Fruit Appreciation

I live for variety. Especially when it come to food. I would rather not eat then have the same dish two days in a row. I know that will sound snobby and ridiculous to some people, but it’s probably my only food restriction. I actually think I have developed a fear of having these leftovers around. Since variety is a necessity I keep a random mix of foods and condiments in my house. An egg with some jelly and hot sauce on the side can serve as a quick and easy dinner fill-in. A tortilla, cheese and lettuce also will do the trick. That’s about as low budget as a piece of pizza. (Not so bad, right?!)

I think this phobia stems from a childhood frustration with fruit. Growing up my mom always seemed to have fruit in the house but it was never really delicious looking. I’m not sure how we always got the semi-dried out oranges and the mealy apples that never failed to have a bruise or two on them. She would sometimes cut up everything into a mini personal fruit salad. A true gesture of love and I know she was just trying to keep us strong and healthy! I would always wonder if she only went to a different store or if she’d let me pick out the fruit we’d have better looking/tasting options. Well, over Thanksgiving when my mom came up for a visit she was primed for the fruit picking. Just when I thought I was on my own and could make the rest of my food shopping decisions. She went to a fruit stand and this time in search of a more exotic fruit picked up a persimmon. With what she described as unsolicited help from the fruit stand owner she brought back three of these cute little fruits. Today I gave one a try and I have to say “Thanks, Mom!”

Turkey for me and turkey for you..

Inspired by the entire feast, I am really looking forward to the day I can host Thanksgiving! This year my mom and sister came to visit and my cousin hosted. We always have gumbo and turkey on the menu for this holiday but aside from that each year I enjoy an assortment of "accent dishes". Along with our turkey and gumbo this year, we enjoyed a kale and cornbread stuffing, spinach and artichoke casserole, sweet potato and pineapple casserole (grandma Val's recipe) and the MOST delicious gravy (courtesy of my cousin) just to name a few.

This most simply stuffed turkey was the juiciest -better than any fried turkey I've had. My little cousin seemed to enjoy the turkey, too! I realize preparing a meal of this magnitude takes much work but when I cook I tend to actually eat less of the finished product and that would have left me feeling much better at the end of this Thanksgiving Day!

Le Poisson, Le Poisson

Well, it's quite a feeling of accomplishment to finally find a good recipe for fish and be able to successfully execute it. In the end it ended up being pretty and presentable too!  I couldn't ask for more, so I felt the need to share this : ) I have  to say New York City is not the place to experiment with seafood, especially not in your home kitchen. It might seem strange  given it's an island surrounded by water! One trip to a local fish market explains why. The fish variety is quite different from the what I grew up with (catfish, snapper and red fish are rarely found.) Even tilapia, the cheapest and most common fish can't be found at times. But the biggest offense is the price of fish! It's almost shameful and definitely painful for the budget conscious shopper. I think the biggest trick is to travel to Chinatown where there are amazing seafood stalls and things are priced a bit like they might be outside of NYC. I hope to work up the courage and budget to try another great fish dish, but for now I'll be relishing in this success.

 I'll leave you with a sunset over the Hudson( from a recent walk over the George Washington Bridge.) 

It's a real treat

How does Halloween work in NYC? This was a question I asked myself several times in the first few years I lived here. Should I buy candy? With no porch light to turn on, how will it be clear that I'm home and giving out candy? Well, there was no need for too much concern. It all became clear when I was walking home from work that first Halloween and I saw witches and clowns emerging from a local health food store with hands full of candy. So I was off the hook, but it seemed so strange and maybe even a chaotic scene for businesses all over to hand out candy to large groups of trick or treaters while serving customers. Somehow it seems to all work out and maybe even for the better (for me.) Most recently this Halloween I visited Greenpoint, Brooklyn. A quaint little neighborhood known for Polish bakeries and perogies. Peter Pan bakery was one of the stops I made during my visit and I found a wide variety of really unique donuts. I think a second visit is in order. 

 

Native Song and Dance

The existence of the The National Museum of the American Indian was unknown to me until last weekend when I was able to attend a traditional song and dance ceremony there. The auditorium was slow to fill which could have been due to the rainy weather, or the fact that it was a Saturday night in New York City. The smaller crowd didn't bother me a bit and I was able to change seats three times before I finally settled on my "perfect viewing spot." There were adults and children, outfitted in large head pieces and wrapped in traditional (ceremonial) Native American clothing, casually walking around before the beginning of the ceremony as if they were there as spectators. There was a clear excitement in the air as representatives of tribes from around the United States had come to this event to share a evening in celebration of their culture. To be honest, I felt like I shared a little bit of that pride-as I remembered my grandfather's word. "You know your great, great grandmother was Choctaw. You're a Choctaw Princess." The excited exchanges taking place all over throughout the room delayed the start of the event, but then again maybe it wasn't really "delayed." Possibly these times were just a loose estimate not meant to restrict any part of the event.

