#cheese flavored dirty martini

[mrsmarlasinger]

My charcuterie board dirty martini bubble bath slay 👍

[mariacallous]

Of all the foods and topics we discuss here at The Nosher, we know that BAGELS are one of the most beloved — and controversial.

Whether it’s New York-style bagels or Montreal-style bagels, to scoop or not to scoop, toast or not, and what kind of cream cheese (or egg salad or lox) goes on top, you guys have some strong feelings. And we do, too.

Nothing is quite as important as the FLAVOR, so we set out to rank America’s most popular types of bagels based on our own tastes, your opinion via Facebook, and also some actual, like journalistic-style research, too. (Yup, we even picked up the phone for this one.)

According to Goldberg’s Famous Deli in MIllburn, NJ, plain and everything are by far the most popular flavors, with cinnamon raisin trailing in third. On average they make at least double the amount of plain and everything bagels in their deli compared to the other flavors. Jim from Goldberg’s also shared with me that while Russian pumpernickel and marbled rye are two of the least popular flavors, they are two of the best tasting bagels you will find. And many of our staff members agreed: While pumpernickel may be the red-headed ugly stepsister of bagels, it is definitely delicious.

But we wanted to go beyond the New York tri-state region in our research, so we also called up Meshuggeh Bagels, which has three locations in both Kansas and Missouri, and they concurred: Plain and everything are also the most popular flavors, with sesame in third place. Like Goldberg’s Famous Deli, they make about double the amount of these flavors daily. And the least favorites? Poppy seed and whole wheat, two somewhat surprising choices. I guess mid-Westerners are not into pretending whole wheat bagels are healthy. Side note: Meshuggeh Bagels features a “Dirty Martini” cream cheese flavor among their schmear selection. Bagels and martinis anyone? But I digress.

So here is the official ranking. Talk amongst yourselves, we know you guys have a lot to say on this one.

[guyfierai]

Guy's Dirty Hole Martini Recipe 🍸

<p>Buckle up, we're cruising to cocktail paradise with this Flavortown special! 🍹</p><h2>Guy's Dirty Hole Martini 🍸</h2><ul><li>2 oz Vodka 🥃</li><li>0.5 oz Olive Brine 🫒</li><li>0.5 oz Lemon Juice 🍋</li><li>Dash of Hot Sauce 🌶️</li><li>Garnish: Blue Cheese Stuffed Olive 🫒</li></ul><h3>Instructions:</h3><ol><li>Fill a shaker with ice 🧊.</li><li>Add vodka, olive brine, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce. Shake it up like you're mixing up Flavortown! 🍹</li><li>Strain into a chilled martini glass 🍸.</li><li>Garnish with a blue cheese stuffed olive. 🫒</li></ol><p>Holy moly, Stromboli! This drink is Money! 💵 It's got that briny, zesty, and spicy kick that'll make you forget all about dirty holes and just focus on the flavor explosion! 🌟</p><p>Peace, love, and taco grease! 🌮</p>

[fresh-bag-of-ham]

bougieposting tw but this restaurant tonight is doing that olive oil-washed vodka trend but it's washed in olive oil AND pecorino romano... holy shit my friends. my comrades 🥵

[jadelynlace]

fifty questions

tagged by the wonderful @skrsgardspam

questions & answers are under the cut.

what color is your hairbrush? -white, it has a llama on it

name a food you never eat? - duck, my father is a hunter and still wants me to try it 

are you typically too warm or too cold? - I’m too warm, always

what were you doing 45 minutes ago? - putting brownies in the oven

what’s your favorite candy bar? - take five 

have you ever been to a professional sports game? - yes, once

what’s the last thing you said out loud? - “mother fucker” shocker, I know

what’s your favorite ice cream? - coffee or cookie dough

what was the last thing you had to drink? - coffee

do you like your wallet? - yes, it’s army green and vegan leather

what’s the last thing you ate? - I had a bagel with jalapeño cream cheese

did you buy any new clothes last weekend? - yes

what’s the last sporting event you watched? - some of the super bowl in February

what is your favorite flavor of popcorn? - just plain popcorn

who’s the last person you sent a text to? - my mom

ever go camping? - yes, but not since I was a child, and I hated it

do you take vitamins? - yes, when I take my other medications

do you go to church every Sunday? - I’ve never been to church

do you have a tan? - no, I can’t tan, only burn

do you prefer Chinese or pizza? - Chinese take out all the way

do you drink soda through a straw? - not usually

what color socks do you usually wear? - I only wear socks with boots, but they’re usually just plain

do you ever drive above the speed limit? - all the time, it's a bad habit

what terrifies you? - being in the middle of the ocean, but that’s unrealistic mostly. But other than that, nothing

look to your left, what do you see? - a feline

what chore do you hate the most? - I love cleaning, so none

what do you think of when you hear an Australian accent? - Steve Irwin, honestly

what’s your favorite soda? - coke zero

do you go in fast food or just hit the drive thru? - drive thru, I usually have a small children in my wake

what’s your favorite number? - 23

who’s the last person you talked to? - my mom

favorite cut of beef? - ground beef honestly, you can make so many things. but if we’re talking real cuts, definitely the fillet mignon 

last song you listened to? - Welcome to the Jungle by Guns and Roses

last book you read? - I’m starting to read Cruel Sacrifice by Aphrodite Jones

can you say the alphabet backwards? - yes, I have to teach it so I know it back wards too from repeating it so many times

favorite day of the week? - Mondays, I get to see the kids.

how do you like your coffee? - black

favorite pair of shoes? - my black combat boots

time you normally wake up? - 6 am on work days, 8 am on weekends

sunrise or sunset? - sunset, if I’m in a nice spot to see it

how many blankets on your bed? - my sheet and comforter, and then the fluffy blanket my kitty likes, so 3 total

describe your kitchen plates - white with a gold ring around the edge 

describe your kitchen at the moment - small little apartment kitchen, pretty basic with wood cabinets and granite counter tops. I do have a rolling island cart that I love.

do you have a favorite alcoholic drink? - dirty martinis, or white wine

do you play cards? - no, not really. Unless uno counts, then I sometimes play that with the preschoolers to teach them colors, numbers, and how to take turns

what color is your car? - sand / light brown

can you change a tire? - yes and I can change my oil, too

your favorite state, province, country, etc. - Maine, or the small little town my grandmother lives in

favorite job you’ve had? - working with children, I also did enjoying working on the adult unit at the psychiatric ward in my county

how did you get your biggest scar? - self harming

tagging: @bae-roman @kathryn-jane @walkxthexmoon @lihikainanea @angelofthenightposts @emmyrosee @smileysam13579 @unbetaedimagines @helllandhoney @a-stunning-princess and anyone else who would like to!

[thevioletjones]

50 QUESTIONS YOU’VE NEVER BEEN ASKED

1. What is the color of your hairbrush? Brown & black.

2. A food you never eat? Oysters.

3. Are you typically too warm or too cold? I hate being cold.

4. What were you doing 45 minutes ago? Drinking a screwdriver and talking to my grandma.

5. What is your favorite candy bar? XOXO milk chocolate toffee and almond bars

6. Have you ever been to a professional sports event? Baseball.

7. What is the last thing you said out loud? I guess I said goodnight to my grandma, but I've probably said some random shit to one of my pets since then.

8. What is your favorite ice cream? Ben & Jerry's Phish Food.

9. What was the last thing you had to drink? Water, and I still have some of that vodka drink left.

10. Do you like your wallet? This question is dumb.

11. What was the last thing you ate? Oh, so apparently, if you cook salmon on a cedar plank on a grill, it takes all the fish taste away and ends up being pretty amazing. So I ate that with some brocolli and rosemary potatoes. 👌🏻

12. Did you buy any new clothes last weekend? No.

13. The last sporting event you watched? I don't really care for watching sportsball.

14. What is your favorite flavor of popcorn? Regular, with butter.

15. Who was the last person you sent a text message to? My best friend, Pamela.

16. Ever go camping? Yes.

17. Do you take vitamins? Sometimes. Trying to get back to the daily Emergen-C.

18. Do you go to church every Sunday? Hell no.

19. Do you have a tan? No.

20. Do you prefer Chinese food or pizza? They're both too good.

21. Do you drink your soda with a straw? Yes.

22. What color socks do you usually wear? Whatever color is clean.

23. Ever drive above the speed limit? Duh.

24. What terrifies you? Death.

25. Look to your left, what do you see? My boy cat, bathing himself.

26. What chore do you hate? Dishes.

27. What do you think of when you hear an Australian accent? I don't fucking know, Australia?

28. What’s your favorite soda? Ginger ale.

29. Do you go into a fast food place or just hit the drive through? Drive-thru.

30. Who’s the last person you talked to? Gran.

31. Favorite cut of beef? Filet mignon or rib eye.

32. Last song you listened to? Not the Same Anymore by The Strokes.

33. Last book you read? I honestly can't remember. I just read fucking fanfic all the time. Been trying to start a real novel for months.

