Posts
Leah feeds all of the stray cats in her yard and has a smile like a Jack-o'-lantern. She walks for miles each day carrying her gigantic purple plastic thermos mug of black coffee and a pack of cigarillos. One day she told me that growing up she was placed in twenty-five different foster homes. "Wow, Leah, You've survived that, you can survive anything," I told her and she smiled. I love running into her. Recently I told her she's Lily-dog's godmother and she was delighted.
When I was a child, weekends meant my stepfather wore suede slip-on sneakers and listened to his favorite records while watering the plants. Then he would do the NY Times crossword puzzle while lounging in his big black leather Eames chair. Grandma and Grandpa would drive up from Brighton Beach in their beige Buick Skylark convertible with the red interior. Grandpa seemed to always have a trunk full of boxes: lightweight shoes for dad to try on and a few cases of Wrigley's Spearmint gum for himself so he'd never run out.
When I visited Grandma and Grandpa I was surprised at how much food they had in their fridge. Their cupboards overflowed with saltine and graham cracker packages wrapped in blue rubber bands. When I asked my mom why they had so much food for just the two of them, she said Grandpa lived through the Great Depression and it was traumatic. He never wants to run out of food or go hungry again.
We've lived through a few recessions and this one is the Great Recession. Now I am traumatized. I don't like to run out of food or go hungry either. My fridge is full of packages of flour and grains and nuts wrapped in blue rubber bands.
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Abandonment
This morning when I woke up I realized I had recurring dreams about my neighbor's pancake griddle left in the backyard on the pile of stuff they were leaving behind. Natalie had told me, "We used this all the time for pancakes, eggs, bacon. There used to be metal tray that caught the grease," she said as I turned it over. It was missing its cord and had a broken foot. It had been loved to death.
Nat worked in a restaurant in Medway so she never cooked at home. This was from another life when she worked at the hardware store down the street. I used to see her through the window and wave when I walked by with my dog. Then she became my next door neighbor and I was thrilled. The shouts and screams and squad cars became a way of life but I liked them nonetheless. I worried about them. When their electricity went out, I asked her if she needed anything. Nat only wanted a cup of coffee. "How do you like it?" I asked. "With milk and sugar, thanks," she said handing me her mug.
Friday and Saturday her daughter were moving things into Nat's tiny silver Toyota. Sam was away with his dad. He showed up last night to the empty apartment and the abandoned pile of stuff on the lawn. His friend stood outside on the sidewalk as Sam ran in and quickly threw everything he owned into his friend's blue pickup truck. He left the apartment door wide open. It was like a Sam Shepard play, reminding me of all the abandonment and rage I felt at that age.
Nat worked in a restaurant in Medway so she never cooked at home. This was from another life when she worked at the hardware store down the street. I used to see her through the window and wave when I walked by with my dog. Then she became my next door neighbor and I was thrilled. The shouts and screams and squad cars became a way of life but I liked them nonetheless. I worried about them. When their electricity went out, I asked her if she needed anything. Nat only wanted a cup of coffee. "How do you like it?" I asked. "With milk and sugar, thanks," she said handing me her mug.
Friday and Saturday her daughter were moving things into Nat's tiny silver Toyota. Sam was away with his dad. He showed up last night to the empty apartment and the abandoned pile of stuff on the lawn. His friend stood outside on the sidewalk as Sam ran in and quickly threw everything he owned into his friend's blue pickup truck. He left the apartment door wide open. It was like a Sam Shepard play, reminding me of all the abandonment and rage I felt at that age.
Monday, May 25, 2015
Marion Cunningham's Raised Waffles
Raised Waffles
by
Marion Cunningham
This is the best waffle I know. The mixing is done the night before and all you have to do in the morning is add a couple of eggs and some baking soda. They are crisp on the outside and delicate on the inside.
YIELD: About 8 Waffles
Ingredients
1/2 cup warm water
1 package dry yeast
2 cups warm milk
1/2 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Preparation
Use a rather large mixing bowl — the batter will rise to double its original volume. Put the water in the mixing bowl and sprinkle in the yeast. Let stand to dissolve for 5 minutes. Add the milk, butter, salt, sugar, and flour to the yeast mixture and beat until smooth and blended. (I often use a hand rotary beater to get rid of the lumps.) Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let stand overnight at room temperature. Just before cooking the waffles, beat in the eggs, add the baking soda, and stir until well mixed. The batter will be very thin. Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup batter into a very hot waffle iron. Bake the waffles until they are golden and crisp. This batter will keep well for several days in the refrigerator.
Reprinted with permission from The Fannie Farmer Cookbook by Marion Cunningham. © 1996 Knopf
A Colorful Supper
We marinated thin slices of beef overnight in olive oil, fresh garlic, fresh ginger, and red wine vinegar. Tonight we grilled them on the hibachi and then cut the meat into strips with scissors, and added it to chopped bok choy steamed with chick peas. We added carrot peel slivers on top. It was delicious and light.
Covered with Trees
When I was about five or six I wanted to live in a house covered with trees.
One morning, when I was six or seven, I realized that the world had turned overnight. I said "I am breathing Chinese air!"
My favorite neighborhood kid LeeAnn is moving away in July. She and her grandmother are moving south to Cranston. My friend Violet, who lives in LeeAnn's building, heard LeeAnn one day instructing the other children: "Don't step on the ants, they are God's children too!"
When my brother was four, he thought neon tetras were flying inside the fish tank. The water was invisible to him.
Sometimes I want to get a fish-tank again to just sit and stare at it for hours in the dark, like I did as a child.
The people in the apartment next door are moving out and they have made a huge pile. There's a blue couch, a Lazyboy recliner, a shocking pink plastic Adirondack chair fit for a toddler, toys, housewares, with FREE STUFF scrawled on a piece of paper . Whole families came into the yard and poked through things. This morning the big blue sofa is gone. The baking pans, plastic pasta grabber, and blue silverware drawer are what's left in the yard. Doesn't anyone like to bake or cook?
I dreamed about the vacant apartment this morning. I dreamed it had a huge living room with a working fireplace and a view of green grass. In the dream I was napping on the porch and a nice lady looking at the apartment had to step over me.
The neighborhood bodega has closed again and is reopening under a new name. It will now be called L's Mini Mart + Botanica.
My three sourdough boules have just baked. The aroma is magnificent.
Botánica
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Botánicas cater to the Latino community and sell folk medicine alongside statues of Catholic saints, candles decorated with prayers, lucky bamboo, and other items.
A botánica (often written botanica and less commonly known as a hierbería or botica) is a retail store that sells folk medicine, religious candles and statuary, amulets, and other products regarded as magical or as alternative medicine. They also carry oils, incense, perfumes, scented sprays (many of which are thought to have special properties) and various brand name health care products.
One morning, when I was six or seven, I realized that the world had turned overnight. I said "I am breathing Chinese air!"
My favorite neighborhood kid LeeAnn is moving away in July. She and her grandmother are moving south to Cranston. My friend Violet, who lives in LeeAnn's building, heard LeeAnn one day instructing the other children: "Don't step on the ants, they are God's children too!"
When my brother was four, he thought neon tetras were flying inside the fish tank. The water was invisible to him.
Sometimes I want to get a fish-tank again to just sit and stare at it for hours in the dark, like I did as a child.
The people in the apartment next door are moving out and they have made a huge pile. There's a blue couch, a Lazyboy recliner, a shocking pink plastic Adirondack chair fit for a toddler, toys, housewares, with FREE STUFF scrawled on a piece of paper . Whole families came into the yard and poked through things. This morning the big blue sofa is gone. The baking pans, plastic pasta grabber, and blue silverware drawer are what's left in the yard. Doesn't anyone like to bake or cook?
I dreamed about the vacant apartment this morning. I dreamed it had a huge living room with a working fireplace and a view of green grass. In the dream I was napping on the porch and a nice lady looking at the apartment had to step over me.
The neighborhood bodega has closed again and is reopening under a new name. It will now be called L's Mini Mart + Botanica.
My three sourdough boules have just baked. The aroma is magnificent.
Botánica
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Botánicas cater to the Latino community and sell folk medicine alongside statues of Catholic saints, candles decorated with prayers, lucky bamboo, and other items.
A botánica (often written botanica and less commonly known as a hierbería or botica) is a retail store that sells folk medicine, religious candles and statuary, amulets, and other products regarded as magical or as alternative medicine. They also carry oils, incense, perfumes, scented sprays (many of which are thought to have special properties) and various brand name health care products.
Tangerine
Each time you look at a tangerine, you can see deeply into it. You can see everything in the universe in one tangerine. When you peel it and smell it, it’s wonderful. You can take your time eating a tangerine and be very happy.
― Thich Nhat Hanh, Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life
Baking in the Morning
I love to bake in the morning. I incubate my sourdough in an old clear plastic pickle bucket in the fridge for three days, and then I set it up early in the morning and let it rise in greased pans as the oven is heating up. The dough rises with the sun. Today is a new day with new bread and a fabulous aroma in my home. Sometimes I imagine being the village baker making the whole neighborhood smell good. I would get up at 2 AM and by dawn I'd be chatting with my customers in my floured apron. I'd be warm all winter!
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Marinades
I love to marinate things. I love knowing that while I am asleep the food is working hard.
Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
Make ice cream sandwiches using Famous chocolate wafers and vanilla ice cream. Refreeze overnight wrapped in cellophane. Enjoy.
Comfort me with Pancakes
While the whole world is being loud and out grilling and sunbathing, I am indoors with the windows closed, making buckwheat pancakes listening to classical music.
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Cabbage Peanut Stir Fry
Today I made a meal from what I found in the fridge: chopped cabbage, chopped ginger, chopped garlic, chopped red onion, chopped carrots, sauteed in olive oil, Adobo, salt, leftover red wine, and soy sauce. A cup of peanuts thrown in. Shredded coconut thrown in. Delicious!
Mysterious Weather
Yesterday I was looking at the national weather map and I saw a color I don't normally see; yellow. I looked at the color coded key and beside this particular shade of yellow was "child abduction". What did this mean? Good weather for child abduction?
Those Coffee Drinks
If you really liked coffee you'd drink it. Those coffee drinks are basically an ice cream sandwich crammed into a cup with a few ounces of cold coffee added.
Spontinaity with Eggs and Leftovers
Last night I sauteed a big green pepper and two onions in my iron skillet and then I added 6 beaten eggs. Then I threw in my one cup of leftover German potato salad. I cooked it covered and then I uncovered it, and put it under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp the top. It was like an egg pizza.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Cacophony
There's a team of guys tearing apart the dilapidated porches on the six-family tenement across the street. The workers have spread yellow caution tape into the street below, circling the area, and two men are on the ground raking up the remnants. A buzzing skill saw, hammering, and ripping sounds are punctuated by whistles and yells from the two men below trying to prevent debris from falling into the traffic. There's Mexican vocal and accordion ballads blasting from a silver boom-box propped up on a green trash bin. I absolutely love this music, just like I love opera; heartfelt dramas unfolding in a language I don't understand.
I wonder if the porches will be replaced. The three layers of porches with Victorian details represent a bygone era when the Woonsocket French Quarter resembled the New Orleans French Quarter. Many Stanley and Stella dramas have played out on these Tennessee Williams stages.
I am sitting outside in the shade of my maple tree with my notebook after having washed Lily's dog beds and our winter pullovers. Everything is drying on the line in the windy sunshine. Today our woodpecker is drowned out by the demolition team.
We just got sad news. One of my husband's former students from the Charter School where he taught 3 years ago was shot in a gang-related incident. He was 18. We had sad news yesterday, too, about the death of our friend's son. Lately losing young men feels epidemic.
I wonder if the porches will be replaced. The three layers of porches with Victorian details represent a bygone era when the Woonsocket French Quarter resembled the New Orleans French Quarter. Many Stanley and Stella dramas have played out on these Tennessee Williams stages.
I am sitting outside in the shade of my maple tree with my notebook after having washed Lily's dog beds and our winter pullovers. Everything is drying on the line in the windy sunshine. Today our woodpecker is drowned out by the demolition team.
