This is a recipe and a salvage. It turned out to be two good lunches.
I was given a can of Progresso chicken noodle soup by the good folks staffing a booth and promoting the foods of General Mills. I have not been much of a canned soup eater in my adult life but appreciate homemade soups for their warmth and goodness. One of the reasons for not eating canned soup is the high sodium content. The label says this can has 2 servings of soup and 690 milligrams of sodium per serving. That’s 29 percent of my daily allowance. If I ate the whole can – that would be almost 60 percent! Wow! I bet I don’t have that much sodium in four or five days of eating.
I could give the can away to a food drive (there are several coming up), but I was hungry. So I got creative. Here’s what happened:
I rummaged through the kitchen and found the following – spices (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, fresh lime zest), vegetables (cilantro, onions, tomatoes), chicken, and the crumbs from the bottom of the tortilla chip bag you were going to throw away. I also found – avocado, cheese, sour cream, green onions, and more cilantro.
To make this recipe, divide the can of soup into two servings. Don’t worry if there’s noodles in it – it's not like Tia or Abuela is inspecting it for authenticity. Chop the chicken (I used a whole breast and divided it) and add to each portion. Chop the veggies and add to the carrots that are already there. I love cilantro and think that’s what gives this a good flavor. Next, use your seasonings to taste – a couple of shakes here and there of the cumin, then chili powder and garlic powder. A little goes a long way. I use a chipotle chili powder and it adds some GREAT flavor. The fresh lime zest really makes it tingle but you could put some lime juice in it if that’s what you have. Finally, I toasted the tortilla chip crumbs. Yes, a little toasting adds to the flavor complexities. I paid good money to Chef Paul Prudhomme to learn about “toasting” ingredients for recipes and I feel obliged to pass it along.
Mix everything together and heat in your favorite way. Put the other in the refrigerator for another day - or share with a friend.
You can top this with chopped avocado, some cheese and/or sour cream, green onions, and more cilantro. Use some more tortilla chips for crunchiness. Unfortunately the first serving didn’t get any of this as I was anticipating the results and just dug right in. Day two got some of these add-ons and they were good indeed.
It was fast and it was good. A little more trouble than opening the can and heating, but very tasty and filling.
There’s lots of good recipes for Chicken Tortilla Soup. Search the web and find one you like. Or take a free can of soup (of almost any kind) and be creative!
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Monday, May 2, 2011
PLATES - Eating in Austin ... part 1
As much is Austin is a football town, Austin is a food town! And the Capital of the Lone Star State is perhaps the best topic to be blog entry numero uno.
My connection began in 1974, the moment I arrived at Sam Houston State University. My roommate graduated from John H. Reagan High School in Austin and took it upon himself to teach this Yankee about all things Texan. He learned me about Friday Night Lights, CFS, bar-b-que being both a NOUN and a VERB, and other great things for which I am eternally grateful - like Gary P Nunn, Jerry Jeff Walker, Michael Martin Murphey, and, of course, Willie, Waylon, and the boys. I think of him every single time I enter Travis County and start humming "I wanna go home with the armadillos ... "
And the music brings us to the food ...
My favorite place to eat is Threadgill's - both the original place on N Lamar and the place I like best on Barton Springs at Riverside. Both have great a place in Texas history. Take a moment ot read about them on their web site ...
Biggest reason I like them - no matter who goes with you, everyone in your party will find something they like. Texas country favorites are on the list (Chicken Fried Steak, Pecan Crusted Chicken) as well as burgers, meatloaf, and grilled items. There's even Liver and Onions which I hear are good but NO amount of money will ever get me to eat. There's also all kinds of sides - 28 choices. Now, I'm a meat and potatoes guy - but mostly MEAT. But they have GREAT vegetables. My faves are the San Antonio Squash, Broccoli Rice Casserole, Texas Black-Eyed Pea Caviar, and Garlic Cheese Grits Threadgill's offers a 3-choice or 5-choice plate. And while they don't ADVERTISE all you can eat, you do get refills on your sides (within reason). They have great portions, good prices.
http://www.threadgills.com/
My next favorite place is Mandola's Italian Market. They have two locations, the original on N Lamar at Guadalupe in The Triangle, and the new one out on Bee Cave Road. Damian Mandola's twin sons run the locations and Damian himself is a frequent visitor. I went to college with Big D (co-founder of Carrabba's) and that surely might prejudice this recommendation were it not for the good food ... and the happy responses from others! It's a casual atmosphere. They have good Italian food (to go and sit down, as well as menu and table service). There's meats and food in the Deli. An then there's DESSERTS!!! Cakes, cookies, gelato - yum! All homemade and fresh. The varieties change with demand. Lots of choices and sampling is encouraged!!! You can tell this is authentic Italian ... photos of the Virgin Mother, the Holy Father, Damian's mama Rosa, and Frank Sinatra greet you as you enter he Bee Cave location. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia winks at you on the way to the restroom (you'll need a chair to read the letter). There's a lighted Bocce court out back. Wine is served by the glass or you can buy a bottle. Portions are generous. We got a "small" gelato, asked for two flavors, and had enough to share (had I wanted).
http://www.mandolasitalianmarket.com/
I HAD to eat at Bess Bistro the first time because it's owned by Sandra Bullock. I'll come back because of the food. They offer half price appetizers (they're called "morsels" on the menu) for happy hour (2:30 - 6:30 M-F), daily specials, and brunch on Sunday. They have a wonderful atmosphere - nice but not pretentious.
I had the Smoked Bacon Mussels for $5. There were 18 in a great tomato bisque with a bacon ragout. But the pan grilled garlic-butter ciabatta bread ... OMG!!! The bread MADE the meal. Okay - everything else was well crafted, and who expects 18 mussels in an appetizer? It was dinner for me on a Friday evening. They "only" had 4 beers taps and I was thinking - sure, B, M, C and SB (Shiner Bock) ... but NO - Independence's Austin Amber, Abita's Purple Haze, Victory's Hop Devil IPA and (512)'s Pecan Porter. Yummmmmm! Great choices. BTW - I missed Sandra by 18 hours. According to my sources, so did most other in the restaurant as she sat unassumingly at a table with baby Louis, her hair pulled back, no make-up, and blue jeans.
