Posts By: Xin Xu

Cassandra Wang

Cassandra Wang hails from Edmonton, Alberta. But before settling in, she lived in Shanghai for the first 7 years of her life. That’s where she grew up and got her taste of the vibrant food culture. Since moving to Edmonton, she has fallen in love with international cuisine. If there’s a new restaurant in town, she would be the first to line up outside the door. At home, you can find her experimenting with recipes around the world. She hopes to share these experiences with all who care to listen.

In her spare time, Xin cares for 6 rescue budgies. Many of which she found stranded in parks or her backyard. On weekends, she drives out to Banff or Jasper where she can be found hiking new trails. She’s thankful Athabasca University has allowed her to work full-time as a researcher while taking courses that interest her such as abnormal psychology.

The Not-So Starving Student—Easy Tom Yum Soup Vermicelli

Ever craved some oriental flavored soup without feeling like taking hours to make a good soup broth? I know I have, and I’ve always looked for shortcuts in the kitchen without compromising taste. Tom Yum vermicelli is one of my favorite recipes because it’s a simple, hearty meal with all your nutritious ingredients in one… Read more »

The Not-So Starving Student—Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter chicken is one of my all-time favorite recipes that boasts bold, rich flavors. Butter Chicken with a bowl of basmati rice or drizzled over naan makes for a hearty meal, enough to transport you to a different world. Butter chicken originated in India and was introduced with ingredients from both British and Indian cuisine…. Read more »

The Not-So Starving Student—Cream of Mushroom Porkchop

Recently I tried out a new recipe that I’ve come to love. It’s one that is simple, flavorful, and carbohydrate-smart. My previous diet consisted of a high carbohydrate meals which left me feeling unsatiated. To help manage my energy sources better, I decided to allow for more proteins in my diet. This small change has… Read more »

Quick & Easy Mediterranean Bowl

I recently started learning some new recipes and found that Greek recipes are good, healthy, and quite simple.  I’ve always loved the taste of Greek food, especially combined with the Mediterranean health benefits, but had trouble creating the perfectly seasoned proteins.  Greek cuisines are known for their flavorful combination of proteins and salads.  The toppings… Read more »

Japanese vs Korean Barbecues

One of my favorite meals at restaurants are Japanese barbeques (JBBQs) and Korean barbeques (KBBQs).  They showcase some incredibly complex flavors mixed with the charred taste of protein that makes the perfect combination for a hearty, satisfying meal.  Recently Alberta opened in-person dining and I had an opportunity to celebrate my roommate’s birthday at a… Read more »

Oversleeping versus Under-Sleeping

While AU students work and study from home during the pandemic, sleep is a persistent issue that many face.  The pre-pandemic era might have meant our obligations were in person and forced us to stick to a potentially rigid routine, whereas during the pandemic our schedules may be more fluid.  This fluidity doesn’t always lead… Read more »

Virtual Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Valentine’s Day for many this year may be entirely different from years prior.  With many countries and local areas still following public health restrictions for the COVID-19 pandemic, getting together for a romantic restaurant date may not be possible.  So what are some other activities that couples can enjoy this year instead of the traditional… Read more »

What Living in a Small Town Taught Me

Currently I’m completing an internship in the town of Barrhead, Alberta.  The town has a population of approximately 4,000 and is located about an hour away from the nearest urban centre, Edmonton.  In my first weeks in the town I’ve learned a lot about the people and the local businesses and activities that have opened… Read more »