We just got sad news. One of my husband's former students from the Charter School where he taught 3 years ago was shot in a gang-related incident. He was 18. We had sad news yesterday, too, about the death of our friend's son. Lately losing young men feels epidemic.
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Tea (meal)
Tea (meal)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
This article is about meals referred to as "Tea". For the beverage, see tea.
"Tea time" redirects here. For the Cantonese Chinese practice of "drinking tea", see Yum cha.
Tea refers to several different meals in countries formerly part of the British Empire.
Afternoon tea is a light meal typically eaten between 4 pm and 6 pm. Observance of the custom originated amongst the wealthy classes in England in the 1840s.[1][2] Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford, is widely credited as transforming afternoon tea in England into a late-afternoon meal whilst visiting Belvoir Castle, though Charles II of England's wife Catherine of Braganza is often credited with introducing tea to the court upon her arrival in 1662.[3][4][5][6] By the end of the nineteenth century, afternoon tea developed to its current form and was observed by both the upper and middle classes: "the table was laid… there were the best things with a fat pink rose on the side of each cup; hearts of lettuce, thin bread and butter, and the crisp little cakes that had been baked in readiness that morning."[7]
Traditionally, loose tea is brewed in a teapot and served with milk and sugar. The sugar and caffeine of the concoction provided fortification against afternoon doldrums for the working poor of 19th and early 20th century England, who had a significantly lower calorie count and more physically demanding occupation than most Westerners today. For labourers, the tea was sometimes accompanied by a small sandwich or baked snack (such as scones) that had been packed for them in the morning. For the more privileged, afternoon tea was accompanied by luxury ingredient sandwiches (customarily cucumber, egg and cress, fish paste, ham, and smoked salmon), scones (with clotted cream and jam, see cream tea) and usually cakes and pastries (such as Battenberg cake, fruit cake or Victoria sponge). In hotels and tea shops, food is often served on a tiered stand; there may be no sandwiches, but bread or scones with butter or margarine and optional jam or other spread, or toast, muffins or crumpets.[8][9][10] It was the emergence of afternoon tea that saw Britain regard biscuits as something dunked in tea; a British custom that was later exported around the globe.[11]
Isabella Beeton, whose books on home economics were widely read in the 19th century, describes afternoon teas of various kinds: the old-fashioned tea, the at-home tea, the family tea and the high tea and provides menus.[12] Nowadays, a formal afternoon tea is often taken as a treat in a hotel or tea shop.[13]
High tea
High tea (also known as meat tea or tea time in Ireland) usually refers to the evening meal or dinner of the working class, typically eaten between 5 pm and 7 pm.[14][15]
High tea typically consists of a hot dish, followed by cakes and bread, butter and jam. Occasionally there would be cold cuts of meat, such as ham salad. The term was first used around 1825, and high is used in the sense of well-advanced (like high noon, for example) to signify that it was taken later in the day[16] than afternoon tea; it was used predominantly by the working class and in certain British dialects of the north of England and Scotland.[17][18]
In Australia any short break for tea in the afternoon is referred to as "afternoon" tea. As a result, the term "High tea" is used to describe the more formal affair that the English would call "Afternoon tea".[19]
Evening meal
Lower-middle-class and working-class people, especially from the North of England, the English Midlands, and Scotland, traditionally call their midday meal dinner and their evening meal (served around 6 pm) tea, whereas the upper social classes would call the midday meal lunch (or luncheon), and the evening meal (served after 7 pm) dinner (if formal) or supper (often eaten later in the evening).[20] In Australia, the evening meal is still often called tea, whereas the midday meal is now always called lunch.
Young Brains Beware
a congressional report released this year excoriated those companies and others for continuing to market to teenagers, whose brains and bodies are not yet fully developed.
Dr. Marcie Schneider, an adolescent-medicine specialist in Greenwich, Conn., worries that most parents do not recognize the dangers of the [energy] drinks.
“I feel like we have a better sense of how many kids are smoking pot than how many kids are using energy drinks,” Dr. Schneider said. She was one of two lead authors of a study for the American Academy of Pediatrics that recommended that children and adolescents should never consume energy drinks because of caffeine’s potential to disturb sleeping patterns, increase heart rates and slow brain development.
Cucumber Sandwiches
The recent crop of cukes are so good. They taste like their relatives in the melon family. We make cucumber sandwiches with red onion, mustard and cukes!
Make the Call
Last night my husband heard a woman screaming. "What's the police number?" he yelled to me.
"769-1212" I shouted back, over the loud window fan. I was in bed dozing and he was up watching TV in the other room. I could hear him talking to the dispatcher."Hi I'm calling because I hear a woman screaming very loudly at 601 East School Street."
Today there's a front page story in the local paper about what unfolded. Don't hesitate, make the call, you might be saving a life!
"769-1212" I shouted back, over the loud window fan. I was in bed dozing and he was up watching TV in the other room. I could hear him talking to the dispatcher."Hi I'm calling because I hear a woman screaming very loudly at 601 East School Street."
Today there's a front page story in the local paper about what unfolded. Don't hesitate, make the call, you might be saving a life!
Pancake Meditations
Something about making pancakes (and deep frying corn tortillas) is calming. I find it very meditative which is a good thing because each batch makes a lot of pancakes. They are good as a cold portable food or warmed in the toaster.
Faster than Tofu!
My new fad is sprinkling cayenne on a cup of peanuts and throwing them into my broccoli, cabbage, garlic, ginger, carrot, onion, stir fry. De-lish!
Ad Men: The Back Story
“We had to have some material,” he said. “I wanted to keep my job.”
The next day, Mr. Backer said, he observed some of the passengers — “all types, ages, sexes,” he recalled — in the airport, talking and sharing bottles of warm Coca-Cola. Their frustration seemed to have dissipated. It was then, he said, that the now famous jingle came to him. On a napkin, he scribbled, “I’d like to buy the world a Coke and keep it company.”
Continue reading the main story
“That was the basic idea: to see Coke not as it was originally designed to be — a liquid refresher — but as a tiny bit of commonality between all peoples, a universally liked formula that would help to keep them company for a few minutes,” Mr. Backer wrote, according to Coca-Cola’s website.
What was initially a radio ad eventually became a television commercial with young people singing together on a hillside.
Article
Monday, May 18, 2015
Famous Chocolate Wafers+Vanilla Ice Cream= Ice Cream Sandwich
I am thinking of making these for my neighborhood sidewalk chalk ice cream party. I think I better practice my recipes. I could also make my whole wheat pizzelle ice cream cones for the hand-cranked vanilla ice cream.
Nobody can Write Your Poems
To write is an entertainment I put on for myself.
- Jean Cocteau
Red and Darlene moved in four years ago. I met them when I was standing on the street with my dog Lily. I had just accidentally sliced my thumb open with the antique serrated bread knife and I had no band aids or money to buy them so I wrapped my thumb in toilet paper and taped it up and stepped out. As I held the leash Red saw the blood drops hitting the sidewalk and ran inside and got a butterfly bandage and bandaged my thumb. "I drove an ambulance, I know a serious cut when I see one," he said. I was relieved, and our friendship began.
The following week I brought them a loaf of my bread and they loved it.
One day I saw a dead orange tabby cat in my bushes and I asked Red if it was theirs. "No, but would you like me to remove it?" Red asked.
"Wow, thank you," I said.
"I used to be a driver for the humane society," he said.
"Really?" I said.
"We even once had a Great Dane that nursed a motherless kitten."
"Amazing."
At Christmas Red and Darlene bought a blue and white ceramic mini loaf pan decorated with a penguin, and left it on the porch with a card: "More bread please!" I dropped off a few more loaves.
One day last summer at 6 AM I went out and snipped away at my shrubs. Red came out and told me stories, including how he was booted out of the Marines for standing up to a drunk Colonel. He got emotional reliving it as he spoke, sweating and becoming weepy. I kept snipping the shrubs, listening. "You did the right thing," I said.
"Would you like to hear my latest poems?"
"Absolutely," I said.
He walked across the street and returned with two typed pages and began reading. I got goosebumps. They were heartfelt and powerful.
"These are excellent," I said, thinking that he should give a reading at our local public library.
"I have hundreds of these," he said.
Red has told me about being lowered into the jungle by helicopter on a wire to rescue soldiers in Vietnam, driving a city ambulance, being homeless with Darlene and living out of their car, divorcing his nasty first wife and the awful custody battles they had, his son in prison, his landlord he calls 'Alabama,' his love of getting embroiled in the dramas of the neighborhood.
Red has a quick wit and a love of words that I can appreciate. "You know you can call me if there's a problem," he reminds me, "and I'll be over faster than you can say 9-1-1."
"Thanks Red," I say, "but there's a great local police force for that job, plus I don't want to interrupt your most important job, writing poems. Nobody can write your poems."
Recently Red befriended the local drug dealer. He knew all about the early-morning surprise search warrant, from the dealer's point of view. "The police searched his wife, the toddlers were traumatized." I think he was the one traumatized. Red had an angry 'Pitbull Warning' sign in his window facing the street and 'Private Property' signs on his landlord's chain link fences and gates. When he saw me picking up trash from the sidewalk one day, he called out to me. "You'd better wear gloves. We found needles in our backyard once." I realized this tough-and-tumble Marine was actually more frightened in the neighborhood than he showed himself to be, and probably suffering from PTSD.
Out Came the Sun
Out Came the Sun: Overcoming the Legacy of Mental Illness, Addiction, and Suicide in My Family
by Mariel Hemingway, Ben Greenman (Goodreads Author)
A moving, compelling memoir about growing up and escaping the tragic legacy of mental illness, suicide, addiction, and depression in one of America's most famous families: the Hemingways.
She opens her eyes. The room is dark. She hears yelling, smashed plates, and wishes it was all a terrible dream. But it isn't. This is what it was like growing up as a Hemingway. In this deeply moving, searingly honest new memoir, actress and mental health icon Mariel Hemingway shares in candid detail the story of her troubled childhood in a famous family haunted by depression, alcoholism, illness, and suicide. Born just a few months after her grandfather, Ernest Hemingway, shot himself, it was Mariel's mission as a girl to escape the desperate cycles of severe mental health issues that had plagued generations of her family.
Surrounded by a family tortured by alcoholism (both parents), depression (her sister Margaux), suicide (her grandfather and four other members of her family), schizophrenia (her sister Muffet), and cancer (mother), it was all the young Mariel could do to keep her head. In a compassionate voice she reveals her painful struggle to stay sane as the youngest child in her family, and how she coped with the chaos by becoming OCD and obsessive about her food, schedule, and organization.
The twisted legacy of her family has never quite let go of Mariel, but now in this memoir she opens up about her claustrophobic marriage, her acting career, and turning to spiritual healers and charlatans for solace. Ultimately Mariel has written a story of triumph about learning to overcome her family's demons and developing love and deep compassion for them. At last, in this memoir she can finally tell the true story of the tragedies and troubles of the Hemingway family, and she delivers a book that beckons comparisons with Mary Karr and Jeanette Walls.
Mark Olmsted
After moving to a working class neighborhood in Los Angeles, my first reaction to the trash-filled streets was to say a well-known prayer: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” As I walked my dog every day, I thought the litter was something I just had to accept. After all, what was I supposed to do? Pick it up?
The thought was like a pebble in my shoe. Try as I might I just couldn’t shake it loose.
So one day, I decided to do just that: Pick it up. In a leap of faith, I went down to Home Depot, bought myself an E-Z Reacher, and started plucking the empty cigarette packs, soda cans, fast food packaging, coffee containers, newspapers, styrofoam cups, and just about anything you can think of into plastic grocery bags. For over five years now, I have filled at least four bags every morning, one for each block of my dog-walking route. Sometimes, I do it again on different streets in the afternoon, especially if I’m having a bad day.
