Saturday, April 6, 2013
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Holiday meal preparation: Tips to coordinate the perfect feast
(BPT) - Families everywhere anticipate the holiday season months in advance. If you have visions of delicious dishes and happy guests dancing in your head, you're certainly in the right spirit, but is your home ready to make that holiday daydream a reality? By prepping your home - and especially your kitchen - for the celebration, you'll be better able to focus on the joy of your get-together.
When planning a party, the kitchen - as the heart of any gathering - is a good place to start. And, with holiday celebrations so often food-focused, ensuring that your kitchen is up to the task should be your first order of business, says Laura Johnson, home economist and kitchen expert at LG Electronics USA. First, it's -good to think about the details of your soiree. How many people will be attending?-Do any guests plan to contribute dishes?-Knowing how much food you'll need, and what folks intend to bring, will help you determine the demands that your cooktop, oven and refrigerator will need to meet.
If you've found that your kitchen was unable to meet the demands of the holiday season in years past, consider alternative appliances while you still have the time, Johnson says. A 'mega capacity' refrigerator like the new 33-cubic-foot French-door model from LG (the largest available in its class), enables you to store everything you need to feed a crowd until dinner time comes around … and even all those great holiday left-overs into the next day.
Before the big day arrives, make sure that all of the cutlery, china and glassware you want to use is out of storage, clean and ready to go, says Johnson. The last thing you want to do is struggle to find that perfect platter when things are getting busy in the kitchen. Call or email guests who will be bringing dishes to find out whether they'll need serving utensils, bowls or platters. It's always a good idea to have some extras on hand in the event something is forgotten.
Having the right cookware isn't the only kitchen concern during the holiday season, especially as dinner time nears. 'Once it's time to start cooking and do any last minute warming before the big meal, your cooking appliances are going to get their most thorough workout of the year,' Johnson says. From holiday hams to family-sized casseroles, consider a model that blends capacity and quick cooking times, like LG's largest capacity electric range. 'Finding an oven that fits in all of your culinary creations, and finishes them quickly, can mean the difference between hungry guests and happy ones,' she adds. With 20 percent faster cooking times and 6.3 cubic feet of space, a range like this means your dishes will come out of the oven table-ready, and you'll stay perfectly on schedule.
Whenever possible, it's a good idea to prepare dishes ahead of time and then give them a quick finish in the oven on the day of the big event. Some items, like a roast, are best made on the day of, but many side dishes can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. Have a variety of beverages pre-cooled for guests of all ages, as well as plenty of snacks - for every palate. Fun finger foods appeal to the little ones, while adults may have more sophisticated tastes. Make sure you've prepared for any guests with allergies, too - and have suitable alternatives for them to enjoy.
'A well-prepared kitchen helps make the holidays easier and more enjoyable,' says Johnson. 'Your guests will feel at home, and you'll be able to spend time enjoying the event, rather than spending your time toiling away.' For more ideas about creating the perfect holiday-ready kitchen, visit www.lg.com.
When planning a party, the kitchen - as the heart of any gathering - is a good place to start. And, with holiday celebrations so often food-focused, ensuring that your kitchen is up to the task should be your first order of business, says Laura Johnson, home economist and kitchen expert at LG Electronics USA. First, it's -good to think about the details of your soiree. How many people will be attending?-Do any guests plan to contribute dishes?-Knowing how much food you'll need, and what folks intend to bring, will help you determine the demands that your cooktop, oven and refrigerator will need to meet.
If you've found that your kitchen was unable to meet the demands of the holiday season in years past, consider alternative appliances while you still have the time, Johnson says. A 'mega capacity' refrigerator like the new 33-cubic-foot French-door model from LG (the largest available in its class), enables you to store everything you need to feed a crowd until dinner time comes around … and even all those great holiday left-overs into the next day.
Before the big day arrives, make sure that all of the cutlery, china and glassware you want to use is out of storage, clean and ready to go, says Johnson. The last thing you want to do is struggle to find that perfect platter when things are getting busy in the kitchen. Call or email guests who will be bringing dishes to find out whether they'll need serving utensils, bowls or platters. It's always a good idea to have some extras on hand in the event something is forgotten.
Having the right cookware isn't the only kitchen concern during the holiday season, especially as dinner time nears. 'Once it's time to start cooking and do any last minute warming before the big meal, your cooking appliances are going to get their most thorough workout of the year,' Johnson says. From holiday hams to family-sized casseroles, consider a model that blends capacity and quick cooking times, like LG's largest capacity electric range. 'Finding an oven that fits in all of your culinary creations, and finishes them quickly, can mean the difference between hungry guests and happy ones,' she adds. With 20 percent faster cooking times and 6.3 cubic feet of space, a range like this means your dishes will come out of the oven table-ready, and you'll stay perfectly on schedule.
Whenever possible, it's a good idea to prepare dishes ahead of time and then give them a quick finish in the oven on the day of the big event. Some items, like a roast, are best made on the day of, but many side dishes can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. Have a variety of beverages pre-cooled for guests of all ages, as well as plenty of snacks - for every palate. Fun finger foods appeal to the little ones, while adults may have more sophisticated tastes. Make sure you've prepared for any guests with allergies, too - and have suitable alternatives for them to enjoy.
'A well-prepared kitchen helps make the holidays easier and more enjoyable,' says Johnson. 'Your guests will feel at home, and you'll be able to spend time enjoying the event, rather than spending your time toiling away.' For more ideas about creating the perfect holiday-ready kitchen, visit www.lg.com.
How to make your cocktails the life of the party
(BPT) - This time of year, homes across the country are bustling with friends and family celebrating the holidays with festive foods and drinks. Dairy products like butter, milk, cheese and cream are standard ingredients in celebratory dishes, but one area where dairy can play a starring role is often overlooked - the cocktail glass. Instead of just offering wine or beer, the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) has put together cocktail tips and tricks for making every gathering a happy hour at home.
1. Cheers to dairy. Served hot or cold, milky alcoholic beverages are delicious on a hot day or in the cold of winter. Cocktails made with milk can range from the classics like a White Russian to the more unusual Mardi Gras favorite Milk Punch, a somewhat lighter version of egg nog. Make sure to choose flavors and spices that complement the foods you're serving.
2. Look in the fridge. Chances are you already have everything you need to create a special cocktail or host a happy hour at home. Now is the time to use up the leftover craft beers from last week's game, that nice bottle of brandy you received as a gift and the California milk and cream you have in your fridge.
3. Apples to apples. Apples are one of those foods that everyone seems to love and that familiar apple flavor seems most welcome in the cooler, cozier months. Why not combine the iconic apple pie with a trend that is on the rise: hard ciders. With the influx of craft beer drinkers, hard ciders are coming into their own. Try creating a Belgian Hot Apple Pie Cocktail (see recipe) and wow your friends and family with your bartending skills. This cocktail takes the beloved flavor of apple pie and lights it on fire, literally.
4. Drink your dessert. It's easy to create delicious drinkable desserts for the over-21 crowd with just a few ingredients you likely already have on hand. A few scoops of Real California vanilla ice cream, milk, a flavored Irish cream liqueur and a shot of whiskey mixed in the blender will make even non-Irish eyes smile. Try chocolate vodka, peanut butter, milk and ice cream for an adult version of a peanut butter cup. Minty Moochas are a chocolate treat featuring coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, semisweet chocolate, milk and whipped cream.
5. Mix it up. Classic cocktails are making a comeback so mix up your own. Classic egg nog is a fun drink that can be served as either an adult or nonalcoholic beverage and is easily flavored to fit the festivities - from pumpkin pie spice to peppermint extract. If you are looking for a classic recipe, try a Wild's Cooked Egg Holiday Eggnog with a splash of dark rum or bourbon, crafted by Chef Andy Wild on behalf of the CMAB.
Whenever serving alcohol in your home, make sure there's a designated driver to ensure everyone makes it home safely. Look for the Real California Milk and Cheese seals to guarantee you're getting products made with 100 percent California milk. To make the irresistible drinks mentioned above and to check out other great recipes, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, or search for Real California Milk on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
Belgian Hot Apple Pie Cocktail
Yield: 1 serving
1 large scoop Real California vanilla ice cream
1 ounce apple brandy
12 ounces Belgian apple beer
Place ice cream in a large glass. Pour brandy into a small glass. Carefully touch a lighted match to surface of brandy to ignite it. When flames die down, pour brandy over ice cream and fill glass with beer. Serve with a spoon and a straw.
1. Cheers to dairy. Served hot or cold, milky alcoholic beverages are delicious on a hot day or in the cold of winter. Cocktails made with milk can range from the classics like a White Russian to the more unusual Mardi Gras favorite Milk Punch, a somewhat lighter version of egg nog. Make sure to choose flavors and spices that complement the foods you're serving.
