30k Profiles: Cas

Hello faithful 30kmils and welcome to another 30k Profile Post! Today we introduce, Cas. You may know her by her kickin' chicken curry recipe or the fabulous DPs that she and her fiance, Joey, host. Seriously, this chick can cook.

Cue: a few little know facts about our 30Kmillionaire of the week!

My motto is: If at first you don't succeed, have a glass of chardonnay.

Childhood ambition: I wanted to be a member of the Mickey Mouse Club and/or Kids, Incorporated, so I could sing and dance in public while wearing the coolest scrunchies and acid-washed jeans.

Favorite cocktail: Dark and Stormy (dark rum, ginger beer and lime), mojitos, caipirinhas, vodka with soda water and a lime.

Favorite place to grab a cocktail: It's seasonal. Spring/Summer/early Fall: Anywhere with outdoor seating. Late Fall/Winter: The Wellington.

Cheap eats: The grocery store.

Cheap thrill(s): Hula hoops, cupcakes, bubbles, Clorox disinfecting wipes, glass bottled soda or juice, fruit pies, lowercase letters, coffee, tea, stick figures, the AP Stylebook, dry-erase boards, magnets, beer, Post-It notes, TRX bands and the word "apricot."

Favorite thing about Indy in the summer: Sno-Zone and the Monon.

Fav type of music: Depends on what I'm trying to accomplish. I'm a sucker for classic rock and golden oldies, though.

Looking forward to this summer: Wearing skirts, planting flowers, walking the dogs, riding my bike.

On my days off you’ll find me: Riding my bike, doing yard work, walking the dogs.

You might be surprised to know: I never made it to the Mickey Mouse Club and/or Kids, Incorporated, BUT I did own some sweet acid-washed jeans and scrunchies when I was in second grade. Also, I really like prime numbers.

Favorite websites: etsy.com, fmylife.com, textsfromlastnight.com, thisiswhyyourefat.com, cnn.com, digg.com, cakewrecks.blogspot.com.

Best advice anyone has given me: *You can make some people happy some of the time, but you can't make all people happy all of the time. *They think you're a bitch? Fuck them and fuck you for taking it to heart.

Favorite party memory: My birthday DP at Karlie's was about the most touching, awesome thing anyone has ever done for me.

Favorite way to be green: Not using styrofoam coffee cups/water glasses at work.

Favorite weekend morning spot after a night of parties: Bed, Three Sisters, Taste, the Monon.

Thirtythousanddollarmillionaire is: Clever.

DPs make me feel: Curious. I haven't hosted one/been invited to one for a while. Are they still around? We need to jolt them back to life. Nurses, get me the paddles. Clear? Clear!

Favorite recipes: Braised pork shoulder with stewed greens and mango salad; chicken curry with brown rice; mojo marinated skirt steak with peppers, onions and rice; sloppy joes made with ground turkey, mangos and jalapenos.

When the moon hits your eye, like a big pizza pie that's....Patachou?

This just in!Accoring to Indy Star's Indy in the Kitchen, Patachou will be adding a pizzeria to their list of delectable foodie hot-spots. The new restaurant, Napolese, is said to feature Neopolitan-style pizzas made with imported artisan flour.

Located at 49th and Penn, you can be sure that the 30kMill crew will report on just how tasty Indy's newest pizza parlor turns out to be!

DRIVE IN MOVIE THEATRE

Check it out! Tibbs Drive-In movie theatre!! Admission fee is $10.

PIZZA!

Pizza is HANDS DOWN my favorite food. I finally got around to trying my own homemade version, crust, marinara sauce and all. So here it is: my recipe for an awesome veggie za.



CRUST:
ingredients

• 1/2 cup warm water (105 to 110 degrees F)

• 2 teaspoons dry yeast

• 2 cups flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

DIRECTIONS:

Mix the warm water and yeast in a small bowl to blend. Let stand until the yeast dissolves, about 5 minutes. Mix the flour and salt with a hand mixer or food processor to blend. Blend in the oil. With the machine running, add the yeast mixture and blend just until the dough forms. Turn the dough out onto lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, about 1 minute. Transfer the dough to a large oiled bowl and turn the dough to coat with the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set aside in a warm draft-free area until the dough doubles in volume, about 1 hour. Punch the down dough and form into ball. (The dough can be used immediately or stored airtight in the refrigerator for 1 day.)