34. Favorite day of the week? What is a week?

35. Can you say the alphabet backwards? I could try.

36. Do you like your coffee? Yeah, sometimes.

37. Favorite pair of shoes? Chucks or strappy high heels.

38. At what time do you normally go to bed? Late as fuck.

39. At what time do you normally get up? Lately, fucking noon. Trying to get back to that 10am. Lol

40. What do you prefer, sunrises or sunsets? Sunsets.

41. How many blankets are on your bed? 2.

42. Describe your kitchen plates: Cream & gold, and dark red.

43. Do you have a favorite alcoholic beverage? Dirty Gin Martini with blue cheese stuffed olives.

44. Do you play cards? Not often.

45. What color is your car? Sunset Orange, which is like a burnt orange really.

46. Can you change a tire? Never have before, but I definitely could if I had to. I always manage to figure out how to do shit myself when forced.

47. What is your favorite province? British Columbia, cuz I used to live in Vancouver. US states? California.

48. Favorite job you’ve ever had? Assistant post production supervisor.

49. How did you get your biggest scar? I have many small scars all over, mostly from years of cat scratches, but I think my biggest is from a badly skinned knee from when I was playing outside as a kid.

50. What did you do today that made someone else happy? Did my nursing bit with an elderly relative with Alzheimers. 3rd day back since being sick.

Thanks to @grumblesandmumbles for the tag. I fell asleep doing this earlier, so it was like 11:30, not 2 am, lol. I tag @thehonorarybeaumont, @mayyouwalk, and @milkymickeyway.

[uswnt5]

What’s your martini of choice if you were 2-3 in the wind last night did you stick with the same flavor for all or do you like to mix your mixed drinks??? We need the tea goslib?!

dirty martini with extra olives. last night I had blue cheese stuffed olives and omg it was SO good. I was out for dinner.

same drink last night, but I've been known to switch it up and sometimes that is a bad decision for the following morning.

[jodybouchard9]

20 Cool Ways To Upcycle Food Scraps You Typically Toss in the Trash

Elva Etienne / Getty Images

The coronavirus pandemic has changed much of our daily lives. The masks. The social distancing. The major disruptions in our food supply chain.

Many restaurants are still closed, or seating at reduced capacity. Grocery store shelves have been swept clean of essentials like flour and beans. This all likely means you’re paying a lot more attention to what you have in your pantry and fridge, and wondering how long you can hold out until your next grocery run. (Victory garden, anyone?)

It turns out that there are plenty of ways to stretch your food stash further—not by waiting weeks for those tomatoes to finally grow, but by simply repurposing the food scraps and leftovers you typically toss in the trash. This will not only save money and extend your time between store trips, but you can also feel good knowing you’re recycling items that were otherwise destined for the landfill. It’s a win-win all round!

For inspiration, here are 20 different ways to reuse food scraps and leftovers that are so easy, you’ll wonder why it took a pandemic for you to try them.

1. Regrow green onions

In addition to being very tasty and versatile, green onions are a gift that keeps on giving. The next time you buy some, try using only the tops for recipes and dishes. Drop the remaining bottoms into a glass jar, then fill with enough water to cover the roots. Set the jar on the windowsill, and watch as your green onions magically regrow before your eyes.

This tutorial from the Ripe Tomato Farms shows exactly how to do it.

2. Reuse leftover jar juices

When you finish all the pickles, olives, or pepperoncini in a jar, you might be tempted to just dump the remaining juice down the drain. Not so fast!

These briny juices can be reused as meat marinades, salad vinaigrettes, secret ingredient in dirty martinis, or, yes, even pickle pops. You can also use them to pickle just about any vegetable, from tomatoes to a whole new batch of cucumbers.

3. Add cheese rinds to soups and stews

Cheese rinds are full of leftover cheese bits and flavors, so it’s a shame to waste them. Instead of tossing them in the trash, drop them into the pot the next time you’re making soup or stew.

Simply fish out the big chunks of rind before blending or serving your soup and, voila, you’ve got extra umami flavor. There are even recipes that call for used cheese rinds, like this video tutorial for minestrone soup below. Yum!

  4. Make gummy candies with leftover citrus peels

Instead of tossing the peels from lemons, limes, oranges, and other citrus fruits, why not turn them into natural gummy candies? You basically boil the peels in water, then again in a sugar-water solution, before letting them dry and tossing them with sugar. You’ll be rewarded with a healthy(ish) candy even your kids will love.

5. Transform stale bread into croutons or breadcrumbs

It happens to the best of us: Our bread goes stale before we can eat the entire loaf. But the good news is you can easily turn this old bread into crunchy, delicious croutons or homemade breadcrumbs.

For croutons, start by cutting the bread into cubes, drizzling them with olive oil, and tossing them in the oven.

6. Use food scraps to make master stock

Instead of throwing vegetable scraps and meat bones in the garbage, save them in the freezer until you have enough to make master stock. This all-purpose base can be made with whatever you have handy: chicken bones, beef bones, pork bones, carrot peels, celery ends, you name it. You can even add those crispy onion and garlic skins you typically throw away.

Once you’ve made your stock, you can either use it immediately or freeze it to use later in soups, casseroles, and other savory dishes.

7. Steep banana peels in hot chocolate

Make your homemade hot chocolate taste gourmet by adding banana peels. Make your hot chocolate in a saucepan on the stove, adding the peel for a little extra oomph. (You’ll want to remove it before you drink the hot chocolate, of course.)

8. Save bacon drippings to use in place of olive oil

Olive oil isn’t cheap. Make yours last a little longer by sometimes replacing it with bacon grease. The next time you fry up some bacon, simply pour the remaining drippings and oil into a glass jar with a lid. When you’re cooking something that calls for olive oil, simply spoon out a little bacon grease instead. As we all know, bacon makes everything more delicious.

9. Freeze overripe bananas for smoothies

If you’re so over banana bread but you’ve got some overripe bananas on the counter, don’t fret. You can freeze them and drop them into smoothies later for a sweet, creamy treat. All you need to do is remove the peels and store them in the freezer in an airtight container or plastic bag.

10. Grow your own romaine

The next time you make a salad, go ahead and save the core of the romaine lettuce. Similar to green onions, you place the bottom in a glass jar, then add enough water to cover the lower portion. Set the jar on a windowsill and wait—soon, you’ll see new, dark-green lettuce leaves peeking out from the middle.

11. Roast or fry your potato peelings

The next time you peel a potato, save the skin to turn it into a crunchy, salty snack. Toss the peels with a little olive oil, some salt and pepper, and any other spices you like. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, and roast them in the oven. After you pull them out, you can even top them with a little grated parmesan, like they do in this tutorial from PCC Community Markets,,,,.

12. Turn used cooking oils into bird suet

Suet is a type of bird food made with solid fat and seeds or grains. After you make bacon, for example, simply pour the remaining grease into a container, stir in some store-bought birdseed, and pop the whole thing in the freezer. Once the fat hardens, you can place this suet chunk in a small suet cage, found at gardening and home improvement stores.

13. Chop up herbs and freeze them in butter for a future flavor bomb

If you bought (or grew!) more herbs than you can use before they’ll go bad, don’t worry. You can wash, chop, and freeze these herbs in an ice-cube tray, along with a little butter or olive oil, for later use.

For example, the next time you need to melt a little butter in a skillet to saute some veggies, drop in one of your herbed butter cubes instead. Instant flavor!

14. Turn drippings and grease from cooked meats into gravy

Another way to reuse drippings and grease from cooked meats is to make gravy. Simply pour the grease remaining from meat into a jar with a lid.

If you wake up the next morning craving biscuits and gravy, add a few tablespoons of the now-solid grease to your pan, make a roux with flour, and add milk or cooking stock. Stir and, within minutes, it will thicken and make a savory sauce for your biscuits.

15. Make a natural cleaning solution with orange peels and vinegar

If you love the bright, fresh smell of oranges, you’ll be happy to know you can easily make your own natural cleaning solution with orange peels. Simply add your peels to a jar, cover with distilled white vinegar, top with a lid, and wait a week or two. The time allows the vinegar to extract all the yummy-smelling oils from the peels.

Don’t have oranges around? You can use other types of citrus, too. Once it’s ready, pour the solution into a spray bottle and use it to clean the entire house.

16. Use veggie peels to make natural fabric dyes

Have a shirt you hate because the color just doesn’t work with your skin tone? Instead of tossing it in the donate pile, try dying it with natural dyes from veggie peels.

