| Savor |
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The
Ring Bros. Marketplace Newsletter
October 2011
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Contents
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| About Pumpkins |
What's the autumn season without pumpkins and halloween?
Pumpkins are of the same family as squashes and watermelons.
The orange flesh has a mild, sweet flavor which can be used equally in savory and
dessert dishes, as well as cookies and bread. The seeds can be roasted and
eaten as snacks, and they have plenty of health benefits of their own.
References to pumpkins date back many centuries. The
name pumpkin originated from the Greek word for "large melon" which is
"pepon." "Pepon" was nasalized by the French into "pompon." The English
changed "pompon" to "Pumpion." Shakespeare referred to the "pumpion" in
his Merry Wives of Windsor. American colonists changed "pumpion" into
"pumpkin." The "pumpkin" is referred to in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,
Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater and Cinderella.
Native Americans dried strips of pumpkin and wove them into mats. They
also roasted long strips of pumpkin on the open fire and ate them. The
origin of pumpkin pie occurred when the colonists sliced off the
pumpkin top, removed the seeds, and filled the insides with milk,
spices and honey. The pumpkin was then baked in hot ashes.
Pumpkin Selection and Storage
For cooking purposes, choose smaller sizes, which
will have more tender, flavorful flesh. Select pumpkins which are free
of blemishes, harvested with their stems intact, and those which feel
heavy for their size. Unless they are waxed by the grower, a shiny skin
indicates the squash was picked too soon. Look for a dull finish.
Plan on purchasing 1/3 to 1/2 pound of
pumpkin per serving as a side dish. Much of the weight will be
discarded in the peel and seeds.
Store in a cool, dry place, such as an attic or spare room (root
cellars are too damp) at 45 to 60 degrees F. up to a month, or
refrigerate for up to three months.
For extended storage, wash skins in a solution of about a tablespoon of
chlorine bleach to a gallon of water to disinfect the skin and
discourage mold or rot.Dry immediately as dampness encourages spoilage.
If you find mold, wipe with vegetable oil to remove the mold and seal
the spot.
Leftover cooked pumpkin can be frozen up to 16 months or canned.
As a convenience, pre-cooked, puréed pumpkin can be purchased in
cans to use for most purposes, and it is surprisingly retentive of
vitamins and minerals.
Fresh pumpkin can be pared and cooked in the same manner as most any
winter squash, usually by cutting into chunks and simmering for 20 to
40 minutes, depending on size and age. Drain. When cool enough to
handle, remove the skin and purée.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin
The orange color of pumpkins is due to the high
amounts of carotenoids, which have great anti-cancer properties.
Pumpkins also contain lutein and ziazanthin, which can help promote eye
health and keep macular degeneration at bay. Vitamin C and potassium
are also an added health benefit, as well as fiber. You can get your
daily dose of pumpkin in other ways besides eating pie at every turn.
Use it in stews or with cheese and butter, or in a flan desert, as they
do in other parts of the world. Because pumpkins are usually only
available around Thanksgiving and Halloween, you can use butternut
squash the rest of the year.
Make use of the seeds from your pumpkin by roasting them for a snack.
Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc and essential fatty acids. Pumpkinseed
oil contains good fats, which have been linked to healthier skin, an
increase in energy, and improved mental function. Be sure to roast your
seeds at 300 degrees or less to protect the inherent good fats.
Pumpkin Equivalents, Measures, and Substitutions
Most winter squashes are interchangeable in recipes, measure for
measure. If you do not have pumpkin, substitute acorn squash, hubbard
squash, butternut squash, buttercup squash, or calabaza. Sweet potatoes
are also a good option as a subtitute for pumpkin.
Plan on purchasing 1/3 to 1/2 pound of pumpkin per serving as a side
dish. Much of the weight will be discarded in the peel and seeds.
• 1 fresh 5-pound pumpkin = about 4-1/2 cups cooked, mashed pumpkin
• 1 pound fresh pumpkin = about 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
• 1 15-ounce can pumpkin = 1-3/4 cups mashed pumpkin
• 1 29-ounce can pumpkin = 3-1/2 cups mashed pumpkin
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Pumpkin Rissoto
Serves 4
4 miniature
pumpkins
2 cups chicken stock
1 1/4 cups diced sugar pumpkin
2 cups water
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 cup Arborio
rice
1 tablespoon butter
1/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
Preheat
oven to 350 degrees F. Roast whole miniature pumpkins in a small
roasting pan with 1/2-inch water, tightly covered with foil, until very
tender, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool slightly. Cut out tops and reserve, then
scoop out seeds. Discard water from roasting pan, then return pumpkin
shells to pan and keep warm, covered with foil.
Meanwhile,
cook diced sugar pumpkin in a medium saucepan two-thirds full of
simmering water until tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain in a colander.
Bring stock and 2 cups water to a simmer in a small saucepan and keep
at a bare simmer. Cook onion in oil in a 2 to 2 1/2-quart heavy
saucepan over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened,
about 3 minutes. Add rice and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add 1 cup
simmering stock and cook at a strong simmer, stirring constantly, until
stock is absorbed. Continue simmering, adding stock 1/2 cup at a time,
stirring constantly and letting each addition be absorbed before adding
the next, until rice is tender and creamy-looking but still al dente,
about 18 minutes total. (There may be broth left over.) Remove
from heat and stir in diced pumpkin, cheese, and butter, stirring until
butter is melted. Season with salt and pepper, and cover to keep warm.