Went back for a second trip to Bess. This time, it was a date, and could there be ANY more pressure on a guy? We had (shared) the Caramelized Onion and Wild Mushroom Tart with petite mache salad (burgundy shallot vinagrette) and the Creole Shrimp Bess - 7 Jumbo/Extra Jumbo Gulf shrimp (about the size of your thumb and 16 - 24 per pound category) with grilled ciabatta. One of the chefs, Janelle, came out and chatted. To me, THAT is some kinda' pressure - to be willing to face your customers. She's from Lubbock, spent time in the US Navy (where she acquired her love and knowledge for seafood), and is doing what she LOVES. She had nothing to fear as everything was perfectly prepared. The waiter was punctual and informative; the maitre de stopped by several times, as well. Next trip - will it be for happy hour morsels or something on the newly revised menu???
http://www.bessbistro.com/
Austin is a BBQ town. Uncle Billy's Brew and 'Cue on Barton Springs and Stubbs are two places I've eaten. They do well with whatever you like. I'm a sausage guy. Uncle Billy's has moist and tender BBQ, generous portions, plentiful fried okra ... and very tasty home-brewed beer. There's a Honky-Tonk Happy Hour sat and Sunday 2-6 ... and it what Austin is all about. one word - Go!!!
http://www.unclebillysaustin.com/
Stubb's is close to the downtown action, just a few steps off Sixth Street. It's been ages since I was there but the line down Red River on a recent Friday night shows there's something worth waiting for inside ... like fried green tomatoes, smoked duck quesadillas, and Texas onion rings!
http://www.stubbsaustin.com
Take a drive out FM 1826 towards Driftwood (at Camp Ben McCullough) is Salt Lick BBQ. It's a wonderful place with spacious grounds and live music most nights. Expect a wait at prime times. It's cash only and BYOB. The meats are good but I pretty well stuff myself with their slaw.
http://www.saltlickbbq.com/
There's also a little blue stand, BBQ Heaven, on the corner of 7th Street and Red River that has GREAT food and you can see it being cooked on the pit outside. Nothing fancy ... but honest, hard-working folks making great food at a great price ... $3 and $4 sandwiches.
Austin also has lots of good Mexican food. The tried and true is Matt's El Rancho. If you drive to the east side of I-35 into the Hispanic areas, there are lots of good places.
http://www.mattselrancho.com/
Once place I'd never visited in previous trips was The Oasis. It has the best sunsets in Texas, and it was lovely the night I was there. We had great guacamole and good queso on chips which were way too thick and mass produced (I like my chips thin and crispy). I asked a friend what was good on the menu and he said it was all down hill from there. I've heard the same comments from friends in the two weeks after my visit. The hamburger I had was edible but not memorable. But the sunset ... awesome ... bring your camera!!! Learn to use your manual setting or you'll miss out on spectacular pix!!!!
http://www.oasis-austin.com/
Again - the opines here are my own. Yes, LOTS of places I've missed and many I wanna try - Artz Ribs, House Park BBQ, Hey Cupcake, Taco Hut and more. I haven't been compensated in any way from any of the above establishments.
Hey, wanna save some $$$'s on eating in Austin??? Some SERIOUS $$$$$$$$$$'s ... ???????
Here's a site that'll help you lots (it did for me!!!)
http://www.frugalfeaster.com/
My connection began in 1974, the moment I arrived at Sam Houston State University. My roommate graduated from John H. Reagan High School in Austin and took it upon himself to teach this Yankee about all things Texan. He learned me about Friday Night Lights, CFS, bar-b-que being both a NOUN and a VERB, and other great things for which I am eternally grateful - like Gary P Nunn, Jerry Jeff Walker, Michael Martin Murphey, and, of course, Willie, Waylon, and the boys. I think of him every single time I enter Travis County and start humming "I wanna go home with the armadillos ... "
And the music brings us to the food ...
My favorite place to eat is Threadgill's - both the original place on N Lamar and the place I like best on Barton Springs at Riverside. Both have great a place in Texas history. Take a moment ot read about them on their web site ...
Biggest reason I like them - no matter who goes with you, everyone in your party will find something they like. Texas country favorites are on the list (Chicken Fried Steak, Pecan Crusted Chicken) as well as burgers, meatloaf, and grilled items. There's even Liver and Onions which I hear are good but NO amount of money will ever get me to eat. There's also all kinds of sides - 28 choices. Now, I'm a meat and potatoes guy - but mostly MEAT. But they have GREAT vegetables. My faves are the San Antonio Squash, Broccoli Rice Casserole, Texas Black-Eyed Pea Caviar, and Garlic Cheese Grits Threadgill's offers a 3-choice or 5-choice plate. And while they don't ADVERTISE all you can eat, you do get refills on your sides (within reason). They have great portions, good prices.
http://www.threadgills.com/
My next favorite place is Mandola's Italian Market. They have two locations, the original on N Lamar at Guadalupe in The Triangle, and the new one out on Bee Cave Road. Damian Mandola's twin sons run the locations and Damian himself is a frequent visitor. I went to college with Big D (co-founder of Carrabba's) and that surely might prejudice this recommendation were it not for the good food ... and the happy responses from others! It's a casual atmosphere. They have good Italian food (to go and sit down, as well as menu and table service). There's meats and food in the Deli. An then there's DESSERTS!!! Cakes, cookies, gelato - yum! All homemade and fresh. The varieties change with demand. Lots of choices and sampling is encouraged!!! You can tell this is authentic Italian ... photos of the Virgin Mother, the Holy Father, Damian's mama Rosa, and Frank Sinatra greet you as you enter he Bee Cave location. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia winks at you on the way to the restroom (you'll need a chair to read the letter). There's a lighted Bocce court out back. Wine is served by the glass or you can buy a bottle. Portions are generous. We got a "small" gelato, asked for two flavors, and had enough to share (had I wanted).
http://www.mandolasitalianmarket.com/
I HAD to eat at Bess Bistro the first time because it's owned by Sandra Bullock. I'll come back because of the food. They offer half price appetizers (they're called "morsels" on the menu) for happy hour (2:30 - 6:30 M-F), daily specials, and brunch on Sunday. They have a wonderful atmosphere - nice but not pretentious.