I believe in picking up trash because it’s taught me that you can’t assume to know the difference between the things you must accept and the things that you can change—you have to think about it. It’s taught me to question the premise of all sorts of assumptions I had previously made, from the idea that the only possible reaction to traffic is anger and frustration, to the belief that I was a hopeless addict who couldn’t possibly get clean.
Every morning, pickingEvery morning, picking up trash is my answer to the questions: How can I be of service today? What do I have the courage to change? And every night, no matter how much the day didn’t seem to go my way, I can fall asleep counting the bags of trash I’ve picked up, comforted that in this lifetime I’ve been able to find one thing to do that’s unarguably, unambiguously good.
-Mark Olmsted
Article
A Longer Neck
There's a part of me that is always hoping I will grow a longer neck. I know it sounds silly but when I look in the mirror this is what I am hoping for. I check. Is it here yet? I recently discovered that when I braid my hair in two braids that hang down near my ears, I am given the vertical illusion of a longer neck. The braids keep me cool all day too and with my wide brimmed straw hat I look like a farm girl. I'm the farmer that picks up litter. Our City is looking so good I go crazy when I see a piece of trash, I have to pick it up. It's an addictive habit. Even my dog is stopping at trash spots so we can pick up cups and cans.
Scent of Ammonia
Years ago I joined a group of runners to see what that was like. After the first run I was overcome by the scent of ammonia.
Article
Article
Sunday, May 17, 2015
Dinner Guests
Every once in a while I decide I need dinner guests and I find that the result is disastrous, not because of the food but by how rudely the guests behave. When I complain about this my husband reminds me that I need to let go of MY expectations of a well behaved dinner guest. So far this is not possible. I'm happy to skip the whole idea.
Peanuts!
We bought a gigantic tin of peanuts at Joblot last night to toss into cabbagey stir fries or sprinkle with cayenne and eat as a snack.
Old MacDonald Had and Apartment House
Old MacDonald had an Apartment House by Judi Barrett, illustrated by Ron Barrett was my favorite book when I was a kid.
I also loved Dorrie and the Blue Witch by Patricia Coombs
Both books are part of my daily psyche today.
I also loved Dorrie and the Blue Witch by Patricia Coombs
Both books are part of my daily psyche today.
Sunday Morning Buckwheat Pancakes
It's funny but one year I asked for buckwheat flour for Christmas. I still have some in my freezer because everyone gave me a bag of it. I am someone who always wants to know I will be able to have another meal but that's another story. I'm still in a pancake making phase. Today being Sunday I was able to make them and have my husband here with me to enjoy them. There's a huge amount leftover which he will bring to work for breakfast and lunch tomorrow. We are grain people, we live on my sourdough bread as toast, pancakes, popcorn and lots of stir fried vegetables and fruit. We have meat and chicken and fish occasionally, mostly as a spice. This is growing season but I am no farmer! I might grow a pot of basil and maybe a pot of tomatoes but you will find me indoors baking bread and swimming laps all summer.
3 Tbs corn oil
2 cups of flour -a blend of buckwheat flour and cornmeal
2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups buttermilk
2 eggs
I added 1/4 cup of orange juice to thin the batter. The maple syrup brought out the orange flavor!
note:
At tea time we ate the leftovers cold from the fridge and the orange juice flavor was very pronounced. They were fantastic, like a soft cookie.
3 Tbs corn oil
2 cups of flour -a blend of buckwheat flour and cornmeal
2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups buttermilk
2 eggs
I added 1/4 cup of orange juice to thin the batter. The maple syrup brought out the orange flavor!
note:
At tea time we ate the leftovers cold from the fridge and the orange juice flavor was very pronounced. They were fantastic, like a soft cookie.
Saturday, May 16, 2015
Saturday Morning
This morning I set up the coffee and decided to wash last night's dishes while I was waiting. I turned on the kitchen radio. It was too loud and when I turned the knob, it wouldn't go lower. I unplugged it angrily but that wasn't right either. I plugged it back in and dumped my sweatshirt over the radio and that seemed to quiet it.
Bill came downstairs, he laughed at my sweatshirt on top of the radio. "It wouldn't get quiet" I said.
He took the radio apart and fixed the volume knob in three minutes.
"Thank you so much. Two things make me crazy faster than anything; loud noises and bad smells."
"I know" he said.
I can't wear that sweatshirt until I wash it because there's strong cologne on it from being hugged by our friend at the block party. When I wear it it's like he's sitting on my right shoulder. It's too distracting.
I put my risen sour dough boules in the oven and within minutes the house filled up with a good smells. I went outside with scissors and started cutting the grass.
"We have better tools for that," Bill said coming out to see me.
"I know, it's crazy but it's just a tiny patch. I didn't want to make any noise."
I roamed on my knees grabbing and cutting clumps of grass like I was the hairdresser for a big green monster. It was silly and satisfying. I listened to my neighbors on the other side of the parking lot greet each other. They were talking about this beautiful Saturday. "We're just going to hang out," Joe said standing there with his wife and son.
"I say family is most important," my neighbor Malik said in his beautiful Ghanian accent.
A beautiful morning in the neighborhood.
Bill came downstairs, he laughed at my sweatshirt on top of the radio. "It wouldn't get quiet" I said.
He took the radio apart and fixed the volume knob in three minutes.
"Thank you so much. Two things make me crazy faster than anything; loud noises and bad smells."
"I know" he said.
I can't wear that sweatshirt until I wash it because there's strong cologne on it from being hugged by our friend at the block party. When I wear it it's like he's sitting on my right shoulder. It's too distracting.
I put my risen sour dough boules in the oven and within minutes the house filled up with a good smells. I went outside with scissors and started cutting the grass.
"We have better tools for that," Bill said coming out to see me.
"I know, it's crazy but it's just a tiny patch. I didn't want to make any noise."
I roamed on my knees grabbing and cutting clumps of grass like I was the hairdresser for a big green monster. It was silly and satisfying. I listened to my neighbors on the other side of the parking lot greet each other. They were talking about this beautiful Saturday. "We're just going to hang out," Joe said standing there with his wife and son.
"I say family is most important," my neighbor Malik said in his beautiful Ghanian accent.
A beautiful morning in the neighborhood.
Cold Slow Rise: Sourdough
I mix up my sourdough a few days ahead of baking. Since we live on our bread I am always monitoring when it's time to mix up another batch. I blend approx 4 cups whole wheat flour, 1 cup of cornmeal and 1 cup of oats and 3 cups of water in a huge clear bucket with kosher salt and my starter. Over the days I can see it rising. I keep it in the fridge and I punch it down every day.
When its time to bake I grease my dutch oven(s) with shortening and place the boule(s) inside and cover them. I place the dough in a cold oven and turn the oven to 450 degrees F. I take the lids off when my nose tells me to, towards the end of baking time.
Article
When its time to bake I grease my dutch oven(s) with shortening and place the boule(s) inside and cover them. I place the dough in a cold oven and turn the oven to 450 degrees F. I take the lids off when my nose tells me to, towards the end of baking time.
Article
When Feeling Blue. . .
When feeling blue a few things nearly always help me.
1. Take a shower or bath or swim. Water is a cure.
2. Put on clean colorful clothes and sunglasses and a hat and walk around downtown with my dog. Walking in the city brings me out of my head.
(a few more...)
3. Have a cup of tea or coffee.
4. Write a letter to my friend or write in my notebook.
5. Read a book and if you are sleepy, take a nap.
6. Bake a loaf of bread.
7. Go grocery shopping at Price Rite and watch the people who also love to cook.
1. Take a shower or bath or swim. Water is a cure.
2. Put on clean colorful clothes and sunglasses and a hat and walk around downtown with my dog. Walking in the city brings me out of my head.
(a few more...)
3. Have a cup of tea or coffee.
4. Write a letter to my friend or write in my notebook.
5. Read a book and if you are sleepy, take a nap.
6. Bake a loaf of bread.
7. Go grocery shopping at Price Rite and watch the people who also love to cook.
Friday, May 15, 2015
Corn and Oat Pan Cakes
I made these pancakes yesterday from ingredients in my kitchen. I was too lazy to refill the flour bin so I made them with cornmeal and oats. I loved them! They were nice and thick almost like bolos levedos (Portuguese sweet bread muffins) but very wholesome.
3 Tablspoons corn oil
2-3 cups cornmeal and rolled oats to make a thick bubbly batter.
1/4 c sugar
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 c buttermilk
2 eggs
On a whim I mixed all of this in my blender.
3 Tablspoons corn oil
2-3 cups cornmeal and rolled oats to make a thick bubbly batter.
1/4 c sugar
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 c buttermilk
2 eggs
On a whim I mixed all of this in my blender.
Thursday, May 14, 2015
Bocce League of Woonsocket
Today was the first official start of bocce league season at Bouley field. It was a blast.
Cape Verde Native's Dream Comes True at Ten Rocks Tapas Bar in Pawtucket
Lincoln's Carmen Monteiro has longed to open a restaurant since she was growing up on Brava, one of the "10 rocks" that make up the island nation of Cape Verde.
By Gail Ciampa
Journal Food Editor Posted May. 13, 2015 at 12:01 am Updated May 13, 2015 at 11:24 AM
PAWTUCKET, R.I. — When Carmen Monteiro opened Ten Rocks Tapas Bar and Restaurant last month in Pawtucket, it was a celebration, not just of food but also of reaching a goal.
"This has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl growing up on an island," she said.
That island was Brava, the smallest of the "10 rocks," or volcanic islands, that make up the nation of Cape Verde. The one-time Portuguese colony is an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa.
That is where Carmen was born and raised until she came to the United States in 1981 when she was 15. Now, as vice president of sourcing and manufacturing for Adelington Design Group, a division of Kate Spade & Company, she travels for her job. As she goes around the world, she has observed trends and built her restaurant on one: tapas, or small plates.
"I felt tapas was becoming very popular," she said.
She believes that people care about what they eat and the portions they consume. So the smaller portions of tapas appeal to diners across the globe.
That said, the tapas portions at Ten Rocks are not single serving. They are very much meant to be shared. Think three sliders on a plate. Carmen sees sharing tapas plates as a conversation starter, as people eat the same dishes and then dish about flavors and their likes and preferences.
Carmen, who lives in Lincoln, also wanted to bring her beloved Cape Verdean cuisine to Pawtucket, not just for the community here but also for others looking for an ethnic dining experience.
The cocktails have a definite Cape Verdean flair, with infusions of guava, mango and passion fruit. Carmen also is onto the concept of freshly squeezed juices that is so much a part of the cocktail culture today.
The food is also a very personal homage to the women who cooked for her and taught her to cook, her mother and grandmother.
Growing up, her grandmother Carolina made her yucca fries. So you'll see Ma Culum Mandioca on the Ten Rocks menu, sliced yucca wedges delicately fried and served with a chimichurra sauce on the side.
Maria Helena Batatas Bravas are named after Carmen's mother. Seasoned potatoes and chorizo are sautéed with olive oil, garlic and shallots and then topped with a fried egg and Creole sauce.
The menu, by chef Elia Lima, includes charcuterie, a cheese and meat board that will make the fussy eater comfortable, as will rosemary chicken breast served over a bed of quinoa. Polvo Ten Rocks, or grilled octopus with a balsamic glaze on top of fried plaintains, is for the more adventurous diner.
Many will be happy to see bacalhau, cod cakes, and even the official Rhode Island appetizer of calamari, though here it's served over fresh papaya and pineapple. Fried goat cheese is a delicious concept, as is Camarao Trapiche, baby shrimp sautéed and served with a coconut curry sauce infused with Cape Verde rum and served over plaintains. Chorizo a la Finca is chorizo in red wine sauce served in a traditional pot.
Lima, too, is from Cape Verde, but previously ran her own restaurant in Puerto Rico, making her an expert at infusing dishes with a taste of island cuisine.
Desserts include a cheesecake made with roasted cornmeal, a mango mousse cake or a platter of tropical desserts to share. But the signature one comes in martini glass. It's sweet papaya sprinkled with cinnamon and garnished with white cheese.