Put each pumpkin shell on a plate, fill with risotto, and cover with
reserved tops.
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Pumpkin Brûlé Tart
Makes 1 10” Tart
8
Egg
Yolks
1 cup Pureed Pumpkin
1 cup Granulated
Sugar
2 cups Heavy Cream
1/2
tsp.
Cinnamon
1/2 tsp. Nutmeg
1/2
tsp.
Allspice
1/3 tsp. Ginger
Pinch
Salt
1/4 cup Brown Sugar
16 Toasted Pecan Halves
In a bowl whip the granulated sugar and egg yolks
until smooth. In a pot bring the cream to a slow boil. Remove from the
heat. Combine the cream into the egg mixture a little at a time, so
that the eggs do not scramble, stirring constantly. Add the pumpkin and
the spices and let cool in the refrigerator for 1/2 hour. Preheat
oven to 350°. Fill a precooked shell with the cool filling and bake
for 25-30 minutes. Remove from the oven when the tart does not
“jiggle”. Let cool completely, at least two hours. Sprinkle
the top of the tart with the brown sugar. Using either a torch or the
broiler in your oven with the door slightly open, caramelize the sugar
on the top of the tart. If you are using your oven turn the tart every
20-30 seconds or your tart will burn. Garnish with the toasted pecans
and serve.
Toasted Pecan Crust
Makes 1 10” Tart Shell
1
cup Pecan
Halves
1 cup Rolled Oats
1
cup
Flour
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon
1
Pinch
Salt
1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
3 Tbsp. Maple Syrup
For best results use a 10” tart pan with a
removable base. Preheat oven to 350°. Put the pecans on a sheet
tray and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the smell of roasted nuts
fills the kitchen. Combine all of the dry ingredients in a food
processor until they reach the consistency of course meal. Transfer
into a mixing bowl. Combine all of the wet ingredients and mix with the
dry ingredients until it forms a soft dough. Press the dough into a
greased and floured pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool. |
| Back to top |
| Store
Events |
Saturday October 1, 12-3 p.m.
Craft Beer Tasting Event Special Cooking Demo
Thursday October 6, 6-7 p.m.
Cooking Class Pumpkin Rissoto
Friday October 7
3-7 p.m.
Product Sampling Capri Di Roma Pasta Sauce
4-6 p.m.
Wine Tasting
Saturday October 8
2-6 p.m.
Product Sampling Stonewall Kitchen Seasonal Items
3-5 p.m.
Cooking Demo Chicken Wing Contest Prep
Sunday October 9, 11-3 p.m. Product Demo Ring Bros Salad Dressings, Sauces & Seasonings
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Friday October 14, 4-6 p.m.
Wine Tasting
Saturday October 15, 3-5 p.m.
Cooking Demo Roasted Pumpkin and Apple Bisque
Thursday October 20, 6-7 p.m.
Cooking Class Shrimp and Grits
Friday October 21, 4-6 p.m.
Wine Tasting
Saturday October 22, 3-5 p.m.
Cooking Demonstration Apple Desserts
Friday October 28, 4-6 p.m.
Wine Tasting
Thursday November 3, 6-7 p.m.
Cooking Class Pan Cooking Steaks |
Saturday November 5, 12-3 p.m.
Fall Festival of Wine and Food
Product Sampling Grand Wine Tasting Live Music |
| Back to top |
| Featured
Products |
Stonewall Kitchen Fall Products Sample these products on October 8 2-6 p.m.
Maple Pumpkin Butter A
pure New England treat. This decadently rich fruit butter, Maple
Pumpkin Butter, combines the essence of fall with a sweet mixture of
maple and pumpkin. Come home after apple picking and warm up with some
fabulous Stonewall Kitchen pumpkin soup using our Maple Pumpkin Butter
or create a fall-themed brunch.
Special! 10% Off in October!
Pumpkin Cheese Ball We've
been big fans of cheese balls for years. Served with our hand-cut
crackers or sliced apples and breads, our creative recipes are a
terrific party treat. This 1950's throwback can't get much easier to
make. Simply mix, refrigerate and roll.
Apple Cider Doughnut Mix Remember
how the best reward from a day picking apples was actually the fresh,
hot cider doughnut you ate back at the farm? Recreate that moment with
our own Apple Cider Doughnuts. Baked, not fried, with an authentic
moist cake interior surrounded by the sweet embrace of cinnamon and
sugar; a special treat from your oven any time of the year.
Pumpkin Pancake & Waffle Mix Colorful
leaves diligently fall one-by-one, the crisp air lingers with an earthy
fragrance and a sudden yearning for pumpkin pie overcomes us. Satisfy
your craving as soon as you wake up in the morning. Stonewall Kitchen
Pumpkin Pancake & Waffle Mix is the perfect blend of spices and
pumpkin. What better way to start any day?
Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread Mix There
is nothing like the aroma of baking pumpkin bread! Quick, easy and a
year round favorite! Pumpkin, spice and everything nice . . .
especially the aroma of this quick bread baking in your kitchen. Easy
as "1-2-3", this mix makes a loaf that is moist, hearty and full of
rich pumpkin flavor.