Beet skins, red cabbage leaves, onion skins, spinach, blueberries, and even tea bags can be used to dye fabrics, without harsh, synthetic chemicals. This tutorial from My Green Closet shows how it works.

17. Grind up eggshells and add them to your garden

Eggshells are made almost entirely of calcium carbonate, which is great for boosting your garden soil.

The next time you make eggs, grind up the shells and mix them into your garden. The shells will provide much-needed calcium to your vegetables and plants, as well as neutralize soil acidity.

18. Transform used coffee grounds into body scrub

With spas and salons closed because of the coronavirus pandemic, there’s never been a better time to make your own wellness and beauty products at home.

Mix used coffee grounds with sugar and the oil of your choice, like coconut or almond, for an exfoliating body scrub that will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. Watch this tutorial from abetweene.com for full instructions:

19. Save plastic bread and produce bags for dog waste bags

This one isn’t a food as much as it’s packaging, but it still counts as fantastic upcycling! You probably already save your plastic grocery bags and use them to pick up dog waste when you’re out walking your four-legged friend. But don’t forget to do the same thing with plastic bread and produce bags, too, which helps reduce the amount of plastic you’re sending to the landfill.

20. Turn an orange peel into a candle

The next time you reach for an orange, be strategic about how you remove the peel. You can easily turn this discard into a natural candle that smells wonderful using just a little olive oil and some ingenuity.

The post 20 Cool Ways To Upcycle Food Scraps You Typically Toss in the Trash appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

[tableandteaspoon]

Monday Merriment

Infusing grandeur into otherwise drab Mondays with five ideas for the week.

I.  Quarantine forced all of us into the kitchen. Some have embraced the time to learn new recipes, perfect a technique, or even begin their cookbooks. Others have a more efficient outlook, and want to get in and out of there as fast as possible. For my pantry-based culinistas, here are my top hacks to bring the depth of flavor that homemade meals offer without nearly as much effort. Hamburger Helper Beef Strogonoff: replace water with red wine, add sliced mushrooms at the same time you add the pasta, and stir in fresh sour cream before serving. Kraft or Annie’s Mac & Cheese: Make according to instruction, spoon an individual serving into a bowl and grate half a cup of sharp cheddar cheese over it. Microwave or bake until cheese is melted. Remove, stir until combined and then add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or truffle oil. Trader Joe’s Turkey Bolognese: place two servings in a large frying pan, cook on medium-low heat until defrosted, add half a bottle of red wine and a handful of chopped fresh basil, then simmer until wine is reduced. Individual Frozen Lasagna: make according to instruction and set aside. Place one cup of store-bought marinara sauce and one cup of shredded jack or mozzarella into a sauce pan, heat on medium until melted. Serve lasagna in a bowl with cheese sauce poured over it, and a slice of garlic toast. Ramen: add one bouillon cube plus a tablespoon each of rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha to your water and sauce packet before boiling. Once boiling, crack an egg into the mixture and vigorously beat with a fork until broken apart. Add ramen noodles and once finished cooking, pour into a bowl over a handful of fresh spinach and a few cilantro leaves. Squeeze one lime or lemon into the bowl and stir to complete. If you’re feeling more carnivorous, add ground turkey, pork, or beef to the bowl before pouring the ramen over. And if you’re extra ambitious, throw in a halved soft boiled egg.

II.  Devastated that this year’s ArtPoint gala was canceled, a group of fellow art lovers and I were commiserating over how much we’d miss the bash, when our friend Anna came up with the brilliant idea to host a virtual version. This was a pleasant surprise, considering three of the five of us in the group chat sit on the Fine Arts Museums’ auxiliary board and the thought hadn’t occurred to us. The concept was simple - show everyone the art in your home and explain its significance. The best part - we still got to play dress up since the event took place via video (we opted for the Houseparty app, but FaceTime and Zoom are equally effective). I particularly love this idea because it gave me time to review my artwork and remember why each piece deserves to occupy the limited space in my home. The “gala” was a huge success, and such a fun way to spend time together but alone. A piece of advice if you want to host something similar - set an order for who speaks and how many pieces you’ll each discuss beforehand so that everything runs smoothly.

III.  Among the sea of creative ways people are finding to pass time, one of my favorites by far has been my friend Maria and her husband Chris’s idea to batch individual cocktails and drop them at loved ones’ front doors. If memory serves, and it’s possible that it doesn’t given the volume consumed, Chris makes the best dirty martini I’ve had the privilege to imbibe. The duo chose this drink to deliver, but the approach works for anything that isn’t frozen. Replicate the thoughtful gesture by ordering french glass terrines and adding a personal note with a card or tie-on hang tag. Just make sure your recipient is home to swipe up the beverage before a thirsty neighbor preempts them!

IV.  When an ex-boyfriend and I were having trouble communicating about anything other than the superficial, I was advised to give Intimacy Cards a try. Suspect, but desperate to resolve the issue, I ordered them. The gist of the cards is that each partner pulls one at random from six categories - Past, Random, Life, Relationship, Intimacy, and About You, then gives an honest answer. (I believe these cards are best accompanied with at least one bottle of wine...). Though the boyfriend and I never got around to giving the cards a shot before breaking up, I decided to experiment with them on my girlfriends. Typically, my closest crew enjoys spending Sundays creating every form of pasta imaginable. A task that produces endless hours of laughter and Instagrammable content, but also leaves us depleted by the time we actually sit down to enjoy the meal. We opted to forgo an elaborate recipe in favor of a seasonal salad paired with decadent overpriced chocolates, so that we could take turns answering our pulls from the deck. Though some questions had to be skipped, those that we did answer provided such enormous insight into our pasts and psyches that even a pair of sisters at the table learned new things about one another. I can’t recommend the provocative cards more highly. (And Amazon is still delivering them!)

V.  Supporting your local restaurants and caterers (many of whom switched to prepared meal delivery in the wake of Corona) is a no-brainer if you have the resources. But what if you want to truly go above and beyond to share the wealth? Well, look no farther, because I have the perfect solution for you! Your favorite bakery is likely still operating, and would be more than happy to add a pandemic-inspired public service announcement to your confection. The Bay Area’s Butter& already prepared several options, my favorite among them being “Pretend You’re an Introvert” and would love to deliver them to all of your friends and family.

Have a wonderful week! xx tt

[delfinamaggiousa]

Six Cheeses to Throw in Your Oven (and What to Pair With Them)

There’s really no bad time for melty cheese, but winter is an especially nice time to settle in with something oozy, warm, and highly caloric.

Of course, not all gooey cheese treats should be approached the same way. Some really are as simple as a quick toss in the oven. Some are best when sliced and thrown into a cast-iron pan for a sort of quick fondue. For lovers of baked Brie, try upgrading your cheese to a decadent double cream or a more authentic, savory version of Brie that the French go nuts for.

Read on for our six favorite cheeses to throw in your oven and what to drink with them.

Throw Right In

Harbison

Courtesy of Di Bruno Bros.

This American Brie-style cheese from Vermont’s Jasper Hill Farm is likely one of your cheese monger’s favorite cheeses. A round wheel bound in spruce bark, Harbison is ooey gooey perfection at room temperature, but after spending some time in the oven, its flavors of mushrooms, forest floor, and wild raspberries intensify. Dip crostini, salami, or potato chips and pair with a Vermont IPA.

Époisses

Courtesy of Artisanal.

Rumored to be banned on the French subway, ripe Époisses smells like feet and tastes like bacon custard. Époisses hails from Burgundy and gets its notorious stench from being gently washed in a solution of brine and grape pomace, putting it solidly in the “washed rind” family. Époisses smells stronger than it tastes. Especially after a broil, the delight of supercharged umami overpowers any residual stink. Thanks to its lovely yeasty notes, Époisses is excellent served simply with slices of baguette or sourdough bread. It’s traditionally and beautifully paired with red Burgundy, but is also excellent with a smoky spirit like Mezcal.

Slice in a Cast Iron Pan

Raclette

Courtesy of Gadget Flow.

If you’ve been on the internet anytime in the past few years, you’ve likely seen drool-worthy melty cheese videos featuring raclette. There’s a fancy machine you can get to recreate the experience at home, but you can also simply slice raclette (after removing the rind), broil it in a cast iron pan, and then top the cheese with potatoes, bread, meat, and roasted veggies. Just like they did on Instagram! Enjoy with a brown ale.