SAUCE:

1⁄2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste

1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

1 can of crushed tomatoes
add in: fresh basil, dry basil, oregano, italian seasoning, garlic salt, fresh garlic, red pepper flakes

Instructions:

In a skillet, heat the oil over a medium-high flame. Add the fresh garlic and sauté, approx 3-4 minutes. Add in the fresh basil & oregano (if you're using it). Add the crushed tomatoes and simmer uncovered over low heat until the sauce comes to a low boil. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and other seasonings listed below (to taste).

TOPPINGS:
i usually make veggie pizza: so here is what i use for my toppings-
1% skim mozarella cheese (finely shredded)
fresh spinach
green pepper
fresh tomatoes (sliced)
sun dried tomatoes
red onion
parmesan cheese
**extras- mushrooms, eggplant, basil, artichokes, arugula

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS:

Position one oven rack in the center and the second rack on the bottom of the oven and preheat to 450 degrees F. Sprinkle the cornmeal over 2 rimless baking sheets. (I use the flat cookie sheets) Roll out pizza dough into a whatever shape you can get it into. Transfer dough to prepared baking sheet.

Spoon the marinara sauce over the dough, dividing equaling and leaving a 1-inch border around each pizza. Sprinkle the cheeses over the sauce. ADD VEGGIES/ toppings!! Bake the pizzas until the crusts are crisp and brown on the bottom and the cheese is melted on top, rotating the baking sheets half way through baking, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle a few more spices on top- oregano, basil- or fresh basil....then slice it up and serve immediately. I highly recommend drinking red wine and eating a great salad with this pizza.

BUON APPETITO!

30k Profiles: Chris

Welcome to another edition of thirtythousanddollarmillionaire profiles! Today we introduce you to Chris- you might know him for his delicious Mexican Bean Salad. It is to die for!

My motto is: You're only young once.

Childhood ambition: I really wanted to work at an amusement park. Not to be one of the furry costumed performers, or the guy who guesses your weight, but the guy who gets to test ride the roller coaster everyday before everyone else. The guy who sits up front with a train full of sandbags and says "Yea this one's OK" or "Crap, I shouldn't be flying through the air."

Favorite cocktail: Jameson. Straight. On the rocks.

Favorite place to grab a cocktail: At the moment... Plump's. It's that time of year, what can I say. And they have a doggie snack bar on the patio so you can bring the pup along to enjoy the summer air.

Cheap eats: Sno Zone. I've made it my dinner more than once and if you consider yourself a regular, the punch card gets you your 10th cone free.

Cheap thrill: Hiking at Holliday Park. Ok, so it's not real hiking, but it's about as good as your going to get in the city. They have 4 miles of trails that wind around the park and some great river access to go enjoy the sights and sounds of the White River.

Favorite thing about Indy in the summer: The Monon... nuff said.

Fav type of music: It always comes and goes in waves for me, but right now its the new school throw-back hip hop... think Beastie Boys meets Fresh Prince meets 2009 on the mean streets of the Chicago 'burbs... see - The Cool Kids.

Looking forward to this summer: Ponding. I love turning nouns into verbs.

On my days off you’ll find me: On a patio... any patio. My favorite thing about this time of year, in the city, is all of the outdoor eating that takes place. Any given weekend afternoon, you'll find me enjoying drinks with friends, sunshine, and the almighty patio.

You might be surprised to know: I was a soprano in the Indiana State Boys Choir when I was younger. Oh how I miss all the bad dressing and cheesy choreography that went on.

Favorite websites: www.facebook.com - www.addictinggames.com - www.cigarsinternational.com

Best advice anyone has given me: "Be where you are."... When I first heard this I thought it was one of cheesiest pieces of advice I'd ever heard. I do, however, find myself thinking this when I'm in situations where all I want to do is turn around and run. Basically, it means "Shit, I'm hear, might as well make the best of it."