Cranberry Ginger Dressing The
tart flavor of cranberries and the spiciness of ginger complement
salads of fresh greens and sliced apples or pears perfectly. Wonderful
with traditional salads, this dressing also is the ideal thing to mix
into a carrot salad or coleslaw. Marinate chicken or salmon in this
dressing and grill for sensational Asian flavor.
Cinnamon Apple Jelly Tart,
crisp, Granny Smith apples, a dash of cinnamon, a few drops of brandy
and a hint of lemon make this Cinnamon Apple Jelly a top seller. We've
taken a classic apple jelly and enhanced the flavor a notch or two. Our
Cinnamon Apple Jelly is perfect for all breakfasts breads, makes a
killer PB & J and is a sweet addition to pan juices for sautéed
chicken or pork.
 Pumpkin Muffin Mix Rich,
moist and probably the most aromatic muffins we make, these pumpkin and
spice muffins will take the chill out of any fall morning. Make them in
minutes and serve with our Maple Pumpkin Butter for a mouth-watering
treat.
NEW! Loacker Dark Chocolate Bite Sized Wafers
These
dark chocolate bite-size wafer cookies by Loacker are imported from
Italy and are made with all natural ingredients. The Loacker company is
located in the heart of the Italian Alps at 3,000 feet, and has been
concerned about the environment since its beginning in 1925.
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New Size!! Kitchen Basics Stocks
Our
stocks are ready to use in any recipe that calls for stock, broth, or
bouillon. Just store it in your pantry until needed, open and pour.
There's no need to add water - simply heat until hot. After opening,
place original container in the fridge for up to 10 days, or freeze for
later use.
NEW! City Girl Country Girl Cookies
City
girls are sassy and sophisticated, country girls are wholesome and
natural-and both are a part of me! I love the energy of the city
and the goodness of the country and I am not willing to compromise on
either. Just as I don’t want to compromise on what I eat
-especially when it comes to a treat - I want one that tastes great AND
is good for you. That’s why I started baking my own cookies in
the city-to taste like the country - with the taste and healthfulness
that combines the best of both! That’s City Girl Country
Girl. Every time friends taste these cookies, they beg me for
more! Now you can have them too!
New Size!! Silk Pure Almond Singles
There's
so much more to Silk Pure Almond almondmilk than great flavors. More
calcium, for example - 50% more than dairy milk!* Bones and teeth need
a steady supply of calcium to remain strong throughout life, yet our
bodies can't produce the mineral. Silk Pure Almond is a great way to
get calcium (and its important companion, vitamin D), with absolutely
no dairy, lactose, saturated fat or cholesterol. Use it instead of milk
for drinking or cooking. Silk® is way too lovable to stay cooped up at
home. Take your favorite flavors on the go with convenient singles.
Ideal for a brown-bag lunch or an after-workout snack.
NEW! Laurel Hill Pumpkin Seed Tortilla Chips
We
wanted to have one chip in our line up that represents what we would
refer to as—"Wow I never thought of that before, but this is amazing!"
We hope that you agree! Drum roll please ... Introducing our Laurel
Hill Pumpkin Seed Tortilla Chips. The flavor comes from the combination
of hearty pumpkin puree, nutty roasted pumpkin seeds, and a dash of
sweetness from our secret spice blend. These chips are perfect right
out of the bag, or as a vehicle for your favorite dip or salsa
(particularly medium to hot dips and salsas—as our sweet will balance
your heat!).
Hogan Bros. Pumpkin Spice Coffee
Conjure
up the perfect autumn day by filling your home with a sweet Pumpkin
Spice aroma. This rich blend of sweet pumpkin flavor, infused with our
gourmet beans and then sprinkled with a delicate mixture of spices,
creates a perfect fall treat. Immerse your palate with this delicious
taste while enjoying the scenic fall view. Best at any time of the day,
sugar and spice does make everything nice!
Republic of Tea Hot Apple Cider Tea
A
naturally-caffeine free blend of apples, cinnamon cloves and ginger.
Reminiscent of apple cider, with the luscious aroma of cinnamon and
cloves, make this cup the perfect accompaniment to the colors of the
harvest season.
Tate's Bakeshop Cookies
It's
Tate's Bake Shop, the fairytale culmination of a dream that got started
when 11-year-old Kathleen King began baking cookies to sell at her
family's farm stand not far out of town. Today, those amazing cookies
have attracted a loyal following from coast to coast. Crispy and
buttery, rich but not overwhelming, they simply melt in your mouth… and
just one is never enough!
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| Drops of Heaven: Candy Corn |
Candy
corn has been around for more than 100 years. George Renninger, an
employee of the Wunderlee Candy Company, invented the popular
confection in the 1880s and Wunderlee became the first to produce the
candy. The Goelitz Candy Company (now Jelly Belly Candy Company)
started producing the confection in 1900 and still produces candy corn
today.
When candy corn first appeared, it was popular among farmers because of
its agrarian look. The tri-color design was considered revolutionary
and the public went crazy for it. Lack of machinery meant that candy
corn was only made seasonally from March to November. Candy corn has
remained unchanged for one hundred years and is a favorite at
Halloween.
How is Candy Corn Made?
How Candy Corn is Made
In 1900, it was the job of many men to produce candy corn for eight months of the year.
Sugar, corn syrup and other ingredients were cooked into a slurry in
large kettles. Fondant and marshmallow were added to give a smooth
texture and bite. The 45-lbs of hot candy was poured into buckets
called runners. Men dubbed stringers walked backwards pouring the candy
into cornstarch trays imprinted with the kernel shape. It took three
passes to make the white, yellow and orange colors. Originally, candy
corn was delivered by wagon in wooden boxes, tubs and cartons.