Though there has been one restaurant or another on the site since 1929, the last one was in great disrepair. Before-and-after photos reveal Ten Rocks as a great addition to a neighborhood that is in transition, but has Hope Artiste Village, home to many local businesses and a wildly successful Wintertime Farmers' Market, as an anchor.
A new gym is set to open next door to Ten Rocks. An outdoor patio was just opened last week.
Live music, including sets played by Carmen's husband, Carlos "Kalu" Monteiro, a famous Cape Verdean drummer, are part of the tapas bar's mix.
Kalu is also credited with working with Carmen's business partner, Joseph Darosa, to build out the restaurant themselves.
"They made it all happen with their own hands," Carmen said. Not paying for labor, but only materials, and not going deeply into debt to create the space gives her a good start, she added.
Also key to the restaurant are the twentysomething members of her family, son Adilson Vieira, daughter Jocelyn Vieira and nephew Victor Lopes. Carmen said all three helped translate her vision to reality, from the look to the sounds of the restaurant. All work at the restaurant as well, but as a second job. No one is quitting their day job, she said.
"It's hard work, but you do it with a lot of love," she said.
Carmen's dream includes focusing on marketing for the first three years of Ten Rocks. Within five years she hopes the business will be on a solid track, and then her plan knows no bounds.
"I hope to take this," she said spanning the room with her hands, "and bring Cape Verdean taste around the world."
"I hope I have showed my kids that you can do anything if you put your mind to it," she said.
Ten Rocks, 1091 Main St., Pawtucket, (401) 728-0800. They open every day but Monday, serving dinner. They open late afternoon on weekdays and 2 p.m. on Saturday but are expected to serve lunch before the end of May.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Delicious Coconut Peanutbutter Blobs
Try this: shredded coconut sweetened and mixed with natural peanut butter. Add salt if needed. Shape into small super-ball sized blobs and enjoy. You can also add mini semisweet chocolate chips or raisins or dried sweetened cranberries.
The Destination is Woonsocket: Why Live Anywhere Else?
Woonsocket's 'Rotary Days' coming in May
By SANDY SEOANE, Valley Breeze Staff Writer
[...]
On Thursday, May 14 Ciro's co-owner Matt Moylan will put on "Thursday Night Live!" at Depot Square, a celebration of city night life including everything from live music and street performers to choir acts. The free event will be the first of three for which Moylan is serving as chairperson, with two additional sections of Main Street, Woonsocket to be highlighted during Rotary Days culminating weekend.
Two Rotary Day events will take place in the city's downtown on Friday, May 15. From 4:30 to 9 p.m., the Woonsocket Prevention Coalition will sponsor a multicultural, multigenerational event at River Island, featuring belly dancers, break dancers, salsa dancers along with many different types of acts and entertainment.
Up the road in Market Square "Thundermist Lights" will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. Woonsocket Falls will be illuminated and a series of high-powered multicolored spotlights will be aimed toward the sky. The surrounding area will be filled with artistry, foods, cocktail stations and light music.
"What we wanted to do was create a night of relaxation," Moylan said.
Five events will take place on Saturday, May 16, at varying times and locations throughout the day.
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the city's new Armed Forces Park will be home to "Salute to Veterans," an USO-type show featuring great bands, dancers and singers; restored military vehicles; uniforms and artifacts. Entertainment will be provided by the New Providence Big Band, and 19 piece act headed up by General Reginold Centracchio, former adjutant general of the state; and Company B, a tribute to the Andrews Sisters, among others.
Richard Schatz, president of the United Veterans Council of Woonsocket, is chairperson of the event.
At the nearby Rivers Edge Recreational Complex, Mike Reynolds of R.I. Athletic Club will run the Rotary Days "Wicked Woonsocket Challenge" from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., an obstacle course including walls, rope swings a bear crawl and other obstacles. Advance registration is required and a $15 entry fee includes participation in group classes throughout the day.
From 1 to 2 p.m., Harris Public Library, in coordination with Books are Wings, will offer free books for children, snacks, story-telling and more.
Just next door at the Grow Up Community Garden from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m, an event dubbed "Rotary Day in the Garden" will include demonstrations and displays on planting with participation by local environmental groups.
On the same day at River Island Park, the Blackstone Valley Independent Business Alliance will hold a "Makers Fair and Festival" with booths by small home-based companies, crafts and food vendors. engaging small businesses.
On May 17, closing day of the celebration will commence on Main Street with "Cars, Bikes, Blues and Bar-B-Q from 12 to 6 p.m. in the municipal lot by the Woonsocket Call building. The event will kick off with a charity bike run starting around 10 p.m. and from noon to 6 p.m., guests will be treated to a display of classic cars, motorcycles and live music.
It's all part of the Woonsocket Rotary's plan to "light up" the city as part of the larger club's mission to engage the community.
Dubois and his small army of volunteers say the event will be annual, far better than what international club organizers had asked for when they suggested he host a "Rotary Day."
Inspiring Batches of Homemade Macaroni
I make macaroni dough adding lemon rind and thyme.
Article
Article
Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Urban Parking Lot Fun for Kids
I've been thinking of a few fun things we could do with the neighbor kids on our shared asphalt parking lot.
Jump rope contest.
Mary Poppins mural making making using chalk.
Make churned ice cream using ice and salt.
Play twister, drawing the game using chalk.
Play basketball.
Play gigantic checkers using chalk on the asphalt, plastic yellow and black lids from Cafe Bustello and Folgers coffee.
Jump rope contest.
Mary Poppins mural making making using chalk.
Make churned ice cream using ice and salt.
Play twister, drawing the game using chalk.
Play basketball.
Play gigantic checkers using chalk on the asphalt, plastic yellow and black lids from Cafe Bustello and Folgers coffee.
Pumpkin Pancake Bender
Okay I'll admit it, I'm in a pumpkin pancake craze right now. It started Saturday with my making pumpkin waffles and now it's pumpkin pancakes. I mixed up a big batch of batter so I was able to make them a few times a day for four days.
They are soothing, quick and colorful. What's not to like?
They are soothing, quick and colorful. What's not to like?
Pumpkin Pancakes for Breakfast
A grocer friend of mine recently confessed that he never eats breakfast and never will. I was surprised since I know he starts work early. He has also told me he eats a slice of turkey and a slice of provolone for lunch. That's it. I hope he has a real dinner! I on the other hand need breakfast and a substantial lunch and dinner is less crucial.
Pumpkin Pancakes
This pancake recipe makes orange-colored pancakes. If you want to experiment with different types of grains, replace up to 1/2 cup of the whole-wheat flour with cornmeal, oats and/or buckwheat flour or add up to 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or chia seeds.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour (replace up to 1/2 cup of the whole-wheat flour with cornmeal, oats and/or buckwheat flour).
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons corn oil
Double the recipe and keep a jar of it on hand for spontaneous tea cakes.
Pumpkin Pancakes
This pancake recipe makes orange-colored pancakes. If you want to experiment with different types of grains, replace up to 1/2 cup of the whole-wheat flour with cornmeal, oats and/or buckwheat flour or add up to 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or chia seeds.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour (replace up to 1/2 cup of the whole-wheat flour with cornmeal, oats and/or buckwheat flour).
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons corn oil
Double the recipe and keep a jar of it on hand for spontaneous tea cakes.
Monday, May 11, 2015
Earl Grey Tea
I had leftover Earl Gray tea and I added ice cubes and maple syrup. A delicious for the summer heat.
Mexican Chocolate Pudding
Recipe
Mexican Chocolate Tofu Pudding
By MARK BITTMAN
Published: May 15, 2009 NYT
Time: 10 minutes, plus 30 minutes’ chilling
Related
The Minimalist: Out of the Wok (May 20, 2009)
3/4 cup sugar
1 pound silken tofu
8 ounces high-quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon chili powder, or more to taste
Chocolate shavings (optional).
1. In a small pot, combine sugar with 3/4 cup water; bring to a boil and cook until sugar is dissolved, stirring occasionally. Cool slightly.
2. Put all ingredients except for chocolate shavings in a blender and purée until completely smooth, stopping machine to scrape down its sides if necessary. Divide among 4 to 6 ramekins and chill for at least 30 minutes. If you like, garnish with chocolate shavings before serving.
Yield: 4 to 6 servings.
Spring Summer Fever
Don't be afraid to try the pumpkin waffles (below) as pancakes, (I just did!) They are so soothing and a lovely color. I made a huge amount and keep it in a jar for quick meals. (I am lazy when hungry.) Do add more liquid milk or buttermilk or yogurt if needed...I am loosey goosey with recipe amounts.
The pollen histamine season is killing me. I always forget that's what antihistamines, decongestant, and Excedrin are for. Swimming (at RI Athletic cClub) is a godsend for sinus pain.
I am soaking my head every 2 minutes with the hose to cool off.
I must plant my basil and tomato in buckets so they are defined and simple. My Lao neighbors on Elbow Street have already planted many gardens along the fence and things are coming up. They remembered me from their NEW YEARS DAY celebration. My dream is to eat with them. I love Lao style food and want to learn more about how to make it. When Seng had his restaurant across the street it was amazing. It was the best food in the world. That was before the great recession, when we could go out.
I joined senior bocce league, (any age over 50!)
Cat Cafes Springing Up!
Cumberland native's cafe plan: Blend coffee with cats
May 9, 2015
By
Russ Olivo
rolivo@woonsocketcall.com
CUMBERLAND — For millions of American cat lovers, sipping a cup of coffee beside a feline friend is one of the taken-for-granted pleasures of daily life.
At home, on the sofa, that is. Not at Starbucks, or someplace like it.
But all that could change if Cumberland native Zackery Durkin and his girlfriend, Sarah Brown, have their way. They’re planning to open Rhode Island’s first “cat cafe” next year – after they return from South Korea.
South Korea is where Durkin and Brown got the idea for a place where cat lovers could enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while mingling with a resident group of furry four-leggers at the same time. Both 24-year-old graduates of St. John’s University in New York, they love traveling and figured out a way to see South Korea by getting jobs there as teachers last August.
“They have cat cafes in South Korea and we’ve been to a few,” Durkin said in a phone interview from Ansan, which is not far from Seoul, the capital. “When we saw that, we really fell in love with it.
Also...
Visit Franklin's caliconook.com
Pollen is HIGH: Maple Birch Ash
Today's Predominant Pollens
Allergy Forecast Discussion
The amount of pollen in the air for Tuesday will not change appreciably and will remain in the very high range. This lack of change in airborne pollen will continue to affect those who suffer from allergies and those who live with the allergy sufferers.
Woonsocket, RI
9:28 AM EDT on May 11, 2015 (GMT -0400)
Bernon Section | Report | Change Station
Report Station
Temperature
Pressure
Wind
Forecast
Station Offine
Elev 235 ft 42.00 °N, 71.51 °W | Updated -49 sec ago
Clear
Clear
77.9 °F
Feels Like 80 °F
N
1.3
Wind from W
Gusts 2.5 mph
Today is forecast to be Much Cooler than yesterday.
Today
High 83 | Low 63 °F
20% Chance of Precip.
Yesterday
High 91.4 | Low 62.4 °F
Precip. 0 in
Sun & Moon
5:30 AM 7:55 PM
Waning Gibbous, 49% visible
Pressure 30.11 in
Visibility 10.0 miles
Clouds Clear
Heat Index 80 °F
Dew Point 67 °F
Humidity 69%
Rainfall 0.00 in
Snow Depth Not available.
UV 5 out of 12
Pollen 10.10 out of 12
Poppy Seeds: Magical Powers of Invisibility
Article
The poppy seed is mentioned in ancient medical texts from many civilizations. For instance, the Egyptian papyrus scroll named Ebers Papyrus, written c. 1550 BC, lists poppy seed as a sedative. The Minoan civilization (approximately 2700 to 1450 BC), a Bronze Age civilization which arose on the island of Crete, cultivated poppies for their sanz seed. The Sumerians are another civilization that grew poppy seeds. Poppy seeds have long been used as a folk remedy to aid sleeping, promote fertility and wealth, and even to provide supposed magical powers of invisibility.
