A better breakfast

The first winter I spent in New York was marked by a daily egg and cheese on a roll from a cart on 70th Street. Not surprisingly, this failed to do wonders for my waistline. Lately, when that egg-and-cheese craving hits me, I take one slice of browned toast, cut it in half, sandwich a piece of American cheese and some cooked egg substitute (Eggbeaters or egg whites work) between the halves, and microwave for half a minute. I supplement with a half cup of oatmeal, no sugar, low-fat milk on top. This satisfies the craving, fills me up, and leaves less guilt--a better way to start the day...

Sushi Roll of the Month

This month I would like to nominate the ume shisho roll as the sushi roll of the month, a new (and perhaps one-time-only) distinction. This roll contains plum paste, a shisho leaf, and rice, so those leery of raw fish or who avoid meat can enjoy. The combination of the sweet and salty plum paste and fragrant, almost minty shisho leaf lead to an unexpected mix of flavors in the mouth. This roll also is low in fat and usually under $4. So unless there are any objections, the sushi roll of the month award for February goes to...ume shisho.