I had the Smoked Bacon Mussels for $5. There were 18 in a great tomato bisque with a bacon ragout. But the pan grilled garlic-butter ciabatta bread ... OMG!!! The bread MADE the meal. Okay - everything else was well crafted, and who expects 18 mussels in an appetizer? It was dinner for me on a Friday evening. They "only" had 4 beers taps and I was thinking - sure, B, M, C and SB (Shiner Bock) ... but NO - Independence's Austin Amber, Abita's Purple Haze, Victory's Hop Devil IPA and (512)'s Pecan Porter. Yummmmmm! Great choices. BTW - I missed Sandra by 18 hours. According to my sources, so did most other in the restaurant as she sat unassumingly at a table with baby Louis, her hair pulled back, no make-up, and blue jeans.
Went back for a second trip to Bess. This time, it was a date, and could there be ANY more pressure on a guy? We had (shared) the Caramelized Onion and Wild Mushroom Tart with petite mache salad (burgundy shallot vinagrette) and the Creole Shrimp Bess - 7 Jumbo/Extra Jumbo Gulf shrimp (about the size of your thumb and 16 - 24 per pound category) with grilled ciabatta. One of the chefs, Janelle, came out and chatted. To me, THAT is some kinda' pressure - to be willing to face your customers. She's from Lubbock, spent time in the US Navy (where she acquired her love and knowledge for seafood), and is doing what she LOVES. She had nothing to fear as everything was perfectly prepared. The waiter was punctual and informative; the maitre de stopped by several times, as well. Next trip - will it be for happy hour morsels or something on the newly revised menu???
http://www.bessbistro.com/
Austin is a BBQ town. Uncle Billy's Brew and 'Cue on Barton Springs and Stubbs are two places I've eaten. They do well with whatever you like. I'm a sausage guy. Uncle Billy's has moist and tender BBQ, generous portions, plentiful fried okra ... and very tasty home-brewed beer. There's a Honky-Tonk Happy Hour sat and Sunday 2-6 ... and it what Austin is all about. one word - Go!!!
http://www.unclebillysaustin.com/
Stubb's is close to the downtown action, just a few steps off Sixth Street. It's been ages since I was there but the line down Red River on a recent Friday night shows there's something worth waiting for inside ... like fried green tomatoes, smoked duck quesadillas, and Texas onion rings!
http://www.stubbsaustin.com
Take a drive out FM 1826 towards Driftwood (at Camp Ben McCullough) is Salt Lick BBQ. It's a wonderful place with spacious grounds and live music most nights. Expect a wait at prime times. It's cash only and BYOB. The meats are good but I pretty well stuff myself with their slaw.
http://www.saltlickbbq.com/
There's also a little blue stand, BBQ Heaven, on the corner of 7th Street and Red River that has GREAT food and you can see it being cooked on the pit outside. Nothing fancy ... but honest, hard-working folks making great food at a great price ... $3 and $4 sandwiches.
Austin also has lots of good Mexican food. The tried and true is Matt's El Rancho. If you drive to the east side of I-35 into the Hispanic areas, there are lots of good places.
http://www.mattselrancho.com/
Once place I'd never visited in previous trips was The Oasis. It has the best sunsets in Texas, and it was lovely the night I was there. We had great guacamole and good queso on chips which were way too thick and mass produced (I like my chips thin and crispy). I asked a friend what was good on the menu and he said it was all down hill from there. I've heard the same comments from friends in the two weeks after my visit. The hamburger I had was edible but not memorable. But the sunset ... awesome ... bring your camera!!! Learn to use your manual setting or you'll miss out on spectacular pix!!!!
http://www.oasis-austin.com/
Again - the opines here are my own. Yes, LOTS of places I've missed and many I wanna try - Artz Ribs, House Park BBQ, Hey Cupcake, Taco Hut and more. I haven't been compensated in any way from any of the above establishments.
Hey, wanna save some $$$'s on eating in Austin??? Some SERIOUS $$$$$$$$$$'s ... ???????
Here's a site that'll help you lots (it did for me!!!)
http://www.frugalfeaster.com/
Friday, April 22, 2011
PixPlatesPlaces - Earth Day Freebies
Some free Pix Plates and Places notes for Earth Day …
Starbucks and Caribou Coffee shops will be giving away free coffee if you bring in your own mug. Now, it doesn’t say what SIZE mug but I’m thinking the big Buc-ee’s Beaver mug might be a tad large (you know who you are). Also, I don’t see how they are going to limit your visits, so, with a Starbucks on almost every corner, many folks will be “happy” for days to come!
Wanna win a gift basket full of eco-friendly household cleaning products? Just comment on the Whole Foods Market blog! http://cot.ag/dRds4e
Disney Store locations are giving away a free reusable Mickey Mouse tote bag to customers in exchange for five plastic shopping bags. Many grocery stores are doing the same thing.
Admission to all 394 U.S. national parks is 100 percent FREE on Earth Day!
EVOS is offering customers free organic milkshakes to honor Earth Day. Sorry, I’d never heard of the Tampa based chain (FL, GA, NC) until now - http://www.evos.com/
While supplies last, Origins is offering customers free full-size cleanser to customers who fill out a short survey and bring a bottle of their current skin care product -- full or empty -- to any Origins location.
This is kinda the opposite of a give-away … Old Navy stores will be accepting your old flip-flops, which they'll be melting down to be used as playground materials. Doesn’t say they’re giving YOU anything, but still, better there than in a landfill.
Extending Earth Day into Earth Weekend …
Tomorrow, April 23 … Lowes is giving away 1 million trees.
Starbucks and Caribou Coffee shops will be giving away free coffee if you bring in your own mug. Now, it doesn’t say what SIZE mug but I’m thinking the big Buc-ee’s Beaver mug might be a tad large (you know who you are). Also, I don’t see how they are going to limit your visits, so, with a Starbucks on almost every corner, many folks will be “happy” for days to come!