Fontina Val d’Aosta

This is not the red waxed Danish fontina from the grocery store. Fontina Val d’Aosta has been made in Italy’s Aosta Valley region since the 12th century from the milk of cows grazing on Alpine pastures­. Made similarly to Raclette, it melts in the same no-holds-barred oozy way, and its nuttier, grassier flavor pairs perfectly with Barbaresco. If you want your baked fontina to feel like a fancy party dish, try Ina Garten’s Baked Fontina recipe with garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Pair with a dry, fruity white wine from northern Italy, like Pinot Grigio.

Wrap in Puff Pastry

Fromager d’Affinois

Courtesy of Di Bruno Bros.

Fromager d’Affinois is a double cream cheese, meaning it was made with full-fat milk plus a splash of added cream. Thanks, though, to a process called ultrafiltration that breaks down the fat molecules in order to fully disperse them throughout the paste, d’Affinois feels just as decadent as the best triple cream or even butter. If you like sweeter variations of baked Brie, d’Affinois is the way to go — its creaminess is spectacularly cut with some raspberry preserves. Enjoy it with the most cheerful sparkling wine you can find, such as Prosecco or Cava.

Brie Fermier

For more savory snackers, Brie Fermier and its broccoli cheese soup flavors will be a revelation. Made to mimic the raw milk French Bries, which are illegal here in the U.S., Brie Fermier is garlicky, cabbage-y and onion-y, with notes of broccoli. It’s lovely at room temperature, but when baked, it really leans into its savory soup flavors and will knock the socks off anyone who’s worried that baked Brie is a boring dish of yesteryear. For extra oomph, top it with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms. Baked Brie Fermier is excellent with a dirty Martini, but also nice with a dry Alsatian Gewürztraminer.

The article Six Cheeses to Throw in Your Oven (and What to Pair With Them) appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/6-best-baked-cheese-oven-appetizers-pairings/

source https://vinology1.wordpress.com/2020/01/19/six-cheeses-to-throw-in-your-oven-and-what-to-pair-with-them/

[wineanddinosaur]

The 20 Best Vodka Brands of 2020

Once upon a time, the quality of a vodka was largely determined by what it didn’t have, rather than what it did. In other words: the more neutral the profile, the better. In fact, up until very recently, the TTB officially defined vodka as “neutral spirits distilled or treated after distillation with charcoal or other materials so as to be without distinctive character, aroma, taste or color.”

That definition was finally updated in May 2020, with the part about no “distinctive character, aroma, taste or color” dropped. This is a good thing, because all the bottles featured in this list might otherwise technically be deemed illegal — or at least not legally vodka.

Following a tasting of dozens of brands, VinePair found that the vodka landscape is rich in options, with each showing its own subtle character. None of the bottles that made this year’s list burned when sipped — at room temperature, no less — and combined, they highlight the diversity of the category.

From unusual base ingredients (natural whey protein, anyone?) to bottles that double as bespoke decanters, here are the best vodkas for every budget.

Under $25

Smithworks American Made Vodka

Made in Arkansas using corn from Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, this vodka is triple-distilled and charcoal- filtered prior to bottling. It’s a similar formula to America’s best-selling vodka, Tito’s, but for our money, this bottle offers a lot better value. It has a silky mouthfeel and refreshingly clean profile. It also comes in at more than five bucks cheaper than Tito’s on average. Average price: $14.

Wheatley Vodka

Kentucky’s Buffalo Trace Distillery is best known for producing some of the world’s leading bourbons, but it also offers this wonderfully priced craft vodka. Bottled at 42 percent ABV, following a whopping 10 runs in the still and three rounds of filtration, this wheat-based vodka has grainy aromas, and a faint peppery kick to the palate. Average price: $17

Prairie Organic Vodka

This organic corn vodka is not only kind to the environment, it arrives in an attractive “craft”- style bottle, costs less than $20, and, best of all, tastes great. The nose leads with rich toasted-barley aromas, while the palate is crisp and remarkably smooth. Average price: $17.

Reyka Vodka

Distilled in Borgarnes, Iceland, Reyka makes use of the country’s supply of glacial spring water and volcanic rocks (for filtration) to craft impeccably clean vodka. The nose and palate feature mineral notes and an almost mentholated profile. Average price: $19.

Humboldt Distillery Organic Vodka

Sugarcane provides the base for this organic California vodka. Quadruple- distilled in small batches, its character is light and easygoing. The nose gives off subtle hints of lemon peel and a seasoning of wet stone. The palate is clean with a complete lack of alcoholic burn — even when sipped at room temperature. Average price: $21.

Ketel One

Produced using both column and pot stills — the latter uncommon for making vodka — this spirit has a noticeably smooth, balanced texture. A crack of pepper leads the nose, while the palate enjoys an almost botanical finish. Average price: $23

Under $50

Broken Shed

This New Zealand vodka is made from an unusual base ingredient: natural whey protein (part of the liquid that separates from milk during cheese production). Lithe and fresh, Broken Shed smells like glacial mineral water and has a well-rounded mouthfeel and slightly sweet finish. Average price: $26.

King St. Vodka

Founded by American actress Kate Hudson, this vodka was reportedly designed with Dirty Martinis in mind. It certainly fits the bill: King St. has a clean, almost odorless nose, and a similarly neutral palate, providing an ideal base for vermouth and olive brine to shine. Average price: $26.

Tattersall Distilling Small Batch Vodka

The organic corn that provides the base for this vodka is grown and harvested at the head distiller’s family farm in Rochester, Minn. This bottling is a great example of the character vodka can display. The nose mixes toasted grains and dried banana, giving a profile of freshly baked banana bread. The palate is full-bodied and velvety. Average price: $27.

St. George Spirits All Purpose

While character is key, texture is also an important part of judging a vodka’s quality. This bottle from historic California distiller St. George Spirits excels in the latter field: It feels luxurious on the palate and promises to add body and depth to cocktails. (You could also sip this neat, if you so desire.) Average price: $27.

Grey Goose

Another vodka that shows the importance of texture, Grey Goose provides exceptionally clean, smooth-finishing sips. Made with wheat specially grown in Picardy, France, this is as close as it comes to drinking straight, boozy water. Average price: $29.

Hanson of Sonoma Organic Vodka

Made using a grape base, this California vodka is seven times distilled and five times filtered. It exudes a strong aroma of violet-flavored candy, and has a silky palate with a sweet finish. This is one of the most flavored “unflavored” vodkas on the market. Average price: $29.

Neft Black Barrel

Don’t be fooled by the unconventional packaging, there’s nothing gimmicky about this vodka. An Austrian rye-based spirit, it has a great concentration to the nose, delivering rich sourdough aromas. The palate is incredibly well balanced, with a smooth, lengthy finish. Average price: $29.

You & Yours Distilling Co.

A blend of corn, potato, and grape distillates, this California vodka has a peppery, vegetal nose, with a streak of citrus fruit. The palate has a good mouthfeel and a neutral profile, making it a great supporting actor and perfect for cocktails. Average price: $29.

Haku

From Beam Suntory, this 100 percent rice vodka serves citrus and violet aromas; light, floral flavors; and a fruity finish. With its crisp, delicate profile, this vodka is perfect for dry Martinis with a lemon twist garnish or a refreshing vodka soda. Average price: $29.

Vdka 6100

Another New Zealand offering, this vodka is also distilled from whey. Its aromas are clean and mineral-rich, with just a hint of citrus. The whey protein emerges on the palate, serving well-rounded sips and a slightly spicy finish but no hint of alcoholic burn. Average price: $30.

Slovenia XOXO

The packaging for this vodka is slightly absurd, with the overall appearance of an oversized perfume or a fancy water bottle, and not one but two closures. The spirit inside has intense aromas of wet stones and black pepper. The palate has rich viscosity and a lively finish. Average price: $31.

Chase Original Potato Vodka

A versatile, neutral vodka, this is perfect for every type of Martini. It’s zesty and citrus-driven, making it the ideal candidate for a lemon twist. But there’s also a subtle salinity, which pairs perfectly with olive brine and calls out for a juicy Castelvetrano or three. Average price: $37.

Under $100

Barr Hill

Distilled from raw Vermont honey, this vodka has a distinctive nose: It’s floral but not sweet, with a surprisingly salty undertone. The palate has great body and texture, but still feels lively. With so much character, all this vodka needs is a splash of soda, a handful of ice cubes, and a juicy lemon or lime wedge. Average price: $57.

Crystal Head Aurora

A prickly, peppery nose leads to a fruity, unctuous palate on this Canadian vodka. It’s smooth-sipping and there’s no hint of alcoholic afterburn. But let’s be honest, when you’re spending this amount on a bottle of vodka, you want something more than just great liquor — and this distinctive bottle delivers. Once the vodka inside is finished, it doubles as a bespoke decanter. Average price: $66.

