This time of year can be overwhelming. Shopping lists, schedules, travel, menus and more. There are some folks who love the thrill of all the above. It brings them joy. Not all individuals can manage all the hustle and bustle of the holidays. It certainly takes a mindset to ensure there are happy and joyful moments. As I reflect on all the amazing opportunities we have experienced this year, I realize how much joy there is in each and every day. I have to push through the day and find joy in my … [Read more...] about Find Joy in Creating Holiday Memories
Debbie Maranville
Gathering at the Table
As we gather at the table or video call/dine with those far away this holiday season, it’s the perfect moment to share warm wishes and express our gratitude to friends, family and co-workers. The main dish served may be a different source of protein or plant-based recipe. This year we anticipate seeing more roast beef/prime rib, seafood, holiday hams and a variety of baked dishes, with the potential of turkeys not being available. After turkey prices reached record highs last year, a … [Read more...] about Gathering at the Table
A Spoonful of Comfort
The leaves are changing to beautiful and vibrant colors. The crispness in the air invites us to create and enjoy your favorite bowl or cup of soup. It’s about to be soup season. Soup: It’s hearty, comforting and perfect for a chilly day. https://soupmakerguide.co.uk/soup-through-the-agesthe history of soup/ In the early Middle Ages, soup played an integral role in society. When food was scarce, soup was made by dumping all sorts of ingredients in the pot and boiling the contents. The … [Read more...] about A Spoonful of Comfort
Kids Love the Kitchen
Ever since I was a little girl, I loved every moment where I could be side by side with my grandmother, Betty Scardine, or watching my mom prepare the family dinner. Growing up and being the oldest of seven children, I gravitated to creating the culinary experience for my family. My father was the master BBQ king and I have great memories of watching over his shoulder while cooking Italian sausage, ribs, steaks, chicken and burgers on the grill. On the side were foil pouches with peppers and … [Read more...] about Kids Love the Kitchen
Celebrating Cilantro
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum L) is part of the Apiaceae family, which contains 3,700 species, including carrots, celery and parsley. All parts of the plant are edible, but people most commonly use the fresh leaves and dried seeds in cooking. Cilantro has been a part of global cuisine for hundreds of years. Did you know that cilantro is a good source of antioxidants? Using cilantro to flavor food may encourage people to use less salt and reduce their sodium intake. Preparation and … [Read more...] about Celebrating Cilantro
Summertime Camp Cooking
There is no better time than camping in the tall pines or near a lake during the summertime. How wonderful it is to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily activities and select your favorite camping spot under the stars. Whether you are camping with the family, friends, church group or going on a solo trip, food is often the best part of the journey. I recall great memories of camping with my family during summertime. We traveled a lot to Lake Shafer in Monticello Indiana, which is … [Read more...] about Summertime Camp Cooking
Eating Lighter in the Summertime
Do you naturally shift your mindset to lighter and cooler meals during the summertime? During the heat of the summer, our bodies are geared to receive lighter meals. This in turn allows us the energy needed to move through a hot day. Hiking, gardening, outside chores and sharing backyard get-togethers are shifting to lighter, cooler and refreshing foods and beverages. When it is hot outside, give your body a break by replacing your meat dishes with yummy veggies. Meat is heavy and will … [Read more...] about Eating Lighter in the Summertime
Creating a Fresh Salad
I am inspired to share with you that summer is around the corner. It’s time for the new seasonal harvest of crisp and fresh vegetables as well as warm and long summer days. As a culinary specialist, the time of year creates many adventures that excites the palate. Good, fresh food shared with others. Salads are a great way to enjoy all the freshness the season brings. A salad is a dish consisting of mixed, mostly natural ingredients. They are typically served at room temperature or … [Read more...] about Creating a Fresh Salad
Spring Up with Culinary Herbs
Spring is here and it is time to celebrate the season! I recall springtime memories from my time living in Phoenix; the desert blooming with magical colors of wildflowers and cactus bearing fruit. We would attend Spring Training baseball games and celebrate with the fans and players. Spring Break was also a time for celebration when our children would be off from school and we would take road trips. For many of us, we do “spring cleaning” in our homes, closets and office spaces. Perhaps your … [Read more...] about Spring Up with Culinary Herbs
Celebrating the Hand Pie
Amazing Pies of Prescott, Arizona is our upcoming concept of celebrating all things pie. Sweet pies, savory pies, pizza pies, hand pies and more. Our staff has been focusing on amazing recipes and tastings to showcase to our community. One item that will be offered daily will be our hand pies. Much of the world calls hand pies meat pies or pasties (PAS-ties) and traces their origins back to at least 19th-century England, where they were a convenient lunch for Cornish tin miners. So, what … [Read more...] about Celebrating the Hand Pie