According to The Joy of Cooking, "the most desirable come from Holland and are a slate-blue color." The color of poppy seeds is important in some uses. When used as a thickener in some dishes, white poppy seeds are preferred, having less impact on the color of the food. In other dishes, black poppy seeds are preferred, for maximum impact.
Since poppy seeds are relatively expensive, they are sometimes mixed with the seeds of Amaranthus paniculatus, which closely resemble poppy seeds.
Poppy seed is a nutritionally dense spice with high levels of essential minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.
Use by cuisine
Turkish poppy-seed cake
Poppy seeds are used around the world in various cuisines.
In India, Iran and Turkey poppy seeds are known as khashkhaash or haşhaş and are considered highly nutritious, mostly added in dough while baking bread, and recommended for pregnant women and new mothers.
European cuisine
German Mohnstollen
The seeds of the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) are widely consumed in many parts of Central and Eastern Europe. The sugared, milled mature seeds are eaten with pasta, or they are boiled with milk and used as filling or topping on various kinds of sweet pastry. Milling of mature seeds is carried out either industrially or at home, where it is generally done with a manual poppy seed mill.
Poppy seeds are widely used in Austrian, Croatian, Czech, German, Hungarian, Romanian, Lithuanian, Polish, Romanian, Russian, Slovak, Turkish and Ukrainian cuisines.
The states of former Yugoslavia (notably Macedonia and Serbia, but also Croatia and Bosnia) have a long tradition of preparing poppy seed pastry (strudel, baklava, pajgle) and dishes (macaroni with poppy seeds).
Polish makowiec, Slovak makovník, a nut roll filled with poppy seed paste
In Lithuania and Eastern Slovakia, a traditional meal is prepared for the Kūčios (Christmas Eve) dinner from the poppy seeds. They are ground and mixed with water; round yeast biscuits (kūčiukai; bobalky in Slovak) are soaked in the resulting poppy seed 'milk' (poppy milk) and served cold.
In Central Europe, poppy strudel is very popular, especially during Christmas. In the countries belonging to the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, poppy seed pastries called Mohnkuchen are often eaten around Christmas time.[13]
Jewish cuisine
In Jewish cuisine, pastries filled with black poppy seeds in a sugary paste are traditional during Purim, which occurs exactly one month before Passover and approximately a month before Easter. Traditional pastries include poppy seed kalács and hamantashen, both sometimes known as beigli (also spelled bejgli). In Israeli cuisine, poppy seed hamantashen is the main traditional food eaten at Purim. Poppy seed pastries are common in Jewish bakeries and delicatessens throughout the United States.
Indian cuisine
In Indian cuisine white poppy seeds are added for thickness, texture and also give added flavor to the recipe. Commonly used in the preparation of korma, ground poppy seed, along with coconut and other spices, are combined as the masala to be added at the end of the cooking step. It is quite hard to grind them when raw, so they are normally dry fried, and then mixed with a little water to get the right paste consistency.
Words for poppy seed paste include Assamese – Aafu guti (আফু গুতি), Hindi/Marathi – Khas Khas (खस खस), Oriya – Posta, Bengali – Posto, Kannada – Gasagase (ಗಸಗಸೆ) or Telugu gasagasa (గసగసాలు) or gasagasaalu or Tamil Kasa kasaa (கஸகஸ) or Malayalam – (കസ് കസ്).
Poppy seeds are widely used in Maharashtrian cuisine , Gujarati cuisine, Andhra cuisine, Bihari cuisine, Bengali cuisine, Oriya cuisine, and Malabar cuisine (Northern Kerala).
In Maharashtra, poppy seeds (called खस खस in Marathi) are used to garnish anarsa (अनारसा), a special sweet prepared during the festival of Diwali. It is also added in boiling milk sometimes.
In Gujarat, poppy seeds are mostly used in sweets. The most common use is to garnish on a traditional Gujarati sweet – Ladoo.
In Bengal (West Bengal and Bangladesh), white poppy seeds are called posto পোস্তো). They are very popular and are used as the main ingredient in a variety of dishes.[citation needed] One of the most popular[peacock term] dishes is aloo posto (potato and poppy seeds) which consists of a large amount of ground poppy seeds cooked together with potatoes and made into a smooth, rich product, which is sometimes eaten with rice. There are many variants to this basic dish, replacing or complementing the potatoes with such ingredients as onions (pnyaj posto), Ridged Luffa (jhinge posto), chicken (murgi posto), and possibly the most popular prawns (chingri posto). The cooked poppy seeds are sometimes served without any accompanying ingredients at all. The consistency of the dish may vary depending on local or household traditions. There are many other posto dishes. Chadachadi is a dish from Bengali cuisine and includes long strips of vegetables, sometimes with the stalks of leafy greens added, all lightly seasoned with spices like mustard or poppy seeds and flavored with a phoron. One dish involves grilling patties made from posto, sometimes frying them (posto-r bora). Another dish involves simply mixing uncooked ground poppy seeds (kancha posto) with mustard oil, chopped green chili peppers, fresh onions and rice.
In Karnataka cuisine, Gasagase Payasa (Kannada: ಗಸಗಸೆ ಪಾಯಸ) is very popular in southern part of the South Indian state of Karnataka. It is a liquid dessert made out of white poppy seeds, jaggery, coconut and milk. Andhra cuisine also uses white poppy seeds, called Gasaalu (గసాలు) in Telugu, in various recipes.
The seeds themselves do not contain significant amounts of opiates. But a poppy tea consumed in some areas and often referred to as doda has been controversial for containing ground opium poppy plant, especially the seed head, and contains significant levels of opiates.[14] Popular in some South Asian communities, doda is created by grinding dried poppy husks or poppy seeds into a fine powder and then ingesting the mix with hot water or tea. In Canada, doda is made from poppy plants brought in from Afghanistan and Arizona under the guise of legal purposes such as floral arrangements, but is sold illegally from some meat markets.[15]
Peanut Butter Patent: Marcellus Gilmore Edson of Montreal, Quebec
Peanut butter
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Peanut butter
Type Spread
Main ingredients Peanuts
Cookbook:Peanut butter Peanut butter
Peanut butter, popular in many countries, is a food paste made primarily from ground dry roasted peanuts. Some varieties contain added salt, seed oils, emulsifiers, and sugar, whereas "natural" types of peanut butter consist solely of ground peanuts. It is mainly used as a sandwich spread, sometimes in combination with other spreads such as jam, honey, chocolate (in various forms), vegetables or cheese. The United Statesis a leading exporter of peanut butter. Nuts are also prepared comparably as nut butters.
History
Cultivated peanuts, a legume rather than a true nut, are native to the eastern foothills of the Bolivian Andes. The origin of peanut butter can be traced back to the Aztecs, who ground roasted peanuts into a paste.[2] A number of peanut paste products have been used over the centuries and the distinction between peanut paste and peanut butter is not always clear in ordinary use. Modern processing machines allow for very smooth products to be made, which often include vegetable oils to aid in its spreadability.
Canadian Marcellus Gilmore Edson (February 7, 1849 – March 6, 1940) of Montreal, Quebec was the first to patent peanut butter, in 1884. Peanut flour already existed. His cooled product had "a consistency like that of butter, lard, or ointment" according to his patent application. He included the mixing of sugar into the paste so as to harden its consistency.
Edson, a chemist (pharmacist), developed the idea of peanut paste as a delicious and nutritious staple for people who could hardly chew on solid food, a not uncommon state back in those days. Peanut paste was initially sold for six cents per pound.
Edson was issued United States patent #306727 in 1884. The patent describes a process of milling roasted peanuts until the peanuts reached "a fluid or semi-fluid state."
John Harvey Kellogg was issued a patent for a "Process of Producing Alimentary Products" in 1898 and used peanuts, although he boiled the peanuts rather than roasting them. Kellogg served peanut butter to the patients at his Battle Creek Sanitarium. Other makers of modern peanut butter include George Bayle, a snack-food maker in St. Louis, Missouri, who was making peanut butter with roasted peanuts as early as 1894, and George Washington Carver, who is often mistakenly credited as the inventor due to his extensive work in cultivating peanut crops and disseminating recipes.
Early peanut-butter-making machines were developed by Joseph Lambert, who had worked at John Harvey Kellogg's Battle Creek Sanitarium, and Ambrose Straub.
January 24 is National Peanut Butter Day in the United States.
Health
Peanut butter,
smooth style, without salt Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz)
Energy 2,462 kJ (588 kcal)
Carbohydrates
20 g
Starch 4.8 g
Sugars 9.2 g
Dietary fiber 6 g
Fat
50 g
Protein
25 g
Vitamins
Thiamine (B1)
(10%)
0.11 mg
Riboflavin (B2)
(9%)
0.11 mg
Niacin (B3)
(88%)
13.2 mg
Pantothenic acid (B5)
(22%)
1.1 mg
Vitamin B6
(42%)
0.55 mg
Folate (B9)
(9%)
35 μg
Vitamin E
(39%)
5.9 mg
Trace metals
Calcium
(5%)
54 mg
Iron
(17%)
2.2 mg
Magnesium
(50%)
179 mg
Manganese
(71%)
1.5 mg
Phosphorus
(48%)
335 mg
Potassium
(14%)
649 mg
Sodium
(0%)
0 mg
Zinc
(28%)
2.7 mg
Other constituents
Water 1.8 g
Alcohol (ethanol)
0 g
Caffeine 0 mg
Units
μg = micrograms • mg = milligrams
IU = International units
Percentages are roughly approximated using US recommendations for adults.
Source: USDA Nutrient Database
Nutritional profile
Peanut butter is an excellent source (> 19% of the Daily Value, DV) of protein, dietary fiber, vitamin E, pantothenic acid, niacin and vitamin B6 (table, USDA National Nutrient Database). Also high in content are the dietary minerals manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and copper (table). Peanut butter is a good source (10-19% DV) of thiamin, iron and potassium (table).
Both crunchy/chunky and smooth peanut butter are sources of saturated (primarily palmitic acid) and unsaturated fats (primarily oleic and linoleic acids).
Peanut allergy
For people with a peanut allergy, an estimated 4-6% of the population, peanut butter can cause a variety of possible allergic reactions. This potential effect has led to banning peanut butter, among other common foods, in some schools.
Other uses
Peanut butter cookies, a popular type of cookie made from peanut butter and other ingredients.
Peanut butter is included as an ingredient in many recipes, especially cookies and candies. Its flavor combines well with other flavors, such as chocolate, oatmeal, cheese, cured meats, savory sauces, and various types of breads and crackers.
Peanut butter is known to work well combined with jelly (as the American peanut butter and jelly sandwich, which also extends to jam), banana, sambal, pickles, mayonnaise, olives, onion, horseradish, chocolate chips, bacon, honey, Marmite, or Vegemite in a sandwich.
A flavorful, appealing snack for children is called "Ants on a Log"; a celery stick is the "log", and raisins arranged in a row along a base of peanut butter are the "ants".
Plumpy'nut is a peanut butter-based food used to fight malnutrition in famine stricken countries. A single pack contains 500 calories, can be stored unrefrigerated for 2 years, and requires no cooking or preparation.[15]
By placing a medium amount of peanut butter inside the opening of a hollow sturdy chew toy, it is easy to create a toy that will keep a dog occupied trying to extract the peanut butter.[16]
A common, simple outdoor bird feeder can be made by coating a pine cone once with peanut butter, then again with birdseed.[17]
Research proposed the use of peanut butter as a diagnostic test for Alzheimer's disease.[18]
Other names
A slang term for peanut butter in World War II was "monkey butter".[19]
In the Netherlands peanut butter is called pindakaas (peanut cheese) rather than pindaboter (peanut butter) because the word butter is only supposed to be used with products that contain actual butter.
Pollen!
All I have to do is touch the outdoor glass table to see how much pollen has fallen overnight! I am envious of South Dakota where they had a blizzard yesterday.