Wanna win a gift basket full of eco-friendly household cleaning products? Just comment on the Whole Foods Market blog! http://cot.ag/dRds4e
Disney Store locations are giving away a free reusable Mickey Mouse tote bag to customers in exchange for five plastic shopping bags. Many grocery stores are doing the same thing.
Admission to all 394 U.S. national parks is 100 percent FREE on Earth Day!
EVOS is offering customers free organic milkshakes to honor Earth Day. Sorry, I’d never heard of the Tampa based chain (FL, GA, NC) until now - http://www.evos.com/
While supplies last, Origins is offering customers free full-size cleanser to customers who fill out a short survey and bring a bottle of their current skin care product -- full or empty -- to any Origins location.
This is kinda the opposite of a give-away … Old Navy stores will be accepting your old flip-flops, which they'll be melting down to be used as playground materials. Doesn’t say they’re giving YOU anything, but still, better there than in a landfill.
Extending Earth Day into Earth Weekend …
Tomorrow, April 23 … Lowes is giving away 1 million trees.
Monday, April 11, 2011
PLACES - Going to Seattle?
Seattle is the Emerald City because it's so green (in many ways). People thinks it rains a lot in Seattle but it actually rains more in Houston, but Houston gets its rain in 1,2 and 3 inch toad stranglers rather than the 1/8-inch a day misting of the Pacific Northwest.
How long are you there??? Do you have a car or transportation??? Where are you staying??? What do you want to see???? I've done Seattle with and without a vehicle.
Pike Place Market is THE place for me ... I try to do it every other day when I'm there if I'm not staying near there ... actually START my day there ... get the good stuff ... then come back at closing and pick up bargains. You can negotiate for bread at the end of the day. Also, got 3 lobsters for less than the price of two - my favorite deal everrrrrrrr!!!
Ohh ... Rainier Cherries when they're in season!!! They're my faves ... could eat them until I was sick (again - I have (yes, love them). And I have found ways to cook my own seafood and buy it fresh at the market - then go get some herbs and veggies and bread ... wines and beer ... local berries ... and I'm a happy camper. Many go to Pike Place Market to see the fish toss. It's fun to watch!
There’s several good places to eat around the Market. And there’s two originals. The very first Starbuck’s is in the market. I don’t drink coffee, but I do enjoy the place and the aromas. The other is Sur la Table. It’s full of all kinds of stuff you don’t have in your kitchen but could find a way to use, if your kitchen was twice as large! Just walk around the place and have fun.
Eats ... any place you feel comfortable in Chinatown ... grilled fish along the waterfront from any of the guys grilling on barrels ... Pyramid Brewing Alehouse across from Safeco Field. It's more than beer ... but if you LIKE craft beers, it's awesome!!!
If you have time and want to really see things, I recommend a Seattle City Pass. Besides going up in the Space Needle (it now gives you two trips - one in the day, one at night), it offers admittance to the Aquarium, Science Center, Woodland Park Zoo (incredible place to take animal pix). It’s also good for a cruise in the Harbor. PLUS, you get a choice of the Museum of Flight or the Music Project or the Science Fiction Museum (I took the Museum of Flight – spent the whole day there ... it has one of two Concordes in the US, the Air Force One 707 Lyndon Johnson was sworn in on, an SR-71 Blackbird, 747 number 1, and 727 number 1,000 .. among other great planes). When you’re at the Space Needle, ride the monorail, the first one in the USA.
The City Pass will save you half of what you’d pay to see these individually. But if you do the Space Needle, Harbor Tour and Museum of Flight, then the rest would be free.
http://www.citypass.com/city/seattle.html
also around town … If you didn’t do the Harbor Tour, then jump on a short Ferry trip ... probably cheaper … and ride across and back. If you liked "Frasier" head into the north side to see the views allegedly seen from his home (pretty homes and great views). Kubota Park is also cute. Take the Underground Tour – they raised Seattle 20 feet and you can see the old Seattle. You'll see and learn lots, like where "Skid Row" came from.
Into music? Seattle is the birthplace of grunge music but a wide variety of musicians are from the Emerald City. It’s the home of Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, Jimi Hendrix, Kenny G, Alice in Chains, Qunicy Jones, Chris Cornell, Queensryche, and Heart. You can go listen to music in the places where they started. You can visit the Hendrix Memorial at the Greenwood Memorial Cemetery just outside the city. Check local publications for live music at places like The Crocodile, The Paramount, Moore Theater, OK Hotel and The Vera Project.
Getting away from the city …
Microsoft is headquartered just across the bay in Redmond. Take one of the floating bridges to get there.
Head for Snoqualmie for scenery (the falls are higher than Niagara but not nearly the water amount) and wineries.
The best oysters are at the mouth of Hood River on Puget Sound on the Olympic Peninsula. Take a Ferry to Bremerton and drive from there. If you have a rental car ... ??? I’ve had Dungeness crabs on Dungeness Spit – and all other kinds of seafood there as well.
There are two great lighthouses on the Pacific just north of the mouth of the Columbia River … North Head Light House is my favorite. Volunteers take turns staffing the lighthouse to give tours. You can rent the keeper houses by the day, week, or weekend. It’s at Ilwaco on the coast, it’s picturesque and awesome – great seafood just off the boats in town. Pretty views.
Other Ideas ... head for Mt Rainier - there's horseback riding at the base of the mountain that's fun ... the Boeing Plant in Everett ... orca's off San Juan Islands ... Mount St Helen's ... Columbia River (go down to Portland!) ... Tacoma Wildlife Park ...
Sports wise, there’s Mariner baseball and Sounders soccer.
Let me know if you need any additional (or more specific) suggestions.
How long are you there??? Do you have a car or transportation??? Where are you staying??? What do you want to see???? I've done Seattle with and without a vehicle.
Pike Place Market is THE place for me ... I try to do it every other day when I'm there if I'm not staying near there ... actually START my day there ... get the good stuff ... then come back at closing and pick up bargains. You can negotiate for bread at the end of the day. Also, got 3 lobsters for less than the price of two - my favorite deal everrrrrrrr!!!
