No shortage of New Years Eve dining options this year!

Hopefully your luck is better than mine this year, and you are not working for New Years Eve. Should you have it off, there is a plethora of dining specials happening around the state. Luckily for us, the Hartford Courant was nice enough to compile a list which you can view here: http://www.courant.com/entertainment/restaurants/a-la-carte/ctn-new-years-eve-dining-20111220,0,5658729.column

Some highlights for Hartford are:
At Black-Eyed Sally’s, 350 Asylum St., Hartford, it's $50 plus tax and tip per person for a three-course dinner and entertainment and dancing by Paul Gabriel Blues Band. Menu choices include Maryland crab cake, Sally’s Jambalaya Royale, Sally’s Famous Ribs and pecan pie.

Dish Bar & Grill, 900 Main Street, Hartford, serves a $39 three-course prix-fixe in addition to its regular menu. Options include market salad, butternut squash bisque and jumbo lump-crab pasta for starters; and entrees like red-wine braised short rib, Fisherman's Wharf stew with shellfish, octopus pasta, heirloom tomato pie and grilled veal rib chop (a $6 upcharge.) For dessert, there's slow-cooked chocolate fondant and citrus panna cotta with winter berries and champagne sabayon.

Firebox, 539 Broad Street, Hartford, remains true to its locally-focused cuisine while serving up decadent New Year's a la carte options like oysters, foie gras and prime rib. Dinner seatings start at 5:30 p.m., and grower-champagne specials will be offered throughout the night. Firebox also begins its new Tavern Brunch on New Year's Day, served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The a la carte menu focuses on farm-fresh eggs, meats and available produce

At J Restaurant/Bar, 297 Washington St., Hartford, enjoy First Night fireworks from the patio where there will be a bonfire, as well as a dropping ball at midnight. The regular menu will be served, and diners can take advantage of the seasonal trolley that makes stops at the restaurant and downtown Hartford.

Zula, 901 Main Street, Hartford, celebrates New Year's Eve and its first anniversary with a four-course prix-fixe menu and a complimentary midnight champagne toast. The dinner, priced at $95 per couple, comes with a bottle of house red or white wine. Seatings are available every half hour from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

Caribbean Holiday Drinks: Sorrel and Coquito

Because my parents eloped on St. John, I spent an early part of my childhood growing up in the Virgin Islands. After moving to Hartford, we still visited the islands for nearly all of our family vacations. As an adult I have met friends from Jamaica, Haiti, Peru, Panama, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and the Barbados. As such, my life has always had a tropical flair to it and I have developed a love affair with Caribbean foods and drinks. My mother retains a wonderful collection of old island cookbooks and I love flipping through the pages for inspiration. Since it is so cold outside, and I am dreaming of warmer days, I thought it would be nice to honor all these friends and memories with two traditional holiday drinks, coquito and sorrel.

Coquito is a coconut beverage that is the Puerto Rican version of eggnog. This version that I have written up however is missing the eggs and focuses more on the coconut. Just my preference. If you would like a recipe using eggs, I would be happy to provide.

Ingredients:
•2 15-ounce cans cream of coconut
•2 14-ounce cans condensed milk
•6 ounces white rum (I suggest Jamaican Wray and Nephew)
•1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
•1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
•1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
•1 teaspoon coconut (or vanilla) extract

Preparation:
1. Mix all ingredients in a blender.
2. Refrigerate for about an hour before serving. Serve cold.
Serves: This recipe makes about 36 ounces.

Sorrel is non-alcoholic, spiced Carribean drink, although I am sure it would taste quite good with some rum added as well.

Ingredients:
2 cups dried sorrel
8 cups water
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 stick cinnamon
1 cup sugar
4 cloves

Preparation:
Bring the water to a boil in a large pot, then add all the ingredients to the pot. Bring back to a boil and reduce the heat to a rolling boil. Allow this to boil for about 5 minutes, then turn off the heat, cover the pot and allow this to steep for at least 4 hours (overnight would be best). Next up, strain the contents into a juice jug and add more sugar as needed. You can store this in the fridge for about a week

"Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire" and all that...