Sunday, May 10, 2015
A Two Timing Marinade
My dream to be a modern day MFK Fisher.... seems possible with this story.
I love marinades because while I am sleeping my food is accomplishing great things.
Last night I made a fresh garlic, fresh ginger, olive oil, Adobo, balsamic vinegar, salt, sugar, marinade for Jamie Sullivan's fresh center cut pork chops (on sale!) and refrigerated it. When I got up at 6 I shook the container a few times and put it back in the fridge.
Then this afternoon I got an idea.
I chopped 6 pounds of red potatoes into cubes (like I usually do for German Potato Salad I make in the pressure cooker) This time I added the leftover raw pork chop marinade and some more water, vinegar, and mustard and pressure cooked this with the potatoes onions and celery. For food safety reasons it is VERY VERY VERY important to cook a marinade to boiling point for at least 3 minutes, if you plan to reuse it. I pressure cooked the raw potatoes with chopped celery and chopped onions and the pork chop marinade for 5 minutes.
Fantastic! The pint of potato salad marinade liquid leftover is fabulous as a soup.
I love marinades because while I am sleeping my food is accomplishing great things.
Last night I made a fresh garlic, fresh ginger, olive oil, Adobo, balsamic vinegar, salt, sugar, marinade for Jamie Sullivan's fresh center cut pork chops (on sale!) and refrigerated it. When I got up at 6 I shook the container a few times and put it back in the fridge.
Then this afternoon I got an idea.
I chopped 6 pounds of red potatoes into cubes (like I usually do for German Potato Salad I make in the pressure cooker) This time I added the leftover raw pork chop marinade and some more water, vinegar, and mustard and pressure cooked this with the potatoes onions and celery. For food safety reasons it is VERY VERY VERY important to cook a marinade to boiling point for at least 3 minutes, if you plan to reuse it. I pressure cooked the raw potatoes with chopped celery and chopped onions and the pork chop marinade for 5 minutes.
Fantastic! The pint of potato salad marinade liquid leftover is fabulous as a soup.
Purple Bread
I found a recipe in the Martha's Vineyard Cookbook for purple bread using black beans and the soaking water. I will try this next!
Flip Flop Pork Chop
Yesterday I went to the Salvation Army to find sandals. I found three solid colorful large buttoned down short sleeved shirts for Bill for half price ($2.00). One was yellow, one was dusty salmon and the other one was light blue. They were in great shape. I found flip flops but they were a bit large and expensive so I decided against them. Instead I bought a few pork chops at the butcher shop next door.
Saturday, May 9, 2015
Logo Lust: Morton Salt
I love the girl with umbrella logo. The only thing missing is a puppy!
Logo Lust: Cafe Bustelo
I love the art of the Cafe Bustelo logo on the can.
I use Cafe Bustelo one scoop and Country Roast mild roast Folgers 3 scoops, for a thirty year old ten cup Braun coffee drip machine.
I use Cafe Bustelo one scoop and Country Roast mild roast Folgers 3 scoops, for a thirty year old ten cup Braun coffee drip machine.
Multigrain Pumpkin Sourdough Waffles
I just plugged in the waffle iron and made these. They are a gorgeous color!
I use my sourdough starter but you can use yogurt or buttermilk to the same effect. The baking soda offsets the sourdough starter/ buttermilk making them bubbly and light.
INGREDIENTS:
sourdough starter, 1/2 c
a blend of favorite whole grains and flours, I use medium grind whole wheat flour, coarse cornmeal, and rolled oats 2 1/2 cups
optional favorite spices (cinnamon, ginger cloves?),
baking soda, 1 teaspoon
kosher salt 1 teaspoon
sugar, 1 Tablespoon
pumpkin from a can, 1 cup
eggs, 4
milk or buttermilk, or yogurt, 2 1/2 cups
optional seeds ( sesame, poppy, flax)
corn oil 3 Tablespoons or bloops (1/4 cup)
I use my sourdough starter but you can use yogurt or buttermilk to the same effect. The baking soda offsets the sourdough starter/ buttermilk making them bubbly and light.
INGREDIENTS:
sourdough starter, 1/2 c
a blend of favorite whole grains and flours, I use medium grind whole wheat flour, coarse cornmeal, and rolled oats 2 1/2 cups
optional favorite spices (cinnamon, ginger cloves?),
baking soda, 1 teaspoon
kosher salt 1 teaspoon
sugar, 1 Tablespoon
pumpkin from a can, 1 cup
eggs, 4
milk or buttermilk, or yogurt, 2 1/2 cups
optional seeds ( sesame, poppy, flax)
corn oil 3 Tablespoons or bloops (1/4 cup)
My Cocktail Hour is in the Pool
Happy hour is swimming underwater.
High tea is down under.
Swimming is the best mood altering that I know of that I am not allergic to besides baking, painting, writing and playing the saxophone.
High tea is down under.
Swimming is the best mood altering that I know of that I am not allergic to besides baking, painting, writing and playing the saxophone.
Beer Allergy
Beer Allergy
Beer allergy usually refers to a form of alcohol intolerance, and is rarely a real allergic reaction. It may be caused by sensitivity to one of the ingredients of the drink, and the only way to prevent it is to avoid drinking beer.
Beer allergy may be a form of alcohol intolerance that can cause unpleasant reactions immediately after consuming the drink. The most common manifestation or symptoms of intolerance to beer are skin flushing and nasal congestion. This condition is sometimes inaccurately referred to as beer allergy. Intolerance to alcohol is a genetic condition where the body cannot effectively break down or metabolize alcohol. The only way to prevent beer allergy is to avoid beer altogether.
Sometimes beer allergy may be due to a reaction to an ingredient in the beverage, such as a chemical or a preservative. Allergic reactions may also be caused by combining beer with certain foods or some medications. In rare cases, however, these reactions could be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires proper diagnosis and immediate treatment.
Facts about Beer Allergy
A true allergic reaction to beer or alcohol involves production of IgE antibody, which causes the allergic reaction. It is very rare, although some cases of skin reactions such as rashes have been reported. People with true allergy to alcohol may react to even very small amounts of alcohol (about 10ml wine or beer) which may provoke the appearance of severe rashes, sudden difficulty in breathing, painful stomach cramps or even collapse, although this condition is very rare.
It is more important for you to remember that alcohol could increase your risk of suffering from a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis to other known allergens like certain foods. Alcoholic beverages increase the gut permeability, which permits passage of more food into the body. This could explain why people with mild food sensitivity may not always react when the food is taken alone but reacts when it is taken with alcohol.
Alcohol can also exacerbate primary conditions like asthma, rhinitis and urticaria, causing symptoms wheezing, headaches and flushing of the skin.
Intolerance to alcohol such as beer is more common and adverse reactions to it or to ingredients in it may arise when there is an inherent deficiency in an enzyme needed to metabolize or eliminate it from the body.
Most cases of alcohol intolerance come from drinking red wine, followed closely by whiskey, beer and other wines. The most frequent cause of the reaction is not alcohol itself but the congeners or chemicals, which give the beverage its characteristic aroma, body, and flavor.
Ingredients That Cause Beer Allergy
Some ingredients in the drink may cause beer allergy or alcohol intolerance. These include:
Histamine
This compound is found in many alcoholic beverages, especially red wine. It can cause headaches, nasal congestion, flushing, asthma, and digestive symptoms. Intolerance to histamine may be due to inability to break down or eliminate the compound.
Yeasts
Although found in low levels in alcoholic drinks, yeasts can cause true allergic reactions. The symptoms include wheezing, sneezing, diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, dizziness, white coated tongue, sore throat, skin rashes and abdominal pain.
Sulphites or Sulphur Dioxide
Wines and home-brewed beers may contain sodium metabisulphite or sulfur dioxide. It is a chemical used to clean equipment for brewing and may be present in high amounts. Ten percent of asthmatics react to sulphites in alcoholic drinks, but anaphylaxis is rare.
Additives
Substances like sodium benzoate and tartrazine can trigger asthmatic attacks and urticaria.
Plant-Derived Allergens
Fruit extracts - Although fruit extracts (from grapes, berries, oranges, apples and coconuts) may be destroyed during processing of beer and other alcoholic drinks, these can cause true allergic reactions.
Wheat and gluten - Some beers contain wheat and gluten, a protein contained in malted barley. Other distilled alcoholic drinks like gin, vodka, whiskey, and bourbon are made from barley, wheat, and rye but have been considered safe for people with celiac disease.
Hops - Some people may be sensitive to hops, an ingredient which gives beer its bitter flavor. They may experience runny nose, swelling of the eyelids, skin rashes, and asthma.
Malted barley - Allergic reaction to malted barley is common in people who are sensitive to pollen, causing tingling sensation in the face, hives, swelling of the tongue and lips, dizziness, coughing and chest discomfort.
Molds - Sensitivity to molds is rare, but some people may react to fungal spores found in corks from wine bottles. To avoid allergic reactions, run the bottle's neck under cold water before removing the cork.
The best way to avoid these ingredients found in beer and other alcoholic drinks is to avoid drinking these beverages.
Diagnosis and Tests of Beer Allergy
Symptoms description - To determine whether you have beer allergy or intolerance to one of its ingredients, a doctor will ask for your medical history and symptoms you experience when drinking alcoholic beverages.
Physical examination - The doctor will also do a physical examination and possibly other laboratory tests to rule out other existing conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
Skin test - A skin test will be helpful in determining the specific substance to which you may be allergic. This involves a skin prick test, wherein small amounts of various substances, such as grains found in beer, are used to elicit a skin reaction. A positive reaction is indicated by the appearance of an enlarged red bump on the skin or other skin reactions.
Blood text - A blood test to measure levels of IgE or immunoglobulin E antibodies will also show if your immune system is demonstrating an allergic reaction to certain substances.
Treatments and Prevention of Beer Allergy
Avoid allergens - The best way to avoid symptoms of beer allergy or any type of alcohol intolerance is to stay away from beer, alcoholic beverages, or particular ingredients that trigger the problem. You may also need to carefully read labels on beverages to see if they contain additives or ingredients that can cause a reaction.
Take medications - Minor reactions such as itching and hives may be relieved by taking prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines. However, a serious allergic reaction may not be treated completely by antihistamines alone.
Wear a medical bracelet or necklace - If you have experienced a severe allergic reaction to certain foods, it is advisable to wear a medical bracelet or similar necklace to alert others that you may have an allergic reaction in case you are not able to communicate.
Carry emergency autoinjector - Your doctor may also advise you to bring an emergency autoinjector like EpiPen or Twinject, which contains epinephrine (adrenalin). This device has a needle that provides a single dose of epinephrine, which you can immediately inject on your thigh in case of emergency.
Martha's Vineyard Weekend Weather in Woonsocket
We've been having Martha's Vineyard weather so I took out my Martha's Vineyard Cookbook and opened to Spicy Peanut Sauce. The pies looked good too.
I am a home body.
I 'vacation' in my backyard.
This weekend there are two festivals going on in my city. There's a Pow Wow at River Island Park TODAY
Powwow
Event Begin-End Date: May 9 - May 10 2015
Event Name: 1st light Powwow at Niswasocket
Location: 100 Bernon St Woonsocket, RI 02895 USA
Contact: Daryl Black Eagle Jamieson 401-413-2167 Pocasset.tc@hotmail.com
Web Address:
Directions: Route 146 to 146A straight 1.8 miles right at Park Ave left on Bernon .5miles to Park on left
Fees: Free
Camping: No
Details: Grand Entry at Noon Eastern Woodlands Powwow
1st light Powwow at Niswasocket 100 Bernon St Woonsocket, RI 02895 USA
and a Classic Rock Party, Beer Tent, Rotary Club Fundraiser at Bouley field.
Yesterday I was wondering if I should tack canvas to the side of the house and work outside. If I wear a hat and long sleeves (Indian style) I could do it.
I am a home body.
I 'vacation' in my backyard.