Favorite party memory: Whaaaaaaaaaaat, there was a party? Don't remember that.

Favorite way to be green: MYOBW - Make Your Own Bottled Water. If you grab a bottle of water from my fridge there's a 95% chance that its tap water in a used bottle. Hope you don't mind a little backwash.

Favorite weekend morning spot after a night of parties: Petite Chou by Patachou. The broken yoke sandwich with fresh fruit hits the spot every time.

Thirtythousanddollarmillionaire is: the shizznit. Duh.

DPs make me feel: All warm and fuzzy inside. I especially like DPs when they're a surprise... oh that sounds dirty.

Favorite recipe: Freshly made baked ravioli. Dough from scratch, with cream cheese and spinach filling, baked to crispy perfection. Delicious.

New Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad...with a twist! Berry-Basil Fruit Salad

Tired of the same ol' pineapple, melon, grape, strawberry mix that makes up the generic fruit salad? Try this Berry-Basil Fruit Salad!

What you'll need:
1/8 cup orange juice
Juice from one lime
1 Tbsp Honey
2 cups chopped strawberries
1/2 dried cranberries
1 orange, cubed
3 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped

Mix your juices and honey together then...

Throw it all into a bowl with the rest of the ingredients and stir it up!

Easy, right? And delicious too!

This Goose Lays Golden Eggs!

Call off the search. We’ve found it.

That’s right. Indianapolis happens to be home to the perfect sandwich(s), found within a quaint, Euro-style market. But don’t be fooled by its homey exterior, inviting smells and bright open space, overflowing with natural sunlight, Goose the Market packs a mighty punch – one aimed right at your gut.

Located at 2503 N. Delaware St. (the “slanty” buildings as we like to call the colorful block), this produce/butcher/cheese/sandwich shop stocks nothing but the best and pulls from local sources for most everything it sells.

When fellow thousandaires, Maggie and Karlie, joined me to explore Goose, we thought we’d died and gone to 30KMil heaven. Husband and wife owners, Chris and Mollie Eley proudly serve up smoked meats and cured hams, bold, stinky cheeses, fresh meats including any and all kinds of swine, chicken, fowl, lamb and beef, and local in-season produce. Salivating yet?

Goose is most famous for The Batali, which was named the best sandwich in America by bon appetite magazine last year. You heard me. B-o-n a-p-p-e-t-i-t-e. These foodies aren’t messin’ around.

Since my first visit I’ve also enjoyed The Howard (sliced lamb with fresh pesto) and The Goose (prosciutto, fresh mozzarella and basil). These stacks are simple for sure, but when the freshest, most succulent meats and cheeses are sandwiched between a warm, crusty baguette, who needs all the extra hoopla?

Goose also provides a rotating selection of gelato and gourmet ice creams, including an adventurous bleu cheese ice cream from H2O sushi that will surprise you – in a good way. Just ask for a taste – the ever-smiling, knowledgeable staff behind the counter is happy to oblige.

For anyone who’s not yet sold, take a peek downstairs (yes, you’re allowed) and browse through Goose’s selection of hearty wine and beer, which includes a rack dedicated solely to Indiana brews.

Although this boutique market has every right to exude an air of snobbery, it does anything but. Goose the Market fills a void previously felt in Hoosier foodies’ heart of hearts (or stomach of stomachs rather), offering upscale food and drink, while balancing a welcoming feeling of accessibility for all. In short: What’s good for the “Goose” is definitely good for the gander. This Indianapolis gem can do no wrong!

italia!!

So this is definitely one of my favorite fests held in Indianapolis during the summer. Every year, the Holy Rosary Church downtown (close to Mass Ave)- hosts the Italian Festival. If you know me, you know that I am 100% in love with Italy. This is the real deal. Homemade meatballs, manicotti, cannolis, italian ice, gelato and more. If the system is the same as last year- tickets are purchased and act as cash at the stands. I highly recommend the meatball sandwiches and the manicotti. Nothing beats homemade rustic Italian cuisine. The fest starts tomorrow- June 12 and ends Saturday night- June 13. I think this is definitely worth the trip. Parking can be a drag- I would definitely recommend riding bikes, or parking far away and walking so you don't have to pay an attendant. Plan on leaving completely stuffed with goodness.

FORK THE RECESSION!!

FORK THE RECESSION!

Check out all of these unbelievable restaurant specials! Try all of the high dollar, top shelf restaurants you've always wanted to- at a sale price.

Some of my personal favs off of this list are: Harry and Izzys (their steak melts in your mouth- I recommend the Filet Mignon Sliders and Shrimp cocktail), Scholars Inn (on Mass ave- talk about awesome filthy dirty martinis...) and St. Elmo's Steakhouse (classic steakhouse with great service). Click here to check out the complete list of restaurants offering specials...
It doesn't get much better than this so here's to dining like a REAL millionaire!

On-Site DP: Siam Square

Tuesday night the 30K crew gathered with friends for what we like to call an On-Site Dinner Party. The great thing about this kind of dinner party is that you get to spend time otherwise dedicated to prep, cooking, and clean-up, solely on the great company that surrounds you.

We picked Siam Square for our first DP and it turned out to be one of the best ideas...ever. Not only was the food delish, the service was exceptional!

Originally, we made a reservation for 12, however it turned into 16 and they were so gracious to make sure we had enough seats and split the checks perfectly. Our server was a wealth of knowledge when it came to the menu and made some great suggestions as far as what dishes to order and what level of heat we should go with.

Alright, now to the food. It. Was. Fabulous. The great thing about Siam Square is that that amidst a really fun and hip atmosphere, the food they serve is so comforting. And the great thing about Thai food in general is that while the cuisine can be interpreted as comfort food, it is NEVER boring or bland. Siam Square hit all the exciting and complex flavors that make a classic like Pad Thai so yummy.

Some of the dishes we tried were: A number of Pad Thai variations, Drunken Noodles, Siam Rolls, Chicken Satay, Thom Yum (emphasis on the YUM), Eggplant Chicken, and Pad Ba Mee. I didn't hear any complaints, just a lot of chewing and talking about how great everything tasted.

If you go- don't forget the drink menu! The Thai Iced-Coffee was super tasty and cut the heat of the Pad Thai. Cas went with the Green Tea and BDPM with the Honey Chrysanthemum Tea. If you like sweeter tea, go with the Chrysanthemum, if not, the green.

Overall, we had a fabulous experience thanks to the fun atmosphere, exceptional service, delicious food and drinks, and as always, the company of friends worth millions.

Tip: They have great lunch specials!


This is how we would rate Siam Square, let us know what you think!



Attire: 3
(1= Anything goes 2= Everyday Wear 3= Snappy Cas 4=Sunday Brunch 5= Pull out the Frills)

Cost:$$
($=Under 10 $$=Under 20 $$$=Under 30 $$$$=Under 40)

Dining company: Great for big groups or intimate date nights

This is how we would rate Siam Square, let us know what you think!

Overall (service, taste, ambiance):4

5= The JAM
4=Pretty good, I'll give'r another go
3=Take it or leave it
2= Not so hot
1= Never again will I step foot into this establishment

Battle of the Fro-Yos

Zoe's Yogurt Village v. Red Mango

Ever since the sad closing of Ben and Jerry’s a few years ago, Broad Ripple has been dying for a spot to grab a frozen creamy snack (or at least I have). This summer, the strip got not only one but two frozen yogurt treateries. Red Mango is a national chain of yogurt shops featuring fresh yogurt flavors with fruit toppings. Zoe's Yogurt Village is a privately owned and has a yogurt menu with a few more flavors and many more topping options. Zoe’s was not only better yogurt, but was also a way better price. $3.10 for a small with 2 fruit toppings as opposed to $4.75 for the same order at Red Mango. Let’s get real, Zoe’s supports local business, offers a tangy taste you can get into, and keeps a few more pennies in the wallet; a perk any 30K can enjoy.