Ohh ... Rainier Cherries when they're in season!!! They're my faves ... could eat them until I was sick (again - I have (yes, love them). And I have found ways to cook my own seafood and buy it fresh at the market - then go get some herbs and veggies and bread ... wines and beer ... local berries ... and I'm a happy camper. Many go to Pike Place Market to see the fish toss. It's fun to watch!
There’s several good places to eat around the Market. And there’s two originals. The very first Starbuck’s is in the market. I don’t drink coffee, but I do enjoy the place and the aromas. The other is Sur la Table. It’s full of all kinds of stuff you don’t have in your kitchen but could find a way to use, if your kitchen was twice as large! Just walk around the place and have fun.
Eats ... any place you feel comfortable in Chinatown ... grilled fish along the waterfront from any of the guys grilling on barrels ... Pyramid Brewing Alehouse across from Safeco Field. It's more than beer ... but if you LIKE craft beers, it's awesome!!!
If you have time and want to really see things, I recommend a Seattle City Pass. Besides going up in the Space Needle (it now gives you two trips - one in the day, one at night), it offers admittance to the Aquarium, Science Center, Woodland Park Zoo (incredible place to take animal pix). It’s also good for a cruise in the Harbor. PLUS, you get a choice of the Museum of Flight or the Music Project or the Science Fiction Museum (I took the Museum of Flight – spent the whole day there ... it has one of two Concordes in the US, the Air Force One 707 Lyndon Johnson was sworn in on, an SR-71 Blackbird, 747 number 1, and 727 number 1,000 .. among other great planes). When you’re at the Space Needle, ride the monorail, the first one in the USA.
The City Pass will save you half of what you’d pay to see these individually. But if you do the Space Needle, Harbor Tour and Museum of Flight, then the rest would be free.
http://www.citypass.com/city/seattle.html
also around town … If you didn’t do the Harbor Tour, then jump on a short Ferry trip ... probably cheaper … and ride across and back. If you liked "Frasier" head into the north side to see the views allegedly seen from his home (pretty homes and great views). Kubota Park is also cute. Take the Underground Tour – they raised Seattle 20 feet and you can see the old Seattle. You'll see and learn lots, like where "Skid Row" came from.
Into music? Seattle is the birthplace of grunge music but a wide variety of musicians are from the Emerald City. It’s the home of Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, Jimi Hendrix, Kenny G, Alice in Chains, Qunicy Jones, Chris Cornell, Queensryche, and Heart. You can go listen to music in the places where they started. You can visit the Hendrix Memorial at the Greenwood Memorial Cemetery just outside the city. Check local publications for live music at places like The Crocodile, The Paramount, Moore Theater, OK Hotel and The Vera Project.
Getting away from the city …
Microsoft is headquartered just across the bay in Redmond. Take one of the floating bridges to get there.
Head for Snoqualmie for scenery (the falls are higher than Niagara but not nearly the water amount) and wineries.
The best oysters are at the mouth of Hood River on Puget Sound on the Olympic Peninsula. Take a Ferry to Bremerton and drive from there. If you have a rental car ... ??? I’ve had Dungeness crabs on Dungeness Spit – and all other kinds of seafood there as well.
There are two great lighthouses on the Pacific just north of the mouth of the Columbia River … North Head Light House is my favorite. Volunteers take turns staffing the lighthouse to give tours. You can rent the keeper houses by the day, week, or weekend. It’s at Ilwaco on the coast, it’s picturesque and awesome – great seafood just off the boats in town. Pretty views.
Other Ideas ... head for Mt Rainier - there's horseback riding at the base of the mountain that's fun ... the Boeing Plant in Everett ... orca's off San Juan Islands ... Mount St Helen's ... Columbia River (go down to Portland!) ... Tacoma Wildlife Park ...
Sports wise, there’s Mariner baseball and Sounders soccer.
Let me know if you need any additional (or more specific) suggestions.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Plates/Places - Celebrate Cullen-Harrison Act today!!!
This should really be called Mugs & Places ... or Glasses & Places.
On April 7, 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Cullen Harrison Act into law. It was the first part of the repeal of the Volstead Act (or the 18th Amendment) which limited the sale and production of alcoholic beverages.
Depending on your tastes, today is a good day for a drink. So raise a glass ... your favorite glass ...
Some quick suggestions (since it's almost noon in Texas).
Houston area ... The Stag's Head Pub, Hearsay, Flying Saucer, Harp and Ginger Man all come to mind. Saint Arnold Brewing has a 3:00pm tour. It's easy to find a spot in Mid-Town (Maple Leaf or The Dog House), Rice Village, or along Washington Avenue (Taps Room). The Whole Foods in Sugar Land has their Kegerator installed and they have $3 pints for of Austin's Jester King Blonde.
Austin area ... Draught House, Ginger Man, Bess Bistro, Lovejoys, Uncle Billy's Brew n 'Cue, NXNW, and Black Star would top my list. Really, I'd hang out east and west of the Driskill Hotel on Sixth Street, not to mention north and south on Congress or Guadalupe. If you know where (512) is located, maybe you could sneak by there. Great wine by the glass is also available at Mandola's Italian markets (two locations) as Damian is brining back his own label through the McPhearson Vineyards.
Speaking of Sixth Street, the Bar Lamar at the Flagship Whole Foods is a great place for beers and wines on tap and on cask. They also sell by the bottle, can and growler.
Austin is also home of Tito's Vodka as well as Paula's Orange and Lemon Liquers. All are fine Texas spirits that would not be possible with Mr. Cullen and Mr. Harrison.
Hill Country ... Becker Winery and Duchman Winery get my nod as the best. There are several others you will find to stop and enjoy in your travels. The Hill Country is also home to Dripping Springs Vodka.
San Antonio ... Ranger Creek is both a brewery and distillery, or "brewstillery." Take your choice with beer or bourbon (but the bourbon won't be ready for a few years).
