Japanese cuisine as a national cuisine has evolved over the centuries from many political and social changes. Starting from the ancient era when much of the cuisine was influenced by Chinese culture. The cuisine eventually changed with the advent of the Medieval age which ushered in a shedding of elitism with the age of Shogun rule. In the early modern area massive changes would take place that introduced western culture to Japan.The modern term "Japanese cuisine" (nihon ryōri, 日本料理 or washoku, 和食) means traditional-style Japanese food, similar to what already existed before the end of national seclusion in 1868. In a broader sense of the word, it could also include foods whose ingredients or cooking methods were subsequently introduced from abroad, but which have been developed by Japanese who made them their own. Japanese cuisine is known for its emphasis on seasonality of food (旬, shun), quality of ingredients and presentation.

For those interested in the Pittsburgh Steelers and their history, there's an upcoming book by Art Rooney Jr. entitled "Ruanaidh" -- that's Rooney in Gaelic -- which is due out later this month. A memoir that tells all the inner workings behind the scenes of the famous football family and dynasty.

Today is Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake day in the UK. All over the country, children inexpertly cook the egg/milk/flour mixture and enjoy eating with sugar and lemon juice or trying to get them stuck to the ceiling whilst tossing. Where did this tradition come from?

Herbs are an essential part of cooking throughout history, and nowadays with year-round availability of many herbs, cooking with herbs is a creative way to make your favorite dishes stand out.

Because they are so very tasty.. 5th of February 2008 is pancake day - make sure to celebrate it by cooking up a batch of pancakes, and trying some new toppings. Visit http://www.welovepancakes.com for recipe ideas and a breif history on how pancakes came to be so popular Music

Are you worried about your cholesterol levels or do you have a family history of high cholesterol? If so then you should already be paying close attention to your diet and lifestyle. One of the most simple ways that you can keep your cholesterol in check is by changing the way you cook your food.