FOOD 101: Vanilla Vs. French Vanilla

A reader writes: What’s the difference between vanilla and French vanilla? Simply this: Vanilla is the flavoring made from the vanilla bean Vanilla beans themselves are identified in the trade by origin: Indonesian, Madagascar (Bourbon), Mexican, Tahitian, etc. (see the different types (origins) of vanilla beans). Vanilla ice cream without eggs is called Philadelphia-style ice…
Continue reading “FOOD 101: Vanilla Vs. French Vanilla”

The Different Types Of Rum & The History Of Rum For National Rum Day

August 16th is National Rum Day. Rum can be a confusing spirit for the everyday consumer. What’s silver versus white rum? What’s silver versus gold rum? Which one should you use for a rum cocktail? The different types of rum follow below. But first:     THE YEAR’S 15 RUM HOLIDAYS January 11: National Hot…
Continue reading “The Different Types Of Rum & The History Of Rum For National Rum Day”

FOOD FUN: Alcohol & Gummy Candy

[1] Champagne with gummy bears. [2] Mojito with a gummy worm garnish—although a Mezcal drink might make more sense with the worms (photos 1 and 2 courtesy Monarch Rooftop). [3] Gummies slithering in a Tequila Sunrise (photo courtesy Drinking In America).   Search for “adult gummies” and you’ll turn up bottles and bottles of nutritional…
Continue reading “FOOD FUN: Alcohol & Gummy Candy”

RECIPE: Atlantic Beach Pie, A Spin On Lemon Meringue Pie

[1] A slice of classic lemon meringue pie. Here’s the recipe (photo © IncredibleEgg.org). [2] The Atlantic Beach Pie variation substitutes a crunchy saltine crust, and whipped cream for the meringue. The original recipe from Bill Smith of Crook’s Corner is below (photo © Crook’s Corner | Our State magazine). [3] Subsequent cooks have toyed…
Continue reading “RECIPE: Atlantic Beach Pie, A Spin On Lemon Meringue Pie”

FOOD HOLIDAY: Recipes For National Creamsicle Day

[1] How about a Creamsicle cheesecake for National Creamsicle Day? Here’s the recipe (photo © Sweet Street Desserts). [2] This recipe from Cook’s Country layers the cake, sherbet and ice cream in a springform pan lined with lady fingers (photo © Cook’s Country). [3] Prefer a drink? Try a Creamsicle shake or cocktail (photo courtesy…
Continue reading “FOOD HOLIDAY: Recipes For National Creamsicle Day”