2. Look in the fridge. Chances are you already have everything you need to create a special cocktail or host a happy hour at home. Now is the time to use up the leftover craft beers from last week's game, that nice bottle of brandy you received as a gift and the California milk and cream you have in your fridge.
3. Apples to apples. Apples are one of those foods that everyone seems to love and that familiar apple flavor seems most welcome in the cooler, cozier months. Why not combine the iconic apple pie with a trend that is on the rise: hard ciders. With the influx of craft beer drinkers, hard ciders are coming into their own. Try creating a Belgian Hot Apple Pie Cocktail (see recipe) and wow your friends and family with your bartending skills. This cocktail takes the beloved flavor of apple pie and lights it on fire, literally.
4. Drink your dessert. It's easy to create delicious drinkable desserts for the over-21 crowd with just a few ingredients you likely already have on hand. A few scoops of Real California vanilla ice cream, milk, a flavored Irish cream liqueur and a shot of whiskey mixed in the blender will make even non-Irish eyes smile. Try chocolate vodka, peanut butter, milk and ice cream for an adult version of a peanut butter cup. Minty Moochas are a chocolate treat featuring coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, semisweet chocolate, milk and whipped cream.
5. Mix it up. Classic cocktails are making a comeback so mix up your own. Classic egg nog is a fun drink that can be served as either an adult or nonalcoholic beverage and is easily flavored to fit the festivities - from pumpkin pie spice to peppermint extract. If you are looking for a classic recipe, try a Wild's Cooked Egg Holiday Eggnog with a splash of dark rum or bourbon, crafted by Chef Andy Wild on behalf of the CMAB.
Whenever serving alcohol in your home, make sure there's a designated driver to ensure everyone makes it home safely. Look for the Real California Milk and Cheese seals to guarantee you're getting products made with 100 percent California milk. To make the irresistible drinks mentioned above and to check out other great recipes, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, or search for Real California Milk on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
Belgian Hot Apple Pie Cocktail
Yield: 1 serving
1 large scoop Real California vanilla ice cream
1 ounce apple brandy
12 ounces Belgian apple beer
Place ice cream in a large glass. Pour brandy into a small glass. Carefully touch a lighted match to surface of brandy to ignite it. When flames die down, pour brandy over ice cream and fill glass with beer. Serve with a spoon and a straw.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
From patch to table: the many uses of a pumpkin
(BPT) - While pumpkins are most often associated with holiday pies, don't underestimate this favorite of the squash and gourd family. Not only is the mighty pumpkin delicious, but it is also quite the multi-tasker. -
'Pumpkins are incredibly versatile. They can be used in virtually any application,' says Chef Joseph Brown, culinary chair at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Raleigh - Durham, a campus of South University. From sweet to savory, desserts to dinners, Brown and Chef Arthur Inzinga, culinary instructor at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, offer tips and ideas for making the most of your pumpkins.
Pumpkin can be added to a variety of dishes to provide textural elements as well as flavor. 'When pumpkin is cooked down it is very similar to mashed potatoes, but more sweet and flavorful,' says Brown. 'It brings a sweetness to the table, which is its most unique aspect.' He adds that anywhere a potato is being cut up and cooked, pumpkin would be a good addition and/or substitution.
Pureed pumpkin can be added to a variety of sauces and soups, and according to Inzinga, 'pumpkin is used a lot in conjunction with pasta.' -He recommends using it as a filling in gnocchi: 'Typically, gnocchi is made with potato puree. You can substitute pumpkin puree.' Brown also notes it can be used as a filling for ravioli.
Adding the bold flavor of pumpkin to a variety of dishes can be achieved with some simple substitutions. Pumpkin chili can be created by augmenting some of the stock and tomato with pureed pumpkin. 'This brings a richness to the chili. The pumpkin is going to be as much a textural component as it is a flavorful item,' says Brown. He also adds that pumpkin and tomato go together beautifully. This can be seen in autumn or pumpkin pizza, where the pumpkin becomes part of the sauce. Brown likes to top his pumpkin pizza with barbequed chicken. Inzinga recommends juicing some of the pumpkin pulp and using it as the cooking liquid for risotto or mixing equal parts pureed pumpkin to mashed potatoes. 'It can be used as an ingredient in pancakes and waffles to replace some of the liquid and add flavor,' he says.
Pumpkin can also take center stage in dishes such as pumpkin-based bread puddings and ice creams and pumpkin butter. Inzinga says pumpkin butter is much like apple butter and can be created by adding pumpkin pie spices and cooking the pumpkin down until it is a spreadable consistency. He also recommends pumpkin/apple smoothies made with pureed pumpkin, apple juice and a bit of yogurt.
Enjoy the full flavor of the pumpkin by dicing and roasting with other root vegetables, sauteing it to bring out its natural flavors or even putting it on the grill. Brown says the slow heat of the grill brings out natural sugars, removes moisture and condenses the flavor.-
Don't forget that the flesh isn't the only part of the pumpkin that can be used. The seeds can be roasted and used as a garnish on breads, muffins or on pumpkin soup; added to homemade granola; or pureed into sauces and pesto. According to Inzinga, the flower blossoms can be battered and fried or stuffed and baked. Both chefs even recommend using hollowed-out pumpkins as bowls and tureens for chili or soup.
'It's important for people to realize that when you go pumpkin picking, those pumpkins are grown for their size and shape, not necessarily flavor,' says Brown. The large pumpkins are less sweet. He says there are hundreds of varieties of pumpkins, and you can get more sweetness and flavor if you are more selective. He recommends allaboutpumpkins.com as a reference for the characteristics of different types of pumpkins.
Tips for roasting a pumpkin:
To roast a pumpkin, Brown recommends roasting it at 350 to 375 F for a medium-length roasting time. The flesh will brown a bit. For a more concentrated flavor, roast at 300 F for a longer period of time and bump the temperature up to 425 F for the last 15 to 20 minutes. Pumpkins are a lot like potatoes - you can tell if they are done by touch. They will get softer the longer they cook.
'Pumpkins are incredibly versatile. They can be used in virtually any application,' says Chef Joseph Brown, culinary chair at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Raleigh - Durham, a campus of South University. From sweet to savory, desserts to dinners, Brown and Chef Arthur Inzinga, culinary instructor at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, offer tips and ideas for making the most of your pumpkins.
Pumpkin can be added to a variety of dishes to provide textural elements as well as flavor. 'When pumpkin is cooked down it is very similar to mashed potatoes, but more sweet and flavorful,' says Brown. 'It brings a sweetness to the table, which is its most unique aspect.' He adds that anywhere a potato is being cut up and cooked, pumpkin would be a good addition and/or substitution.
Pureed pumpkin can be added to a variety of sauces and soups, and according to Inzinga, 'pumpkin is used a lot in conjunction with pasta.' -He recommends using it as a filling in gnocchi: 'Typically, gnocchi is made with potato puree. You can substitute pumpkin puree.' Brown also notes it can be used as a filling for ravioli.
Adding the bold flavor of pumpkin to a variety of dishes can be achieved with some simple substitutions. Pumpkin chili can be created by augmenting some of the stock and tomato with pureed pumpkin. 'This brings a richness to the chili. The pumpkin is going to be as much a textural component as it is a flavorful item,' says Brown. He also adds that pumpkin and tomato go together beautifully. This can be seen in autumn or pumpkin pizza, where the pumpkin becomes part of the sauce. Brown likes to top his pumpkin pizza with barbequed chicken. Inzinga recommends juicing some of the pumpkin pulp and using it as the cooking liquid for risotto or mixing equal parts pureed pumpkin to mashed potatoes. 'It can be used as an ingredient in pancakes and waffles to replace some of the liquid and add flavor,' he says.
Pumpkin can also take center stage in dishes such as pumpkin-based bread puddings and ice creams and pumpkin butter. Inzinga says pumpkin butter is much like apple butter and can be created by adding pumpkin pie spices and cooking the pumpkin down until it is a spreadable consistency. He also recommends pumpkin/apple smoothies made with pureed pumpkin, apple juice and a bit of yogurt.
Enjoy the full flavor of the pumpkin by dicing and roasting with other root vegetables, sauteing it to bring out its natural flavors or even putting it on the grill. Brown says the slow heat of the grill brings out natural sugars, removes moisture and condenses the flavor.-
Don't forget that the flesh isn't the only part of the pumpkin that can be used. The seeds can be roasted and used as a garnish on breads, muffins or on pumpkin soup; added to homemade granola; or pureed into sauces and pesto. According to Inzinga, the flower blossoms can be battered and fried or stuffed and baked. Both chefs even recommend using hollowed-out pumpkins as bowls and tureens for chili or soup.