The article The 20 Best Vodka Brands of 2020 appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/buy-this-booze/20-best-vodka-brands-2020/

[isaiahrippinus]

The 20 Best Vodka Brands of 2020

Once upon a time, the quality of a vodka was largely determined by what it didn’t have, rather than what it did. In other words: the more neutral the profile, the better. In fact, up until very recently, the TTB officially defined vodka as “neutral spirits distilled or treated after distillation with charcoal or other materials so as to be without distinctive character, aroma, taste or color.”

That definition was finally updated in May 2020, with the part about no “distinctive character, aroma, taste or color” dropped. This is a good thing, because all the bottles featured in this list might otherwise technically be deemed illegal — or at least not legally vodka.

Following a tasting of dozens of brands, VinePair found that the vodka landscape is rich in options, with each showing its own subtle character. None of the bottles that made this year’s list burned when sipped — at room temperature, no less — and combined, they highlight the diversity of the category.

From unusual base ingredients (natural whey protein, anyone?) to bottles that double as bespoke decanters, here are the best vodkas for every budget.

Under $25

Smithworks American Made Vodka

Made in Arkansas using corn from Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, this vodka is triple-distilled and charcoal- filtered prior to bottling. It’s a similar formula to America’s best-selling vodka, Tito’s, but for our money, this bottle offers a lot better value. It has a silky mouthfeel and refreshingly clean profile. It also comes in at more than five bucks cheaper than Tito’s on average. Average price: $14.

Wheatley Vodka

Kentucky’s Buffalo Trace Distillery is best known for producing some of the world’s leading bourbons, but it also offers this wonderfully priced craft vodka. Bottled at 42 percent ABV, following a whopping 10 runs in the still and three rounds of filtration, this wheat-based vodka has grainy aromas, and a faint peppery kick to the palate. Average price: $17

Prairie Organic Vodka

This organic corn vodka is not only kind to the environment, it arrives in an attractive “craft”- style bottle, costs less than $20, and, best of all, tastes great. The nose leads with rich toasted-barley aromas, while the palate is crisp and remarkably smooth. Average price: $17.

Reyka Vodka

Distilled in Borgarnes, Iceland, Reyka makes use of the country’s supply of glacial spring water and volcanic rocks (for filtration) to craft impeccably clean vodka. The nose and palate feature mineral notes and an almost mentholated profile. Average price: $19.

Humboldt Distillery Organic Vodka

Sugarcane provides the base for this organic California vodka. Quadruple- distilled in small batches, its character is light and easygoing. The nose gives off subtle hints of lemon peel and a seasoning of wet stone. The palate is clean with a complete lack of alcoholic burn — even when sipped at room temperature. Average price: $21.

Ketel One

Produced using both column and pot stills — the latter uncommon for making vodka — this spirit has a noticeably smooth, balanced texture. A crack of pepper leads the nose, while the palate enjoys an almost botanical finish. Average price: $23

Under $50

Broken Shed

This New Zealand vodka is made from an unusual base ingredient: natural whey protein (part of the liquid that separates from milk during cheese production). Lithe and fresh, Broken Shed smells like glacial mineral water and has a well-rounded mouthfeel and slightly sweet finish. Average price: $26.

King St. Vodka

Founded by American actress Kate Hudson, this vodka was reportedly designed with Dirty Martinis in mind. It certainly fits the bill: King St. has a clean, almost odorless nose, and a similarly neutral palate, providing an ideal base for vermouth and olive brine to shine. Average price: $26.

Tattersall Distilling Small Batch Vodka

The organic corn that provides the base for this vodka is grown and harvested at the head distiller’s family farm in Rochester, Minn. This bottling is a great example of the character vodka can display. The nose mixes toasted grains and dried banana, giving a profile of freshly baked banana bread. The palate is full-bodied and velvety. Average price: $27.

St. George Spirits All Purpose

While character is key, texture is also an important part of judging a vodka’s quality. This bottle from historic California distiller St. George Spirits excels in the latter field: It feels luxurious on the palate and promises to add body and depth to cocktails. (You could also sip this neat, if you so desire.) Average price: $27.

Grey Goose

Another vodka that shows the importance of texture, Grey Goose provides exceptionally clean, smooth-finishing sips. Made with wheat specially grown in Picardy, France, this is as close as it comes to drinking straight, boozy water. Average price: $29.

Hanson of Sonoma Organic Vodka

Made using a grape base, this California vodka is seven times distilled and five times filtered. It exudes a strong aroma of violet-flavored candy, and has a silky palate with a sweet finish. This is one of the most flavored “unflavored” vodkas on the market. Average price: $29.

Neft Black Barrel

Don’t be fooled by the unconventional packaging, there’s nothing gimmicky about this vodka. An Austrian rye-based spirit, it has a great concentration to the nose, delivering rich sourdough aromas. The palate is incredibly well balanced, with a smooth, lengthy finish. Average price: $29.

You & Yours Distilling Co.

A blend of corn, potato, and grape distillates, this California vodka has a peppery, vegetal nose, with a streak of citrus fruit. The palate has a good mouthfeel and a neutral profile, making it a great supporting actor and perfect for cocktails. Average price: $29.

Haku

From Beam Suntory, this 100 percent rice vodka serves citrus and violet aromas; light, floral flavors; and a fruity finish. With its crisp, delicate profile, this vodka is perfect for dry Martinis with a lemon twist garnish or a refreshing vodka soda. Average price: $29.

Vdka 6100

Another New Zealand offering, this vodka is also distilled from whey. Its aromas are clean and mineral-rich, with just a hint of citrus. The whey protein emerges on the palate, serving well-rounded sips and a slightly spicy finish but no hint of alcoholic burn. Average price: $30.

Slovenia XOXO

The packaging for this vodka is slightly absurd, with the overall appearance of an oversized perfume or a fancy water bottle, and not one but two closures. The spirit inside has intense aromas of wet stones and black pepper. The palate has rich viscosity and a lively finish. Average price: $31.

Chase Original Potato Vodka

A versatile, neutral vodka, this is perfect for every type of Martini. It’s zesty and citrus-driven, making it the ideal candidate for a lemon twist. But there’s also a subtle salinity, which pairs perfectly with olive brine and calls out for a juicy Castelvetrano or three. Average price: $37.

Under $100

Barr Hill

Distilled from raw Vermont honey, this vodka has a distinctive nose: It’s floral but not sweet, with a surprisingly salty undertone. The palate has great body and texture, but still feels lively. With so much character, all this vodka needs is a splash of soda, a handful of ice cubes, and a juicy lemon or lime wedge. Average price: $57.

Crystal Head Aurora

A prickly, peppery nose leads to a fruity, unctuous palate on this Canadian vodka. It’s smooth-sipping and there’s no hint of alcoholic afterburn. But let’s be honest, when you’re spending this amount on a bottle of vodka, you want something more than just great liquor — and this distinctive bottle delivers. Once the vodka inside is finished, it doubles as a bespoke decanter. Average price: $66.

The article The 20 Best Vodka Brands of 2020 appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/buy-this-booze/20-best-vodka-brands-2020/ source https://vinology1.tumblr.com/post/618198452797620224

[johnboothus]

The 20 Best Vodka Brands of 2020

Once upon a time, the quality of a vodka was largely determined by what it didn’t have, rather than what it did. In other words: the more neutral the profile, the better. In fact, up until very recently, the TTB officially defined vodka as “neutral spirits distilled or treated after distillation with charcoal or other materials so as to be without distinctive character, aroma, taste or color.”

That definition was finally updated in May 2020, with the part about no “distinctive character, aroma, taste or color” dropped. This is a good thing, because all the bottles featured in this list might otherwise technically be deemed illegal — or at least not legally vodka.

Following a tasting of dozens of brands, VinePair found that the vodka landscape is rich in options, with each showing its own subtle character. None of the bottles that made this year’s list burned when sipped — at room temperature, no less — and combined, they highlight the diversity of the category.

From unusual base ingredients (natural whey protein, anyone?) to bottles that double as bespoke decanters, here are the best vodkas for every budget.

Under $25

Smithworks American Made Vodka

Made in Arkansas using corn from Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, this vodka is triple-distilled and charcoal- filtered prior to bottling. It’s a similar formula to America’s best-selling vodka, Tito’s, but for our money, this bottle offers a lot better value. It has a silky mouthfeel and refreshingly clean profile. It also comes in at more than five bucks cheaper than Tito’s on average. Average price: $14.

