The History Of Jelly Beans For National Jelly Bean Day

[1] Jelly beans are mostly sugar. No wonder they are so popular! (photo by River Soma | © THE NIBBLE). [2] Today, jelly beans are associated with kids’ Easter candy. But they’re fun year-round; and were President Ronald Regan’s favorite candy (photo © Williams Sonoma). [3] Jelly beans became associated with Easter because of their…
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National Fruit Compote Day: What’s A Compote & Yummy Recipe

National Fruit Compote Day is March 1st—although a compote is de facto made of fruit, so a simple National Compote Day would suffice. Compote de fruits, or fruit compote, is mixed, sweetened fruit cooked on the stovetop. Compote de pommes or compote d’abricots is a single stewed fruit (here, apples and apricots, respectively). The word…
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TIP OF THE DAY: Use A Mandoline Slicer For A Thin, Elegant Presentation

[1] A mandoline makes beautiful, ultra-thin, even slices. This is the smallest one we’ve seen (photo © Microplane). [2] Slicing perfectly even julienne carrot strips (photo courtesy Kitchen Expert).   If you don’t have a mandoline slicer, it’s time to think seriously about getting one. A mandoline (man-doe-LEEN) is a kitchen utensil that makes thin,…
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RECIPE: Cherry Brownies For President’s Day

[1] Add dried cherries to your favorite brownie recipe, like this recipe from Frugal Foodie Mama (photo © Frugal Foodie Mama). [2] Already have baked brownies? Press soaked dried cherries into the top or whip up a light film of icing to hold the cherries (photo © Alison’s Gourmet).   The legend of George Washington…
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It’s Heavenly Hash Day, A Fruit Side Dish Or Dessert Salad

[1] The original, fruit salad version of Heavenly Hash, wrapped in heavy cream. Here’s the recipe (photo © Culinary Hill). [2] Heavenly Hash fudge, with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows and pecans. Here’s the recipe from Small Town Woman (photo © Small Town Woman). [3] Heavenly Hash ice cream, with chocolate chips, marshmallow swirl and sliced…
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