How many stories or songs have we listened to when we hear mention of chestnuts being roasted? And yet, I was wondering...how many people have actually indulged in this holiday treat? Let alone, know how to roast a chestnut. So, I decided to do the research and post my findings for you. Turns out that chestnut roasting is not as difficult as actually finding the nuts! I am guessing that your best bet for locating these gems is probably your local Whole Foods, or a farm stand.

1st step: You can cook your chestnuts over 3 different heat sources. The traditional of course, is the fireplace. However, I completely understand that in 2011, that is not an option for everyone. As such, you can also cook them on a grill or campfire, or at home in your oven (preheated to 400 degrees).

2nd step: Score the nuts. This means using a sharp, pointy knife and cutting a X into the flat side of each nut. This is a crucial step as it allows the steam to escape. I trust that you don't want an oven of exploded chestnuts. 

3rd step: Place the nuts on a baking sheet with a rim (if you are putting in the oven), or put directly on the grill, with the X side facing up (if you like them crispier, place the X facing down). Sprinkle lightly with water. If you are using a fireplace, or campfire, you will need a wire basket, or a pan with a long handle and a cover.

4th step: Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are tender and the shell can easily be removed

5th step: Wrap chestnuts in a towel and squeeze to crush the skin. Leave in the towel for 5 minutes and then peel the shells away and ENJOY!

For those who prefer visual instructions, check out this video:

Cheers! to Holiday drink recipes

Mmmm, one of my favorite drinks of the holiday season, without a doubt is eggnog. This season, I thought it might be fun to try making my own batch of the stuff, mixed of course with some spiced Jamaican rum. Here is the recipe incase you would like to be adventurous this holiday season too. From what I read, if it's properly stored, it can last up to a few months (transfered to a bottle and kept in the fridge). If you have any left over after serving this punch, it could be bottled and made into an excellent gift for those hard to shop for people!

"Baltimore Eggnog"
Contributed by Derek Brown
INGREDIENTS:
2 dozen Eggs, separated
1 (750-mL) bottle VS cognac or other brandy
16 oz Jamaican rum
2 lb Powdered sugar
3 qt (96 oz) Whole milk
1 qt (32 oz) Heavy cream
1 tsp Salt
.75 tsp Grated nutmeg
Glass: Punch

PREPARATION:
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks until light and lemon-colored. While continuing to beat, add the brandy, rum, sugar, milk, heavy cream and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and nutmeg until they form stiff peaks. Fold the whites into the yolk mixture. Serve in punch cups. (This recipe serves 25 people.)

Cooking It Up: Hartford, Health and History

Head to the Hartford Public Library in downtown Hartford on Saturdays from 10:00 am. – 11:30 a.m.

December 17 – City Steam Brewery will demonstrate how to make healthy finger foods for your holiday parties and fun non-alcoholic beverages (registration now open)

January 21 – Feng Asian Bistro (registration opens in December)

February 18 – Black-Eyed Sally’s (registration opens in January)

March 31- Vaughan’s Public House (registration opens in February))

Hartford Public Library and its Hartford History Center present Saturday morning cooking demonstration programs combining good food, good health and fond memories. Each program features a chef from a Hartford restaurant known for its ethnic cuisine. The chef prepares well-loved, heart-healthy recipes from the restaurant kitchen, while nutritionist Sharon Mierza helps audience members to make their own favorite recipes heart-friendly. Former CPTV producer/host, Nancy R. Savin, hosts this appetizing program and leads the discussion on the Hartford food and dining landscape, in the past and now. The programs are filmed and will be broadcasted on Hartford Public Access TV and available online at www.hcc.hplct.org starting mid-December 2011. Free and open to the public, registration required – you can register by calling (860) 695-6295, or visiting online at www.hplct.org and going to the library’s Events Calendar.

4th Annual New Haven Green Drinks Event with guest speaker Colin Caplan

COME CELEBRATE OUR 49th EVENT AND FOUR YEARS OF GREEN DRINKS EVENTS IN NEW HAVEN!

Wednesday November 16, 2011- 6 to 8pm
Zafra Cuban Restaurant and Rum Bar, 259 Orange St. (just North of Elm St)
Zafra Cuban Restaurant & Rum Bar: Cuban food with a flair. The only rum bar in Connecticut and the most rum types in New England. Amazing food presentation and a creative cocktail menu that will keep you coming back for more. Daily drink specials and weekly live entertainment in a cool Caribbean vibe. Thank you to Zafra’s Manager, Kam Tom, for having NHGD.
T: (203) 859-5342. See http://www.zafrarumbar.com/Page_5.html for directions

Our lively speaker will be Colin Caplan at 7pm.
Colin M. Caplan is a New Haven native who cultivated his love and passion for the Elm City through his work in history, architecture, community engagement and writing. Colin authored four books on local history and architecture. Recently, after a brief stint in Los Angeles, Colin launched Taste of New Haven Food & Drink Tours to help the City’s image and economy while making a new cultural destination for tourists - www.tasteofnewhaven.com.

Don’t miss our one and only 4th Annual New Haven Green Drinks’ Event. Bring your friends. It’s FREE.
See you there and Cheers!

Website: http://www.greendrinks.org/CT/New_Haven
New Haven Green Drinks is an award-winning monthly environmental social event to get to know what and who is going "Green" in New Haven County; Meeting every 3rd Wednesday of the Month from 6 to 8pm somewhere fun in the New Haven area. Suggestions for free and "green" event locations are welcome.

Return of the Midweek Hangover at Bocca Rossa

Ah, Tuesday nights. How I have come to love thee.  Why you might ask am I asking you to leave the comfort of your house and trudge out into the not always pleasant fall/ winter weather on a weekday night? What better reason than to relax with a nice bottle of wine and wash away the stress of the beginning of the week? And for half price? 


Personally I think the New England notion that  we are supposed to suffer all week long without any fun and try to squeeze in everything into a weekend that flies by in the blink of an eye is just plain obnoxious. Hence why I began my quest of locating the best midweek deals around the state. It seems to be a much more cultured and balanced way to approach life to find ways to enjoy oneself all week long! 


Regardless of my personal philosophies and rantings, Bocca Rossa is definitely the place to situate oneself on a Tuesday evening. The atmosphere is dark and sensual. House and lounge music linger in the background, and the kitchen serves accompaniments such as bruschetta, and other tasty morsels. Of course Tuesdays are not the only night to visit, here are some other nights and other reasons:

Mondays/ Wed / Fridays: Happy Hour from 4:30-6:30 pm with $3 appetizers, $5 house martinis, $10 flights of 3 wines, and $3 pints. 
Thursdays: Soulful Thursday happy hour
Saturday: House music all night long
Sunday: Closed (unfortunately)


Address: 942 Main Street, Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-522-6222
Website: http://boccarossawinebar.com/

Free Thanksgiving Preparation Technique classes at William Sonoma

Hurry up and call your local William and Sonoma store to sign up for technique classes on all things Thanksgiving! 

Sunday & Monday, Nov. 6th, 7th

The Perfect Turkey

Let us be your guide to preparing the perfect turkey—a moist, flavorful showstopper! Learn how to select a turkey, what brining is and does, the secrets to roasting and tips for carving like a pro.

Sunday & Monday, Nov 13th, 14th

Thanksgiving Sides & Stuffings

While the turkey may take center stage, it’s the side dishes that often steal the show. Learn the basics of preparing delicious potatoes, savory stuffings and other impressive sides.

Sunday & Monday, Nov. 20th, 21st 

Williams-Sonoma All-Star Thanksgiving

It’s not too late to add an amazing side dish to your menu. This final Thanksgiving technique class features our favorite recipes plus last-minute tips to make your holiday truly special and stress-free.

It only took a 75 years, but Connecticut Moonshine is back!

Onyx Founders: Adam von Gootkin and Peter Kowalczyk

More excited I could not have been upon recieving an invitation to visit a local distillery that has recently begun production of an authentic moonshine based on original recipes. Adam and Peter were gracious enough to meet with me and show me where the magic happens. Where you ask? In an 18th century woolen mill in Manchester naturally, what could be more ideal? Moonshine, apparently has a long history of being made in Connecticut. Who knew? Since the founders of Onyx are both history lovers, the local angle was a particular draw and aided in their conviction that the state needed a distillery to call its own. During our conversation, I was struck by the amount of research, pride and preparation that these guys had taken in their journey to launch this spirit. From the wooden cork in the bottle, the charter oak emblazened on the label and the knowledge of moonshine production and arrest stories gleaned from old Hartford Courant articles, these guys impressed me.