Wheatley Vodka

Kentucky’s Buffalo Trace Distillery is best known for producing some of the world’s leading bourbons, but it also offers this wonderfully priced craft vodka. Bottled at 42 percent ABV, following a whopping 10 runs in the still and three rounds of filtration, this wheat-based vodka has grainy aromas, and a faint peppery kick to the palate. Average price: $17

Prairie Organic Vodka

This organic corn vodka is not only kind to the environment, it arrives in an attractive “craft”- style bottle, costs less than $20, and, best of all, tastes great. The nose leads with rich toasted-barley aromas, while the palate is crisp and remarkably smooth. Average price: $17.

Reyka Vodka

Distilled in Borgarnes, Iceland, Reyka makes use of the country’s supply of glacial spring water and volcanic rocks (for filtration) to craft impeccably clean vodka. The nose and palate feature mineral notes and an almost mentholated profile. Average price: $19.

Humboldt Distillery Organic Vodka

Sugarcane provides the base for this organic California vodka. Quadruple- distilled in small batches, its character is light and easygoing. The nose gives off subtle hints of lemon peel and a seasoning of wet stone. The palate is clean with a complete lack of alcoholic burn — even when sipped at room temperature. Average price: $21.

Ketel One

Produced using both column and pot stills — the latter uncommon for making vodka — this spirit has a noticeably smooth, balanced texture. A crack of pepper leads the nose, while the palate enjoys an almost botanical finish. Average price: $23

Under $50

Broken Shed

This New Zealand vodka is made from an unusual base ingredient: natural whey protein (part of the liquid that separates from milk during cheese production). Lithe and fresh, Broken Shed smells like glacial mineral water and has a well-rounded mouthfeel and slightly sweet finish. Average price: $26.

King St. Vodka

Founded by American actress Kate Hudson, this vodka was reportedly designed with Dirty Martinis in mind. It certainly fits the bill: King St. has a clean, almost odorless nose, and a similarly neutral palate, providing an ideal base for vermouth and olive brine to shine. Average price: $26.

Tattersall Distilling Small Batch Vodka

The organic corn that provides the base for this vodka is grown and harvested at the head distiller’s family farm in Rochester, Minn. This bottling is a great example of the character vodka can display. The nose mixes toasted grains and dried banana, giving a profile of freshly baked banana bread. The palate is full-bodied and velvety. Average price: $27.

St. George Spirits All Purpose

While character is key, texture is also an important part of judging a vodka’s quality. This bottle from historic California distiller St. George Spirits excels in the latter field: It feels luxurious on the palate and promises to add body and depth to cocktails. (You could also sip this neat, if you so desire.) Average price: $27.

Grey Goose

Another vodka that shows the importance of texture, Grey Goose provides exceptionally clean, smooth-finishing sips. Made with wheat specially grown in Picardy, France, this is as close as it comes to drinking straight, boozy water. Average price: $29.

Hanson of Sonoma Organic Vodka

Made using a grape base, this California vodka is seven times distilled and five times filtered. It exudes a strong aroma of violet-flavored candy, and has a silky palate with a sweet finish. This is one of the most flavored “unflavored” vodkas on the market. Average price: $29.

Neft Black Barrel

Don’t be fooled by the unconventional packaging, there’s nothing gimmicky about this vodka. An Austrian rye-based spirit, it has a great concentration to the nose, delivering rich sourdough aromas. The palate is incredibly well balanced, with a smooth, lengthy finish. Average price: $29.

You & Yours Distilling Co.

A blend of corn, potato, and grape distillates, this California vodka has a peppery, vegetal nose, with a streak of citrus fruit. The palate has a good mouthfeel and a neutral profile, making it a great supporting actor and perfect for cocktails. Average price: $29.

Haku

From Beam Suntory, this 100 percent rice vodka serves citrus and violet aromas; light, floral flavors; and a fruity finish. With its crisp, delicate profile, this vodka is perfect for dry Martinis with a lemon twist garnish or a refreshing vodka soda. Average price: $29.

Vdka 6100

Another New Zealand offering, this vodka is also distilled from whey. Its aromas are clean and mineral-rich, with just a hint of citrus. The whey protein emerges on the palate, serving well-rounded sips and a slightly spicy finish but no hint of alcoholic burn. Average price: $30.

Slovenia XOXO

The packaging for this vodka is slightly absurd, with the overall appearance of an oversized perfume or a fancy water bottle, and not one but two closures. The spirit inside has intense aromas of wet stones and black pepper. The palate has rich viscosity and a lively finish. Average price: $31.

Chase Original Potato Vodka

A versatile, neutral vodka, this is perfect for every type of Martini. It’s zesty and citrus-driven, making it the ideal candidate for a lemon twist. But there’s also a subtle salinity, which pairs perfectly with olive brine and calls out for a juicy Castelvetrano or three. Average price: $37.

Under $100

Barr Hill

Distilled from raw Vermont honey, this vodka has a distinctive nose: It’s floral but not sweet, with a surprisingly salty undertone. The palate has great body and texture, but still feels lively. With so much character, all this vodka needs is a splash of soda, a handful of ice cubes, and a juicy lemon or lime wedge. Average price: $57.

Crystal Head Aurora

A prickly, peppery nose leads to a fruity, unctuous palate on this Canadian vodka. It’s smooth-sipping and there’s no hint of alcoholic afterburn. But let’s be honest, when you’re spending this amount on a bottle of vodka, you want something more than just great liquor — and this distinctive bottle delivers. Once the vodka inside is finished, it doubles as a bespoke decanter. Average price: $66.

The article The 20 Best Vodka Brands of 2020 appeared first on VinePair.

Via https://vinepair.com/buy-this-booze/20-best-vodka-brands-2020/

source https://vinology1.weebly.com/blog/the-20-best-vodka-brands-of-2020

[onthegoinmco]

It wouldn’t be Mardi Gras at the Universal Orlando Resort without food, and this year they’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of the biggest party with new and returning Cajun-style cuisine.

From fan-favorite classics like Gumbo and Jambalaya to delectable new dishes inspired by carnivals worldwide – there are so many unique flavors to explore. 

Let’s take a look at the food and beverage options coming to this year’s Mardi Gras Celebration!

New Mardi Gras Dishes at Universal Studios Florida and Universal CityWalk

From February 1 through April 2, guests can enjoy new menu items at The French Quarter Courtyard at Universal Studios Florida and several locations in Universal CityWalk, including Voodoo Doughnut, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and more.

NEW Carnival Around The Universe Tasting Tent: This all-new tasting tent in the French Quarter Courtyard will feature dishes inspired by carnivals worldwide with new menu items debuting bi-weekly throughout the event, including a variety of plant-based options:

Week 1 and 2 (Feb. 1 – Feb. 15) will feature cuisine from Trinidad & Tobago:

Grilled Pineapple Trini Chow: Topped with kimchi seasoning and micro cilantro (Plant-based)

Pholourie: Fried spicy split pea dough with turmeric, curry powder and a tamarind chutney (Plant-based)

Chickpea Double: Chickpeas served on a spicy bara flatbread with micro cilantro and mango chutney (Plant-based)

Week 3 and 4 (Feb. 16 – Feb. 29) will take guests back to where the Bayou Bash first began and explore Louisiana Creole cuisine even further:

Softshell Crab Slider: Crispy softshell crab topped with organic vegetable slaw and served on a soft brioche roll with bayou aioli

Cauliflower Dirty Rice: Riced cauliflower with Gardein crumbles, Black-eyed peas and Cajun spices (Plant-based)

Pecan Street: A specialty cocktail with pecan vodka, caramel and apple cider

Grilled Pineapple Trini Chow

Week 5 and 6 (March 1 – March 14) will celebrate Brazilian Carnival with delicious treats:

Pão de Quiejo: Traditional warm cheese bread with a guava dipping sauce

Sugared Sweet Plantains: Covered in cinnamon and sugar and served with banana poppy seed dipping sauce (Plant-based)

The Girl from Ipanema: A specialty cocktail featuring gin, lime, orgeat syrup, coconut water and pineapple simple syrup

Week 7 and 8 (March 15 – April 2) will place you in the heart of Germany:

Sauerbraten: Slow braised beef, buttered Spaetzle, and pickled red cabbage topped with a savory red wine sauce

Grilled Bratwurst: Served on a potato pancake with whole grain mustard and sour cream and chives

And a warm pretzel!