'It's important for people to realize that when you go pumpkin picking, those pumpkins are grown for their size and shape, not necessarily flavor,' says Brown. The large pumpkins are less sweet. He says there are hundreds of varieties of pumpkins, and you can get more sweetness and flavor if you are more selective. He recommends allaboutpumpkins.com as a reference for the characteristics of different types of pumpkins.
Tips for roasting a pumpkin:
To roast a pumpkin, Brown recommends roasting it at 350 to 375 F for a medium-length roasting time. The flesh will brown a bit. For a more concentrated flavor, roast at 300 F for a longer period of time and bump the temperature up to 425 F for the last 15 to 20 minutes. Pumpkins are a lot like potatoes - you can tell if they are done by touch. They will get softer the longer they cook.
Holiday party in minutes: Three gourmet cheese plate pairings guaranteed to impress
(BPT) - Whether you're gathering with friends, colleagues or family this holiday season, entertaining with appetizers is the perfect way to have fun without the stress of creating a multi-course meal. And when the question of what to serve arises and you need an easy-yet-impressive solution, cheese plates are an ideal way to bring a gourmet touch to your event without a lot of effort.
If a cheese plate sounds too basic, think again. It's all about balancing tastes, textures and visual appeal with a variety of fun food and beverage pairings. Plus, it's a great conversation starter to get your guests interacting.
Luckily, if you're in a rush on the day of your gathering, a cheese plate is easy to put together in minutes - no cooking necessary. Just plan to include three to five cheeses per platter - estimate about 3 to 4 ounces of cheese per person - and arrange -your choices on a pretty dish or tray.
There are infinite ways to create a cheese plate that will be the talk of your party. Consider these simple suggestions for a bit of inspiration:
* Play with variety and contrast. Include cheeses in a range of textures, from soft to semi-hard to crumbly or hard, that have a range of flavor profiles. Consider combinations like a soft and creamy brie, a harder aged cheese like Stella Sharp Provolone and a crumbly Salemville blue cheese.
* Start mild and move to strong. Give your guests a tastebud tour of the many different flavors fine cheeses have to offer. Present a trio of options with varied intensity of flavor including an appealingly tangy chevre like Organic Creamery goat cheese, a buttery Gouda and a bold cheese like Black Creek Extra Sharp Cheddar.
* Shake it up with unusual cheeses. Give guests the opportunity to try cheeses they might not have had before. It's the perfect way for them to sample something that could become a new favorite. Look for cheeses with unique ingredients, like Great Midwest Mango Fire Cheddar, which has habanero pepper and the rich sweetness of mango.
It's a great idea to set out some other small food items that pair nicely with cheese, like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, Marcona almonds, grilled vegetables, sliced fruit or even chocolate.
Cheese and wine famously go together, so offering your guests samples from a few bottles will make the tasting experience even more fun. Keep these wine-and-cheese pairing principles in mind:
* For hard, stronger-flavored cheeses (e.g. Gruyere or aged Cheddar): Medium-bodied reds (e.g. Pinot Noir)
* For soft, young cheeses (e.g. goat cheese): Simple, young wines like sauvignon blanc
* For stronger blue cheeses (e.g. gorgonzola, Danish Blue): Sweet/dessert wines
* For mild, buttery or creamy cheeses (e.g. triple-creme bries): Sparkling wines
* Semi-soft cheeses (e.g. camembert): Chardonnays and full cabernets
Parties should be just as much fun for the hostess as they are for guests. Opting for easy-to-create gourmet cheese plates will save time and allow you to enjoy the tasting experience with friends and family. For more pairing ideas that will make your holiday party the most memorable of the season, visit www.dcicheeseco.com/entertaining-pairing.
If a cheese plate sounds too basic, think again. It's all about balancing tastes, textures and visual appeal with a variety of fun food and beverage pairings. Plus, it's a great conversation starter to get your guests interacting.
Luckily, if you're in a rush on the day of your gathering, a cheese plate is easy to put together in minutes - no cooking necessary. Just plan to include three to five cheeses per platter - estimate about 3 to 4 ounces of cheese per person - and arrange -your choices on a pretty dish or tray.
There are infinite ways to create a cheese plate that will be the talk of your party. Consider these simple suggestions for a bit of inspiration:
* Play with variety and contrast. Include cheeses in a range of textures, from soft to semi-hard to crumbly or hard, that have a range of flavor profiles. Consider combinations like a soft and creamy brie, a harder aged cheese like Stella Sharp Provolone and a crumbly Salemville blue cheese.
* Start mild and move to strong. Give your guests a tastebud tour of the many different flavors fine cheeses have to offer. Present a trio of options with varied intensity of flavor including an appealingly tangy chevre like Organic Creamery goat cheese, a buttery Gouda and a bold cheese like Black Creek Extra Sharp Cheddar.
* Shake it up with unusual cheeses. Give guests the opportunity to try cheeses they might not have had before. It's the perfect way for them to sample something that could become a new favorite. Look for cheeses with unique ingredients, like Great Midwest Mango Fire Cheddar, which has habanero pepper and the rich sweetness of mango.
It's a great idea to set out some other small food items that pair nicely with cheese, like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, Marcona almonds, grilled vegetables, sliced fruit or even chocolate.
Cheese and wine famously go together, so offering your guests samples from a few bottles will make the tasting experience even more fun. Keep these wine-and-cheese pairing principles in mind:
* For hard, stronger-flavored cheeses (e.g. Gruyere or aged Cheddar): Medium-bodied reds (e.g. Pinot Noir)
* For soft, young cheeses (e.g. goat cheese): Simple, young wines like sauvignon blanc
* For stronger blue cheeses (e.g. gorgonzola, Danish Blue): Sweet/dessert wines
* For mild, buttery or creamy cheeses (e.g. triple-creme bries): Sparkling wines
* Semi-soft cheeses (e.g. camembert): Chardonnays and full cabernets
Parties should be just as much fun for the hostess as they are for guests. Opting for easy-to-create gourmet cheese plates will save time and allow you to enjoy the tasting experience with friends and family. For more pairing ideas that will make your holiday party the most memorable of the season, visit www.dcicheeseco.com/entertaining-pairing.
Quick tips for pulling together a holiday potluck
(BPT) - When your holiday-dinner guest list keeps growing year after year, it may be time to share the cooking. A potluck is a great way to share the load, and with just a little advance planning you can avoid ending up with 12 green bean casseroles on the dinner table.
'Don't be shy about assigning food categories to your guests,' says Ginny Bean, founder and publisher of Ginny's catalog and www.ginnys.com.'This eliminates the guesswork for them, too.' Bean suggests you start planning four to six weeks out, and following these simple tips.
* Don't overlook the non-cooks. Include categories such as beverages and paper products, or ask non-cooks to bring flowers, candles or other items to decorate the table. Those who want to help but need something easy to do can do some of the shopping for you.
* Double up. Ask at least two of the guests to make different salads, two to make different potato dishes, two people to bring different green vegetables, and two to bring pies. Plan on making the turkey, stuffing and gravy yourself.
* Make sure someone brings kid food. There's nothing worse than having kids reject all the food at the table. Make sure there's ice cream or another dessert that appeals to kids, some sparkling apple juice for a special toast, and kid-friendly items like mac and cheese or yams with marshmallows.
* Pick your battles. If someone really wants to bring a certain dish that you don't particularly want, let them bring it anyway. You never know which dish might turn into a family tradition.
* Assess your appliance needs. Ask guests to let you know ahead of time if they'll need refrigerator, oven or range-top space. The added capacity of countertop ovens and microwaves can be a godsend for big holiday meals. Plan a menu with some dishes that can be served at room temperature so you don't have too many dishes that need to be kept hot. -
* Be prepared with extra serving plates, bowls and spoons. Somebody's bound to forget something. Also remind guests to label their serving dishes and utensils. Most regular potluck participants can tell tales about losing the lid to a favorite plastic bowl or discovering that the only casserole dish left on the table was not the one they brought.
* Don't attempt to serve all the food from one table. Place desserts on a table separate from main dishes and side dishes. Locate beverages in another area. For the most convenient self-service, arrange the buffet so diners can serve themselves from both sides of the table. Lay out the table in logical order: plates at one end of the table for guests to pick up and load with food, and utensils tucked inside napkins at the other end to grab once their plates are full.
* Strike while the iron's hot (and guests are in a festive mood). Before everyone leaves, set up the planning committee and solicit suggestions for next year.
To request a copy of Ginny's catalog, log on to Ginnys.com or call (800) 487-9024.
'Don't be shy about assigning food categories to your guests,' says Ginny Bean, founder and publisher of Ginny's catalog and www.ginnys.com.'This eliminates the guesswork for them, too.' Bean suggests you start planning four to six weeks out, and following these simple tips.
* Don't overlook the non-cooks. Include categories such as beverages and paper products, or ask non-cooks to bring flowers, candles or other items to decorate the table. Those who want to help but need something easy to do can do some of the shopping for you.
