All eyes are turned towards Alaska where Sarah Heath Palin hails from. McCain's running mate (and let's face it - an odd choice if there ever was one) hails from this state, rich in natural resources. As much as we know about Hawaiian cuisine we know very little about Alaskan.
What do Alaskans eat exactly? Insert Baked Alaska joke here.
Seriously, Alaskans are a tough rugged people. descended from the indigenous tribes, hardy settlers and adventurous prospectors. They had to rely on what was around them as opposed to shipments from the Lower Forty-Eight. Alaskan cuisine is rich in seafood, primarily salmon and trout. Halibut also figures largely in it as do the famous Alaska King Snow Crabs. The seafood is from local waters and is used in a variety of ways , mostly in steaks and fillets.
Meat is also an important part of the diet. Caribou and moose recipes abound with the meat being used in much the same way as beef.It can be made into strews, burgers , meat loafs and even meat loaf. You can also find reindeer which also can be used in cooking.
Here's another dish I just found while researching this cuisine -Akuqat or Eskimo ice cream. It's not what you think It's whipped and sweetened reindeer fat mixed in with berries and seal oil. This is found primarily in western Alaska. If anyone out here has ever tried it, please write in. I 'm curious as how this might taste along with the texture.
Alaskan cuisine reflects the hardiness and the resourcefulness of its' people. It abounds in locals meats and seafood, taking where it can to provide food.
PS Baked Alaska is not from this great state. It originated at the famed Delmonico's in New York City during the 1860's The dish came about in the early 1800's and went under the name omelette norvegienne.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Getting Ready For Fall
Even though fall is more or less one month away , it's still wise to prepare for it. What to do? A lot or a little depending upon what you want. It could include canning , cleaning out the pantry and fridge or packing up the freezer. It could also be planning a new kitchen or buying some new gadgets.
Foodwise, September is a great month to start cleaning out your vegetable garden. You may have a few straggler tomatoes but all in all your plants should be exhausted (as you probably are of dealing with them). Now is a good time to make all those sauces for winter.The same goes for basil.Pesto works well with heavy pasta and gnocchi dishes. Stock up on plastic containers that are excellent for freezing. Another idea is to cook and freeze squash and zucchini for side dishes later on.
If your apple trees are starting to yield fruit or you go raspberry picking, then think about making butters or jams or just freezing them for later desserts. If you have any blueberries or even peaches you can freeze them for later use as well.
Fall is also the time for bigger kitchen projects like renovations. The time between Halloween and Christmas is peak time for those wanting to redo their kitchens. Now is the time to start looking at your budgets and deciding if this is what you want or something else. Also it's the time to start looking at appliances and deciding whether or not to get new ones.
Be prepared for fall. You can start with something as small as making stockpiling sauce or as large as a total kitchen renovation.As we turn from hot summer days to chilly autumn ones it's time. to do something for your kitchen.
Foodwise, September is a great month to start cleaning out your vegetable garden. You may have a few straggler tomatoes but all in all your plants should be exhausted (as you probably are of dealing with them). Now is a good time to make all those sauces for winter.The same goes for basil.Pesto works well with heavy pasta and gnocchi dishes. Stock up on plastic containers that are excellent for freezing. Another idea is to cook and freeze squash and zucchini for side dishes later on.
If your apple trees are starting to yield fruit or you go raspberry picking, then think about making butters or jams or just freezing them for later desserts. If you have any blueberries or even peaches you can freeze them for later use as well.
Fall is also the time for bigger kitchen projects like renovations. The time between Halloween and Christmas is peak time for those wanting to redo their kitchens. Now is the time to start looking at your budgets and deciding if this is what you want or something else. Also it's the time to start looking at appliances and deciding whether or not to get new ones.
Be prepared for fall. You can start with something as small as making stockpiling sauce or as large as a total kitchen renovation.As we turn from hot summer days to chilly autumn ones it's time. to do something for your kitchen.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Lima Bean Season
Late August and early September bring forth the lima bean. This is a versatile bean that you can use in soups or side dishes. Buy them fresh off the stand or canned from your supermarket.
Lima beans actually do come from Lima Peru where the Mochitas, the indigenous people used them in ancient rites. Also known as the butter bean. this legume has been around since 2000 BC. Thanks to various cross pollination , the bean became smaller in size at around 800 AD. The name Lima bean came about from their containers which were stampedLIMA PERU on them. Originally called Lima, Peru beans th e name was quickly shortened. They became a hit in this country with farms now growing them in North America, particularly in New Jersey.
Lima beans are a good source of fiber and manganese.The first helps lower cholesterol and the second is a much needed trace element. Lima beans also contain chemicals that reduce the effect of sulfites (that chemical they spray over salad bars to keep the food fresh). The beans also contain folate and magnesium which promote heart health.
If anything love lima beans for their taste. They have a nuttiness that plays well with other vegetables such as corn and carrots (hence the great invention of succotash). You can also puree limas with milk and Parmesan cheese for a side dish. One of my favorite dishes is just steamed limas with butter or margarine melting on top of them. Add a few grains of sea salt and cracked pepper and it's a masterpiece.
Now is the season for lima beans. You can easily buy them at your local produce stand or Farmer's market. If you can't then get them at your grocery store. Either way, you'll have a rich , nutty,good for you bean.
Lima beans actually do come from Lima Peru where the Mochitas, the indigenous people used them in ancient rites. Also known as the butter bean. this legume has been around since 2000 BC. Thanks to various cross pollination , the bean became smaller in size at around 800 AD. The name Lima bean came about from their containers which were stampedLIMA PERU on them. Originally called Lima, Peru beans th e name was quickly shortened. They became a hit in this country with farms now growing them in North America, particularly in New Jersey.