NEW ‘Float Floats’ at Schwab’s Pharmacy: Inspired by the all-new Mardi Gras parade float theme, Treasures of the Deep, Schwab’s Pharmacy will serve over-the-top ice cream floats to celebrate Florida’s biggest party, including:

Mardi Gras Float: Pineapple and lime soft serve with grape soda, blueberry Boba and a waffle cone flag

Shipwreck Float: Pineapple and chocolate soft serve with pineapple soda, cotton candy, and a waffle cone flag

Sunken City of Atlantis Float: Vanilla soft serve with wild berry soda, mango Boba and a gummy shark

New Specialty Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Also inspired by this year’s Mardi Gras theme, are new specialty cocktails served in exclusive souvenir cups including High Seas Twister with rum, blood orange liqueur, and watermelon juice, and the Bourbon Street Punch with bourbon, orgeat, coconut puree, and orange juice to name a few. Plus, also new to this year’s event, are recommended food and drink pairings which can be found on the tasting tent menu boards. For the little jesters in the family, there are a variety of non-alcoholic beverages including the all-new coconut water that is served out of an actual coconut, which is available at The Carnival Around the Universe Tasting Tent during the first two weeks, and the fan-favorite Bayou Bog Water.

New Orleans Flair at Universal CityWalk: New Mardi Gras themed food items will debut at Universal CityWalk at several locations, including Voodoo Doughnut, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and more:

For the doughnut lovers out there – head over to Voodoo Doughnut and pick up a yeast doughnut filled with cinnamon sugar Bavarian cream and topped with vanilla glaze and sprinkles inspired by the iconic Mardi Gras colors

Ever wanted to drink an iconic Mardi Gras king cake? The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen will be serving up The French Quarter artisan milkshake that includes king cake, cream cheese crema and pastry cream topped with king cake and a beignet

Seasonal cocktails throughout Universal CityWalk, including The Jester found at the food and beverage carts, Voodoo Doctor at Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom and Masquerade Martini at The Cowfish

Additional Mardi Gras inspired menu items can be found at venues across Universal CityWalk

Add-on New Orleans Inspired Experiences at Mardi Gras

As part of the family-friendly version of the renowned Big Easy bash, guests can also purchase festive Mardi Gras add-on experiences for guests craving more.

Due to popular demand, The Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard will return, allowing guests to sample multiple dishes and beverages for one price throughout the event. Whether guests are looking to enjoy all of this year’s food and beverage items, or sample just a few of the bold new additions, there are a variety of Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard options to choose from starting at $30 plus tax. Among these options is an exclusive Passholder Tasting Lanyard, which includes 15 sample dishes for $60 plus tax.

On select nights, The Bayou Boil – An Exclusive Mardi Gras Experience, will allow guests to enjoy a Louisiana-style boil featuring crawfish, shrimp, potatoes and corn-on-the-cob, as well as an exclusive viewing area for the Mardi Gras parade with king cake, beignets, sparkling wine and assorted non-alcoholic beverages. Tickets for adults are $59.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $39.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.

Universal Orlando Resort

For guests with a sweet tooth, the Mardi Gras Feast & Floats Dessert Party is available on select nights from March 9 through April 2, giving them the best view of the Mardi Gras parade while enjoying specialty desserts, savory bites, hot chocolate, assorted non-alcoholic beverages, and sparkling wine and cider. But the party doesn’t stop there – guests will also have an exclusive viewing area for Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration. Tickets for adults are $49.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $29.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.

Returning Cajun Cuisine Favorites

Fans of the traditional and authentic New Orleans cuisine – don’t fret! Your favorite classic Cajun dishes will return to The French Quarter Courtyard at Universal Studios Florida including jambalaya, shrimp gumbo, crab etouffee, gator bites, a variety of po’boys, Cajun twisted tators, king cake, beignets and more.

All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blackout dates apply). And, right now Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets.

Universal Orlando Resort

Mardi Gras Savings for Florida Residents

Florida Residents can also save up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes. Becoming a Passholder means an entire year to enjoy some of the world’s most exciting and immersive theme park experiences, including incredible events, the upcoming live-action stunt show debuting in spring 2020, The Bourne Stuntacular, as well as Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D, Revenge of the Mummy, the newest epic addition to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – and more.

These offers are available for purchase today through April 2. To take advantage of these offers, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

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The post Mardi Gras 2020: Food Guide appeared first on On the Go in MCO.

[rollcough9-blog]

Valentine Gifts for Food Lovers

Chocolates for Your Better Half

February is the month to spoil the special someone in your life with chocolates and other sweet things.

La Maison du Chocolat’s new four, nine and fifteen piece chocolate boxes set the stage for a trip to Paris with their “Parisian Dream”  in a variety of fragrances and flavors including caramel and toffee, passionfruit and dark ganache, almonds and hazelnuts and vanilla marshmallow and milk chocolate, $14 to $54, available at www.lamaisonduchocolat.us.

Choose from See’s candies offerings of traditional heart shaped boxes filled with chocolates or their Scotchmallow® Hearts with buttery caramel and honey marshmallow, coated in rich dark chocolate; Dark Chocolate Raspberry Heart with raspberry buttercream and decadent dark chocolate and Milk Chocolate Bordeaux™ Heart with a brown sugar soft center. Prices vary, available at local See’s candies and online at www.sees.com.

Dean & Deluca’s delivered Knipschildt Caramel and Truffle Set of two boxes of six heart shaped milk chocolate salted caramels and passion fruit chili truffles ($45) or their extravagant modern Compartes Chocolate Truffle Gift Box of 35 multi-flavored truffles in pink, red and purple Valentine’s Day motifs ($150), or their simple and elegant pink and white cookies ($40), are all perfect presents for your love, all at www.deananddeluca.com.

1800Flowers has a variety of sweet choices from their Fruit Bouquets including luscious chocolate covered strawberries (Berrylicious Chocolate Covered Strawberries, $29.99 to $49.99) or one of their many Simply Chocolate gift baskets of truffles, chocolates and sweets or an elegant Simply Chocolate premier chocolate box of artisan chocolates including sea salt peanut butter, mocha cream, caramel coconut and other flavors ($34.99), and Chocopologie has a wide variety of gift boxes that would make any chocoholic happy, including one with raspberry truffles, a Burnt Caramel Hawaiian Sea Salt bar and signature chocolates, all at www.1800flowers.com.

Vegas’s Ethel M Chocolates mails bars, gift baskets and sets straight to any Valentine’s door, prices vary, available to order at www.ethelm.com.

Ferrero Rocher’s hearts and assorted boxes of hazelnut chocolates include Chocolates Heart ($5.29), a Valentine’s Day Golden Hollow Heart ($5.99), a Grand Ferrero Rocher ($2.50) and boxes of assorted chocolates ($10.29), all at www.ferrerorocher.com/en/us.

Lady M Bakery is offering a variety of decadent Valentine’s Day inspired cakes including a Gateau au Chocolat Red Velvet, Strawberry Shortcake and Framboise au Chocolat in heart shaped sizes. Prices vary, visit their shop on 3rd street or order online at https://www.ladym.com.

Eataly has dozens of gift baskets for foodies on Valentines Day including the Italia del Cioccolato ($107.91) with chocolate spread, hot cocoa, chocolate bars and a chocolate cigar, available at www.eatlay.com.

Lovely Libations

Looking for the perfect pair for your Valentine’s Day dinner?  Here are some nice choices, Zonin1821’s Principi di Butera Insolia ($19.99)  and Tenuta Ca’Bolani Sauvignon Superior ($25.89) pair well with pasta, seafood and chicken and their Altemura Fiano ($25.89) goes well with linguini and clams and other pasta dishes, try their Oltrenero Cruasé  ($18.39) sparkling with a cheese plate and their Renaissance Rose ($16.99), with a bright blush color, strawberry fragrance and  crisp finish goes well with charcuterie and seafood, all available at www.zoninusa.com.

Ketel One is the perfect ingredient for an extra dirty vodka martini, and other tasty Valentine’s Day libations, have the 1.75 bottle on hand for all night drinks, $27.99 at www.totalwine.com.

Owen’s Craft Mixers, available in Mint + Cucumber + Lime, Tonic Water + Lime, Grapefruit + Lime and Ginger + Lime can create a wide variety of pre, during and post Valentine’s Day dinner cocktails, all available at $7.99 for a four pack, https://www.owensmixers.com.

Chambord brings black raspberry taste and a deep red color to any Valentine’s Day cocktail, $17.99 at www.chambordchannel.com.

Nespresso’s new limited edition Coffee Houses Coffees including Café Istanbul and Caffe Venezia will transport you to Turkey and Italy this Valentine’s Day. Café Istanbul is an Arabian Mocha blend combining Indonesian and Indian beans; Caffe Venezia mixes Indian Arabica to create a rich cup of potent complex coffee. Also available are Italian and Turkish sweets from globally inspired bakery Simit + Smith.  Two sleeve pack, $18 at https://www.newspresso.com.

Tealeaves tea gift sets, including Happily Ever After and their Cherry Blossom Sakura Experience , as well as individual bags including their Eros tea and tins such as Shanghai Rose make gift shopping a breeze. Various prices, available at www.tealeaves.com.

