FOOD HOLIDAY: The History Of National Oysters Rockefeller Day

[1] The original Oysters Rockefeller from Antoine’s Restaurant in New Orleans (photo © Antoine’s). [2] Chefs who adapted the secret recipe often use spinach and diced bacon. Here’s the preparation at Monahan’s Seafood Market in Ann Arbor, Michigan (photo © Monahan’s Seafood Market). [3] Some “builds” include Mornay sauce, a classic French cheese sauce made…
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TIP OF THE DAY: Plan A Buffet ~ It’s National Buffet Day

As if we haven’t eaten enough from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, National Buffet Day is held on January 2. Why, oh why??? The good news is that it is easy to have a low-calorie buffet; more about that below. The word “buffet” came to the U.S. from a French sideboard, a long, narrow, high…
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TIP OF THE DAY: Bacon Jam For National Bacon Day

[1] Homemade bacon jam (photo © Grognar | CC BY 2.0 license). [2] Ready-to-eat bacon jam from Vino de Milo. You can buy it online (photo © Vino de Milo). [3] Brussels sprouts with bacon jam: a hors d’oeuvre, appetizer or side (photo © Pampered Chef). [4] Shredded short rib and bacon jam on crostini…
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GIFT: Gourmet Dried Mushroom Sampler & How To Use Dried Mushrooms

People who love to cook will appreciate this gourmet dried mushroom sampler from Melissa’s, an online purveyor of fine fruits and vegetables. Their Mushroom Medley Sampler contains individual packages of five gourmet mushrooms: Chanterelles Morels Oyster* Porcini Shiitake   When these varieties on hand, there are many opportunities to add great flavor your cooking at…
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RECIPE: Merlot Hot Chocolate & The History Of Merlot

[1] Splash some Merlot into your hot chocolate for a cold weather warm-up (photos #1 and #4 © California Wine Institute). [2] Merlot pairs with many foods, including burgers and pizza (photo © Sutter Home). [3] For an after-work or pre-dinner glass of wine, pair Merlot with your favorite nibbles (photo © Rebelle Restaurant |…
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