But what about the moonshine? I have to say, I really needed to know what exactly went into making this spirit as my friend had taken to sharing lore with me, such as going blind from distilling in poor stills. After hearing however that there was only distilled Connecticut water, honey and corn in the product, I decided I could risk it. The taste has been likened to a flavored vodka, whiskey or even tequila. Honestly though, it is just straight up delicious. Add ice and swirl is my recommendation.

Now where to find moonshine should be your next question, as it was mine. While the founders are actively promoting, they have already been able to secure 25 locations where you can go and grab a bottle. You can expect the price point to be between $23-$25. There are several restaurants: Garnish Bistro (Bristol); South Tavern (Glastonbury); Wood N Tap (Hartford); The Stone and Paddle (Manchester) and Crown and Hammer (Collinsville). I am hoping that we see a few more places in Hartford, but that's just cause I am partial! The list of liquor stores that are carrying it are on their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/#!/OnyxSpirits?sk=app_4949752878

Not that this is needed for Onyx Moonshine, these are some common folk tests for ensuring the quality of moonshine:

1. "Pour a small quantity of it into a spoon and set it alight. The theory was that a safe distillate burns with a blue flame, but a tainted distillate burns with a yellow flame. Practitioners of this simple test also held that if a radiator coil had been used as a condenser, then there would be lead in the distillate, which would give a reddish flame. This led to the phrase, "Lead burns red and makes you dead."
2. "Another test used for moonshine is for "proof". A small amount of gun powder is poured into a dish with the moonshine. It is ignited, and if the mixture starts to flame it is "proofed". In other words, if it burns, then it contains plenty of alcohol. But if it does not burn, then the moonshine has been diluted. (Note that this only proves that the alcohol content is at least 57% ABV.)"

Cooking It Up! at The Hartford Public Library's studio kitchen

Enjoy a free drink if you are a Hartford resident - TONIGHT!

Yep, that's what I read and that is what I am spreading to all you blog readers today. If you are a Hartford resident, the new Russian Lady on Ann Street is giving you a free drink on the house, and a chance to come and tour the new space before their grand opening. Talk about showing some love to the city! Just show up there between 6pm and 8pm tonight and be prepared to show your ID to prove that you are indeed a resident and not a poser.

The only thing that would make the opening of the Russian Lady better for me is if they were able to recover the statue that used to grace the building's rooftop. My friend and I have been discussing this and feel quite certain that we were not imagining it when we saw the iconic statue in a lobby of a New York city building in the wee hours of the morning. It would be truely amazing if it were returned. That's all I am saying.

Address: 191 Ann Street, Hartford, CT
Website: www.TheRussianLadyHartford.com

October 10th-October 16th means that CT Restaurant week is back!

What better incentive is there is dine out of your comfort zone and try a new restaurant than a promise of a 3 course meal for $20.11? None that I can think of. The website that keeps track of all the varying RW (Restaurant Week) Menus, and dates of events got my attention this time around by listing that there are 90, yes, you read that right...90 restaurants participating in the state. Phew, that's alot of places to chose from. Personally, the Vegetarian Paella offered at O'Porto has my name written all over it. Mmmmmm.

Check out the participating restaurants and their menus here: http://www.connecticutrestaurantweek.com/connecticut-restaurant-week/

And for the heck of it, check out the info on these other upcoming events while you are there:

•Eating Greenwich & Portchester 10/16 – 10/21/2011

•Mystic Restaurant Week 10/28 – 11/5

•West Haven Restaurant Week 10/17 – 10/23/2011

Don't forget either that New Haven Restaurant week is right around the corner, Nov 6th-Nov 11th. Check out the info and menus here: http://www.infonewhaven.com/restaurantweek

A foodie adventure at El Mercado (part 1)

Truely one of my favorite things to do is to explore. Combining my love of exploration and food is a completely logical paring, and one place that always satisfies me is the supermarket and food court of El Mercado on Park Street in Hartford. It will take an entirely separate post and other pictures to detail the wonders of the supermarket to you, so for now I will just tell you about my dinner. The food court has four separate restaurants, which are Mexican, Dominican, Peruvian and Columbian. For many years I have been limiting myself to the Mexican and Dominican counters because I just loved the food and hadn't gotten around to exploring the others. Today my friend suggested that we head to the last counter and try the Columbian, since he knew the owners. I happily agreed and was really delighted with the experience.  