Dallas and Ft Worth ... Each city has a Flying Saucer and a Ginger Man, plus there's Trinity Hall. Rahr Brewing has a special tour today. There are several colleges in the Metroplex and they seem to generate places all their own.
Speaking of college towns, I would make suggestions for College Station, San Marcos, Huntsville and Nacogdoches, but y'all know your spots. Gig 'em. Growl, Roar, and Axe 'em!!!
From Houston to Beaumont, Corpus to Austin, nothing beats Spec's Beer, Wine, Spirits and Finer Foods. Sorry they are not in Dallas or San Antonio. Open Monday through Saturday from 10am until 9 pm, the maximum hours as allowed by state law.
Today is a great day to celebrate American history in Texas. Please do so with responsibility!
On April 7, 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Cullen Harrison Act into law. It was the first part of the repeal of the Volstead Act (or the 18th Amendment) which limited the sale and production of alcoholic beverages.
Depending on your tastes, today is a good day for a drink. So raise a glass ... your favorite glass ...
Some quick suggestions (since it's almost noon in Texas).
Houston area ... The Stag's Head Pub, Hearsay, Flying Saucer, Harp and Ginger Man all come to mind. Saint Arnold Brewing has a 3:00pm tour. It's easy to find a spot in Mid-Town (Maple Leaf or The Dog House), Rice Village, or along Washington Avenue (Taps Room). The Whole Foods in Sugar Land has their Kegerator installed and they have $3 pints for of Austin's Jester King Blonde.
Austin area ... Draught House, Ginger Man, Bess Bistro, Lovejoys, Uncle Billy's Brew n 'Cue, NXNW, and Black Star would top my list. Really, I'd hang out east and west of the Driskill Hotel on Sixth Street, not to mention north and south on Congress or Guadalupe. If you know where (512) is located, maybe you could sneak by there. Great wine by the glass is also available at Mandola's Italian markets (two locations) as Damian is brining back his own label through the McPhearson Vineyards.
Speaking of Sixth Street, the Bar Lamar at the Flagship Whole Foods is a great place for beers and wines on tap and on cask. They also sell by the bottle, can and growler.
Austin is also home of Tito's Vodka as well as Paula's Orange and Lemon Liquers. All are fine Texas spirits that would not be possible with Mr. Cullen and Mr. Harrison.
Hill Country ... Becker Winery and Duchman Winery get my nod as the best. There are several others you will find to stop and enjoy in your travels. The Hill Country is also home to Dripping Springs Vodka.
San Antonio ... Ranger Creek is both a brewery and distillery, or "brewstillery." Take your choice with beer or bourbon (but the bourbon won't be ready for a few years).
Dallas and Ft Worth ... Each city has a Flying Saucer and a Ginger Man, plus there's Trinity Hall. Rahr Brewing has a special tour today. There are several colleges in the Metroplex and they seem to generate places all their own.
Speaking of college towns, I would make suggestions for College Station, San Marcos, Huntsville and Nacogdoches, but y'all know your spots. Gig 'em. Growl, Roar, and Axe 'em!!!
From Houston to Beaumont, Corpus to Austin, nothing beats Spec's Beer, Wine, Spirits and Finer Foods. Sorry they are not in Dallas or San Antonio. Open Monday through Saturday from 10am until 9 pm, the maximum hours as allowed by state law.
Today is a great day to celebrate American history in Texas. Please do so with responsibility!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
PLATES - April is Grilled Cheese Month
Any sandwich that is good can be made better by grilling it with butter ... and adding bacon. This is just such a story.
I was walking though Central Market a few years ago and they were sampling in the cheese department. CM is one of the great places to go for samples. What drew me over was the smell of grilled butter.
Today's sample was a grilled cheese sandwich, but not just ANY kind of grilled cheese.
Their recipe was for some English white cheddar cheese on fresh CM bread with a bit of apple butter, then grilled. The apple butter added some spices and sweetness to the cheese. The grilling made it complete.
Before you think it's too off beat, remember the pairing of apples and cheese has been around for some time. It's a natural on an hors d'oeuvres tray, as well as that apple pie with cheddar recipe. I managed to get a second sample just to make sure this grilled sandwich version was a good taste fit. Yummmm. It was.
I've made it at home a few times through the years, tweaking and fiddling. Shredded cheddar works well for me, but use what you like ... Velveeta, Kraft singles, Mozzarella, Gouda.
A teaspoon of apple butter on each slice of bread (on the inside). My favorite brand is Bama, but it has a little extra heavy spice. Use what you like and what you have. I've also made it with other jellies and preserves (I like to try new things - think "what fruits do you like to eat with cheese?").
Thennnn ... I added some crumbled pieces of a cooked slice of applewood smoked bacon (cooking note - cook the bacon first). I'm not gonna kid you and say I haven't used MORE bacon than a slice. But that took away from the cheese and apple butter flavors. One slice is nice.
When I grill, I get the iron skillet medium hot and rub the butter in the skillet, then turn it down on medium and start toasting the sandwich. I lift it out, rub the stick of butter in the skillet again (you can see I use exact measurements), flip sandwich, and continue toasting until melted and toasted.
What kind of bread to use? White? Whole wheat? Texas toast? Yes, I've used them all. There's even a suggestion to use olive bread or rosemary bread from the CM chefs. Play with it and your taste buds.
Serve this with a soup, a salad, your favorite wine ... or all three. Enjoy Grilled Cheese month!
I was walking though Central Market a few years ago and they were sampling in the cheese department. CM is one of the great places to go for samples. What drew me over was the smell of grilled butter.
Today's sample was a grilled cheese sandwich, but not just ANY kind of grilled cheese.
Their recipe was for some English white cheddar cheese on fresh CM bread with a bit of apple butter, then grilled. The apple butter added some spices and sweetness to the cheese. The grilling made it complete.
Before you think it's too off beat, remember the pairing of apples and cheese has been around for some time. It's a natural on an hors d'oeuvres tray, as well as that apple pie with cheddar recipe. I managed to get a second sample just to make sure this grilled sandwich version was a good taste fit. Yummmm. It was.