Davids Tea’s  On My mind color changing Nordic cup ($25)  paired with their raspberry cream pie tea ($8.98) will delight any tea tottler,  www.davidstea.com.

Tea Forte’s Herbal Retreat Presentation Box, featuring 20 infuser bags with a wide variety of herbal teas brings peace and comfort this Valentine’s Day, $30 at www.teaforte.com.

1000 Stories Gold Rush Red, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel grapes has a beautiful purple color with flavors of cherry, cassis and spices, is a perfect pair for any Valentine’s Day steakhouse dinner, $18.99, at www.1000storieswines.com.

Aberfeldy Scotch Single malt 12 Year brings malted milk, cocoa and dark caramel flavors to a perfect after Valentine’s Day dinner drink, $59.99 at www.thewhiskyexchange.com.

Bearu Joie Brut Rosé is a  pinot noir and chardonnay blend and makes a great pairing for Valentine’s Day dinners. The copper casing adds an elegant touch, with notes of watermelon, strawberry and citrus, $99.99 at www.wine.com.

Snacks for Your Sweetheart

My/Mo Mochi has decadent poppable frozen ice cream snacks now in new triple layer innovations including in vanilla blueberry, dulce de leche, chocolate sundae and s’mores flavors, available at Target and Ralph’s.

Harry & David are offering an assortment of a dozen beautiful pears in a box with love message stickers for $29.99 as well as a variety of chocolate and fruit baskets at www.harryanddavid.com.

For Valentine’s Day fresh breath, Tic Tic is offering a Be Mine Mix ($1) of strawberry and cherry tic tacs with Valentine’s Day messages, available at https://www.tictacusa.com.

Caviar Russe produces all kinds of tasty caviar, their Pacific White Sturgeon caviar is perfect for a pre-dinner appetizer with a mild flavor and clean finish, 1 ounce $65 at www.caviarrusse.com.

Source: https://www.thedailymeal.com/eat/valentine-gifts-food-lovers

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Valentine Gifts for Food Lovers

Chocolates for Your Better Half

February is the month to spoil the special someone in your life with chocolates and other sweet things.

La Maison du Chocolat’s new four, nine and fifteen piece chocolate boxes set the stage for a trip to Paris with their “Parisian Dream”  in a variety of fragrances and flavors including caramel and toffee, passionfruit and dark ganache, almonds and hazelnuts and vanilla marshmallow and milk chocolate, $14 to $54, available at www.lamaisonduchocolat.us.

Choose from See’s candies offerings of traditional heart shaped boxes filled with chocolates or their Scotchmallow® Hearts with buttery caramel and honey marshmallow, coated in rich dark chocolate; Dark Chocolate Raspberry Heart with raspberry buttercream and decadent dark chocolate and Milk Chocolate Bordeaux™ Heart with a brown sugar soft center. Prices vary, available at local See’s candies and online at www.sees.com.

Dean & Deluca’s delivered Knipschildt Caramel and Truffle Set of two boxes of six heart shaped milk chocolate salted caramels and passion fruit chili truffles ($45) or their extravagant modern Compartes Chocolate Truffle Gift Box of 35 multi-flavored truffles in pink, red and purple Valentine’s Day motifs ($150), or their simple and elegant pink and white cookies ($40), are all perfect presents for your love, all at www.deananddeluca.com.

1800Flowers has a variety of sweet choices from their Fruit Bouquets including luscious chocolate covered strawberries (Berrylicious Chocolate Covered Strawberries, $29.99 to $49.99) or one of their many Simply Chocolate gift baskets of truffles, chocolates and sweets or an elegant Simply Chocolate premier chocolate box of artisan chocolates including sea salt peanut butter, mocha cream, caramel coconut and other flavors ($34.99), and Chocopologie has a wide variety of gift boxes that would make any chocoholic happy, including one with raspberry truffles, a Burnt Caramel Hawaiian Sea Salt bar and signature chocolates, all at www.1800flowers.com.

Vegas’s Ethel M Chocolates mails bars, gift baskets and sets straight to any Valentine’s door, prices vary, available to order at www.ethelm.com.

Ferrero Rocher’s hearts and assorted boxes of hazelnut chocolates include Chocolates Heart ($5.29), a Valentine’s Day Golden Hollow Heart ($5.99), a Grand Ferrero Rocher ($2.50) and boxes of assorted chocolates ($10.29), all at www.ferrerorocher.com/en/us.

Lady M Bakery is offering a variety of decadent Valentine’s Day inspired cakes including a Gateau au Chocolat Red Velvet, Strawberry Shortcake and Framboise au Chocolat in heart shaped sizes. Prices vary, visit their shop on 3rd street or order online at https://www.ladym.com.

Eataly has dozens of gift baskets for foodies on Valentines Day including the Italia del Cioccolato ($107.91) with chocolate spread, hot cocoa, chocolate bars and a chocolate cigar, available at www.eatlay.com.

Lovely Libations

Looking for the perfect pair for your Valentine’s Day dinner?  Here are some nice choices, Zonin1821’s Principi di Butera Insolia ($19.99)  and Tenuta Ca’Bolani Sauvignon Superior ($25.89) pair well with pasta, seafood and chicken and their Altemura Fiano ($25.89) goes well with linguini and clams and other pasta dishes, try their Oltrenero Cruasé  ($18.39) sparkling with a cheese plate and their Renaissance Rose ($16.99), with a bright blush color, strawberry fragrance and  crisp finish goes well with charcuterie and seafood, all available at www.zoninusa.com.

Ketel One is the perfect ingredient for an extra dirty vodka martini, and other tasty Valentine’s Day libations, have the 1.75 bottle on hand for all night drinks, $27.99 at www.totalwine.com.

Owen’s Craft Mixers, available in Mint + Cucumber + Lime, Tonic Water + Lime, Grapefruit + Lime and Ginger + Lime can create a wide variety of pre, during and post Valentine’s Day dinner cocktails, all available at $7.99 for a four pack, https://www.owensmixers.com.

Chambord brings black raspberry taste and a deep red color to any Valentine’s Day cocktail, $17.99 at www.chambordchannel.com.

Nespresso’s new limited edition Coffee Houses Coffees including Café Istanbul and Caffe Venezia will transport you to Turkey and Italy this Valentine’s Day. Café Istanbul is an Arabian Mocha blend combining Indonesian and Indian beans; Caffe Venezia mixes Indian Arabica to create a rich cup of potent complex coffee. Also available are Italian and Turkish sweets from globally inspired bakery Simit + Smith.  Two sleeve pack, $18 at https://www.newspresso.com.

Tealeaves tea gift sets, including Happily Ever After and their Cherry Blossom Sakura Experience , as well as individual bags including their Eros tea and tins such as Shanghai Rose make gift shopping a breeze. Various prices, available at www.tealeaves.com.

Davids Tea’s  On My mind color changing Nordic cup ($25)  paired with their raspberry cream pie tea ($8.98) will delight any tea tottler,  www.davidstea.com.

Tea Forte’s Herbal Retreat Presentation Box, featuring 20 infuser bags with a wide variety of herbal teas brings peace and comfort this Valentine’s Day, $30 at www.teaforte.com.

1000 Stories Gold Rush Red, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel grapes has a beautiful purple color with flavors of cherry, cassis and spices, is a perfect pair for any Valentine’s Day steakhouse dinner, $18.99, at www.1000storieswines.com.

Aberfeldy Scotch Single malt 12 Year brings malted milk, cocoa and dark caramel flavors to a perfect after Valentine’s Day dinner drink, $59.99 at www.thewhiskyexchange.com.

Bearu Joie Brut Rosé is a  pinot noir and chardonnay blend and makes a great pairing for Valentine’s Day dinners. The copper casing adds an elegant touch, with notes of watermelon, strawberry and citrus, $99.99 at www.wine.com.

Snacks for Your Sweetheart

My/Mo Mochi has decadent poppable frozen ice cream snacks now in new triple layer innovations including in vanilla blueberry, dulce de leche, chocolate sundae and s’mores flavors, available at Target and Ralph’s.

Harry & David are offering an assortment of a dozen beautiful pears in a box with love message stickers for $29.99 as well as a variety of chocolate and fruit baskets at www.harryanddavid.com.

For Valentine’s Day fresh breath, Tic Tic is offering a Be Mine Mix ($1) of strawberry and cherry tic tacs with Valentine’s Day messages, available at https://www.tictacusa.com.

Caviar Russe produces all kinds of tasty caviar, their Pacific White Sturgeon caviar is perfect for a pre-dinner appetizer with a mild flavor and clean finish, 1 ounce $65 at www.caviarrusse.com.

Source: https://www.thedailymeal.com/eat/valentine-gifts-food-lovers