After noshing on some empanadas that were stuffed with potatoes and beef, and were delightfully golden and crispy, and enjoying my passion fruit milkshake, my food came. I had decided on trying a dish that consisted of chicken, rice and beans, and plantains. Our server brought the chicken out on a sizzling pan that was lined with sweet plantains. The chicken was flavorful, slightly crisped, and DELICIOUS! The rice and beans were equally tasty and my challenge became how to get a bite of each item at the same time to enjoy the flavors together. 

I couldn't get a picture before the eyes were eaten!

My friend ordered the Sea Bass, and it came on a bed of lettuce accompanied by fried green plantains. The plantains that came with my dish were the yellow plantains that are sweeter and softer. The Sea Bass had been seasoned, scored to let the moisture out as it cooked and then deep fried. The fish is served in it's entirety, no filets here...so if you order seafood be advised that you need to be aware that yes, it does come with the head, tail, and bones. Many cultures prefer to prepare their seafood in this manner and it makes the meat very tender and juicy. In the end, the portions were so enormous that I had to take mine home and I am sure that it will serve as both my lunch and dinner tomorrow! Oh did I mention that on top of all this food, we were given a salad too???? I think that it would have taken 2-3 hungry people to get through my meal alone. 

A few tips to keep in mind if you decide to visit: 1. The menu is written in both Spanish and English, a huge advantage for adventurous diners. 2. Ask the server if you can sit in the separate dining room, the portions are so large that you may need the space afforded to you by a booth, versus sitting at the counter. 3. Cash is almost always the preferable and easiest way to pay for your meal. 4. The marketplace, while open early for the restaurants that serve breakfast, normally closes around 6pm...so plan accordingly! 


Location: 704 Park Street (Corner of Park Street and Babcock Street)

Dish IV: Raise a Glass! Happening at Real Art Ways!

This year's theme is DISH: Raise a Glass! It is taking place on October 3rd at 7pm and it an event for all you local foodies that you are not going to want to miss. Check out the line up! Our conversation will turn to what has become one of the most interesting new Connecticut products; wines, spirits, beers and liqueurs moderated by Rand Richards Cooper of Bon Appetit. After the discussion, Real Art Ways will have a beverage sampling in the galleries. Joining Rand Richards Cooper will be: Jason McClellan,Owner of Olde Burnside Brewing Company. Olde Burnside Brewing Company specializes in creating Scottish syle brews; they are releasing a new Scottish Beer, Highland Wild this September. Michael Boissy, Founder of Ripe Ripe is a series of cocktail mixers created from fresh squeezed juices and other natural ingredients. Manny Mangiafico, a representitive from Peel. Peel are all natural fine Italian liqueurs. Louis & Margaret Chatey, Owners of Westford Hill Distillery Westford Hill Distillery blend European tradtion with American craftsmanship to create clear fruit brandies made from 100% natural fruit from the orchards of the northeast. Adam von Gootkin, Co-Founder of Onyx Spirits Onyx Spirists is a new start up distillery who recently released their first spirits in April. They will be soon taking part in the Farm to Chef Program. ...and more to be announced. ABOUT DISH DISH is Real Art Ways's discussion series on the restaurant business, with discussions and tastings with the area’s most outstanding chefs and restaurateurs. In 2006 DISH premiered, in 2009 DISH II followed, focusing on the front-of-house operations, last year's 2010 Dish III discussed the growing movement in Connecticut towards local, sustainable foods and organic cuisine.