The process of making candy corn is very similar today, but now
machines do most of the work. Manufacturers use a method called the
corn starch molding process. A tray containing depressions is filled
with corn starch. Candy corn is made from the bottom to the top and in
three-color passes. First, the depression is filled one quarter full
with yellow syrup and allowed to partially set. Next, the orange syrup
is added. The mold is then topped off with the white syrup and is
cooled. The candy now can gel together. After is it has finished
cooling, the trays are emptied and the little candy corns are ready to
be eaten.
Candy Corn Quick Facts
- Candy corn has 3.57 calories per kernel
- Halloween accounts for 75% of the annual candy corn production
- Candy corn isn't just for Halloween there is also:
- Reindeer corn for Christmas (red, green, and white)
- Indian corn (it's chocolate and vanilla flavored)
- Cupid corn for Valentine's Day (red, pink, and white)
- Bunny corn for Easter (pastel-colored)
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| Authentic Spanish Delicacies at Dark Horse Beef and Deli |
 Mitica Fig Almond Cake Our
Fig Almond Cakes are made with premium whole Pajarero figs and Marcona
almonds. All natural, containing no preservatives or artificial
ingredients. It takes about 500-600 figs to create one 5kg cake.
Workers destem the figs by hand.
 Dalmatia Fig Spread Dalmatia
fig spreads are hand-picked and sun-dried on old wooden pallets by
local Dalmatian farming families. Dried to a rich golden color, the
figs are made into spreads using only the finest ingredients. The
oranges for the Fig Spread with Orange come from the island of Korcula,
a remote island on the Adriatic Coast. The end result is a
prize-winning, all-natural product with superior fruit count.
Marcona Almonds Long
used in Spanish cuisine, Marcona almonds are now gaining popularity
among Americans. They have an enjoyable flavor, different from that of
common almonds, and a smooth, delicate texture. Marcona almonds contain
the same excellent health benefits as all almonds, including
cholesterol-lowering monounsaturated fats. Use Marcona almonds in
salads, with cheeses, alongside fruit, and in desserts.
Oro Liquido Marcona Almond Butter The
distinctively toasted flavor of Marcona almonds shines through in this
chunky nut butter from Valencia, Spain, elevating it beyond a
partnership with grape jelly in a school lunchbox. Fashion canapés on
toast by dabbing it on slices of membrillo (Spanish quince paste), use
it as a change of pace the next time you make cold Chinese noodles with
peanut or sesame sauce, or spoon it on as a topping for an ice cream
sundae with chocolate sauce. The consistency is loose, so keep it
refrigerated.
Matiz Andaluz Whole Wheat Picos de Aceite Crunchy
picos are a tapas staple. They're so popular that you'll find these
crunchy bread sticks on the counter of every tapas bar in Andalucia.
Baked with a touch of extra virgin olive oil as well as whole wheat
flour and sesame seeds, these picos are a wholesome, delicious snack
for any occasion! Pair our whole wheat and sesame picos with olive
pates, soft cheeses or your favorite dip.
Ines Rosales Sweet & Savory Olive Oil Tortas Ines
Rosales Sweet & Savory Olive Oil Tortas have been a traditional
snack throughout Spain for 100 years. Each delicious and delicate
pastry is handmade and then handwrapped. They are a round, four-inch,
wheat flour and olive oil cracker that is thin, bubbly, brown in spots
and highly irregular. The light sugar or savory coatings crackles in
your mouth; and the olive oil slides between ultra-thin layers and
pulls dough apart into small flaky miracles throughout. The taste is
magnificent, with salt standing up to the sweet, savory flavor at every
bite. The tortas come carefully wrapped in tissue paper, six to a box.
Ines Rosales Sweet Olive Oil Tortas are delicious with cheese, tea,
coffee, espresso, or anytime for a snack.
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| The Scoop on Scallops |
The
scallop is possibly best known for its beautiful and distinctive shell.
It has been captured in works of art by Titian, Botticelli, and many
others. Buildings in ancient Pompeii were decorated with scallop-shell
ornaments.
Scallops are bivalve mollusks with scallop-edged, fan-shaped shells.
The shells are further characterized by radiating ribs or grooves and
concentric growth rings. Near the hinge, where the two valves (shells)
meet, the shell is flared out on each side forming small "wings". Just
inside each valve along the edge of the mantle is a row of short
sensory tentacles and a row of small blue eyes. (Maybe you've heard of
the book Stalking the Blue-Eyed Scallop, by Euell Gibbons). The shells
are opened and closed by a single, over-sized adductor muscle which is
sometimes referred to as the "eye".
The eye, or adductor muscle is the part of the scallop we eat here in
the U.S. In Europe, the entire scallop is eaten. The adductor muscle is
more developed in the scallop than in oysters and clams because
scallops are active swimmers. They glide freely through the water and
over the sea floor by snapping their shells together.
Scallops are primarily harvested by dredging and are shucked soon after
capture. They cannot hold their shells closed; therefore, once they are
out of the water, they lose moisture quickly and die. Consequently,
they're shucked on board the ships, placed in containers, and
refrigerated.
CULINARY DESCRIPTION
The sea scallop (Plactopecten magellanicus) is the largest of the
scallops. You usually get approximately 20-40 in one pound. They can be
bought fresh or frozen. Scallops freeze well, so if they are on sale or
you buy too many, freeze them for later use. The raw meats are creamy
white in color and sometimes slightly orange due to the food (algae)
they consume. Scallops have a distinct, sweet odor when they are fresh.
There are many ways to prepare scallops. Always take care not to
overcook them; they toughen easily. As soon as they lose their
translucence and turn opaque, they are done, Sea scallops may be
broiled, kabobed, stir- fried, baked, or microwaved. There are many
recipes for scallops. If you plan to put them in a sauce, it's best to
cook the scallops and the sauce separately and then combine them;
otherwise, water will cook out of the scallops and make your sauce
runny.
The bay scallop (Argopecten irradians) resides in bays and estuaries
from New England to the Gulf of Mexico. Its muscle reaches about
one-half inch in diameter. You usually find about 50-90 in one pound.
Bay scallop meats are white with some pink coloration on occasion due
to the food (algae) they consume.
You need to be especially careful when cooking bay scallops. Because of
their size, they tend to overcook very easily and will become tough.
They are sweet and tender yet firm when cooked properly. Bay scallops
may be baked, sauteed, stir-fried, or microwaved. If you need cooked
scallops for a seafood salad, simply wash and dry one pound, then wrap
them deli- sandwich style in a microwaveable paper towel, and microwave
on HIGH for 3 minutes. You will have perfectly cooked scallops. Or
else, you may prefer a more traditional recipe such as Coquilles
Saint-Jacques, a creamy scallop recipe found in many cookbooks. This
favorite can even be used as an appetizer before an elegant repast.
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Pan Seared Diver Scallops over Penne and Asparagus with Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Cream Sauce
Serves 4
16 Diver Scallops
1 1/2 lb. Penne, cooked
1 lb. Asparagus
4 oz. Scallions
8 oz. Baby Spinach
4 oz. Yellow Peppers, diced
8 oz. Button Mushrooms, cored and halved
1/2 cup Sun Dried Tomato Pesto
1/4 cup Basil Pesto
1/2 cup Heavy Cream
Oil as Needed
1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese
Salt and Pepper to taste
Heat some oil in a sauté pan until it is hot.
Carefully add the scallops to the pan and cook until they are well
browned on both sides and almost fully cooked. Remove from the pan and
keep warm. Add more oil to the pan if necessary. Add the asparagus,
peppers and mushrooms to the pan and sauté until the asparagus
is al dente. Add the pestos and the cream and stir well. Boil until the
sauce has reduced to nappé, about 5 minutes. Add the penne to
the pan and toss until heated. Season with salt and pepper. Place the
pasta and vegetables on a plate, reserving some of the sauce in the
pan. Arrange the scallops on the top of the pasta and drizzle with the
remaining sauce. Sprinkle with parmesan and garnish with basil leaves.
Serve. |
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Bay Scallops Tuscany
Serves 4
1 1/4 lbs. Bay Scallops
1/2 cup Onion, diced
1 cup Asparagus Tips
4
oz. Baby
Spinach
1 Tbsp. Garlic
1 lb. Farfalle, cooked
1 oz. Fresh Basil, chiffanade
2 tsp. Rosemary
3 Tbsp. Fresh Parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 Lemon
2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
2 oz. Parmesan Cheese, grated
1/4 cup Dry Marsala
Salt & Pepper to taste
Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan. Add the
onion and asparagus and sauté until the onion is opaque. Add the
Marsala and deglaze. Add the scallops and lemon juice and sauté
for 3 minutes. Add the pasta, basil, rosemary, parsley and lemon juice
and combine. Add the tomatoes and season with the salt and pepper. Stir
in the cheese and then add the spinach. As soon as the spinach starts
to wilt remove from the heat and serve. |
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| How to Roast a Chicken |
First,
know that roasting a whole chicken takes at least 50 minutes. If you
are cooking with a specific recipe, follow the time and temperature
specifications.
TOOLS
It's
a good idea to have a roasting pan and a rack so that heat circulates
evenly. If you don't have these, you can use a heavy rimmed baking
sheet, also called a baker's half-sheet.
TO PREPARE
Rinse the chicken and dry it thoroughly, inside and out, with paper towels.
You
can do a number of things to add flavor. Try rubbing herbed butter or
herbs and olive oil in the cavity and on the outside. To add flavor
under the skin, find an area on the side of the breast where the skin
can be lifted easily to create a space. Slide two to three fingertips
between the chicken breast skin and meat and move from side to side to
loosen (the skin stretches easily but be careful to move slowly to
prevent tears); put butter, herbs, or lemon slices under the skin. Or
you can stuff the cavity with any combination of spices, herb sprigs,
garlic cloves (slightly smashed to release flavor), and lemon quarters.
Some cooks prefer to truss a raw chicken before
cooking-tie it with kitchen twine to bring the legs together and secure
a compact shape and even cooking. Trussing makes the chicken look
neater, but it isn't necessary.
EVEN COOKING
Chicken
breasts cook faster than the dark meat of the thighs. To slow them
down, try this trick: Make a 2-layer sheet of foil into the shape of a
trapezoid (like a triangle but with the top point cut off). Butter one
side of the foil and use it to cover the breasts of the chicken for the
first 15 minutes of cooking.