This weekend there are two festivals going on in my city. There's a Pow Wow at River Island Park TODAY
Powwow
Event Begin-End Date: May 9 - May 10 2015
Event Name: 1st light Powwow at Niswasocket
Location: 100 Bernon St Woonsocket, RI 02895 USA
Contact: Daryl Black Eagle Jamieson 401-413-2167 Pocasset.tc@hotmail.com
Web Address:
Directions: Route 146 to 146A straight 1.8 miles right at Park Ave left on Bernon .5miles to Park on left
Fees: Free
Camping: No
Details: Grand Entry at Noon Eastern Woodlands Powwow
1st light Powwow at Niswasocket 100 Bernon St Woonsocket, RI 02895 USA
and a Classic Rock Party, Beer Tent, Rotary Club Fundraiser at Bouley field.
Yesterday I was wondering if I should tack canvas to the side of the house and work outside. If I wear a hat and long sleeves (Indian style) I could do it.
Waffled Eggs Broccoli Stir Fry
Last night I made eggs in the waffle iron and threw them onto a quick stir fried garlic ginger broccoli with a few blister peanuts, soy sauce and rooster sauce.
I love Asian style cooking!
I love Asian style cooking!
Dream
I dreamed I found a husky dog puppy. I was taking care of her and wondering What do I know about Huskies?
I was in Vermont at a Farm and Wilderness Camp reunion. It was summer but there was 3 feet of snow and people running up hills in shorts, like it was easy to climb. Those athletic people, I thought, wondering where I'll sleep and pee. I'm almost ready for bed.
I was in Vermont at a Farm and Wilderness Camp reunion. It was summer but there was 3 feet of snow and people running up hills in shorts, like it was easy to climb. Those athletic people, I thought, wondering where I'll sleep and pee. I'm almost ready for bed.
Friday, May 8, 2015
Fireworks, Fire Pits
By
DONNA KENNY KIRWAN
dkirwan@pawtuckettimes.com
Paul Peluso of Woonsocket picks out the Rock Star Assortment package of fireworks, a crowd favorite and the largest seller, according to store owner Michael O’Neill, on right, at SloJo’s Fireworks in Woonsocket Friday. Although certain types of fireworks are legal in Rhode Island, police say the loud firecrackers that are source of most noise complaints aren't sold in stores.
PAWTUCKET — With the first day of summer comes many reasons to celebrate. Yet, Pawtucket police and fire officials want to remind residents of the laws regarding two activities that can affect safety and quality of life in a densely populated city like Pawtucket: fireworks and outdoor burning.
According to Pawtucket Police Major Bruce Moreau, the topic of fireworks was foremost on residents' minds at a recent meeting of the Fairlawn Neighborhood Association. While Rhode Island lawmakers passed legislation in 2010 legalizing some types of fireworks, most of the kind that residents complained about remain illegal, he said.
Moreau, patrol commander of the police department, said that the only fireworks that are considered legal for possession (under Rhode Island General Law 3.1.1) are ground and hand-held sparkling devices (“sparklers”) that produce a shower of colored sparks. Additional effects may include “a colored flame, an audible crackling effect, an audible whistle effect, and smoke,” according to the definition.
These devices do not rise into the air, do not fire inserts or projectiles into the air, and do not explode or produce a report. Any firecracker, bottle rocket, M-80 type devices or any other device that launches a projectile and/or explodes and makes a “bang” are not legal, said Moreau. Violators will be cited under state law.
Moreau said that numerous members at the neighborhood meeting complained about their quality of life being affected by the use of these exploding type fireworks. They were also concerned with the impact these explosions had on their pets, many of whom cower from the noise.
Moreau said the Pawtucket Police Department receives numerous calls concerning fireworks at this time of year and leading up to the Fourth of July. He attributes part of the problem to many Rhode Islanders being confused about which kinds of fireworks are legal and which are illegal. He said there seems to be a proliferation of illegal fireworks in many city neighborhoods.
Moreau said he has directed the department's bike patrols as well as the patrol division to pay particular attention to these complaints. “Exploding-type fireworks are unsafe and illegal and affect everyone in the area where they are deployed,” said Moreau. He said that officers will investigate these complaints and cite violators, which will subject them to arrest and court appearances.
Moreau said the goal is voluntary compliance of the state laws and he hopes that arrests are unnecessary. “Our hope is that the residents respect their neighbors and realize that deploying exploding fireworks is illegal and has a direct impact on the quality of life for the people living around them,” he stated.
Another seasonal activity that can be a nuisance and a safety hazard--and is also illegal in the city--is the use of outdoor fire pits. Pawtucket Fire Capt. Robert Thurber, also the fire marshal, wants to remind residents that city ordinance prohibits outdoor burning of any kind.
Under the fire prevention code, ordinance 210-10 regarding outdoor burning, it is stated, “No person shall kindle or maintain any fire or authorize any fire to be kindled or maintained on any private land or public land, unless said fire is kindled and maintained solely for the purpose of outdoor cooking.”
Thurber said the allowed use of outdoor fire for cooking means using a grill designed for this purpose and “not just throwing hot dogs on a fire pit” when investigators come around to check out a complaint.
Also, when installing air conditioners, Thurber is asking that residents be careful not to block a window that leads to a fire escape or is the sole means of exit to a house or apartment. “I've seen a few air conditioners in windows leading to fire escapes already and I'll be talking to these people, he said. Such a practice can also lead to a citation for the resident. “We just want people to be safe,” he said.
Roasted Broccoli
Chop broccoli into florets. Sprinkle olive oil Adobo and salt. Place on a large baking sheet or single layer them on a large skillet. Place in a 400 or 550 degrees F 0ven. Pay attention, toss them as they start to cook. Enjoy!
Garlic Broccoli Mushrooms Carrots Peanuts and Tofu
jasmine rice or brown rice
a head of fresh broccoli chopped into florets
1 pound package water-packed firm tofu, drained and cubed
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
a splash of red wine
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Vietnamese 'rooster' hot sauce
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 pkg mushrooms
1/2 cup carrots cut into thin disks or matchsticks
1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger
1 tablespoon of freshly chopped garlic
1/2 cup chopped green or red onions
1/4 cup blister peanuts
Preparation
1. Preheat broiler.
2. Cook rice according to directions.
3. Arrange tofu in a single layer on a pan coated with oil; broil 14 minutes or until golden.
4. While tofu cooks, combine broth and soy sauce cornstarch and sesame oil, stir with a whisk, and set aside.
5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salt and mushrooms broccoli garlic rooster sauce and wine sauté stirring occasionally. Stir in carrots and ginger; cook 1 minute. Add chicken broth to the mixture; cook 30 seconds or until sauce begins to thicken. Remove from heat; stir in tofu and onions. Serve over brown or jasmine rice; sprinkle with peanuts.
Corn Freak
I'm a corn freak! Anything with corn and I am happy.
Twelve 6-inch corn tortillas
corn oil
Kosher salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Brush both sides of the tortillas with the oil. Stack the tortillas and cut to make chips. Spread the chips out in a single layer on two large baking sheets and season with salt. Bake until golden brown and crisp, rotating the baking sheets once, about 12 to 15 minutes. Serve.
source adapted from here
Twelve 6-inch corn tortillas
corn oil
Kosher salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Brush both sides of the tortillas with the oil. Stack the tortillas and cut to make chips. Spread the chips out in a single layer on two large baking sheets and season with salt. Bake until golden brown and crisp, rotating the baking sheets once, about 12 to 15 minutes. Serve.
source adapted from here
Picking up the Street
My latest obsession is to pickup trash on all of the streets I walk with Lily. It's not as hard as it sounds. I carry bags anyway. I get to appreciate my own hard work rather than pass the same cans and bottles each day!
RI Athletic Club
I've told everyone I know to talk to Mike at the RI Athletic Club. Mike gets it. He runs the Health Club like a maître d at a fine French restaurant. Everyone is cheerful and the place is spotless and smells good. Come try it out. There's something for everyone. 200 Social Street, Woonsocket RI 02895.
Bileau's Flowers
Bileau's Flowers Inc 665 Diamond Hill Rd Woonsocket, RI 02895 (401) 766-3165 Florist
This is the best place to get started vegetable plants for your garden, flowers, pumpkins, woodstoves, and you name it. It is the quintessential Woonsocket buying experience.
This is the best place to get started vegetable plants for your garden, flowers, pumpkins, woodstoves, and you name it. It is the quintessential Woonsocket buying experience.
Spinach and Onion Pouch
I love fresh spinach stuffed in a fresh whole wheat pocket bread with mustard and mayo red onions, green olives, and whatever else is around like grated carrots or pickles or hot sauce.
Presto German Potato Salad
This recipe came with my first Presto Pressure cooker and I have made it 1,000 times, and adapted it for over 35 years.
Ingredients:
6 bacon strips, diced or (in place of bacon I use 1/2 cup olive oil)
3 pounds unpeeled medium red potatoes, cubed
2 medium onions, thinly sliced (optional)
1/2 cup cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
1/2 cup water
2-3 teaspoons sugar
3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, divided (optional)
2-3 teaspoons Kosher salt
1-2 teaspoon prepared mustard (Gulden's)
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Adobo seasoning (optional)
(lately I also add a few stalks of celery rinsed and chopped, sometimes in place of onion)
In a pressure cooker, cook bacon (or olive oil) over medium heat until crisp; drain. Add potatoes and onions. In a bowl, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, 2 tablespoons of parsley, salt, mustard and pepper; pour over potatoes celery and onions.
Close cover securely; place pressure regulator on vent pipe. Bring cooker to full pressure over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 5 minutes. (Pressure regulator should maintain a slow steady rocking motion or release of steam; adjust heat if needed.) Remove from the heat.
Immediately cool according to manufacturer's directions until pressure is completely reduced. Just before serving, sprinkle with remaining parsley.
Mix the remaining super flavorful liquid in with the potatoes.
IMPORTANT: mix remaining liquid in with potatoes--that's where the flavor lives!
Refrigerate! The chilling brings out the flavor!
Colorful Cold Pasta Coleslaw
Ingredients:
1 pound cooked al dente whole grain macaroni
1 chopped red and green cabbages
2-4 red onions, sliced
4-6 celery ribs, chopped
DRESSING:
natural peanut butter
toasted sesame oil
sugar
cider vinegar
(prep in blender or whisk in a bowl)
kosher salt
fresh ground pepper or hot sauce
Directions:
Cook macaroni al-dente drain and cool. Transfer to a large bowl; add the vegetables
In a small bowl, whisk the dressing. Pour over salad; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Tricolor pasta is fun to use.
1 pound cooked al dente whole grain macaroni
1 chopped red and green cabbages
2-4 red onions, sliced
4-6 celery ribs, chopped
DRESSING:
natural peanut butter
toasted sesame oil
sugar
cider vinegar
(prep in blender or whisk in a bowl)
kosher salt
fresh ground pepper or hot sauce
Directions:
Cook macaroni al-dente drain and cool. Transfer to a large bowl; add the vegetables
In a small bowl, whisk the dressing. Pour over salad; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Tricolor pasta is fun to use.
Peruvian Fish Ceviche with Corn
Peruvian Fish Ceviche with Corn
Citrus-Marinated Fish
Ceviche, or fresh fish “cooked” in the acid found in citrus fruits, is a classic Peruvian dish that dates back to pre-Columbian times, when the Incas living in Peru made ceviche as a way to preserve fresh fish. Today, in Peru, ceviche is made by marinating fresh sea bass fillets in lemon juice and bitter orange juice with thin slices of red onions, for a bright citrus, savory taste. It is also common to add the Peruvian hot red pepper, rocoto, for a spicy kick. Serve with cancha, or toasted large corn kernels, for a traditional, crunchy complement.
Serves 6
Prep time: 20 min.