I've made it at home a few times through the years, tweaking and fiddling. Shredded cheddar works well for me, but use what you like ... Velveeta, Kraft singles, Mozzarella, Gouda.
A teaspoon of apple butter on each slice of bread (on the inside). My favorite brand is Bama, but it has a little extra heavy spice. Use what you like and what you have. I've also made it with other jellies and preserves (I like to try new things - think "what fruits do you like to eat with cheese?").
Thennnn ... I added some crumbled pieces of a cooked slice of applewood smoked bacon (cooking note - cook the bacon first). I'm not gonna kid you and say I haven't used MORE bacon than a slice. But that took away from the cheese and apple butter flavors. One slice is nice.
When I grill, I get the iron skillet medium hot and rub the butter in the skillet, then turn it down on medium and start toasting the sandwich. I lift it out, rub the stick of butter in the skillet again (you can see I use exact measurements), flip sandwich, and continue toasting until melted and toasted.
What kind of bread to use? White? Whole wheat? Texas toast? Yes, I've used them all. There's even a suggestion to use olive bread or rosemary bread from the CM chefs. Play with it and your taste buds.
Serve this with a soup, a salad, your favorite wine ... or all three. Enjoy Grilled Cheese month!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
PLATES - Saint Arnold Divine Reserve 11
While many folks are running around … or standing in line ... or reading Tweets and Facebook posts about six-packs of Saint. Arnold’s eleventh release of Divine Reserve, I have mine. It’s a Double IPA with LOTS of hops. I’m not a hop head so I’ll be sharing and trading some of mine. But kinda’ like collecting baseball cards when I was a kid, I had to get my six-pack.
Two words about getting my six pack – Thanks, Jackie!
While this IS a post about DR11, it’s also about relationships.
Jackie is the “beer girl” ... more correctly the Beer Specialist ... at Whole Foods-Sugar Land. She and I became acquainted many months ago. She alerts me to beer tastings at her place, special events, and special pricing. I’m on her email list. It’s why I buy from Whole Foods-Sugar Land (well, that and the fast wi-fi, great products, and the indoor and outdoor tables). Jackie keeps in touch. I wished more retail locations would have a localized email list. Some Tweet, some Facebook, but I like direct emails (and I even get replies).
In the Divine Reserve past (DR 8 and DR 9 for me is "the past") … I was following Tweets and other posts and lucked into misplaced 6 packs. The 6-pack of DR8 was hidden behind some Budweiser at HEB. The purple carriage of DR9 was sitting on a furniture display at a Kroger Marketplace store. I did a double take both times, and promptly bought the beer.
But since then, I’ve gotten to know Jackie an come to appreciate her expertise and devotion to craft beer in Texas and promoting it through the Sugar Land store. Getting DR10 and now DR11 was a case (well, a 6-pack) of simply walking in the door.
I also “know” some beer GUYS – Ron and Joey. They are great guys to know as well. They are home brewers, beer aficionados, and always pointing out the newest beers in stock and the best deals. It’s a different atmosphere at their places (one near my house, the other miles away). They deal in high volume. Yet they recognize faces and remember tastes … “you’re a brown ale guy … here’s what we have in that you’d like.” I’m wondering, “how does he do that???” Their company does weekly emails. I’m on their list and get the info. Whole Foods emails as well, and several of the Whole Foods Tweet, and Jackie also sends out personal emails.
I also became great friends with Stephanie (a beer AND wine person), but, alas, she got married and retired. Stephanie would email on a regular basis. There was always something on sale at her store. It may have been cheaper somewhere else, but Stephanie invited me in to sample, to learn, to buy (no pressure). Her replacement has not kept me posted about their store events. I tend to forget about them (I’m a guy and I need to be reminded – there, I said it!)
The point is – get to know your beer guy or gal ... or your wine person (kudos to Kris and Andy and Andrew – my wine guys ... more them later, too). They’ll take care of you. Many places have samples. You may have to know when and where for sampling. Be sure to participate in their events. Ask if they have an email list. If they don't have one and enough people ask, they might develop one (or they might Tweet). Good participation can mean good sales for the store ... and it can mean more events. It also means learining and expanding your palate. You may be a red or white wine person, but if you never sample “the other,” you’ll never know what you’re missing.
Two last words in closing – try it. TRY what’s being sampled, be it beer or wine (or bourbon, gin, cheese, meats, or chips ... or hot sauce – more on the hot sauce tomorrow). You might find something you like. Jackie got me to trrrrrrrry a blue cheese blend on a recent visit. I don't like blue cheese and I told her so. She smiled, prepared the sample, and even coaxed me (kinda like Mom coaxing the kids to eat their veggies) ... and I hesitantly took the sample. I tried it. Hey - it was okay! I probably won't buy a pound of it, but I can envision a small portion in my basket on a future trip.
Thanks Jackie!
It's time to cue the "Cheers" theme music ...
Sometimes you want to go
Where everybody knows your name,
And they're always glad you came;
You want to be where you can see,
Our troubles are all the same;
You want to be where everybody knows your name.
Here’s the official press release on today's "diviness" ...
HOUSTON, March 17 – Saint Arnold Brewing Company (www.saintarnold.com), the oldest craft brewery in Texas, today revealed plans for its upcoming release of Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11. Brewed in mid-February, Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11, is a Double IPA (India Pale Ale). The beer is slated for release around April 1 – no fooling. (PPP note - it actually was in stores today, March 29 in most places in Houston and Austin - March 30 and 31 for others).
The Saint Arnold Divine Reserve series was introduced more than five years ago and generates considerable excitement among craft beer fans for delivering high-quality, full-flavored beer in limited quantities. In response to frustrations voiced by some who have been unable to locate previous releases of Divine Reserve before supplies ran out, Saint Arnold significantly increased production of Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11.
“We had intended to boost production of Divine Reserve No. 10 to make it easier to find, but we ran into some challenges in the brewing process and ended up with fewer than 2,000 cases and three dozen kegs,” said Saint Arnold Founder/Brewer Brock Wagner. “We intend to come close to doubling production of Divine Reserve No. 11 so that people with jobs don’t have to take a day off to be able to score a six pack. Still, we thought previous production increases would help out with availability.”