      

Sundays = Movies and Mimosas

I am unsure if there is anything more appealing on a Sunday morning than a mimosa. Citrusy, bubbly, and cheerful, it greets you as liquid sunshine in a glass. While usually reserved as a morning cureall to be accompanied by one of the best inventions in known history...brunch, there is now an opportunity where you can enjoy these sunny elixers whilst viewing some cinema classics. Of course, this is not news for those familiar with the Criterion Club at New Haven's Bow Tie Cinemas, as this has been a feature that they have offered for quite some time. But for Hartford movie goers, this is reason for celebration! Especially as each month's selections have a theme! The list of upcoming movies for both locations can be checked out at: http://www.bowtiecinemas.com/cine-classics-plaza.php. The films begin at 11am, with doors opening at 10:30am every Saturday and Sunday. (If you are attending in New Haven, those films begin at 11:30am)

Film Offerings:
October: "Touch of Evil", "Chinatown", "Rosemary's Baby", "Dial M for Murder", "Psycho"
November: "Jezebel", "Hush Hush Sweet Charlotte", The Little Foxes", "Now, Voyager",
December: "Miracle on 34th St", "A Christmas Story", It's a Wonderful Life", "The Wizard of Oz"
January: "National Velvet", "Father of the Bride", "Who's Afraid of Virgina Woolf", "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof"

Why not try a "Taste of New Haven" food tour?

Take a Taste of New Haven! The city's latest culinary and cultural incarnation is led by the animated and knowledgeable historian and food and drink lover Colin M. Caplan. Take a taste that will fill you up and inspire you. Every week Colin leads a group of culinary adventurers through historic Westville. The tours included multiple food and drink stops with a carefully crafted menu that shows off some of the city's best cuisine and cultural surprises. The tours will be expanding to Downtown and East Rock soon. Private tours are also offered. You have two choices of tours in Westville: a Friday evening tour starting with a wine tasting, or a Sunday afternoon tour starting with the farmer's market. Both tours offer exclusive insider experiences showing where our food comes from and how the chefs prepare it. See why people are calling this tour the new "buzz" around town!

The Westville tour visits: City Seed Farmer's Market, Westville Wines, The Theater at Lyric Hall, Delaney's Tap Room, Manjares Fine Pastries & Tapas Bar & Frio Gelateria.

Ticket and other info listed on their website at: http://www.tasteofnewhaven.com/

Old World Italian Bakery found "Behind the Rocks"

Finding myself desperate a cup of real coffee and something sweet one morning I stumbled upon Roma Bakery the other day on my way to work. I entered the charming bakery that was bathed in sunlight and made my way to the pastries.  

I was so happy with the light and flaky cherry turnover that I followed it up with a raspberry one. In addition to pastries, the owner, Tanya (who has been in business at the same location for nearly 40 years) told me that they sell pizza, grinders, and arancini. They have a nice, spotless counter where I plan to spend my lunch hours sampling a Broccoli and Potato pie this week. So why should you check out Roma? 1. Price are terrific, dare I say "old-world prices". 2) They open at 7 am, so if you need to be at work early...this is the place to go. 3) Turnovers are beautifully light and I think the crust might be made of the same stuff as angel wings! Mmmmm. 


Address: 416 New Britain Ave, Hartford, CT 
Phone: (860) 527-3809

Meals on Reels Film Series at Real Art Ways

For your viewing pleasure, Real Art Ways has chosen three foodie film delights to coincide with Bated Breath Theater Company's production of Hunger. The films will screen on the last three Mondays of September.

For more information on Hunger (Sept. 16 - Oct. 2):
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=177022875697837
Sex, chocolate, death. Two women share the same man and the same recipe in Hunger, a new play that explores obsession, narcissism and consumerism. Audiences at Hunger will be immersed in an intoxicating world of desserts, desire and excess in a unique and unconventional look at who we are as Americans. The evening begins as the audience participates in a wine tasting and ends in a shared feast of cream and chocolate. This is an experience as much as it is a play. Hunger is for ages 18 and up.

Tickets: Non-Member: $32/ Member: $28
Tickets can be purchased by calling 860.232.1006 x222, in person at Real Art Ways or at http://realartways.eventbee.com/event?eid=898812363

Performances:
Fri. Sept. 16, 8 PM
Sat. Sept. 17, 3 PM, 8 PM
Sun. Sept. 18, 3 PM
Thurs. Sept. 22, 8 PM
Fri. Sept. 23, 8 PM
Sat. Sept. 24, 3 PM, 8 PM
Sun. Sept. 25, 3 PM
Fri. Sept. 30, 8 PM
Sat. Oct. 1, 3 PM, 8 PM
Sun. Oct. 2, 3 PM


The Cook The Thief His Wife & Her Lover
Monday, September 12, 2011
A gang leader, accompanied by his wife and his associates, entertains himself every night in a fancy French restaurant that he has recently bought. Having tired of her sadistic, boorish husband, the wife finds herself a lover and makes love to him in the restaurant's coziest places with the silent permission of the cook.

