Back in 1987, President Reagan designated June 25 as National Catfish Day. The idea was to “celebrate the value of farm-raised catfish.” I’m glad he did. It gives me a reason to develop some new recipes and approaches to a fish that’s become one of my go-to’s. Catfish is just so versatile. It’s an all-American favorite that summons images of lazy afternoons cane-pole fishing on a meandering stream. Very Huck Finn. Very satisfying. Read more about Quick Broiled Catfish …
When I was a kid, I regarded the onion ring with suspicion. A deep-fried vegetable? I had my doubts. It wasn’t until I realized that said vegetable was wrapped in a thick, savory batter (and that it sure smelled good, even from across the table) that I decided to give it a go. Wow! The onion ring—the ultimate comfort food. Read more about Simple Spiced Onion Rings …
The famous elixir of Madison Avenue’s glam ad men and femme fatales, the martini may pack more mystique than any other American cocktail. You just can’t drink a martini without feeling stylish, polished, and a little bit naughty. June 19’s “National Martini Day,” with its mid-summer arrival, is the perfect cool antidote to hot days […]
Once again, Americans look to Germany for a culinary inspiration that’s sure to satisfy—apple strudel! This sugary, swirly sensation is celebrated each year in the United States on June 17, National Apple Strudel Day. Read more about Apple Cinnamon Crisp Strudel …
There’s nothing like spending quality time with Dad AND creating delicious food…Which is why this Father’s Day, we plan to be Cooking with DAD! Join in on the fun and spend a day cooking with your Dad, we’ve already got it planned out for you with several fun dishes Dad is sure to enjoy. Read more about Cook with DAD! …
You say “catsup,” I say “ketchup”! What’s the difference? Turns out, none at all. Both spellings refer to the same condiment, a tomato-based sauce that has its roots in the Chinese word “kê-tsiap.” But no matter how you spell it, ketchup is a go-to foundation in most kitchens and has been a part of our lives since we first reached for that red plastic squirt bottle when we were kids at a summer cook-out. One estimate reports that Americans purchase 10 billion ounces of ketchup annually. No wonder we have a special day to commemorate this awesome sauce: June 5, National Ketchup Day. Read more about Slow Cooker Awesome Homemade Ketchup …
Mushroom Paradise Spice Blend. Bold. Hearty. Robust. As it is one of our most unique spice blends, it leads you to wonder exactly what’s in it. What gives this blend its savory flavors? Read more about Savory Flavor; Truffles vs. Mushrooms …
The mint julep is the traditional drink of the horseracing derby culture, and it’s easy to see why…what’s better than a sporting event paired with a traditional Southern cocktail? Of course, the juleps don’t stop when the race is over. The mint julep is a warm weather favorite for all kinds of entertaining—or even for just sitting on the porch for a spell. Read more about Sparkling Ginger Marrakesh Mint Julep …
In my experience, nothing says summer’s coming like the mouth-watering aroma of freshly-smoked beef. One whiff and you’re ready to knock off work, open a beverage, pull up a patio chair, and settle in. Smokehouse briskets take time—which is a huge part of the appeal. You can’t rush smoked brisket, but you can bring the great taste (and smells!) of the traditional outdoor smokehouse indoors with this clever slow-cooker recipe. Read more about Slow Cooker Smokehouse Brisket …
The pairing of citrus and salt, is a very famous combination in the culinary world. While there are other non-food uses for citrus and lime, such as DIY cleaning products and nutritional aids (like detox or rehydration beverages), one of the main reasons citrus and salt is so famous in the culinary world is due to the notorious salt + tequila + lime. Read more about Citrus & Salt; Add a Zesty KICK …
May 20 is “National Quiche Lorraine Day” (who knew?) but why wait? Quiche Lorraine is a fabulous choice for an anytime weekend brunch or a light patio supper with good friends. Easy to make, easy to serve, Quiche Lorraine is one of those hearty-yet-light anomalies in the gourmet world. It packs a protein-filled satiety but retains an airy presentation that’s just right for spring and summer entertaining. Read more about Tomato Tarragon Blooming Quiche …
It takes someone really brave to be a mother, someone strong to raise a child, and someone special to love someone more than herself. Whether you love her for her care taking, her selflessness, her strong will, or simply just for being your Mom, make her feel special this year for Mother’s Day. In fact, we thought it would be nice to make Mother’s Day just as special as she makes us feel…
By cooking her the most important meal of the day on Mother’s Day; Sunday brunch! Our recommended brunch menu comes straight to you from our chef’s kitchen: Hibiscus Mimosas & Smoked Salmon & Mushroom Galette. Read more about Brunch as Special as She Is …
Commonly known for Mexican cuisine, parties, parades, music, dancing, and margaritas, in the United States, Cinco de Mayo is associated with a celebration of Mexican-American culture. Whether you want to celebrate by making a festive meal at home or you want to have a full-blown party, it is easy and fun to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in your own home!
While there are essentials to a party such as décor, entertainment, etc. we find food to be the underlying factor that can make or break a party. Mexican cuisine is full of lively fun flavors, food, and drinks, and makes for the perfect party food. Inclusive of many Mexican cuisine essentials; corn, beans, avocados, tomatoes, chili peppers, and of course margaritas, here are some menu items to turn your Cinco de Mayo into a FIESTA! Read more about Cinco De Mayo ~ Throw a Fiesta …
In honor of this beloved classic dish, we’ve created a fresh simple Vik’s Shrimp Scampi Fix recipe.
This shrimp scampi highlights classic garlic flavors with Vik’s Garlic Fix! Spice Blend, bright buttery lemon, and a kick of heat from Pirate’s Bite Spice Blend! Read more about Vik’s Shrimp Scampi Fix …
Most often, we think of eating pretzels while at carnivals, ball parks, shopping at the mall, and watching a movie. Quite frankly, all you need to do is pick up a bag of your favorite variety, at your local grocery store. Personally, a pretzel that’s right out of the oven, with its hot crunchy crust, and soft chewy interior, is the only pretzel that I truly enjoy. There’s no better way to satisfy that pretzel craving than to make them at home. Read more about Inside-Out Pretzels …