Locally Grown Gardens

Locally Grown Gardens- a real gem. Located right off of the Monon on 54th street, this "farmer's market" really has a good thing going. My first experience at the market was while on a bike ride cruising through Broad Ripple. My curiosities got the best of me so I stopped in to see what this stand on the side of the road was all about.

Come to find out, they only carry locally grown fruits and veggies. The space is so rustic and really has a modern feel. After roaming around, I began studying the large chalk board behind the counter which displays every month and what fruits/veggies will be available.

The most amazing discovery of all- was when I looked down and realized they offer lunch and dinner. Chef Ronald Harris is truly talented, he makes dishes made with locally grown veggies from his market and adds a twist of his own. He offers salmon with locally grown baby greens or a pulled pork sandwich (smoker out front).

Last night - I returned to try the dinner. I ordered the salmon and baby greens-
I was literally speechless after my first taste. This was hands down one of the most amazing meals ever. The salmon was dressed with baby greens and topped off with fresh juicy grapefruit, a homemade citrusy vinaigrette and pink peppercorns.

For 12.75, you get an 8oz piece of salmon, baby greens and ... the most satisfied feeling ever. Ron even gave us a mini carton of locally grown strawberries (because we were first timers)- which were incredibly juicy, sweet and... absolutely perfect. He told us all about his summer menu plans: homemade strawberry and peach ice cream, fresh strawberry shortcake, more dinner menu items..and a whole lot more.

Ride your bike, sit outdoors, enjoy the fun reggae music and dig into a delicious summer meal. I highly recommend Locally Grown Gardens for your next summer dining experience.

30k Profiles: Karlie

Ta-dah! This week in our recurring 30k Profiles series we introduce you to the fire behind the frenzy that is, thirtythousanddollarmillionaire! Presenting: Karlie, the marketing maven that lit the fire under our booties to turn our 30KM dream into reality! Go on, get to know her!

My motto is: you only live once ...so why not?

Childhood ambition: obviously i wanted to go rainbow university in hawaii (does this exist, it's questionable...) and then be an interior designer

Favortie cocktail: FILTHY dirty martinis , house vodka, olives (lots)

Favorite place to grab a cocktail: in broadripple- probably plumps for a brew

Cheap eats: new to my list: yats. but my fav is jimmy johns or bazbeaux , sno zone is 3$ for a piece of heaven ..doesn't get much better than that.

Cheap thrill: sno zone + bike ride

Favorite thing about Indy in the summer: the monon, the rathskeller, the pond, symph on the prarie, live music-outdoors, concerts ...just being able to do everything outside.

Fav type of music: anything that gets me moving , or singing loudly.

Looking forward to this summer: coldplay live at verizon, canoe/camping trip

On my days off you’ll find me: waiting in line at sno zone, at the pond....or riding my bike on the monon.

You might be surprised to know: i was in the circus. i named my high school mascott and....i hate carrots, cats and rodents.

Best piece of advice: do the right thing at the right time for the right reason. or...dance like no one's watching- and everyone knows...i do that. why doesn't anyone ever stop me???

Favorite websites: http://www.textsfromlastnight.com/, http://www.postsecret.com/, http://www.stuffwhitepeoplelike.com/

Favorite party memory: it's a three way toss up. my birthday/circus weekend summer 2008, the spring kickoff party 2009, girl talk in bloomington

Favorite way to be green: riding my bike

Favorite weekend morning spot after a night of parties: my bed, brunching or starbucks

Thirtythousanddollarmillionaire is: my new addiction.

DPs make me feel: the coolest. there is no place i would rather be than in a room full of my favorite people eating....the most delicious food ...with hilarious conversation.

Favorite recipe: favorite recipe that i can successfully cook: homemade veggie pizza (recipe coming soon...), the whole wheat shells + arugula, sun-dried tomatoes and chick peas (see blog for recipe), ....also my raspberry cream cupcakes