Total time: 30 min., plus marinating time
Ingredients
For the Ceviche:
1½ lbs. sea bass fillets, or other firm-flesh white fish, cut into 1” pieces
¾ cup Goya® Bitter Orange Marinade (Naranja Agria)
¾ cup Goya® Lemon Juice
2 ribs celery, finely chopped
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced into rings
1 tbsp. GOYA® Minced Garlic or 4 cloves garlic, finely choppedminced
1 frozen GOYA® Aji Rocoto (Hot Red Pepper), thawed, seeded and finely chopped (or 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped)
2 tsp. finely chopped fresh cilantro
¼ fresh ginger, finely grated
¼ tsp. GOYA® Adobo All-Purpose Seasoning with Pepper, plus more, to taste
For the Toasted Corn Nuts (cancha):
GOYA® Vegetable Oil, for frying
1 Bag (16 oz.) GOYA® Chulpe Corn for Toasting
Directions
For the Ceviche:
1. In medium glass bowl or dish, add fish, bitter orange marinade, lemon juice, celery, onion, garlic, hot pepper, cilantro, ginger and adobo. Mix gently to combine. Cover; refrigerate until fish is “cooked “by the citrus juice (it will turn opaque through the center), at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours. Taste fish, add adobo, if needed.
For the Cancha Corn:
1. In large, heavy pot with tight fitting lid, heat 1/8” oil over medium-high heat. When oil is hot, shimmering but not smoking, add the corn; cover. Cook, shaking pan often. The corn will start to make a popping noise. Continue to cook until corn is golden brown and popping has subsided, about 10 minutes.
2. Drain corn on paper towels; season with adobo, to taste.
3. To serve. Divide ceviche evenly among serving dishes. Serve toasted corn alongside.
Tip By La Cocina Goya
Ceviche 101
When making ceviche, cut fish into 1” pieces, or smaller, to expose the maximum surface area of the fish to the citrus juice, and be sure the fish is submerged in the liquid. Allow the fish to marinate at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours. You know the fish is “cooked” when it is opaque to its center.
Some fish that work well for ceviche are as follows: firm white fish, like tilapia, sea bass, halibut and snapper; fatty fish, like salmon, mackerel and tuna; shellfish, like shrimp, crab and lobster; and mollusks like conch, clams, mussels, squid and octopus.
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The Universal Ice Cream Sandwich
Australia
Iran
New Zealand and Australia
North America
Philippines
Singapore
United Kingdom
Scotland and Ireland
Vietnam
Read
Iran
New Zealand and Australia
North America
Philippines
Singapore
United Kingdom
Scotland and Ireland
Vietnam
Read
Cholula Mexican Hot Sauce Checkers Game
I love Cholula hot sauce and I have bought it for over 20 years. I've saved the wooden maple bottle caps for years to make a chess game. The time has arrived!!
I will draw the chess board with chalk on the pavement and we'll play.
I will draw the chess board with chalk on the pavement and we'll play.
Dark Chocolate Friday
Bliss is melted semisweet chocolate chips and melted bakers chocolate combined eaten with ice coffee.
See lazy degenerate spicy brownies.
See lazy degenerate spicy brownies.
Betty and Nancy
I saw Betty and Nancy at the pool the other night. Betty said she has lost 35 pounds since joining in February by swimming and using machines for 2 hours daily after work. She said she no longer has knee and shoulder pain and at one time was having to get cortisone shots. She said she is craving and cooking healthy foods. She said she walks the grounds of RI Hospital during her lunch break and takes the stairs up to the 12th floor. She's a living miracle at age 44. "I want to be healthy for my grandson," she said.
Betty and Nancy have known each other since high school and their sons grew up together and are both 22. I think if more people met them they would join in the fun of getting healthy.
Betty and Nancy have known each other since high school and their sons grew up together and are both 22. I think if more people met them they would join in the fun of getting healthy.
When I Grow up I Want to be an Old Lady.
When I grow up I want to be an old lady. Ever since I was 12 I wanted wrinkles, veins that show, sagging breasts and soft skin like my grandmother. At age 12 I drew portraits of myself "aged" in my sketchbook. My best friend is 99.
Thursday, May 7, 2015
Sewing: Girls Carpentry
I love sewing. I call it "girls carpentry!"
Design your own fabric at Spoonflower
Visit: Laura's Behind the Hedgerow
http://www.behind-the-hedgerow.com/2014/03/05/top-10-for-tuesday-patterns-similar-to-lisette-portfolio-dress-simplicity-2245/
Design your own fabric at Spoonflower
Visit: Laura's Behind the Hedgerow
http://www.behind-the-hedgerow.com/2014/03/05/top-10-for-tuesday-patterns-similar-to-lisette-portfolio-dress-simplicity-2245/
Sweet makes you Dizzy; Bitter makes you Healthy.
As umami heavy as Laotian food is, it's equally light on sweet flavors. There's a saying in Laos that "sweet makes you dizzy; bitter makes you healthy."
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/02/05/laotian-food_n_6615114.html?utm_hp_ref=tw
Laotian food
http://laostravel.asiatica.com/en/3/guide/laos-food-264.html
Article cultural do's and don'ts
http://indochinatravel.asiatica.com/en/3/guide/cultural-dos-donts-233.html
Festivals
http://laostravel.asiatica.com/en/3/guide/festivals-in-laos-266.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/02/05/laotian-food_n_6615114.html?utm_hp_ref=tw
Laotian food
http://laostravel.asiatica.com/en/3/guide/laos-food-264.html
Article cultural do's and don'ts
http://indochinatravel.asiatica.com/en/3/guide/cultural-dos-donts-233.html
Festivals
http://laostravel.asiatica.com/en/3/guide/festivals-in-laos-266.html
Bocce League of Woonsocket
Today was warm up for the bocce and quoits leagues of Woonsocket. It's located at Bouley Field off of Elbow Street in Woonsocket next to Rite Glass, my neighborhood. I love to watch them play. Some of the players get all dressed up. One lady always wears a straw hat with a red flower, flowered blouse and red lipstick to match. They start early 8:30 AM on Thursdays.
I LOVE BOCCE! My step father, and both of my grandfathers played: my Brighton Beach Jewish Grandpa Nat, and my Sicilian Italian Papa Paul used to play on weekends in our bocce court in the backyard while smoking cigars. I would watch from the tree-house. I loved it when they would cheer and laugh. When they finished a round I loved the thundering sound of the balls knocking against the wood.
Woonsocket Senior Bocce League begins season May 7
WOONSOCKET - The Woonsocket Senior Bocce League will begin the season with an organization and practice session on Thursday, May 7 at 8:30 a.m. at Bouley Field.
The league is open to anyone over the age of 50 from any community.
League play is scheduled to begin on Thursday, May 14 at 8:30 a.m.
For more information, call David Mencarini at 401-762-3145 or Armand Renaud at 401-766-8438.
I LOVE BOCCE! My step father, and both of my grandfathers played: my Brighton Beach Jewish Grandpa Nat, and my Sicilian Italian Papa Paul used to play on weekends in our bocce court in the backyard while smoking cigars. I would watch from the tree-house. I loved it when they would cheer and laugh. When they finished a round I loved the thundering sound of the balls knocking against the wood.
Woonsocket Senior Bocce League begins season May 7
WOONSOCKET - The Woonsocket Senior Bocce League will begin the season with an organization and practice session on Thursday, May 7 at 8:30 a.m. at Bouley Field.
The league is open to anyone over the age of 50 from any community.
League play is scheduled to begin on Thursday, May 14 at 8:30 a.m.
For more information, call David Mencarini at 401-762-3145 or Armand Renaud at 401-766-8438.
Mount Saint Mary's Abbey Wrentham Massachusetts
Have you ever visited the chocolate-making nuns?
www.MSMAbbey 300 Arnold Street Wrentham MAssachusetts 02903 www.Trappistine Candy
www.MSMAbbey 300 Arnold Street Wrentham MAssachusetts 02903 www.Trappistine Candy
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
Asian Salad
I buy cabbage every week. It is cheap, versatile and I love it. Today I chopped a head of cabbage and grated 3 gigantic carrots and chopped a whole red onion. I made a peanut sauce in the blender: natural peanut butter, apple-cider vinegar, salt, sugar, 3 fresh garlic cloves, a knob of fresh ginger, toasted sesame oil, and rooster brand hot sauce. I buzzed it all in the blender and taste-tested it. I poured it over the cabbage mixture and added some sweetened shredded cocoanut flakes. Delicious!
Tomorrow its going to be crazy HOT (85 degrees F) so this will be a refreshing cold salad. I boiled some multi-grain noodle twists to have with this.
Tomorrow its going to be crazy HOT (85 degrees F) so this will be a refreshing cold salad. I boiled some multi-grain noodle twists to have with this.
Roasted Cauliflower
Chop fresh cauliflower and roast in the oven at 550. I sprinkled olive oil on the cauliflower and some salt and Adobo. Delicious!
Ballanchine's Ballerina
I bought a big blue foam belt for my husband years ago when I was trying to get him to join me at the pool. Recently I came across it and strapped it on and swam my laps. That night my arms were aching. "That's from using the belt, its extra weight" my physics teacher husband told me. I was working my arms harder having to tug the belt which seemed weightless to me.
Yesterday I was swimming with the belt and I felt like I was being held up by a tall man's arm. I decided I finally was a tall long necked ballerina and George Ballanchine was dancing with me underwater.
Yesterday I was swimming with the belt and I felt like I was being held up by a tall man's arm. I decided I finally was a tall long necked ballerina and George Ballanchine was dancing with me underwater.
Ylonda Gault, Journalist
Ylonda Gault, journalist is the author of the forthcoming book “Child, Please: How Mama’s Old-School Lessons Helped Me Check Myself Before I Wrecked Myself.”
Article
Article
Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Breakfast
When I am swimming daily I tend to crave what is good for me!
Tuesday, May 5, 2015
I Love Poppy Seeds
I have been putting poppy seeds in my dough along with a bunch of other grains. I have a hand cranked poppy seed grinder for making poppy seed cake desserts.Article
Recipe for poppy seed filling
Recipe for poppy seed filling
The Comfort of Rituals
My daily ritual is to pickup trash on my downtown walk. But today I was carrying my colorwheel umbrella and Lily's leash and I wasn't able to pick up trash, not without a third arm. I feel strange missing out. I will have to return tonight to clean "my downtown".
I was Raised by a Greedy Child
My mother lusted after a Kitchen Aid dishwasher featured in the Christmas Glamour Magazine photo shoot that took place at our house one July in 1972. At Christmas she asked us to fulfill her dreams and purchase lavish gifts to make her happy: suede knee high boots, Afghan poncho, jewelry, and a pressure cooker. There was no way we could. I was raised by a greedy child.
10 Pounds of Red Potatoes, German Potato Salad
When my market had 10 pounds of red potatoes for a bargain I bought them to make my favorite pressure cooker German style potato salad. I have made this salad for 35 years! The recipe came with my original Presto cooker instruction booklet. This German potato salad gets better the day after you make it. I always make a five pound batch and enjoy it all week.
Mix the dressing with a fork and pour over the cubed potatoes.
Dressing: Adobo, mustard, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, sugar or honey, chopped celery, chopped onions, and potatoes cubed and a little bit of water.
You will have results fast, (mine cooks in 3-5 minutes). If you don't have a pressure cooker use a Dutch oven or slow cooker. You will love this!
Mix the dressing with a fork and pour over the cubed potatoes.
Dressing: Adobo, mustard, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, sugar or honey, chopped celery, chopped onions, and potatoes cubed and a little bit of water.
You will have results fast, (mine cooks in 3-5 minutes). If you don't have a pressure cooker use a Dutch oven or slow cooker. You will love this!
Revving Engines Night and Day
It is sad that along with the warmth and flowers we have revving engines of the famed 95 Rathbun Street. Drag racing in parking lots with toddlers nearby is only going to lead to tragedy. This is the sibling society.
Everything Salad
I just made this: chopped green cabbage, spinach, grated carrots, sliced red onion, chopped green pimento olives, raisins, raw almonds, sweetened cocoanut flakes, peanut butter and vinegar combined in blender to become a dressing, Adobo, and LOVE.
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