Lima beans are a good source of fiber and manganese.The first helps lower cholesterol and the second is a much needed trace element. Lima beans also contain chemicals that reduce the effect of sulfites (that chemical they spray over salad bars to keep the food fresh). The beans also contain folate and magnesium which promote heart health.
If anything love lima beans for their taste. They have a nuttiness that plays well with other vegetables such as corn and carrots (hence the great invention of succotash). You can also puree limas with milk and Parmesan cheese for a side dish. One of my favorite dishes is just steamed limas with butter or margarine melting on top of them. Add a few grains of sea salt and cracked pepper and it's a masterpiece.
Now is the season for lima beans. You can easily buy them at your local produce stand or Farmer's market. If you can't then get them at your grocery store. Either way, you'll have a rich , nutty,good for you bean.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
A Salute To Hawaii
As you've probably have guessed I 'm a big Obama supporter. I don't like to mix food and politics however I am giving a nod to where he grew up and that's Hawaii. The last state to be admitted has given us some amazing dishes The cuisine reflects the rich Pacific island heritage.
Poi is always the food most associated with these islands. This is a mash of taro root usually served with the ubiquitous roasted pig. However there is also nouvelle Hawaiian cooking or Hawaiian Regional Cooking (otherwise known as HRC) that brings us a melange of Hawaii's fruits and vegetables.Macadamia nuts are now used as a crust for seafood while the islands' coconuts are incorporated into sauces. Breadfruit and taro roots are now being fashioned into unique culinary sides, worthy of what you would get in New York, Chicago or LA.
Asian influences abound too. Japanese miso soup is as popular as are the Chinese steamed buns that the islanders fill with pork. Also dim sum is another well loved dish. Thanks to Dole Pineapple employing Puerto Rican workers. Rice and beans along with arroz con pollo is a much beloved staple as well.
Hawaii was not only home to Barack Obama it is also home to a vast array of different and colorful dishes. It's a celebration of the islands' melting pot and natural vegetation.
Poi is always the food most associated with these islands. This is a mash of taro root usually served with the ubiquitous roasted pig. However there is also nouvelle Hawaiian cooking or Hawaiian Regional Cooking (otherwise known as HRC) that brings us a melange of Hawaii's fruits and vegetables.Macadamia nuts are now used as a crust for seafood while the islands' coconuts are incorporated into sauces. Breadfruit and taro roots are now being fashioned into unique culinary sides, worthy of what you would get in New York, Chicago or LA.
Asian influences abound too. Japanese miso soup is as popular as are the Chinese steamed buns that the islanders fill with pork. Also dim sum is another well loved dish. Thanks to Dole Pineapple employing Puerto Rican workers. Rice and beans along with arroz con pollo is a much beloved staple as well.
Hawaii was not only home to Barack Obama it is also home to a vast array of different and colorful dishes. It's a celebration of the islands' melting pot and natural vegetation.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The Democratic Foodie
There's going to be a lot of curiosity about Barack Obama's home town of Chicago. I know from my cousins living there this is a foodie town. It has everything thanks to Germans , Pole and Italians settling thee In the last two centuries.
The Germans took to Chicago back in the 1800's Beer gardens and good German restaurants sprang up all over, offering bratwurst and wiener schnitzel. The Poles came later, bringing with them kielbasa, a spicier version of bratwurst and different pastries. The Italians brought pizza to Chi-town but then reinvented it with the deep dish Chicago style pizza (this is really a version of the famous Italian pizza rustica.
The South Side also has been influenced by the South where down home cooking fond a new arena in this Illinois city. Later on South Americans brought their own flavor to Chicago. Empenadas now can be sold right next to true Bavarian pretzels on many Chicago streets.
Chicago may be Barack's heaven but it's also a foodie's heaven as well.
The Germans took to Chicago back in the 1800's Beer gardens and good German restaurants sprang up all over, offering bratwurst and wiener schnitzel. The Poles came later, bringing with them kielbasa, a spicier version of bratwurst and different pastries. The Italians brought pizza to Chi-town but then reinvented it with the deep dish Chicago style pizza (this is really a version of the famous Italian pizza rustica.
The South Side also has been influenced by the South where down home cooking fond a new arena in this Illinois city. Later on South Americans brought their own flavor to Chicago. Empenadas now can be sold right next to true Bavarian pretzels on many Chicago streets.
Chicago may be Barack's heaven but it's also a foodie's heaven as well.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Room For One More Picnic
Even though it's the last week of August, there's still plenty of time for picnics. Actually in some parts of the country you can virtually eat outside til late November. The only difference is that you may want to include heartier fare in your picnic basket.
Now that apple and raspberry season are coming up , there's always orchards that will let you pick and eat. Farms such as New Jersey's Delicious Orchards of Colts Neck, located in Monmouth County's horse country, have set up picnic tables for those who want to eat first and then get to the business of fruit harvesting. Delicious also has a varied indoor store that not only sells produce but beverages, meats , cheese and fresh baked goods. You can easily create a gourmet picnic from their many products and then sit out under the trees. You can also pack sandwiches from your house such as ham or roast beef along with some juices and boxed milk. If the weather gets a bit nippy then have a thermos of hot cocoa, tea or coffee.
Fall picnic anywhere are fun. This is the time you can slip in a good wedge of sharp cheddar to be sliced over whole grain bread.A cooler weather picnic deserves something hot and that would be a thermos of hot vegetable or beef barley soup. Also think about bringing non alcoholic cider or fresh made doughnuts to round out the meal. Remember that September and October are beautiful picnic months. Take advantage of the brisk weather to enjoy deserted beaches or mountain paths.
It may be the end of August but that does't mean it's the end of picnic season. You have two more months to pack a really glorious meal and enjoy the sun , water and air.