The whole evening was narrated by an unassuming older man that sat in a circle of chairs towards the back of the stage and performed with the others. As our emcee informed us we were privileged to have a hoop dancer present. She danced with, and through, about 6 hoops-smaller than hoola hoops- and was given tips by many of the other performers-as a sign of appreciation. This evening reminded me how important it is to look around and take note of some of the "less advertised" cultural events in New York City.

Little Snacks in the Big City

One of the things I’ve always enjoyed about living in New York City is the constant cycle of events and things to do and see. For me, the food related events are always a little more memorable. Recently I signed up to be on a mailing list for the restaurant Fig & Olive. They have sent me a few emails about wine and food tastings, but it always seemed something came up and I was not able to take advantage of the opportunity. Until yesterday, when I decided this time I’m committing to it and I invited a friend to guarantee that I wouldn’t skip the event due to a not-so-good excuse. So we arrived about a half hour after this particular fall menu tasting begin. It was a reasonably sized crowd for the space, but not overwhelming considering the lure of free food can often bring crowds, at this type of event, to a swelling point. So  we found a spot along the long  standing bars that were decorated with miniature rosemary trees. We sampled a few items but one taste in particular left a lasting memory. The chicken liver mousse with chopped sweetened red onion on top. All of this was served in a small jelly jar with lightly toasted bread. Such a rich and delicious treat that will definitely inspire a return visit-no invitation needed.  

You really can just relax...

Have you ever relaxed? Not just an hour or two when you feel like you've escaped from the stresses of the moment, but several hours-maybe even days- when you just put it all in prospective and  you don't even spend a moment thinking about seemingly insurmountable tasks. I think this is how I felt on Hilton Head Island.  The Island is divided into neighborhoods that are called "plantations." Initially this was confusing as I was prepared to visit all the different plantation homes that I believed existed. After reviewing the map, and taking a ride through one, it became apparent that I was a bit confused. I think each of these plantations offers a different beautiful view. Almost every plantation has a dramatic entrance surrounded by greenery.  Oak trees dripping in spanish moss (very reminiscent of New Orleans)  led us into Port Royal Plantation where we stayed in a more than spacious 3 bedroom condo. Largely a family oriented vacation destination  offering beaches, boutique shopping and bike trails that span the length of the Island. There's a friendly approachable feel but at the same time it's not too intrusive. 

Despite the fact that we had a fully stocked kitchen we went out for many meals to 

take advantage of the seafood that surrounded us!  I shared with my sister a nice appetizer of crab claws- and they cracked off the shells for us- that always just makes things so much easier! It's not very uncharacteristic of me but I can't seem to remember the name of the restaurant where we enjoyed this meal, but it was in Harbor Town across from the well-known lighthouse. Before the trip was over, I was discussing with my sister about booking the condo again for next year.

Berries By The Bucket, And Glass

It's hard to believe I've only been to Long Island a handful of times in the five plus years I've been in New York. I always wanted to see the "Napa Valley" of New York, but for one reason or another I never quiet made it to the wineries on Long Island. One very long day in the office we were all day dreaming of a fun getaway for the summer. After a few different ideas, we finally picked a day and planned the escape! With no real plan and a map of the North Fork of Long Island, we began the ride. It was about a two hour journey. We made about three vineyard stops and tested a few different wines- including trying some ice wine which was really sweet and a new discovery for me. As lunch time approached, we asked for a few recommendations and all directed us to Love Lane Kitchen. A very cute local place featuring all kinds of delicious specials every week. The day we were there they were offering a lobster roll, chicken and mango salad and a Chicago style hot dog. A very filling, delicious meal made us a little unsure about our ability to continue on our post-lunch wanderings, but we did not fail!  We began a new type of adventure. There were roadside stands to see and fruit to be picked. Blueberries and raspberries have never been so well sought after. (The birds really seem to take a liking to blueberries in particular.) I  even snuck a taste of the blackberries.. which were not quite at the peak of their season. All around it was a great day full of simple pleasures from a not-so-far away place.

More than Horses and Spring Water

If you've never been to Saratoga Springs, you're missing  out on a great escape not so far from New York City.Combining beautiful lake scenes along with a lively downtown boasting many local artists and designers. This town well known for horse racing and the natural spring water fountains scattered throughout the area. The water has a slight odor and taste, that for me, after one sip was a bit of a detractor.  But on the upside there are several delicious places to eat both all around you. Broadway (the main street downtown) is home to a few of the notable restaurants.