* Double up. Ask at least two of the guests to make different salads, two to make different potato dishes, two people to bring different green vegetables, and two to bring pies. Plan on making the turkey, stuffing and gravy yourself.
* Make sure someone brings kid food. There's nothing worse than having kids reject all the food at the table. Make sure there's ice cream or another dessert that appeals to kids, some sparkling apple juice for a special toast, and kid-friendly items like mac and cheese or yams with marshmallows.
* Pick your battles. If someone really wants to bring a certain dish that you don't particularly want, let them bring it anyway. You never know which dish might turn into a family tradition.
* Assess your appliance needs. Ask guests to let you know ahead of time if they'll need refrigerator, oven or range-top space. The added capacity of countertop ovens and microwaves can be a godsend for big holiday meals. Plan a menu with some dishes that can be served at room temperature so you don't have too many dishes that need to be kept hot. -
* Be prepared with extra serving plates, bowls and spoons. Somebody's bound to forget something. Also remind guests to label their serving dishes and utensils. Most regular potluck participants can tell tales about losing the lid to a favorite plastic bowl or discovering that the only casserole dish left on the table was not the one they brought.
* Don't attempt to serve all the food from one table. Place desserts on a table separate from main dishes and side dishes. Locate beverages in another area. For the most convenient self-service, arrange the buffet so diners can serve themselves from both sides of the table. Lay out the table in logical order: plates at one end of the table for guests to pick up and load with food, and utensils tucked inside napkins at the other end to grab once their plates are full.
* Strike while the iron's hot (and guests are in a festive mood). Before everyone leaves, set up the planning committee and solicit suggestions for next year.
To request a copy of Ginny's catalog, log on to Ginnys.com or call (800) 487-9024.
Friday, November 9, 2012
'Tis the season for holiday baking
(BPT) - The holidays are a busy season. From cooking and baking for family and friends to holiday shopping and preparing for time-honored traditions, the season will pass in a blur. Regardless, it's also the time of year when everyone has holiday cookies and extra-special meals on their minds.
While dreaming of countless delectable treats, like homemade eggnog and royal icing, there is also a risk that at-home cooks and bakers strive to avoid: salmonella. Renowned baker and author of The Cake Bible and Rose's Christmas Cookies, Rose Levy Beranbaum, uses pasteurized eggs instead of worrying about the risk of salmonella when baking her holiday treats.
Beranbaum offers tips for baking this holiday season and her favorite iced sugar cookie recipe.
* Prep the kitchen. Put away unnecessary items, clean off the counter or table top and make sure that all of the tools and ingredients are available to make for a smoother baking process.
* Measurement is key. Unlike cooking, baking requires exact measurement. One important technique is the spoon-and-sweep method for measuring flour, which can settle. Scoop the flour into the measuring cup, ensure it is full and sweep off the excess with a knife.
* Be patient. Allow the cookie sheets to cool completely before using for the next batch to avoid flat cookies.
* Think through baking times. Looking for a slightly softer, chewier cookie? Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and reduce the baking time slightly
* Use high quality ingredients. Products like Safest Choice Pasteurized Eggs eliminate the risk of salmonella - and they add a little fun and excitement back into the kitchen for anyone who enjoys a quick taste of cookie batter or using eggs in raw preparations like Beranbaum's royal icing recipe.
Traditional Rolled Christmas Sugar Cookies
Makes about 4 dozen 3-inch cookies
Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups (11.25 ounces) bleached all-purposed flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar
12 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large Safest Choice Pasteurized Egg
1 tablespoon (finely grated) lemon zest
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Royal Icing (recipe follows)
Directions:
Soften the butter. In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until fluffy. Add the egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract and beat until blended. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining dry ingredients. On low speed, gradually add them to the butter mixture and mix until incorporated. Add water, a few drops at a time, only until the dough starts to come away from the sides of the bowl.
Scrape the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap and use the wrap, not your fingers, to press the dough together to form a thick flat disc. Wrap it well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably no longer than 3. Place 2 oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven. Preheat oven to 350 F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough, covered with plastic wrap to prevent cracking, to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut shapes using your favorite cookie cutters or freehand with a knife. With a small spatula, transfer the cookies to the prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes or until the cookies begin to brown around the edges. For even baking, rotate the cookie sheets from top to bottom and front to back halfway through the baking period. Use a small spatula to transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool before decorating with Royal Icing, dragees, sprinkles and glittering holiday edibles. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Royal Icing
Ingredients:
3 large Safest Choice pasteurized egg whites
4 cups (1 pound) powdered sugar
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl, place the egg whites and powdered sugar and beat, preferably with the whisk beater, at low speed, until the sugar is moistened. Beat at high speed until very glossy and stiff peaks form when the beater is lifted (5 to 7 minutes). The tips of the peaks should curve slightly. If necessary, more powdered sugar may be added. Keeps for 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
While dreaming of countless delectable treats, like homemade eggnog and royal icing, there is also a risk that at-home cooks and bakers strive to avoid: salmonella. Renowned baker and author of The Cake Bible and Rose's Christmas Cookies, Rose Levy Beranbaum, uses pasteurized eggs instead of worrying about the risk of salmonella when baking her holiday treats.
Beranbaum offers tips for baking this holiday season and her favorite iced sugar cookie recipe.
* Prep the kitchen. Put away unnecessary items, clean off the counter or table top and make sure that all of the tools and ingredients are available to make for a smoother baking process.
* Measurement is key. Unlike cooking, baking requires exact measurement. One important technique is the spoon-and-sweep method for measuring flour, which can settle. Scoop the flour into the measuring cup, ensure it is full and sweep off the excess with a knife.
* Be patient. Allow the cookie sheets to cool completely before using for the next batch to avoid flat cookies.
* Think through baking times. Looking for a slightly softer, chewier cookie? Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and reduce the baking time slightly
* Use high quality ingredients. Products like Safest Choice Pasteurized Eggs eliminate the risk of salmonella - and they add a little fun and excitement back into the kitchen for anyone who enjoys a quick taste of cookie batter or using eggs in raw preparations like Beranbaum's royal icing recipe.
Traditional Rolled Christmas Sugar Cookies
Makes about 4 dozen 3-inch cookies
Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups (11.25 ounces) bleached all-purposed flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar
12 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large Safest Choice Pasteurized Egg
1 tablespoon (finely grated) lemon zest
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Royal Icing (recipe follows)
Directions:
Soften the butter. In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until fluffy. Add the egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract and beat until blended. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining dry ingredients. On low speed, gradually add them to the butter mixture and mix until incorporated. Add water, a few drops at a time, only until the dough starts to come away from the sides of the bowl.
Scrape the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap and use the wrap, not your fingers, to press the dough together to form a thick flat disc. Wrap it well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably no longer than 3. Place 2 oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven. Preheat oven to 350 F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough, covered with plastic wrap to prevent cracking, to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut shapes using your favorite cookie cutters or freehand with a knife. With a small spatula, transfer the cookies to the prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes or until the cookies begin to brown around the edges. For even baking, rotate the cookie sheets from top to bottom and front to back halfway through the baking period. Use a small spatula to transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool before decorating with Royal Icing, dragees, sprinkles and glittering holiday edibles. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Royal Icing
Ingredients:
3 large Safest Choice pasteurized egg whites
4 cups (1 pound) powdered sugar
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl, place the egg whites and powdered sugar and beat, preferably with the whisk beater, at low speed, until the sugar is moistened. Beat at high speed until very glossy and stiff peaks form when the beater is lifted (5 to 7 minutes). The tips of the peaks should curve slightly. If necessary, more powdered sugar may be added. Keeps for 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Break some rules and have fun with holiday entertaining
(BPT) - Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, 'People are always getting ready to live but never living.' This year as thousands of details that surround holiday gatherings threaten to ruin your holiday memories, take a few moments and think about how much nicer it would be if you could be enjoying the special moments with your family and friends. Instead each year you spend countless hours in the kitchen, slaving over a hot stove while your guests enjoy themselves in the next room. Imagine if you could spend more time with them, sharing stories and enjoying their company.
It can be done. It might be time to tweak some traditions, take a few shortcuts and rethink your personal holiday entertaining rules. There are many options to help you entertain in style without all the hassle (and you'll still get rave reviews). Planning ahead can help you reduce stress and give you back your holidays. Consider these five easy steps to simplify holiday entertaining:
1. Fill your freezer with tasty treats to pull out at a moment's notice. Premade appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts that you can thaw, bake and serve are lifesavers during the holiday season. Many companies like Kansas City Steak Company make it easy for you to have tasty holiday meals with minimal effort and maximum flavor. They do all the preparation; you get the glory.