This will be the second time the Saint Arnold Divine Reserve series offered a Double IPA, but this is the first Double IPA created by the Saint Arnold brew crew (the recipe for Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 3, also a Double IPA, was based on a winning entry from the Big Bash Brew Bash). Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11 uses Simcoe, Columbus and Centennial hops from the Pacific Northwest, resulting in a very citrusy, hoppy beer. More information on the Saint Arnold Divine Reserve series is available at http://saintarnold.com/beers/divine.html.
Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11 is priced at approximately $16 per six pack and will be available at stores, restaurants and bars in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. Even with the larger quantities produced, Saint Arnold is requesting that retailers limit sales to two six packs per customer and is asking customers to limit their purchase to a six pack or two.
Two words about getting my six pack – Thanks, Jackie!
While this IS a post about DR11, it’s also about relationships.
Jackie is the “beer girl” ... more correctly the Beer Specialist ... at Whole Foods-Sugar Land. She and I became acquainted many months ago. She alerts me to beer tastings at her place, special events, and special pricing. I’m on her email list. It’s why I buy from Whole Foods-Sugar Land (well, that and the fast wi-fi, great products, and the indoor and outdoor tables). Jackie keeps in touch. I wished more retail locations would have a localized email list. Some Tweet, some Facebook, but I like direct emails (and I even get replies).
In the Divine Reserve past (DR 8 and DR 9 for me is "the past") … I was following Tweets and other posts and lucked into misplaced 6 packs. The 6-pack of DR8 was hidden behind some Budweiser at HEB. The purple carriage of DR9 was sitting on a furniture display at a Kroger Marketplace store. I did a double take both times, and promptly bought the beer.
But since then, I’ve gotten to know Jackie an come to appreciate her expertise and devotion to craft beer in Texas and promoting it through the Sugar Land store. Getting DR10 and now DR11 was a case (well, a 6-pack) of simply walking in the door.
I also “know” some beer GUYS – Ron and Joey. They are great guys to know as well. They are home brewers, beer aficionados, and always pointing out the newest beers in stock and the best deals. It’s a different atmosphere at their places (one near my house, the other miles away). They deal in high volume. Yet they recognize faces and remember tastes … “you’re a brown ale guy … here’s what we have in that you’d like.” I’m wondering, “how does he do that???” Their company does weekly emails. I’m on their list and get the info. Whole Foods emails as well, and several of the Whole Foods Tweet, and Jackie also sends out personal emails.
I also became great friends with Stephanie (a beer AND wine person), but, alas, she got married and retired. Stephanie would email on a regular basis. There was always something on sale at her store. It may have been cheaper somewhere else, but Stephanie invited me in to sample, to learn, to buy (no pressure). Her replacement has not kept me posted about their store events. I tend to forget about them (I’m a guy and I need to be reminded – there, I said it!)
The point is – get to know your beer guy or gal ... or your wine person (kudos to Kris and Andy and Andrew – my wine guys ... more them later, too). They’ll take care of you. Many places have samples. You may have to know when and where for sampling. Be sure to participate in their events. Ask if they have an email list. If they don't have one and enough people ask, they might develop one (or they might Tweet). Good participation can mean good sales for the store ... and it can mean more events. It also means learining and expanding your palate. You may be a red or white wine person, but if you never sample “the other,” you’ll never know what you’re missing.
Two last words in closing – try it. TRY what’s being sampled, be it beer or wine (or bourbon, gin, cheese, meats, or chips ... or hot sauce – more on the hot sauce tomorrow). You might find something you like. Jackie got me to trrrrrrrry a blue cheese blend on a recent visit. I don't like blue cheese and I told her so. She smiled, prepared the sample, and even coaxed me (kinda like Mom coaxing the kids to eat their veggies) ... and I hesitantly took the sample. I tried it. Hey - it was okay! I probably won't buy a pound of it, but I can envision a small portion in my basket on a future trip.
Thanks Jackie!
It's time to cue the "Cheers" theme music ...
Sometimes you want to go
Where everybody knows your name,
And they're always glad you came;
You want to be where you can see,
Our troubles are all the same;
You want to be where everybody knows your name.
Here’s the official press release on today's "diviness" ...
HOUSTON, March 17 – Saint Arnold Brewing Company (www.saintarnold.com), the oldest craft brewery in Texas, today revealed plans for its upcoming release of Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11. Brewed in mid-February, Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11, is a Double IPA (India Pale Ale). The beer is slated for release around April 1 – no fooling. (PPP note - it actually was in stores today, March 29 in most places in Houston and Austin - March 30 and 31 for others).
The Saint Arnold Divine Reserve series was introduced more than five years ago and generates considerable excitement among craft beer fans for delivering high-quality, full-flavored beer in limited quantities. In response to frustrations voiced by some who have been unable to locate previous releases of Divine Reserve before supplies ran out, Saint Arnold significantly increased production of Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11.
“We had intended to boost production of Divine Reserve No. 10 to make it easier to find, but we ran into some challenges in the brewing process and ended up with fewer than 2,000 cases and three dozen kegs,” said Saint Arnold Founder/Brewer Brock Wagner. “We intend to come close to doubling production of Divine Reserve No. 11 so that people with jobs don’t have to take a day off to be able to score a six pack. Still, we thought previous production increases would help out with availability.”
This will be the second time the Saint Arnold Divine Reserve series offered a Double IPA, but this is the first Double IPA created by the Saint Arnold brew crew (the recipe for Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 3, also a Double IPA, was based on a winning entry from the Big Bash Brew Bash). Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11 uses Simcoe, Columbus and Centennial hops from the Pacific Northwest, resulting in a very citrusy, hoppy beer. More information on the Saint Arnold Divine Reserve series is available at http://saintarnold.com/beers/divine.html.
Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 11 is priced at approximately $16 per six pack and will be available at stores, restaurants and bars in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. Even with the larger quantities produced, Saint Arnold is requesting that retailers limit sales to two six packs per customer and is asking customers to limit their purchase to a six pack or two.
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