Now that apple and raspberry season are coming up , there's always orchards that will let you pick and eat. Farms such as New Jersey's Delicious Orchards of Colts Neck, located in Monmouth County's horse country, have set up picnic tables for those who want to eat first and then get to the business of fruit harvesting. Delicious also has a varied indoor store that not only sells produce but beverages, meats , cheese and fresh baked goods. You can easily create a gourmet picnic from their many products and then sit out under the trees. You can also pack sandwiches from your house such as ham or roast beef along with some juices and boxed milk. If the weather gets a bit nippy then have a thermos of hot cocoa, tea or coffee.
Fall picnic anywhere are fun. This is the time you can slip in a good wedge of sharp cheddar to be sliced over whole grain bread.A cooler weather picnic deserves something hot and that would be a thermos of hot vegetable or beef barley soup. Also think about bringing non alcoholic cider or fresh made doughnuts to round out the meal. Remember that September and October are beautiful picnic months. Take advantage of the brisk weather to enjoy deserted beaches or mountain paths.
It may be the end of August but that does't mean it's the end of picnic season. You have two more months to pack a really glorious meal and enjoy the sun , water and air.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
End OF Summer Food Blues
Sometimes all that grilling and chilling can get to you. All that smoky barbecue taste, that once was so appealing is now nauseating. If you feel that way it's time to get back into the fall way of cooking.
Even though some parts of the country can be as toasty as an oven you can still cook a simple hot meal for yourself. Boil up any pasta and serve with a simple sauce. You can even make it easier on yourself by just creating a pasta burro which is just melted butter over spaghetti or linguini. Another quick hot and easy meal is take sliced roast beef or turkey , layer it on an open roll and pour canned gravy over this. Even though the notion of canned gravy can be scary there are some good ones out there that taste like the real thing.
For quicker meals think instant soup or a grilled cheese. You can create an easy vegetable soup by using bouillon cubes and tossing in any produce you picked up form your local farms. Serve with warmed rolls or crusty Italian or French bread. Grilled cheese is a fun meal that's warm, gooey and satisfying. Add some sliced tomato or bacon to make it special.
If you're tired fo summer foods , it's easy to move on to autumn ones. Pick out simple dishes that are not only hot but easy to create. Then you can clean your grill and put that away.
Even though some parts of the country can be as toasty as an oven you can still cook a simple hot meal for yourself. Boil up any pasta and serve with a simple sauce. You can even make it easier on yourself by just creating a pasta burro which is just melted butter over spaghetti or linguini. Another quick hot and easy meal is take sliced roast beef or turkey , layer it on an open roll and pour canned gravy over this. Even though the notion of canned gravy can be scary there are some good ones out there that taste like the real thing.
For quicker meals think instant soup or a grilled cheese. You can create an easy vegetable soup by using bouillon cubes and tossing in any produce you picked up form your local farms. Serve with warmed rolls or crusty Italian or French bread. Grilled cheese is a fun meal that's warm, gooey and satisfying. Add some sliced tomato or bacon to make it special.
If you're tired fo summer foods , it's easy to move on to autumn ones. Pick out simple dishes that are not only hot but easy to create. Then you can clean your grill and put that away.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Freezing For Fall -Storage For Your Garden
Now is the time to start harvesting whatever is left in your garden. You can simply free dry or turn fruits and veggies into jams and aspics. It's up to you.
If you have a lot of herbs you can easily pick and dry them . oregano, basil and rosemary all travel well from plant to jar and are great over any kind of roast. For basil remember to wash in cold water and then pat dry with a paper towel. basil can also be blended into a pesto sauce to be served with pasta or gnocchi later on in the season.
Now is also a good time to use these for your sauces. If you;re lucky to have an over abundance of tomatoes, then turn them into sauce. There's nothing the like home made kind warming you up on a cold rainy October or November day. Also think about cooking and freezing your squashes and zucchini. These can easily be thawed out after and served as a quick side.
The second raspberry season is just around the corner. If you're lucky to go late summer picking , then think about making your own jam. This can be tricky if you're not careful. One wrong move in canning and you can kill off your whole family. make sure equipment and jars are properly sterilized before you do anything. Also have help when preserving because it is a long and involved process (albeit a fun one). Raspberries can also be frozen for later use in desserts and cakes.
This is the season to harvest and prepare for the fall and winter ahead. Do what you have to do to to make your fruits and veggies last.
If you have a lot of herbs you can easily pick and dry them . oregano, basil and rosemary all travel well from plant to jar and are great over any kind of roast. For basil remember to wash in cold water and then pat dry with a paper towel. basil can also be blended into a pesto sauce to be served with pasta or gnocchi later on in the season.
Now is also a good time to use these for your sauces. If you;re lucky to have an over abundance of tomatoes, then turn them into sauce. There's nothing the like home made kind warming you up on a cold rainy October or November day. Also think about cooking and freezing your squashes and zucchini. These can easily be thawed out after and served as a quick side.
The second raspberry season is just around the corner. If you're lucky to go late summer picking , then think about making your own jam. This can be tricky if you're not careful. One wrong move in canning and you can kill off your whole family. make sure equipment and jars are properly sterilized before you do anything. Also have help when preserving because it is a long and involved process (albeit a fun one). Raspberries can also be frozen for later use in desserts and cakes.
This is the season to harvest and prepare for the fall and winter ahead. Do what you have to do to to make your fruits and veggies last.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Your Write To Foodie Pantry
Ok readers (well all three of you) let's hear your summer time of 2008 stories. Are there any recipes you'd like to share? Any comments? A review of your favorite summer eatery?
Let me know This blog is open for discussion.
Liz
Let me know This blog is open for discussion.