How would your guests enjoy this menu? Caramelized onion and feta pastry kisses, tender Chateaubriand, creamy mashed potatoes with porcini mushrooms and a chocolate hazelnut ganache cake for dessert. Or how about a delectable menu of baby brie bites with cranberry chutney, paired with Beef Wellington, twice baked potatoes and a sour cherry peach tart? It will look like you spent days preparing this feast and you'll be the only one to know it took a few clicks, a look in your freezer that morning and a few minutes to get the meal on the table.
2. Rethink traditions. Just because your mother and her mother spent two days preparing the Thanksgiving turkey dinner, it's okay to give yourself permission to create new traditions that fit your lifestyle while tempting the taste buds of the special people in your life. Want to change things up? How about a Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham for Thanksgiving this year? Using a fully cooked, slow-smoked ham as the star attraction from the traditional turkey dinner will cut your preparation time on Thanksgiving by hours - and you'll still have plenty of leftovers to enjoy after a day of bargain hunting on Black Friday.
3. Use free Web guides to pair the perfect wine with your meal. If you want to create the perfect wine pairing for your holiday meal, Kansas City Steak Company has a great guide. They've done all the work for you, so relax and enjoy the compliments you'll receive for making a wise decision when it comes to the perfect palate pleasers.
4. Rent holiday entertainment items. There's no need to store holiday entertaining items you may only use once a year. Many companies rent holiday serving items, china, wine glasses, tablecloths and more. The items come ready to use and when you're finished with them, you simply send them back. No need to worry about storage space or washing linens.
5. Think potluck for entertaining. People are more than willing to bring a dish to pass for holiday gatherings. A simple request, like: 'We're going to try something new this year. I'd like you to bring your favorite appetizer, side dish, dessert, etc. I'll provide the roast (of your choice) and beverages.' Few things are more social than a potluck meal. This allows you to get together with your favorite people without doing all the work yourself. Do a little planning up front and you'll have a wonderful meal where everyone can take a bow.
So this year, break some rules and live your holidays to the fullest. Just remember the words of the late Katherine Hepburn, 'If you obey all the rules, you'll miss all the fun.' Happy holidays.
It can be done. It might be time to tweak some traditions, take a few shortcuts and rethink your personal holiday entertaining rules. There are many options to help you entertain in style without all the hassle (and you'll still get rave reviews). Planning ahead can help you reduce stress and give you back your holidays. Consider these five easy steps to simplify holiday entertaining:
1. Fill your freezer with tasty treats to pull out at a moment's notice. Premade appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts that you can thaw, bake and serve are lifesavers during the holiday season. Many companies like Kansas City Steak Company make it easy for you to have tasty holiday meals with minimal effort and maximum flavor. They do all the preparation; you get the glory.
How would your guests enjoy this menu? Caramelized onion and feta pastry kisses, tender Chateaubriand, creamy mashed potatoes with porcini mushrooms and a chocolate hazelnut ganache cake for dessert. Or how about a delectable menu of baby brie bites with cranberry chutney, paired with Beef Wellington, twice baked potatoes and a sour cherry peach tart? It will look like you spent days preparing this feast and you'll be the only one to know it took a few clicks, a look in your freezer that morning and a few minutes to get the meal on the table.
2. Rethink traditions. Just because your mother and her mother spent two days preparing the Thanksgiving turkey dinner, it's okay to give yourself permission to create new traditions that fit your lifestyle while tempting the taste buds of the special people in your life. Want to change things up? How about a Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham for Thanksgiving this year? Using a fully cooked, slow-smoked ham as the star attraction from the traditional turkey dinner will cut your preparation time on Thanksgiving by hours - and you'll still have plenty of leftovers to enjoy after a day of bargain hunting on Black Friday.
3. Use free Web guides to pair the perfect wine with your meal. If you want to create the perfect wine pairing for your holiday meal, Kansas City Steak Company has a great guide. They've done all the work for you, so relax and enjoy the compliments you'll receive for making a wise decision when it comes to the perfect palate pleasers.
4. Rent holiday entertainment items. There's no need to store holiday entertaining items you may only use once a year. Many companies rent holiday serving items, china, wine glasses, tablecloths and more. The items come ready to use and when you're finished with them, you simply send them back. No need to worry about storage space or washing linens.
5. Think potluck for entertaining. People are more than willing to bring a dish to pass for holiday gatherings. A simple request, like: 'We're going to try something new this year. I'd like you to bring your favorite appetizer, side dish, dessert, etc. I'll provide the roast (of your choice) and beverages.' Few things are more social than a potluck meal. This allows you to get together with your favorite people without doing all the work yourself. Do a little planning up front and you'll have a wonderful meal where everyone can take a bow.
So this year, break some rules and live your holidays to the fullest. Just remember the words of the late Katherine Hepburn, 'If you obey all the rules, you'll miss all the fun.' Happy holidays.
Grocery insight: What is fair trade and how does it make a difference?
(BPT) - When buying groceries, shoppers have the potential to impact countless people who work behind the scenes producing the foods and beverages that end up in households across America. Purchasing Fair Trade Certified(TM) products has been on the rise for the last 30 years, but most people still aren't aware of the impact fair trade has on coffee-growing communities around the world and the difference purchasing Fair Trade Certified coffee can make.
By choosing fair trade products, consumers help to improve the lives of farmers around the world. Fair trade guarantees farmers a fair price for their coffee, which helps to improve the quality of life in farming communities - from better access to education and healthcare, to community development opportunities. Furthermore, by participating in the fair trade system, coffee growers are able to farm in a more sustainable manner, which is better for the environment because it reduces the use of agrochemicals, helps to manage and mitigate the impact of waste water and protects natural vegetation areas, while promoting good farming practices.
Fair trade helps to link farmers directly with coffee roasters, such as Green Mountain Coffee Roasters (GMCR), who purchase high-quality, unroasted, green coffee at fair prices, creating long-term business relationships. Since the start of GMCR's involvement in fair trade and involvement with Fair Trade USA in 2000, GMCR's Fair Trade Certified coffee purchases have delivered more than $13 million in community development premium funds to coffee farmers.
Some people believe Fair Trade Certified foods are more expensive, but if you compare costs, you'll find that these products are competitively priced. Fair trade organizations work directly with producers, so they can keep products affordable for consumers. In addition, the fair trade model allows coffee farmers to invest in better farming techniques, therefore producing some of the highest quality coffees available.
Coffee companies like Green Mountain Coffee Roasters celebrate through fair trade awareness programs. This year, Green Mountain Coffee(R) launched the 'Great Coffee, Good Vibes, Pass It On' campaign to encourage people to learn more about the benefits of fair trade. Musicians Grace Potter and Michael Franti joined Green Mountain Coffee(R) as brand ambassadors to help pass on the 'good vibes' through free concerts in New York City and Los Angeles. By visiting Green Mountain Coffee on Facebook (Facebook.com/GreenMountainCoffee), consumers can learn more about Fair Trade Certified coffee.
Fair Trade Certified coffee is something you can feel good about purchasing - because it means a great cup of coffee for you and a better quality of life for farmers. It's a simple choice that makes a big difference. Make your dollars count by purchasing fair trade labeled products at your local grocery store.
By choosing fair trade products, consumers help to improve the lives of farmers around the world. Fair trade guarantees farmers a fair price for their coffee, which helps to improve the quality of life in farming communities - from better access to education and healthcare, to community development opportunities. Furthermore, by participating in the fair trade system, coffee growers are able to farm in a more sustainable manner, which is better for the environment because it reduces the use of agrochemicals, helps to manage and mitigate the impact of waste water and protects natural vegetation areas, while promoting good farming practices.
Fair trade helps to link farmers directly with coffee roasters, such as Green Mountain Coffee Roasters (GMCR), who purchase high-quality, unroasted, green coffee at fair prices, creating long-term business relationships. Since the start of GMCR's involvement in fair trade and involvement with Fair Trade USA in 2000, GMCR's Fair Trade Certified coffee purchases have delivered more than $13 million in community development premium funds to coffee farmers.
Some people believe Fair Trade Certified foods are more expensive, but if you compare costs, you'll find that these products are competitively priced. Fair trade organizations work directly with producers, so they can keep products affordable for consumers. In addition, the fair trade model allows coffee farmers to invest in better farming techniques, therefore producing some of the highest quality coffees available.
Coffee companies like Green Mountain Coffee Roasters celebrate through fair trade awareness programs. This year, Green Mountain Coffee(R) launched the 'Great Coffee, Good Vibes, Pass It On' campaign to encourage people to learn more about the benefits of fair trade. Musicians Grace Potter and Michael Franti joined Green Mountain Coffee(R) as brand ambassadors to help pass on the 'good vibes' through free concerts in New York City and Los Angeles. By visiting Green Mountain Coffee on Facebook (Facebook.com/GreenMountainCoffee), consumers can learn more about Fair Trade Certified coffee.