For breakfast, a start at Mrs. London's is what I'd advise. The almond croissant is a good pick. . It's slightly crispy on the outside (with a few paper-thin sliced almonds on top) and soft buttery inside make for a very nice contrast and the almond filling in the middle is a very nice surprise that you don't always find.  There are several other pastries and sandwiches and soups to choose from there that are equally as good.

If you wander off Broadway, into the Art District you'll find a pub called Local among galleries. It serves some traditional pub food and fresh salads and a few specialty dishes (with creative little names) that seemed to have Irish roots. Some favorites here were the mushroom, chive, swiss omelet, and hash hash.

If you have the time and the spirit of an adventurer you'll go beyond downtown about 10 minutes more on a two lane highway to PJ's -you should see the smoke from this bbq spot before you even see the building. The walk up ordering and outdoor picnic table seating offer a fun change from the more formal outdoor dining spaces, and this setup works well with the location right off the highway. It truly is a fun roadside stop with a menu that rivals many larger bbq restaurants. The only warning I give give is...watch out for the bees!! This should tell you how we felt about the food...

Oh, This Was No Buffet Scene

If  you've been to Vegas recently you'll notice the large signs promising a prime rib and lobster feast for $19.99 are VERY few and far between. So with the departure of such a "fine food" combination - what possibly could have filled such a void? Well,  many new dining options many of them boasting famous chefs and some sharing the same name and concept of sister establishments back east. 

So, I was recently able to see through the clutter of that scene and walked down the halls of the Wynn to find a country club! This is where we had a most delicious brunch. Starting with watermelon gazpacho with crab and avocado. Then, followed by french toast bread pudding(must note: a thick slice of apple smoked bacon on top.) I probably would have cooked the bacon a little less but it did have a great smoky taste. As if that wasn't enough food, we ordered something savory-or as I prefer to say salty-  poached eggs with barbequed smoked pork (must note: there was a bacon cheese muffin under the egg and charred green chile hollandaise sauce on top and accented with a grilled jalapeno.

 I think I smiled every time I took a bite of each dish. I know I cut every bite into about five pieces, so the meal lasted for as long as possible.

Jazz Fest

There are two very special weekends in spring that will always have significance for me. This year I was lucky enough to be able to go to the first weekend of The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival-known as simply Jazz Fest- to the regulars.  A music festival like no other.  It brings together the best local musicians, along with nationally known groups and visitors from all over the world, but there's a really relaxed feeling that takes over the whole city. This year was a record breaking year and although very difficult to find a parking spot when heading out to the Fairgrounds somehow,  it still feels very intimate. Perhaps it's because there are so many familiar faces- family and friends. I feel completely content knowing that I can't really plan what to do, or who I want to see next, because you never know who you'll run into, what delicious smelling food might distract you, or what artist might draw you in-providing a detour. 

The stage names have changed some taking on new corporate names and others more of a tribute to the neighborhood. The food vendors have grown but the standard dishes such as crawfish pie, cochon de lait and mango freezes are still there. The festival has always been, for me, one of those occasions where people, performances (both planned and spontaneous) come together and the energy is so authentic and comfortable that you just don't want to day to end...

The City of Brotherly Lovin'

I've been to Philadelphia once before but I think I was 6 and I don't count that. It was viewed more, at that time, as a long day of walking and looking at boring historical plaques. I went this time for a long weekend and didn't do much walking, due to the bad weather, but I did get to see lots the neighborhoods (from the car). I have to say it reminded me a lot of Europe and it was very charming. (These are some pictures of Elfreth's Alley. One of the first places immigrants settled and made a neighborhood. Now these properties are very pricey and the houses are historic landmarks.)

I think staying a bit removed from the heart of things was nice. We were at the Hyatt Penn's Landing. I enjoyed some surprisingly tasty (for hotel food) tortilla soup presented in a clay pitcher as of it were Mexican tradition. 

I really like the Rittenhouse Square area and we enjoyed  a great dinner at Parc Restaurant. A meal of pate and a  filet of light, crispy, thin  and delicious branzino. It's too bad my stay was so short because there were plenty more places I wanted to try. For instance, I heard there is a really great restaurant Le Bec Fin- a foodie friend suggested this one. Alma de Cuba was a suggestion from my sister another I'll have to go back for and Amada -highly rated and recommended by a friend from work. There were several little chocolate boutiques all with their own unique theme. My birthday chocolates came from Naked Chocolates. 

On a non-food related note, there were lots of really cute boutiques that I never made it too...I'm coming back:Moletta, sugarcube, Joan Shepp, Closet Fever, Petulia's Folly look out!