TEST FOR DONENESS
When
the meat is pierced with a fork, the juices should run clear. The best
way to know when the chicken is finished is with an instant-read
thermometer; it should read 170°F when stuck into the thickest part of
the thigh.
CARVING THE BIRD INTO SECTIONS
Ideally, you want to carve on a cutting board with a channel to catch juices.
Put a long fork into the cavity to hold the chicken steady.
Slice
through the skin that connects the thigh and the breast, then cut down
as far as you can, pushing the thigh away with the side of the knife.
Look for the joint where the thigh connects to the backbone. The key is
to cut through the place where those joints meet, and not through the
bone. Once you have cut the thigh away from the body, you can also cut
the drumstick away from the thigh. Again, try to cut where the joints
meet. Repeat on the other side.
To remove a wing, lift it away
from the body and slice where the wing naturally pulls away from the
body. Once you have found the joint, try to cut where it meats the
backbone. Poultry shears can sometimes be useful. Repeat on the other
wing.
To cut breast meat away from the bone, slide your knife
along the side of the breast bone as close as possible to the bone, and
push the meat away with the side of your knife. Repeat on the other
side.
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Ultimate Roast Chicken Serves 3-4
1 (5 1/2 pound) free-range chicken 1/2 bunch each fresh oregano, thyme, and parsley 1/4 pound unsalted butter, softened Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 orange, halved 1/2 head garlic 1 medium white onion, halved, plus 1 onion 6 strips smoked bacon 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups chicken broth 1/4 cup dry sherry
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Rinse
the chicken with cool water, inside and out. Pat it dry with paper
towels. Divide the herbs, keeping 1/2 of them whole. Finely chop the
other half. In a small bowl, mash the softened butter with the chopped
herbs, until combined. Rub the herbed butter under the skin, as well as
all over the outside of the chicken. Season the bird all over with salt
and pepper. Stuff the cavity with the orange, garlic, 1 onion, and the
remaining herbs. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to help hold
its shape. Place the chicken, breast-side up, in a roasting pan. Put
the remaining onion into the pan, which will help color and flavor the
sauce. Lay the strips of bacon across the breast of the chicken and
roast for 25 minutes.
Remove the bacon and baste the chicken
with the drippings and cook for another 25 minutes to brown the skin.
The chicken is done when an instant-read thermometer reads 165 degrees
F when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (the legs of the
chicken should wiggle easily from the sockets too.) Remove the chicken
to a platter and let stand for 10 minutes, so the juices settle back
into the meat before carving.
Meanwhile, remove the softened
onion from the roasting pan. Tilt the pan so the drippings collect in 1
corner, skimming off as much fat as possible, and leaving the
drippings. Place the roasting pan on top of the stove over medium heat
and take a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavor from the bottom of the
pan. Stir the flour into the drippings to make a roux-like paste. Pour
in the chicken broth in stages; continue to stir to dissolve the flour
evenly to prevent lumps. Stir in the sherry and season with salt and
pepper.
To serve, carve the chicken tableside and squeeze the oranges from the cavity over the meat.
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Roasted Garlic Chicken
1/2 cup roasted garlic cloves 2 cups water 1 Tbsp salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 Tbsp olive oil 1/2 lemon, cut into 4 wedges 2 bay leaves 1 (3-4 pound) whole roasting chicken
1
Prepare the brine by combining garlic, water, salt, pepper and olive
oil in a blender. Squeeze the juice from the lemon wedges into the
brine, blend. Stir in the bay leaves.
2 Place chicken in a
large, resealable plastic bag, or in a large non-reactive bowl. Pour
the brine all over the chicken in the bag, or in the bowl. Add the
(already squeezed) lemon wedges. Squeeze out all the air from the bag
and seal, or place plastic wrap over the chicken in the bowl.
Refrigerate overnight - 12 to 24 hours.
3 Preheat the oven to
375°F. Remove the chicken from the brine. Sprinkle salt and pepper all
over the chicken. Place the chicken on a rack, in a roasting pan,
breast side up. Roast for about an hour, until the juices run clear
from the thigh when pierced with a fork. (Breast meat should have an
internal temperature of 165°F, thigh meat should have an internal
temperature of 175°F.)
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. |
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| Tasting
Notes |
It's Octoberfest
time. Pumpkin beer and autumn, a perfect combination. We will take a
look at some of the seasonal offerings available this month at
Harney's. In addition to some very tasty pumkin beers, there are also a
number of brews geared towards Halloween. Maybe we'll throw in an
Oktoberfest for fun also.
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Post Road Pumpkin Ale
Post
Road Pumpkin Ale is a revival of a beer brewed by the early American
colonists. Pumpkins were plentiful, flavorful and nutritious and they
blended nicely with barley malt. Hundreds of pumpkins are blended into
each batch of Post Road Pumpkin Ale, creating a beer with an orange
amber color, warm pumpkin aroma, biscuity malt center and crisp finish.
Post Road Pumpkin Ale is spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Blue Moon Harvest Moon Pumpkin Ale
This amber-colored, naturally pumpkin flavored ale is brewed only in
the autumn and combines the flavor of vine-ripened pumpkin and spices.
If you're in the mood for something unique and different to go along
with the change of season, autumn is the perfect time to try Blue
Moon™ Pumpkin Ale. Available mid-September through December.
Dogfish Head Punkin Ale
A full-bodied brown ale with smooth hints of pumpkin and brown sugar. Perfect to warm-up with, as the season cools.
Tasting Notes: Malty, pumpkin, caramel, brown sugar.
Food Pairing recommendations: Turkey, roasted duck, lamb, stuffing, dessert dumplings.
Glassware recommendation: Pint
Harpoon Octoberfest
The
character and complexity of Harpoon Octoberfest comes from the malt and
hops. When looking at a freshly poured Harpoon Octoberfest, you
will notice the garnet-red color with a firm, creamy head. The
beer’s color is from a blend of Munich, chocolate, and pale malt.
The thick head results in part from wheat malt added to the
grist. The hop aroma of this beer is not overpowering but it is
present. Tettnang hops add a subtle spice nose that blends with
the malt character. This beer is full-bodied, smooth, and
malty. Willamettehops are used to provide a gentle bitterness and
to balance any residual sweetness present from the malt. The
finish is soft and malty with a mild bitterness.
Shipyard Pumpkinhead Ale
Shipyard
Pumpkinhead Ale is a crisp and refreshing wheat ale with delightful
aromatics and subtle spiced flavor.Shipyard Brewing Company announced
that it will be extending the season for their popular fall release,
Pumpkinhead. The brewery originally planned on brewing the beer through
October, but will now brew additional batches through November in order
to meet consumer demand.
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Saranac Pumpkin Ale
In celebration of the fall harvest. Here's an autumn favorite that's as
enjoyable as pumpkin pie. This hearty ale is brewed with cinnamon,
allspice, cloves and vanilla. Look for a full body and amber color.
We're sure you'll enjoy this special brew.

Saranac Octoberfest
Saranac Octoberfest is a med-bodied, copper colored lager. It's rich,
malty taste is subtly balanced by Saaz and Tettnang hops. The beer is
aged slowly in the tradition of the Octoberfest beers of Munich.
Brooklyn Pennant Ale '55
A tribute to Brooklyn’s 1955 World Champion baseball team,
Brooklyn Pennant Ale is a chestnut-colored pale ale with a hearty,
toffeeish malt palate and a finely balanced hop finish. Pennant is a
traditional English-style pale ale...Brooklyn Pennant Ale is brewed
from Scottish Maris Otter malt, which is justly prized for its toasty,
biscuity flavor and the smoothness it imparts to beer. Pennant is
hopped with Willamette, Fuggle and Cascade, and top-fermented at warm
temperatures for a rich, fruity flavor and aroma.
Samuel Adams Octoberfest
The first thing you notice when pouring a glass of this seasonal beer
is the color. Samuel Adams® Octoberfest has a rich, deep golden
amber hue which itself is reflective of the season. Samuel Adams®
Octoberfest is a malt lover's dream, masterfully blending together five
roasts of barley to create a delicious harmony of sweet flavors
including caramel and toffee. The beer is kept from being overly sweet
by the elegant bitterness imparted by the German Noble hops. Samuel
Adams® Octoberfest provides a wonderful transition from the lighter
beers of summer to the winter's heartier brews.
Samuel Adams Harvest Pumpkin Ale
A
perennial favorite at our brewery Halloween party, Samuel Adams Harvest
Pumpkin Ale is brewed with over 11 pounds of real pumpkin per barrel,
adding a full body and sweetness to this dark reddish amber brew.
Deep roasted malts, including a smoked malt, lend a distinct roasted
character while traditional pumpkin pie spices give the beer a subtle
spice note.
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| Foods to Ward Off the Flu |
Many
of us are predicted to come down with the flu this winter, however it's
expected that most will only experience mild symptoms.
What we
eat can have a direct influence in supporting our immune system and
ensuring that, when the time comes, it's in really good working order.
So
before you rush out to try and get Tamiflu, there are a number of
nutrients you can get in everyday foods to boost your body's defenses
and reduce your chances of getting swine flu.
5 Breakfast Immune Boosting Foods
Blueberries Blueberries
contain many antioxidants. Antioxidants are vitamins and minerals that
remove harmful oxidants from the bloodstream. Oxidants, also known as
free radicals, are the toxic byproducts our bodies make when we turn
food into energy. Free radicals are capable of damaging DNA and
suppressing the body's immune system. Blueberries are a rich
source of anthocyanins, which are particularly effective at combating E
Coli bacteria which can cause gastrointestinal problems and urinary
infections. Blueberries can be eaten raw in fruit salads, added to smoothies or in cooked desserts.
Manuka Honey Manuka
has incredible antibacterial and antiviral properties. This honey can
help sooth more throats and can even be applied to cuts and grazes
although I wouldn't waste such delicious honey on a grazed knee! It has
been reported to be used medicinally in Australian hospitals to treat
wounds. Children under one year should not be given honey.
Probiotic Yogurt It's
important to know that not all bacteria are bad. The digestive tract
for example is the home to our "gut flora" where millions of different
bacteria live, many of which are beneficial or "friendly". They
normally have the strong hold and act as natural defenders to our
body's immune system, preventing harmful bacteria taking over. In order
to boost the friendly bacteria many people now eat special probiotic
foods and drinks.
Oranges In
common with other citrus fruit, oranges contain more than a 100
different phytonutrients that are beneficial for health. They are a
very good source of flavonoids, which act synergistically with vitamin
C to boost our protection against free radical damage. Hesperidin is an
important flavonoid found in oranges which has additional antiviral,
antiallergenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Oranges and other
citrus contain limonene, which is thought to have anti-carcinogenic
properties.
Almonds and Walnuts and Brazil Nuts Almonds are rich in vitamin E which can boost our immune systems. Walnuts
contain ellagic acid which has antioxidant powers. Ellagic acid also
exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Walnuts also
contain essential fatty acids which can be converted into
prostaglandins chemical messengers which regulate the activity of the
white blood cells. Without essential fatty acids our immune system will
not function at full capacity and we will be more susceptible to
infections.
5 Immune Boosting Foods for Lunch or Dinner
Oily Fish Salmon
/ Tuna contain omega 3 fats, essential for immune health. They work by
increasing the activity of phagocytes, the white blood cells that eat
up bacteria. These fats also help strengthen cell membranes, thereby
speeding up healing and strengthening resistance to infection in the
body. Omega 3 fats can be found in oily fish (salmon, mackerel, and
tuna), linseed oil and linseed, walnuts and some seeds.
Prawns /Crab Shellfish Prawns
and crab are good sources of zinc and selenium. Both of these nutrients
are important for a healthy immune system. Inadequate zinc can hinder
the body's ability to fight infections. Zinc is also important for
healthy eyes, skin, nails for growth and sexual development. Oysters,
crab, prawns and other shellfish, fish, red meat such as beef, chicken,
liver, kidney, lentils, some green veg, nuts, seeds and wheat germ all
contribute to our zinc intake.
Shittake Mushrooms A
remarkable substance called lentinan seems to enhance immune function.
It appears to be able to prevent virus replication and to fight off
infection by inducing the body's own antiviral chemical interferon.
Shiitake mushrooms have a meatier, chewier texture and a stronger
slightly woody taste than ordinary mushrooms. They can be used to
replace ordinary mushrooms in soups, stews and mince dishes.
Beetroot Rich
in flavonoids, vitamins and minerals, beetroots are an excellent immune
booster. Beetroot contains carotenoids and flavonoids and a possible
anti-carcinogens property of the red colouring is being researched. As
well as the roots, the beetroot tops can be either cooed or added to
salads.
Chick Peas Contain
isoflavones and saponins, vitamins and minerals. Chickpeas contain
phytonutrients called saponins, which are antioxidants. They work by
stimulating the immune system and may also block the development of
cancer cells. Chickpeas are a good vegetarian source of protein and are
the main ingredient in hummus. They can be bought dried and tinned. Add
them to soups, salads and casseroles.
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Moroccan Vegetable Tagine Serves 6
2 tbs olive or rapeseed oil 3 cloves garlic 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp harissa paste ¼ tsp ground cinnamon 300 ml vegetable stock 4 carrots peeled and chopped 4 courgette, chopped 1 aubergines, chopped 100g French beans 2 cans tomatoes 1 can chickpeas rinsed 50g ready to eat dried apricots 130g currants or raisins 100g flaked toasted almonds 10g coriander leaves, torn Black pepper
1.
Heat the oil in a heavy bottomed saucepan, add the onion and cook until
soft. Then add in the garlic and spices and cook for a couple of
minutes until the spices are fragrant.
2. Add the tomatoes, the
stock, and stir in the vegetables, chickpeas, and dried fruits, bring
to the boil and simmer for about 20mins until tender.
3. Sprinkle on the almonds and chopped coriander.
4. For meat lovers in the family, serve this with lamb chops. |

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Blackberry and Blueberry Smoothie
2 1/2 apples 1/2 banana 1 pint of blackberries 1 pint of blueberries 1/2 an orange
1.
Cut the apple into wedges, put them through the juicer and pour the
juice into a blender. Alternatively use some 100% apple juice instead
direct from the carton!
2. Add the berries and half a peeled banana
to the blender with a dash of freshly squeezed OJ. Blitz until you get
t desired consistency. |
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| Summer's Gone Time to Move On |
Move
on past the long summer spent wilting in the humidity, that is. I feel
refreshed by the cool temperatures we are experiencing. I'm putting
away my disappointment with the state of the garden, caused by too many
windy periods of heavy rain, and filling in the bare areas with mums
and fall asters. I'm also going to spend time planning out where to
place some new spring bulbs so that next year will start out fresh and
promising... no matter what the summer brings.
Some fresh but
thrifty ideas for decorating during the autumn are also in order.
Designers are showing off natural elements like pods, woodland
cuttings, and seashore pickings paired with fresh cut flowers that can
be purchased year round like hydrangeas, lilies, and gerbera daisies.
Flea market finds are becoming containers for flowers and greens such
as lined jewelry boxes, lamp bases, and vintage bottles. A quick visit
to most home basements would probably offer up weeks of repurposing.
The key is to pair something old with something new, something quirky
with something studied, or the sophisticated with raw materials.
October
is usually all about vibrantly falling leaves. However, this year we
will have to bring in the colors ourselves as those summer storms were
not kind to our trees. Fall shades in russet and pumpkin orange will
really pop when you introduce crimson or emerald berries, bright yellow
sunflower and contrasting shades of royal purple. It's all about color
splashes, texture, and the unexpected like cool whites to highlight
your arrangements.
Have fun this harvest month as we all
celebrate invigorating the soul with the treasures of nature both
familiar and unexpected. See you in the flower shop. Yours, Liz
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