Fair Trade Certified coffee is something you can feel good about purchasing - because it means a great cup of coffee for you and a better quality of life for farmers. It's a simple choice that makes a big difference. Make your dollars count by purchasing fair trade labeled products at your local grocery store.
Road trip snacks to fuel family fun
(BPT) - As Americans love affair with the family road trip hits full throttle, fuel the fun with these tips for enjoying delicious and satisfying snacks that can be eaten on the go. Stay hydrated by loading up on plenty of fresh fruits and veggies. Grape tomatoes, berries and carrot sticks are great bite-sized snacks perfect for small fingers. By choosing high-protein snacks with staying power, you'll keep your family's hunger at bay so your drive time flies by without hassle.
For longer road trips, be sure to include plenty of ready-to-eat snacks. For example, here is a great-tasting recipe that can be made ahead of time to smooth the journey:
Beef or Ham Pinwheels
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon grated onion
1 teaspoon horseradish Dash Worchestershire sauce
2 packages (2 ounces each) Buddig Original Sliced Beef or Ham
Combine cream cheese, onion, horseradish and Worcestershire sauce until well blended. Separate sliced meat, laying two slices in a row, slightly overlapped. Spread with cream cheese mixture. Roll up and fasten with a wooden pick. Repeat with remaining meat and cream cheese. Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours. Just before serving, cut into 1-inch slices. Keep snacks cold in a portable or disposable cooler until ready to eat. Makes approximately 3 and a half dozen pinwheels.
Nutritional information: calories per serving (one 1-inch piece) 23; calories from fat 19; total fat 2 grams; saturated fat 1 gram; trans fat 0 grams; cholesterol 8 milligrams; sodium 55 milligrams; total carbohydrate less than 1 gram; dietary fiber 0 grams; protein 1 gram.
Eating on the go
Demand for handheld meals and snacks that can be eaten on the go has accelerated in recent years, thanks to an increase in multi-tasking, according to a 2010 report from Information Resources, Inc.
Low calorie and trans fat free, Old Wisconsin Turkey Snack Bites get the green light for family road trips with hardwood smoked treats that taste great. Old Wisconsin Snack Bites come in Turkey, Beef and Pepperoni varieties and can be enjoyed out of the bag providing a delicious and natural source of protein. Each turkey bite serving has just 80 calories and 7 grams of protein. The stay-fresh bag is resealable for added convenience.
Fill your tank
To help pave the way for your next family road trip, enter for a chance to win free gas for a year and other great prizes. Look for the Fill Your Tank sticker on specially marked Buddig and Old Wisconsin packages. Enter your on-pack code by visiting buddig.com/fillyourtank or oldwisconsin.com/fillyourtank now through Sept. 30 for a chance to win a year's supply of free gas (retail value $3,500), along with weekly gas card prizes worth $100 and propane gift cards valued at $20.
For more information about family friendly recipes and road-trip worthy snacks, visit www.buddig.com and www.oldwisconsin.com. Also, follow these companies on Facebook at www.facebook.com/buddiglunchclub.
For longer road trips, be sure to include plenty of ready-to-eat snacks. For example, here is a great-tasting recipe that can be made ahead of time to smooth the journey:
Beef or Ham Pinwheels
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon grated onion
1 teaspoon horseradish Dash Worchestershire sauce
2 packages (2 ounces each) Buddig Original Sliced Beef or Ham
Combine cream cheese, onion, horseradish and Worcestershire sauce until well blended. Separate sliced meat, laying two slices in a row, slightly overlapped. Spread with cream cheese mixture. Roll up and fasten with a wooden pick. Repeat with remaining meat and cream cheese. Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours. Just before serving, cut into 1-inch slices. Keep snacks cold in a portable or disposable cooler until ready to eat. Makes approximately 3 and a half dozen pinwheels.
Nutritional information: calories per serving (one 1-inch piece) 23; calories from fat 19; total fat 2 grams; saturated fat 1 gram; trans fat 0 grams; cholesterol 8 milligrams; sodium 55 milligrams; total carbohydrate less than 1 gram; dietary fiber 0 grams; protein 1 gram.
Eating on the go
Demand for handheld meals and snacks that can be eaten on the go has accelerated in recent years, thanks to an increase in multi-tasking, according to a 2010 report from Information Resources, Inc.
Low calorie and trans fat free, Old Wisconsin Turkey Snack Bites get the green light for family road trips with hardwood smoked treats that taste great. Old Wisconsin Snack Bites come in Turkey, Beef and Pepperoni varieties and can be enjoyed out of the bag providing a delicious and natural source of protein. Each turkey bite serving has just 80 calories and 7 grams of protein. The stay-fresh bag is resealable for added convenience.
Fill your tank
To help pave the way for your next family road trip, enter for a chance to win free gas for a year and other great prizes. Look for the Fill Your Tank sticker on specially marked Buddig and Old Wisconsin packages. Enter your on-pack code by visiting buddig.com/fillyourtank or oldwisconsin.com/fillyourtank now through Sept. 30 for a chance to win a year's supply of free gas (retail value $3,500), along with weekly gas card prizes worth $100 and propane gift cards valued at $20.
For more information about family friendly recipes and road-trip worthy snacks, visit www.buddig.com and www.oldwisconsin.com. Also, follow these companies on Facebook at www.facebook.com/buddiglunchclub.
Food gifts top the list this holiday season
(BPT) - When it comes to shopping for holiday gifts, the options are unlimited. From new clothes to electronics to home decor, you can shop forever trying to find just the perfect gift. If your gift list is long, just think of the time and money you will spend.
Why not make your holiday shopping much easier this year with food gifts for your loved ones? Food is always a popular gift. In fact, specialty food gifts account for nearly $20 billion of the more than $120 billion that Americans spend annually on gifts, according to food industry experts. With the wide variety of choices in the food gift category, you can perfectly match a gift to the preferences of every recipient on your holiday list.
Food gifts are:
* Perfect for family and friends - A gift of food is the gift of an occasion - a reason to get together with family and friends to enjoy a delicious meal and great conversation around the dinner table. Your food gift can help your loved ones to plan a special family meal together or to host a party for friends.
* Always right - A food gift will never be the wrong size or color, and there's nothing to assemble. As long as you choose items to please the palate of your recipients, your gift will be successful.
* Easy on your budget - The diversity of food gifts at varying price points allow you to develop a package that fits perfectly into your holiday gift budget.
* Simple and stress-free - Holiday gift packages of varying price points like those from Omaha Steaks make it easy to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Omaha Steaks The Ideal Gift Assortment highlights the best of the best, offering filet mignons, top sirloins, stuffed sole with scallops and crab meat, burgers, stuffed baked potatoes and a chocolate cake for dessert, all at an affordable price. Packages can be easily ordered by phone and online and are delivered directly to the gift recipient. It's easy to choose a gift that matches the preferred tastes of your recipients perfectly.- A quick visit to www.OmahaSteaks.com will allow you to finish your holiday shopping in record time.
Food gifts provide an experience, an occasion and a reason to celebrate with family and friends. That is what makes the holidays special and why food has earned a solid reputation as the perfect gift. This year, think food gifts. You'll enjoy stress-free holiday shopping and your gifts will be warmly welcomed and appreciated by everyone on your gift list.
Why not make your holiday shopping much easier this year with food gifts for your loved ones? Food is always a popular gift. In fact, specialty food gifts account for nearly $20 billion of the more than $120 billion that Americans spend annually on gifts, according to food industry experts. With the wide variety of choices in the food gift category, you can perfectly match a gift to the preferences of every recipient on your holiday list.
Food gifts are:
* Perfect for family and friends - A gift of food is the gift of an occasion - a reason to get together with family and friends to enjoy a delicious meal and great conversation around the dinner table. Your food gift can help your loved ones to plan a special family meal together or to host a party for friends.
* Always right - A food gift will never be the wrong size or color, and there's nothing to assemble. As long as you choose items to please the palate of your recipients, your gift will be successful.
* Easy on your budget - The diversity of food gifts at varying price points allow you to develop a package that fits perfectly into your holiday gift budget.
* Simple and stress-free - Holiday gift packages of varying price points like those from Omaha Steaks make it easy to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Omaha Steaks The Ideal Gift Assortment highlights the best of the best, offering filet mignons, top sirloins, stuffed sole with scallops and crab meat, burgers, stuffed baked potatoes and a chocolate cake for dessert, all at an affordable price. Packages can be easily ordered by phone and online and are delivered directly to the gift recipient. It's easy to choose a gift that matches the preferred tastes of your recipients perfectly.- A quick visit to www.OmahaSteaks.com will allow you to finish your holiday shopping in record time.
Food gifts provide an experience, an occasion and a reason to celebrate with family and friends. That is what makes the holidays special and why food has earned a solid reputation as the perfect gift. This year, think food gifts. You'll enjoy stress-free holiday shopping and your gifts will be warmly welcomed and appreciated by everyone on your gift list.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
How smart shopping can help transform your lifestyle
How smart shopping can help transform your lifestyle
(ARA) - Eating right and exercising is something we all know we should do, but the follow-through can be harder than we think. You don't need to take part in an expensive or radical health program to improve your life. Thinking long term and making small changes like shopping smarter and taking a closer look at what we eat can help improve our lives.
Shop with a plan
Try to avoid going grocery shopping without a list or menu in mind - or worse still, when you're hungry. Wandering through the aisles can lead to picking up a lot of foods you don't need or aren't good for you, leading to expensive trips now and poor health later.
But if you shop smarter, you can turn the same trip into a much less painful experience on your wallet and your waist line. Creating a list and planning your menu for the week ahead is a great way to start. You can shop for only what you need in a given week, and if your schedule is particularly chaotic, you can prepare many of your meals in advance. Once you get into a routine, it can be much easier to navigate the grocery store.
Look at labels
One way to help get yourself feeling great on the inside and out is to take a closer look at what you're buying. If you're not sure where to start, consider the advice from the American Heart Association and look for foods that are lower in sodium.
Whether you are looking for snack items, main course options or condiments, more and more companies are trying to help consumers by making options that will help you move toward a better-for-you lifestyle. For example, Vlasic pickles has introduced their new line of Reduced Sodium pickles that have 25 percent less sodium. One serving of the reduced sodium pickles amounts to only seven percent of the daily sodium intake values outlined by the AHA and the Food and Drug Administration. And as an added bonus they have zero fat or calories.
Also, keep an eye on the serving size of what you're eating. If you need help sticking to that, try using this "serving size card" from the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute for reference.
Tweak recipes
For those who love to cook, so many of the recipes handed down from generation to generation aren't always the healthiest. Part of the joy of cooking is that it's more art than science, so cut back on items that aren't healthy and substitute in better-for-you items. If you are looking for inspiration or help, search for any one of the thousands of food blogs on the Internet - many of which offer healthier alternatives, like Hungry Girl or the Food Network's Healthy Eating Blog.
Living a better-for-you lifestyle doesn't mean giving up all the foods that you love and enjoy - it means being smarter about how you shop, cook and eat. Once you do that, you'll be amazed at how much better you feel.
(ARA) - Eating right and exercising is something we all know we should do, but the follow-through can be harder than we think. You don't need to take part in an expensive or radical health program to improve your life. Thinking long term and making small changes like shopping smarter and taking a closer look at what we eat can help improve our lives.
Shop with a plan
Try to avoid going grocery shopping without a list or menu in mind - or worse still, when you're hungry. Wandering through the aisles can lead to picking up a lot of foods you don't need or aren't good for you, leading to expensive trips now and poor health later.
But if you shop smarter, you can turn the same trip into a much less painful experience on your wallet and your waist line. Creating a list and planning your menu for the week ahead is a great way to start. You can shop for only what you need in a given week, and if your schedule is particularly chaotic, you can prepare many of your meals in advance. Once you get into a routine, it can be much easier to navigate the grocery store.
Look at labels
One way to help get yourself feeling great on the inside and out is to take a closer look at what you're buying. If you're not sure where to start, consider the advice from the American Heart Association and look for foods that are lower in sodium.
Whether you are looking for snack items, main course options or condiments, more and more companies are trying to help consumers by making options that will help you move toward a better-for-you lifestyle. For example, Vlasic pickles has introduced their new line of Reduced Sodium pickles that have 25 percent less sodium. One serving of the reduced sodium pickles amounts to only seven percent of the daily sodium intake values outlined by the AHA and the Food and Drug Administration. And as an added bonus they have zero fat or calories.
Also, keep an eye on the serving size of what you're eating. If you need help sticking to that, try using this "serving size card" from the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute for reference.
Tweak recipes
For those who love to cook, so many of the recipes handed down from generation to generation aren't always the healthiest. Part of the joy of cooking is that it's more art than science, so cut back on items that aren't healthy and substitute in better-for-you items. If you are looking for inspiration or help, search for any one of the thousands of food blogs on the Internet - many of which offer healthier alternatives, like Hungry Girl or the Food Network's Healthy Eating Blog.
Living a better-for-you lifestyle doesn't mean giving up all the foods that you love and enjoy - it means being smarter about how you shop, cook and eat. Once you do that, you'll be amazed at how much better you feel.
Impress your guests with holiday etiquette 101
Impress your guests with holiday etiquette 101
(ARA) - You've spent the entire day in the kitchen cooking the perfect holiday meal. But it's an hour before your guests arrive and you find yourself standing in front of the table listening to that little nagging voice inside your head.
Do the water glasses go to the right or left? What side does the knife go on? Should you go ahead and put food on the table before guests arrive, or wait until everyone gets there?
"We hear from so many panicked people this time of year looking for a crash course in how to set the table and proper manners," says etiquette coach Jill Slatter. "Most of us are stretched so thin juggling work, school and home that we don't have time to sit down together for a proper meal except at the holidays, and then the pressure is on to be perfect."
Slatter is the etiquette expert for Greensboro, N.C.-based Replacements, Ltd., billed as the world's largest retailer of old and new china, silver, crystal and collectibles. Based on their most frequently asked questions, Slatter shares a holiday etiquette 101 crash course that's sure to help you impress your guests.
Set the perfect table
Forks to the left, knives and spoons to the right. The sharp side of the knife blade should be turned toward the dinner plate. Only include utensils in your place setting that will be used for the courses you are serving. "If you're not serving soup or salad, you certainly don't want an extra spoon or fork in your place setting," Slatter says. "Not only will those get in the way and create extra work for you, the extra utensils may confuse your guests."
The bread plate goes on the left of the dinner plate, glasses on the right.
Wait to pour. Water glasses should be the only glasses filled before your guests arrive. Iced tea, wine and other beverages should be poured once everyone is seated. Wine glasses should be filled halfway, not to the rim.
Salad and bread should be the only food on the table when your guests arrive.
Are you the hostess with the mostest?
Remember, the hostess always sits last.
Passing isn't just in football. Always pass food around the table counter clockwise to the right and refrain from serving yourself first. Always pass the salt and pepper as a set, even if you're only asked for one.
Can your guests see each other? Sure those flowers you spent hours arranging for the centerpiece are pretty, but they will only get in the way if your guests have to crane their necks to see each other. Make sure your guests can look over any table adornments.
Be a gracious guest
"There is nothing more disruptive than a cell phone ringing at the dinner table," says Slatter. "Turn your phone on vibrate, or better yet, don't even bring it to the table. Holiday gatherings mark the time to enjoy the company of the people you are with, rather than ignore them by chatting with someone who's not even there."
Wait for the signal. Your hosts will let you know when it's okay to begin eating. They may offer a blessing or statement or perhaps start by passing a dish.
If you're not sure which utensil to use with each course, start on the outside and work in toward the dinner plate.
If you need to excuse yourself temporarily, gently place your napkin on your chair to indicate you will be coming back.
Signify you're finished with the meal by placing your napkin to the left of the dinner plate, and your fork and knife side by side diagonally across your plate with the sharp side of the knife blade facing inward and the fork tines up.
"Another big question we hear concerns what to do if you accidently break a piece of the host's dinnerware," adds Slatter. "You should certainly offer to replace the broken piece especially if it has sentimental value for the host or hostess."
Slatter says don't lose hope if your host doesn't know the name of the pattern or the manufacturer; you can always take advantage of Replacements' free pattern identification service.
If you're still in doubt about holiday etiquette 101, help is just a mouse click away. You can watch more of Slatter's tips on Replacements' YouTube channel. You can also find cheat sheets of place setting guides diagramming how to set the table for various meals at the company's website, www.replacements.com. Bon appetit!
(ARA) - You've spent the entire day in the kitchen cooking the perfect holiday meal. But it's an hour before your guests arrive and you find yourself standing in front of the table listening to that little nagging voice inside your head.
Do the water glasses go to the right or left? What side does the knife go on? Should you go ahead and put food on the table before guests arrive, or wait until everyone gets there?
"We hear from so many panicked people this time of year looking for a crash course in how to set the table and proper manners," says etiquette coach Jill Slatter. "Most of us are stretched so thin juggling work, school and home that we don't have time to sit down together for a proper meal except at the holidays, and then the pressure is on to be perfect."
Slatter is the etiquette expert for Greensboro, N.C.-based Replacements, Ltd., billed as the world's largest retailer of old and new china, silver, crystal and collectibles. Based on their most frequently asked questions, Slatter shares a holiday etiquette 101 crash course that's sure to help you impress your guests.