Liz
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Cereal Killers
I hate to put the buzz kill on these last few summer days but school is just around the corner. Now moms across the US should be thinking of what to feed their young first thing in the morning. For a smarter kid, think about nixing the quickie cupcake and soda along with the heavily sweetened cereals.
What makes good breakfast? Something that's going to stick to your kids' ribs and keep them alert for most of the day. Try oatmeal with dried fruit such as blueberries or cranberries. Also oatmeal and fresh cut apples are another good day starter. Cereal is fine so long as it's not the ones that are like ninety per cent sugar. Give Junior Cheerios or Rice Krispies to start off with. If you have the time to cook in the morning, then whip up some pancakes or eggs or both. having a hearty breakfast with these along with any breakfast meat (like Canadian bacon, bacon or sausages)a cup of tea and a glass of juice is going to make everyone feel more alive and awake, ready to do battle with whatever comes that day. Also think about bagels or English muffins or even making these into breakfast sandwiches. At least you know your family won't be eating the grease laden kind from the local fast food joint.
Unfortunately I was never and still am not a big breakfast person. My first meal comes at lunch. I wish it could be different but it's hard for me to eat anything before the prime meridian. Horrible but true.
Just think I might have been a great food writer if I only had my breakfasts before 10 AM.
What makes good breakfast? Something that's going to stick to your kids' ribs and keep them alert for most of the day. Try oatmeal with dried fruit such as blueberries or cranberries. Also oatmeal and fresh cut apples are another good day starter. Cereal is fine so long as it's not the ones that are like ninety per cent sugar. Give Junior Cheerios or Rice Krispies to start off with. If you have the time to cook in the morning, then whip up some pancakes or eggs or both. having a hearty breakfast with these along with any breakfast meat (like Canadian bacon, bacon or sausages)a cup of tea and a glass of juice is going to make everyone feel more alive and awake, ready to do battle with whatever comes that day. Also think about bagels or English muffins or even making these into breakfast sandwiches. At least you know your family won't be eating the grease laden kind from the local fast food joint.
Unfortunately I was never and still am not a big breakfast person. My first meal comes at lunch. I wish it could be different but it's hard for me to eat anything before the prime meridian. Horrible but true.
Just think I might have been a great food writer if I only had my breakfasts before 10 AM.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Last Of The Summer Harvest
It's sad to think that the summer is practically over. At least we still have our harvest from farms and gardens. Even if we're preparing for fall, whether it be for school or work ,we can still enjoy the taste of sun ripened fruits and veggies.
Tomatoes are still growing during this warm season so take advantage of them. Luckily they're versatile to cook up in a variety of ways. You can make enough sauce for your winter meals and store in a freezer or make some very good tomato sandwiches. Squash and zucchini are growing in abundance in some gardens right now. Take advantage of these by cooking them in butter and garlic or as part of a ratatouille. Basil growth is also in overdrive around this time. Use your leaves to make into pesto sauce and freezefor later dishes in the fall. You can also cut and dry chives, rosemary and oregano for dishes either being made right now or for later.
As far as fruit, the berry season are winding down but you can still get and grow peaches and plums. These are perfect for snacking or just for a light healthy dessert. If you're still craving fresh fruit, remember that apple and raspberry season usually start in mid September.
Even though this season is ending you can still get a taste of it. Enjoy what the farms stands still have to offer. Harvest what you can from your own gardens. Make the summer last with the fruits and veggies of summer.
Tomatoes are still growing during this warm season so take advantage of them. Luckily they're versatile to cook up in a variety of ways. You can make enough sauce for your winter meals and store in a freezer or make some very good tomato sandwiches. Squash and zucchini are growing in abundance in some gardens right now. Take advantage of these by cooking them in butter and garlic or as part of a ratatouille. Basil growth is also in overdrive around this time. Use your leaves to make into pesto sauce and freezefor later dishes in the fall. You can also cut and dry chives, rosemary and oregano for dishes either being made right now or for later.
As far as fruit, the berry season are winding down but you can still get and grow peaches and plums. These are perfect for snacking or just for a light healthy dessert. If you're still craving fresh fruit, remember that apple and raspberry season usually start in mid September.
Even though this season is ending you can still get a taste of it. Enjoy what the farms stands still have to offer. Harvest what you can from your own gardens. Make the summer last with the fruits and veggies of summer.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Good Luck With Casino Dining
The one thing about Atlantic City is that you can never go hungry. Every casino has a variety of different restaurants from high end gourmet to fast and fun deli. My favorite place Harrah's recently expanded its' list of restaurants.
For high end dining the hotel /casino has the famous McCormick and Schmick' s Seafood which specializes in all sorts of seafood as well as chicken and steaks. Harrah's has also revamped its' Italian restaurant. The casino also has a great steakhouse, featuring various New York cuts and filets. Of course every casino has an all you can eat buffet. Harrah's is no exception with its almost sumptuous restaurant filled with everything from soups ot desserts. Unfortunately the lines ar long and sometimes diner's don't sit down til 9 PM to eat
My favorite is Harrahs' new food court. This small strip of fast food stops is located by the new indoor pool and spa. Here you can get paper thin crust pizza at Walt's along calzones and Sicilian style pie. Ben and Jerry's is also there along with a small candy section selling fudge. At the end of this is Sack O Subs where you can get Philly cheese steaks along with quick burgers and fries. The cafe Reflections is also over that way. It's less expensive than the other restaurants yet serves up gourmet and hearty American dishes.
Craving something heartier. Then head over to Harrah's Deli, which is on the path to the jitney stop. Here you can get all sorts of deli favorites. My favorite is the hearty and vegetarian mushroom barley soup. This is a whole bowl , of rich soothing goodness, perfect after a day of fun. The Deli also has a good sampling of deli sodas like Dr Brown's.
If you're at Harrah's then go for good fortune in their many restaurants. There's always something whether you've just won or lost a bundle.
For high end dining the hotel /casino has the famous McCormick and Schmick' s Seafood which specializes in all sorts of seafood as well as chicken and steaks. Harrah's has also revamped its' Italian restaurant. The casino also has a great steakhouse, featuring various New York cuts and filets. Of course every casino has an all you can eat buffet. Harrah's is no exception with its almost sumptuous restaurant filled with everything from soups ot desserts. Unfortunately the lines ar long and sometimes diner's don't sit down til 9 PM to eat
My favorite is Harrahs' new food court. This small strip of fast food stops is located by the new indoor pool and spa. Here you can get paper thin crust pizza at Walt's along calzones and Sicilian style pie. Ben and Jerry's is also there along with a small candy section selling fudge. At the end of this is Sack O Subs where you can get Philly cheese steaks along with quick burgers and fries. The cafe Reflections is also over that way. It's less expensive than the other restaurants yet serves up gourmet and hearty American dishes.
Craving something heartier. Then head over to Harrah's Deli, which is on the path to the jitney stop. Here you can get all sorts of deli favorites. My favorite is the hearty and vegetarian mushroom barley soup. This is a whole bowl , of rich soothing goodness, perfect after a day of fun. The Deli also has a good sampling of deli sodas like Dr Brown's.
If you're at Harrah's then go for good fortune in their many restaurants. There's always something whether you've just won or lost a bundle.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Good Eating In Brigantine
North of Atlantic City is the island of Brigantine. This long sandy spit doesn't have the glamor or glitz of its' neighbor. Its' fun activities include biking and swimming as opposed to gambling. Yet it does share one thing in common with AC - food. This is an island where you can buy fresh fruit at the local grocery store or settle into a pizza at one of the Brigantine's many small cafes.
My favorite place to eat is the Pirate's Den Restaurant. This is a charming little place located right across the way from the beach front.It's situated at the northernmost tip of Brigantine Boulevard, located in an area of summer homes. Locals flock here and there 's a sense of family as waitresses know right off the bat what their customers want. Pirate's Den serves breakfast lunch and dinner, with all sorts of classic sandwiches and seafood. My Mom and I usually come here after the beach (and it's the best beach in the state with sand like powdered sugar and clear, calm waters. Forget the Caribbean,- come here to Brigantine). This time we ordered steak sandwiches This was thinly sliced mounds of steak served on a hero roil. The meat was tender, and almost shaved. Our sandwiches were so huge that we barely could finish them. We also had a generous serving of fries along with the chips that come with lunch. The potatoes were classic, Jersey shore fries - crisp and golden. We were too stuffed to get dessert although Pirate's Den does have some good ones.
Brigantine also has a variety of pizzerias and seafood shacks. I have yet to try them and probably will on my next trip down. The island also has some ice cream stands as well for quick cones and shakes.
If you're in Atlantic City , venture over the bridge to the magical island of Brigantine. This is a relaxing, refreshing fun place where the beaches are dreamy and the food is heavenly.
My favorite place to eat is the Pirate's Den Restaurant. This is a charming little place located right across the way from the beach front.It's situated at the northernmost tip of Brigantine Boulevard, located in an area of summer homes. Locals flock here and there 's a sense of family as waitresses know right off the bat what their customers want. Pirate's Den serves breakfast lunch and dinner, with all sorts of classic sandwiches and seafood. My Mom and I usually come here after the beach (and it's the best beach in the state with sand like powdered sugar and clear, calm waters. Forget the Caribbean,- come here to Brigantine). This time we ordered steak sandwiches This was thinly sliced mounds of steak served on a hero roil. The meat was tender, and almost shaved. Our sandwiches were so huge that we barely could finish them. We also had a generous serving of fries along with the chips that come with lunch. The potatoes were classic, Jersey shore fries - crisp and golden. We were too stuffed to get dessert although Pirate's Den does have some good ones.
Brigantine also has a variety of pizzerias and seafood shacks. I have yet to try them and probably will on my next trip down. The island also has some ice cream stands as well for quick cones and shakes.
If you're in Atlantic City , venture over the bridge to the magical island of Brigantine. This is a relaxing, refreshing fun place where the beaches are dreamy and the food is heavenly.
Friday, August 15, 2008
The Flying Cloud Cafe - Atlantic City's Best Kept Secret
Mention Atlantic City dining to anyone and they'll tell you all about the great restaurants in the casinos. This is true. Recently AC has lured some big names such as The Old Homestead, McCormick and Schmick and Wolfgang Puck. However there is a perfect little gem situated on Brigantine Bay in North Atlantic City. It's called The Flying Cloud Cafe, named after one of the fastest schooners in the 1800's.
First of all the atmosphere is charming - certainly not what you'd expect in this gambling mecca. Located in a small circle of crafter's booths and restaurants, The Flying Cloud Cafe is isolated from all the glamour and glitz. It's more like a spot in Old Cape Cod or Cape May. Masts sway back and forth, gulls cry as they swoop down on the docks. There is the smell of the ocean here along with the aroma of good food. Of course The Flying Cloud specializes in seafood. My Mom and I had two wonderful dishes. She ordered the fish and chips while I had the broiled crab cake. The portions are generous, The fish doesn't have that usual cloying fishy taste associated with seafood. Her breaded tilapia was sweet and light while my crab meat was delicate and tender. We also received a large side of julienned fries which were perfectly crisp and browned. The Flying Cloud Cafe also gives this awesome cole slaw made with horseradish. This is not the usually sugary stuff but a crunchy mixture of sliced cabbage , dressing and zing. We saw other diners who enjoyed seafood salads and one who had a whole, perfectly boiled lobster.
Usually seafood restaurants have meager desserts. Not The Flying Cloud Cafe . We split a wonderful chocolate cake laden with warm fudge , caramel and walnuts. It was flanked by two chocolate drizzled clouds of whipped cream. This was a decadent end to an already rich lunch.
The Flying Cloud is located at 800 North New Hampshire Ave Number 3. (you can't miss it really),directly to the west of the Atlantic City Aquarium. Don't bother with the car. Take the number 3 jitney over there for a day of relaxation and good food.
First of all the atmosphere is charming - certainly not what you'd expect in this gambling mecca. Located in a small circle of crafter's booths and restaurants, The Flying Cloud Cafe is isolated from all the glamour and glitz. It's more like a spot in Old Cape Cod or Cape May. Masts sway back and forth, gulls cry as they swoop down on the docks. There is the smell of the ocean here along with the aroma of good food. Of course The Flying Cloud specializes in seafood. My Mom and I had two wonderful dishes. She ordered the fish and chips while I had the broiled crab cake. The portions are generous, The fish doesn't have that usual cloying fishy taste associated with seafood. Her breaded tilapia was sweet and light while my crab meat was delicate and tender. We also received a large side of julienned fries which were perfectly crisp and browned. The Flying Cloud Cafe also gives this awesome cole slaw made with horseradish. This is not the usually sugary stuff but a crunchy mixture of sliced cabbage , dressing and zing. We saw other diners who enjoyed seafood salads and one who had a whole, perfectly boiled lobster.
Usually seafood restaurants have meager desserts. Not The Flying Cloud Cafe . We split a wonderful chocolate cake laden with warm fudge , caramel and walnuts. It was flanked by two chocolate drizzled clouds of whipped cream. This was a decadent end to an already rich lunch.
The Flying Cloud is located at 800 North New Hampshire Ave Number 3. (you can't miss it really),directly to the west of the Atlantic City Aquarium. Don't bother with the car. Take the number 3 jitney over there for a day of relaxation and good food.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Return Of The Foodie Warrior
Yes, gang, I'm back from Atlantic City. I gained pounds and lost money yet it was all foodie fun. I ate at some of the best restaurants along the East Coast.
I also had some good "snackie" food (as a friend of mine calls it) along with some amazing ocean and bay views.
Right now I'm going to chill out and give you complete review tomorrow of where I've been (one quick teaser - Harrah's where we stayed has some of the best pizza in the state. It's in their brand new food court it's called Walt's and they make the thinnest crust pizza you will ever taste there Yum!!!!!!!!!!)
The warrior has tons of dirty laundry to do plus catching up with everything else.
TEASER TIME
Tomorrow a great lunch in North Atlantic City.
I also had some good "snackie" food (as a friend of mine calls it) along with some amazing ocean and bay views.
Right now I'm going to chill out and give you complete review tomorrow of where I've been (one quick teaser - Harrah's where we stayed has some of the best pizza in the state. It's in their brand new food court it's called Walt's and they make the thinnest crust pizza you will ever taste there Yum!!!!!!!!!!)
The warrior has tons of dirty laundry to do plus catching up with everything else.
TEASER TIME
Tomorrow a great lunch in North Atlantic City.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Foodie On The Road
Guess what, guys? This foodie is going on the road to Atlantic City. I'll be doing just more than gambling. My trusty Mom and I will be sampling the different restaurants at the various hotels and casinos in the area (this includes Brigantine along with North Atlantic City).
We'll be hitting some old favorites like that wonderful dockside eatery by the AC Aquarium as well as some smaller cafes along the Brigantine beach front. we'll also be buying and eating some homemade chocolates and AC's signature treat - salt water taffy. Yum. We'll be stopping in the romantic town of Smithville at the Smithville Bakery to pick up some fresh baked raisin oatmeal cookies and cinnamon bread. There we'll also stop at a branch of the Tomasello Winery for the amazing blueberry wine and Jersey champagne (a favorite at the Camelot White House under JFK and Jackie). Who knows we may run into the Jersey Devil, this state's answer to the Loch Ness Monster.
Don't wish us luck. Just wish us good eating down in this pretty city by the sea.
Liz
PS You'll be getting all new Foodie Pantry entries and reports of the vacation come Friday, August 15th.
We'll be hitting some old favorites like that wonderful dockside eatery by the AC Aquarium as well as some smaller cafes along the Brigantine beach front. we'll also be buying and eating some homemade chocolates and AC's signature treat - salt water taffy. Yum. We'll be stopping in the romantic town of Smithville at the Smithville Bakery to pick up some fresh baked raisin oatmeal cookies and cinnamon bread. There we'll also stop at a branch of the Tomasello Winery for the amazing blueberry wine and Jersey champagne (a favorite at the Camelot White House under JFK and Jackie). Who knows we may run into the Jersey Devil, this state's answer to the Loch Ness Monster.
Don't wish us luck. Just wish us good eating down in this pretty city by the sea.
Liz
PS You'll be getting all new Foodie Pantry entries and reports of the vacation come Friday, August 15th.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Your Favorites -Write In
Since it's summer and no one is really reading this. I'll let you readers do the writing and work for me for a change.
Tell us your favorite or most hated foods? Favorite recipes.or family recipes. What do you like to drink? Or snack on? What about food or drink trivia you'd like to share with us.
Have a favorite restaurant? Let other foodies know about it.
You can reach me here at Foodie Pantry or at my email LIZRWRITER@aol.com.
Tell us your favorite or most hated foods? Favorite recipes.or family recipes. What do you like to drink? Or snack on? What about food or drink trivia you'd like to share with us.
Have a favorite restaurant? Let other foodies know about it.
You can reach me here at Foodie Pantry or at my email LIZRWRITER@aol.com.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Le Pain Quotidien
if you're a foodie living in LA or New York, then you'll have to check out this great bakery/restaurant called Le Pain Quotidien (The Daily Bread en francaise). This has everything from soups to luscious tarts and home made cookies.
Le Pain Quotidien is a chain and unlike other franchises you're not going to get a greasy burger and fries here. What you will get is good old fashioned French cooking and baking. They have wonderful quiches which are eggy and chock full for veggies or ham. There are daily soups served with bread. You can also buy desserts here, whether a buttery small waffle full of sugar or that French after school classic pain chocolat. Also try some of the cookies like the gingersnaps or chocolate chips.
This is also a great place to get a large bowl full of French hot cocoa as well as cafe au lait. These are more like large soups to be drunk using two hands. They also have excellent iced tea and black iced coffee here as well.
If you're visiting New York or LA this summer stop in Le Pain Qotidien. It's goo French food at American pricing.
Le Pain Quotidien is a chain and unlike other franchises you're not going to get a greasy burger and fries here. What you will get is good old fashioned French cooking and baking. They have wonderful quiches which are eggy and chock full for veggies or ham. There are daily soups served with bread. You can also buy desserts here, whether a buttery small waffle full of sugar or that French after school classic pain chocolat. Also try some of the cookies like the gingersnaps or chocolate chips.
This is also a great place to get a large bowl full of French hot cocoa as well as cafe au lait. These are more like large soups to be drunk using two hands. They also have excellent iced tea and black iced coffee here as well.
If you're visiting New York or LA this summer stop in Le Pain Qotidien. It's goo French food at American pricing.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Cool Treats For A Hot Day
During these dog days of August it's nice to fall back on a cool treat. Americans have grown up with ice pops (ice lollies to the Brits). There are also cones along with shakes and malteds to enjoy as well.
Ice pops came along in 190,. thanks to an careless eleven year old making a mixed soda drink on his front porch. By 1923 Popsicles were sold throughout the US and in seven fruit flavors. They were originally called Epsicles but Frank's kids called them Pop's sicles and the name stuck. Who didn't grow up with frozen treats? There was nothing like getting the Good Humor double flavored whammy stick or the red, white and blue rocket shaped bomb pop. Then there were the ones made at home. Nowadays the molds are cute and you can get every shape, from stars to sailboats. You can also take paper cups , insert a tongue depressor into the ice and make your own. Another fun treat was a slushies, half frozen ice that you can eat with a straw or a spoon. You only had to freeze these in half the time of a popsicle
Another fun at home treat were ice cream cones. You can still buy the original sugar or cake ones at your supermarket bt you can also now get waffle cones , waffle cone bowls or the chocolate dipped ones. The trick was stuffing enough ice cream into them without creating a mess. To make the cones extra special there were always sprinkles around,
American kids love malts and shakes. The best were and still are the homemade kind. There's nothing like fresh milk , syrup and ice cream (chocolate or vanilla)blended together to form a tasty dessert on a hot day or a great partner to a burger just off the grill. You could even now make a fruit smoothie kind of malt or shake by adding some bananas , blueberries or strawberries.
Be a kid again this August. Indulge in a sweet treat to cool down and satisfy your taste buds. It'll keep you refreshed during the worst heat waves.
Ice pops came along in 190,. thanks to an careless eleven year old making a mixed soda drink on his front porch. By 1923 Popsicles were sold throughout the US and in seven fruit flavors. They were originally called Epsicles but Frank's kids called them Pop's sicles and the name stuck. Who didn't grow up with frozen treats? There was nothing like getting the Good Humor double flavored whammy stick or the red, white and blue rocket shaped bomb pop. Then there were the ones made at home. Nowadays the molds are cute and you can get every shape, from stars to sailboats. You can also take paper cups , insert a tongue depressor into the ice and make your own. Another fun treat was a slushies, half frozen ice that you can eat with a straw or a spoon. You only had to freeze these in half the time of a popsicle
Another fun at home treat were ice cream cones. You can still buy the original sugar or cake ones at your supermarket bt you can also now get waffle cones , waffle cone bowls or the chocolate dipped ones. The trick was stuffing enough ice cream into them without creating a mess. To make the cones extra special there were always sprinkles around,
American kids love malts and shakes. The best were and still are the homemade kind. There's nothing like fresh milk , syrup and ice cream (chocolate or vanilla)blended together to form a tasty dessert on a hot day or a great partner to a burger just off the grill. You could even now make a fruit smoothie kind of malt or shake by adding some bananas , blueberries or strawberries.
Be a kid again this August. Indulge in a sweet treat to cool down and satisfy your taste buds. It'll keep you refreshed during the worst heat waves.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Juiced Up
Nothing beats an icy cold drink during these hot times. The problem is what to have. Soda can be too sweet and not quenching enough. Water is good but bland. Coffee or tea can be cooling but if caffeinated can leave you hopped up. The best bet is juice. Any kind can be refreshing during this season.
Remember - juice boxes are not just for kids. Bring a couple of them to work with you along with a low calorie bag of pretzels. It's a great way of getting through the afternoon plus eliminating hunger mid afternoon hunger pangs. Also look for juices that have actual juice in them. There are so many out there that are made basically out of sugar. water and dye. For more natural tastes try apple or cranberry. These seem to be the purest along with orange, pineapple and tangerine .
If you want a spin on your drink then add ice cold water or club soda. The Southern Germans mix apple juice and cold water for a refreshing apple ade. You can also add ice for a frostier treat . Also consider adding sparkling water or club soda to any juice. A real summertime treat is one of those with pineapple juice. Add more chunks and shaved ice for a real pool side cooler. You can also freeze juice in ice cube trays and then use them to cool off water or any fizzy drink.
Get juiced up during these hot, summer days. Pick a cool, fruity, good for you flavor a enjoy it during these steamy August days.
Remember - juice boxes are not just for kids. Bring a couple of them to work with you along with a low calorie bag of pretzels. It's a great way of getting through the afternoon plus eliminating hunger mid afternoon hunger pangs. Also look for juices that have actual juice in them. There are so many out there that are made basically out of sugar. water and dye. For more natural tastes try apple or cranberry. These seem to be the purest along with orange, pineapple and tangerine .
If you want a spin on your drink then add ice cold water or club soda. The Southern Germans mix apple juice and cold water for a refreshing apple ade. You can also add ice for a frostier treat . Also consider adding sparkling water or club soda to any juice. A real summertime treat is one of those with pineapple juice. Add more chunks and shaved ice for a real pool side cooler. You can also freeze juice in ice cube trays and then use them to cool off water or any fizzy drink.
Get juiced up during these hot, summer days. Pick a cool, fruity, good for you flavor a enjoy it during these steamy August days.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Foodie On The Road
August is the time for vacations and traveling. Since everything is so expensive a lot of us will be traveling by car to our vacations. Unfortunately that means stopping at roadside eateries to stop and refuel ourselves. Rest stops usually house fast food chains that offer greasier versions of what we normally get.
The solution? Pack for the road. There's nothing like storing some sandwiches and healthy snacks in a small cooler. You can easily make sandwiches or heroes. You can also bring them from your local Quizmos or Subway.Also cinsider bags of baked chips and pretzels as well. Plain cookies such as shortbreads are perfect for road trips. Yhey're a bit of dessert without the mess.If you do want to feed your fmaily fruits, have penty of napkins ready or bring along cups of pureed fruit such as applesuace or any ofteh fruit blends out right now.
Water is always the best drink on a long car trip. It keeps you cool and hydrated. You can also use it for washing up later (also bring what's known as portable soap, slivers of soap made especially for traveling). You can also rink any of the sports waters that have vitamins or an energy water such as Fyxx Hybrid The last has a hint of caffeine which is perfect for those long (over three hour car trips). It keeps you awake and alert. Iced coffee in a thermos is also good. Tote along juice and milk boxes for the kids if they become thirsty.
Make your road trip enjoyable this summer.Pack your favorite foods and drinks instead of stopping at greasy crowded rest stops. it'll be the first step in having an enjoyable vacation.
The solution? Pack for the road. There's nothing like storing some sandwiches and healthy snacks in a small cooler. You can easily make sandwiches or heroes. You can also bring them from your local Quizmos or Subway.Also cinsider bags of baked chips and pretzels as well. Plain cookies such as shortbreads are perfect for road trips. Yhey're a bit of dessert without the mess.If you do want to feed your fmaily fruits, have penty of napkins ready or bring along cups of pureed fruit such as applesuace or any ofteh fruit blends out right now.
Water is always the best drink on a long car trip. It keeps you cool and hydrated. You can also use it for washing up later (also bring what's known as portable soap, slivers of soap made especially for traveling). You can also rink any of the sports waters that have vitamins or an energy water such as Fyxx Hybrid The last has a hint of caffeine which is perfect for those long (over three hour car trips). It keeps you awake and alert. Iced coffee in a thermos is also good. Tote along juice and milk boxes for the kids if they become thirsty.
Make your road trip enjoyable this summer.Pack your favorite foods and drinks instead of stopping at greasy crowded rest stops. it'll be the first step in having an enjoyable vacation.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Vending Machines - A Foodie's Dream
Vending machines have always had a special allure to foodies of the modern age. Myself I've always fascinated by them. Pick what you want , pop in the change and out comes a treat. They're like those claw machines you see at carnivals or on the Boardwalk.
Nowadays they're more upscale. Years ago a basic coffee vending machine could only give you black or mixed coffee along with hot cocoa. Now you can not only pick out coffee but cappuccino, caffe latte along with cafe mocha. It's pre sweetened and prefoamed to your liking. The soda machines have also gone upscale. You can buy not only Coke, Mountain Dew and Pepsi but also power waters and spring waters as well.
Thank heavens that the snack machines are basically the same. You can get the same small bag of pretzels chips, or popcorn. They still have Pop Tarts along with Pepperidge Farm cookies.
OK foodies, now let's here from you. What's your favorite food or drink from a vending machine?
Nowadays they're more upscale. Years ago a basic coffee vending machine could only give you black or mixed coffee along with hot cocoa. Now you can not only pick out coffee but cappuccino, caffe latte along with cafe mocha. It's pre sweetened and prefoamed to your liking. The soda machines have also gone upscale. You can buy not only Coke, Mountain Dew and Pepsi but also power waters and spring waters as well.
Thank heavens that the snack machines are basically the same. You can get the same small bag of pretzels chips, or popcorn. They still have Pop Tarts along with Pepperidge Farm cookies.
OK foodies, now let's here from you. What's your favorite food or drink from a vending machine?
Friday, August 1, 2008
August Is Here!!!
OK, fellow foodies wherever you are just take this month to enjoy holidays , and the food that goes with them. Eat seafood if you're at a beach resort, or freshly foraged salads and greens if you'r upe in the mountains. Take a casual Friday to enjoy the hot dog stand right outside your office. Spend Saturday grilling your favorite burgers and hot dogs.
Just chill out this summer with whatever is your foodie passion. Oh and have a big glass of super iced tea. Every summer meal or snack deserves that.
Just enjoy the summer.
Just chill out this summer with whatever is your foodie passion. Oh and have a big glass of super iced tea. Every summer meal or snack deserves that.
Just enjoy the summer.
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