 I found a great studio, too! The Clay Studio-where I discovered some great potters and bought a vase by Andy Brayman. I'm  developing a list of potters to watch-all of which I found there. Now, I just need to start making some pieces myself. 

Thanks Philly! 

Florida-golf anyone?

 The Doral Golf Resort & Spa - It's a nice property and it was the site of one of my winter meetings-so that made it even better! If only we could re-route the airplanes heading into Miami Int'l away from the skies above the pool and lobby! Not too much to report food wise there- except for a  final meal on the patio overlooking the greens. (I had pretty decent grilled fish sandwich.) However, for the second evening dinner we went to The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables (a very cute little community with an old world spanish feel. ) We had a nice dinner at Fontana restaurant in the interior courtyard, with the tower of terror structure behind us (pictured). Lots of history surrounds this property, but not enough time to explore..guess that means I have to go back. 

And no, there was no golfing for me!  

Take me to paradise, or Arizona...

Welcome to paradise is how they should have greeted me as the cab door opened! To my surprise when I arrived, I was let out on a rather quiet, unassuming  cobblestone circular driveway. I was directed to walk through an old alcove and entered a small lobby (which was more like a quiet room with someone awaiting to check me in.) After being checked in, I was ushered off to my honeymoon villa (I was upgraded.Further confirmation that this WAS paradise!) Everything about this resort was magical from the water flavored with the fruit essence of the day, to the smell of warmth and burning wood that would drift over the resort every evening. After a short morning workout, I decided to stop and get breakfast  from T.Cook's, the only on-site restaurant that boasts homemade pesto which is served during all banquet/meeting meals. I also might add, there is a fireplace inside the dining area and they feature entrees cooked in the fireplace. I picked up a coffee and granola and fruit to take back to my room. My first bite could be likened to what it's like to eat your first meal after fasting for a day or two. The fruit was a simple mixture of blueberries, strawberries and blackberries but they were the sweetest and juiciest I've ever had. The granola was homemade and lightly sweeten with honey and toasted to give the most wonderful, crunchy finish.

My second best meal would be the plump lobster ravioli that I had for dinner during one of the group meals. The pasta was al dente and the lobster was abundant! 

By the way, my mysterious paradise is known as The Royal Palms Resort & Spa. 

Year of the Ox

No, I'm not Asian, but I do like to celebrate the Chinese New Year. By "celebrate" I mean go to Chinatown, enjoy some dim sum, watch the parade and see some street performances. (One year I was invited to a  Chinese New Year dinner celebration, by my friend Joanne, complete with red envelopes. I never knew there was so much money given for this holiday!) So many people come to Chinatown around this time of year that it really brings an added excitement to an already bustling area of New York. 

All Because It's Carnival Time...

Turning my mind to new thoughts as we are in the midst of Carnival season  in New Orleans. I've been receiving parade and weather updates I can't help but remember when  I was little how exciting it was to have my grandpa break out the hand crafted latter seat for my sister and I. We'd have to eat dinner a little earlier on the night of a parade so we could stake out a spot on the parade route. The most exciting two evenings were the Saturday and Sunday before  Mardi Gras day. Endymion, the parade known for the longest floats, would roll Saturday night. Then, Sunday night was Bacchus and my mom would make lasagna and garlic bread-(not sure why that was the meal of choice) and we'd walk about 4 blocks to the parade route to see my dad. He would pelt us with beads. I often would wish that he wouldn't see us because it was so painful to be hit in the face with beads when your face and hands are already cold, but you felt obligated to catch them because if you didn't someone very close to you would snag the precious loot! You have to understand, during Mardi Gras, plastic beads and cups are the most treasured items around-better than gold and silver! Our evening of bead-catching and running down St. Charles Avenue after floats would end with  king cake. Everyone would fight over what color sugar (purple, green or gold) they wanted on their piece. Sometimes you had to just suck it up and have a piece with two different colors on it. If you were not so lucky you'd get stuck with the piece with the baby and that meant you'd be providing the next cake! 

Holiday Withdrawl..

So I've been a VERY bad blogger, but I've made a commitment to change in 2009! I'm not sure if it's my friends, family or food but I'm missing home. I was lucky enough to spend 7 days back home for Christmas.

Whenever I know a trip home is pending, I start a list of all the places I want to go, things I want to see and restaurants that I must go to.  Even though I had more time than usual this trip, I still found myself unable to make all the food stops that I'd planned. I guess when you're  dining on shrimp poboys and pieces of sushi the size of my hand, you should be careful not to eat too much anyway. One of my favorite meals on this trip was a dreamy shrimp/oyster poboy from Domilisie's and I was able to share the experience with Heather and Willy while they visited New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl!