promises that during the Michigan growing season, as much as 75% of their produce will be sourced from local farmers.