Set the perfect table
Forks to the left, knives and spoons to the right. The sharp side of the knife blade should be turned toward the dinner plate. Only include utensils in your place setting that will be used for the courses you are serving. "If you're not serving soup or salad, you certainly don't want an extra spoon or fork in your place setting," Slatter says. "Not only will those get in the way and create extra work for you, the extra utensils may confuse your guests."
The bread plate goes on the left of the dinner plate, glasses on the right.
Wait to pour. Water glasses should be the only glasses filled before your guests arrive. Iced tea, wine and other beverages should be poured once everyone is seated. Wine glasses should be filled halfway, not to the rim.
Salad and bread should be the only food on the table when your guests arrive.
Are you the hostess with the mostest?
Remember, the hostess always sits last.
Passing isn't just in football. Always pass food around the table counter clockwise to the right and refrain from serving yourself first. Always pass the salt and pepper as a set, even if you're only asked for one.
Can your guests see each other? Sure those flowers you spent hours arranging for the centerpiece are pretty, but they will only get in the way if your guests have to crane their necks to see each other. Make sure your guests can look over any table adornments.
Be a gracious guest
"There is nothing more disruptive than a cell phone ringing at the dinner table," says Slatter. "Turn your phone on vibrate, or better yet, don't even bring it to the table. Holiday gatherings mark the time to enjoy the company of the people you are with, rather than ignore them by chatting with someone who's not even there."
Wait for the signal. Your hosts will let you know when it's okay to begin eating. They may offer a blessing or statement or perhaps start by passing a dish.
If you're not sure which utensil to use with each course, start on the outside and work in toward the dinner plate.
If you need to excuse yourself temporarily, gently place your napkin on your chair to indicate you will be coming back.
Signify you're finished with the meal by placing your napkin to the left of the dinner plate, and your fork and knife side by side diagonally across your plate with the sharp side of the knife blade facing inward and the fork tines up.
"Another big question we hear concerns what to do if you accidently break a piece of the host's dinnerware," adds Slatter. "You should certainly offer to replace the broken piece especially if it has sentimental value for the host or hostess."
Slatter says don't lose hope if your host doesn't know the name of the pattern or the manufacturer; you can always take advantage of Replacements' free pattern identification service.
If you're still in doubt about holiday etiquette 101, help is just a mouse click away. You can watch more of Slatter's tips on Replacements' YouTube channel. You can also find cheat sheets of place setting guides diagramming how to set the table for various meals at the company's website, www.replacements.com. Bon appetit!
Tips for easy, fun holiday entertaining
Tips for easy, fun holiday entertaining
(ARA) - Entertaining friends and family during the holiday season is as customary as drinking eggnog and opening presents. These gatherings usually involve investigating new - and delicious - recipes, decorating the house to the hilt, building the perfect collection of holiday tunes to play and finding fun activities to keep everyone engaged throughout.
The key to successful entertaining over the holidays is preparation. Here are some tips from Mike Wisner, executive chef for kitchen appliance maker LG Electronics USA, to help you throw a great holiday party:
* The menu is one of the most important aspects of a holiday gathering. To keep everyone happy with each course, make sure you have something for simple and extravagant tastes. Cheese, sausages or cured meats and crackers provide you with plenty of options. Also be aware of your guests' food allergies.
* Map out your meals a few days in advance and don't feel like you have to cook everything. Cold food items make great hors d'oeuvres. Decide when you want to eat, so you know when to start cooking (or unwrapping) each dish. A double-oven range can make your preparations easier. With two separate ovens that can operate independently at different temperatures, LG's range helps you prepare appetizers and an entree or the entree and dessert at the same time.
* Take the opportunity to do as much as you can to prepare in the days leading up to your party. Many food items can be prepared days in advance and only need reheating before serving. Additionally, things like rolling napkins, decorating, and setting your gathering area can be done well ahead of time.
* If you're hosting a gathering with children in attendance, be sure to have some fun movies on hand to keep them entertained. If you want to wow your guests, consider a CINEMA 3D TV and 3D Blu-ray player package from LG. With four sets of polarized glasses and a wide viewing angle, it's perfect for large groups to enjoy the latest 3D releases like "The Lion King," "Captain America" and the "Toy Story" trilogy. Consider throwing favorite holiday shows into the mix to keep the seasonal theme going strong.
* Music is always an important element to hosting a successful holiday party. Be sure to make a few playlists beforehand and remember, keep the volume at a level where the music can be heard, but you can still have a conversation. It also helps to have the right speaker system.
* Clean up can be the worst part of hosting, especially since most people leave it to the end of the night. It's never a bad idea to clean as you go and use disposable serving items where appropriate. Finally, you'll find that many guests would be happy to lend a hand.
"Pulling off a fun and entertaining holiday party takes work and good planning," Wisner says. "But with the right preparation, friends and family will request an encore party next holiday season." To help out, here's one of the chef's easy recipes for a great holiday appetizer:
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients:
1 bunch of asparagus
1/2 pound thinly sliced prosciutto or serrano ham
Extra virgin olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Directions:
After removing one to two inches off the ends of the asparagus, cut into two to three inch lengths. Cook in a large pot of boiling water until they are "al dente." They should still have a slight crunch when bitten. When done, move them to a bowl of ice water to stop further cooking. Once chilled, remove and pat dry. Wrap each piece in a slice of ham (you can cut large slices in half). Store in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. These can be prepared up to two days in advance.
To serve:
Remove the wrapped asparagus from the refrigerator an hour before serving to allow them to warm up. Preheat broiler on high for five minutes. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet and then in broiler until the tops are crisped, about two to three minutes. Flip over and repeat for the other side. Remove from the oven and arrange on a serving tray. Drizzle with a good quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
(ARA) - Entertaining friends and family during the holiday season is as customary as drinking eggnog and opening presents. These gatherings usually involve investigating new - and delicious - recipes, decorating the house to the hilt, building the perfect collection of holiday tunes to play and finding fun activities to keep everyone engaged throughout.
The key to successful entertaining over the holidays is preparation. Here are some tips from Mike Wisner, executive chef for kitchen appliance maker LG Electronics USA, to help you throw a great holiday party:
* The menu is one of the most important aspects of a holiday gathering. To keep everyone happy with each course, make sure you have something for simple and extravagant tastes. Cheese, sausages or cured meats and crackers provide you with plenty of options. Also be aware of your guests' food allergies.
* Map out your meals a few days in advance and don't feel like you have to cook everything. Cold food items make great hors d'oeuvres. Decide when you want to eat, so you know when to start cooking (or unwrapping) each dish. A double-oven range can make your preparations easier. With two separate ovens that can operate independently at different temperatures, LG's range helps you prepare appetizers and an entree or the entree and dessert at the same time.
* Take the opportunity to do as much as you can to prepare in the days leading up to your party. Many food items can be prepared days in advance and only need reheating before serving. Additionally, things like rolling napkins, decorating, and setting your gathering area can be done well ahead of time.
* If you're hosting a gathering with children in attendance, be sure to have some fun movies on hand to keep them entertained. If you want to wow your guests, consider a CINEMA 3D TV and 3D Blu-ray player package from LG. With four sets of polarized glasses and a wide viewing angle, it's perfect for large groups to enjoy the latest 3D releases like "The Lion King," "Captain America" and the "Toy Story" trilogy. Consider throwing favorite holiday shows into the mix to keep the seasonal theme going strong.
* Music is always an important element to hosting a successful holiday party. Be sure to make a few playlists beforehand and remember, keep the volume at a level where the music can be heard, but you can still have a conversation. It also helps to have the right speaker system.
* Clean up can be the worst part of hosting, especially since most people leave it to the end of the night. It's never a bad idea to clean as you go and use disposable serving items where appropriate. Finally, you'll find that many guests would be happy to lend a hand.
"Pulling off a fun and entertaining holiday party takes work and good planning," Wisner says. "But with the right preparation, friends and family will request an encore party next holiday season." To help out, here's one of the chef's easy recipes for a great holiday appetizer:
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients:
1 bunch of asparagus
1/2 pound thinly sliced prosciutto or serrano ham
Extra virgin olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Directions:
After removing one to two inches off the ends of the asparagus, cut into two to three inch lengths. Cook in a large pot of boiling water until they are "al dente." They should still have a slight crunch when bitten. When done, move them to a bowl of ice water to stop further cooking. Once chilled, remove and pat dry. Wrap each piece in a slice of ham (you can cut large slices in half). Store in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. These can be prepared up to two days in advance.
To serve:
Remove the wrapped asparagus from the refrigerator an hour before serving to allow them to warm up. Preheat broiler on high for five minutes. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet and then in broiler until the tops are crisped, about two to three minutes. Flip over and repeat for the other side. Remove from the oven and arrange on a serving tray. Drizzle with a good quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Monday, October 10, 2011
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