Eat Drink Man Woman
Monday, September 19, 2011
Directed by Ang Lee, chef Chu is a long-time widower who lovingly cooks large Sunday dinners for his three un married daughters, who view the meals as too traditional. Jia-Jen, a chemistry teacher converted to Christianity, Jia-Chien, an airline executive, and Jia-Ning, a student who also works in a fast food restaurant. Life in the house revolves around the ritual of an elaborate dinner each Sunday, and the love lives of all the family members.

Big Night
Monday, September 26, 2011
In this witty drama, a pair of brothers debate integrity versus compromise as they try to succeed in the restaurant business. Primo and Secondo have journeyed from Italy to New Jersey in the mid-1950s, determined to make a killing with an authentic Italian restaurant, The Paradise. But their food is a bit too authentic; Primo may prepare a superb risotto, but most of his customers are wondering why they can't get a bowl of spaghetti and meatballs. The restaurant is failing and the two brothers gamble on one special night to try to save the business.

Solutions for the ceaseless problem of.....what's for lunch!?

As both a busy working gal and chipping away at finishing my masters degree, I always find myself strapped for time, and cash. But lately I have taken the time to structure my weekly lunch options that are under $5 a day and that are still healthy, and have had a bevy of folks approach me to express jealousy when my lunch is compared with their boring sandwiches or leftovers. So, I figured it was time to share my discoveries.

Indian food is a staple in my life. I love spice, I love curries, and there are many vegetarian options. I have previously written about Cosmos in West Hartford for their lunch counter, but what I really like to stock up on there, are their frozen lunch meals and frozen naan bread to accompany.

A package of naan bread will cost you $2.99, but has 4-5 pieces so I usually individually wrap them in plastic wrap and use one to accompany each lunch. The lunches made by DEEP really are the best, but there are other offerings in the freezer that you may want to check out too, and they are even cheaper. DEEP entrees are between $3.39-$3.99. They are all vegetarian. DEEP has recently come out with a new meal as well that includes basmati rice, entree and a side dish (usually a dal or other bean dish).

Kashi meals, which you can find in the health food section of Stop & Shop (and probably any other mega supermarkets) have recently come out with a whole bunch of healthy frozen meals. They are around $4 an entree, and the selections include; Tuscan Veggie Bake, Black Bean Mango, Lemongrass Coconut Chicken, Red Curry Chicken, Veggie Chana Masala and Pesto Pasta Primavera. I would have to say handsdown though that my favorite is the Mayan Harvest Bake which has Quinoa (when do you ever see that in a frozen meal?), plantains, polenta and 7 whole grains. YUM!

I see nothing wrong with headed over to your local Trader Joes (hopefully there is one near you) and visiting the frozen food aisle to raid their latest offerings. My sister who has worked there for years has turned me on to many good products that I probably wouldn't have considered otherwize. Today's meal was Shitake Mushrooms and Tofu in a Spicy Pepper sauce over Basmati Rice. Seriously not bad for under $5.

My friends jokingly call Whole Foods, the "Whole Paycheck" and while there is certainly some truth in that, I have found a single instance where that isn't true. If you head over to the prepared food section, usually near the baked goods, there is a fridge that is chock full of goodies for the amazing price of...2 for $5!!!! Yep, for just $2.50 you can get a Ceaser Salad, Mixed Greens with Goat Cheese, Quinoa salad, Chicken Salad (which really lasts when you buy a baguette to enjoy it with), Golden Sesame Tofu and other offerings.

So there you have it! Some of my recent discoveries under $5. What are some of yours?

Fall Cooking Classes are at Williams Sonoma stores

Some great classes this fall for FREE at local William Sonoma stores. Call one near you to register!

Sunday, September 11
Pasta—it’s all about the shape!
We’ll show you how various pasta shapes marry well with different sauces, how to make perfect baked pasta and expand your repertoire with some tasty recipes.

Sunday, September 18
Pizza—it’s all about the crust!
The key to great pizza is how to make exceptional dough. In this class we’ll focus on the crust, teaching you step by step how to master pizza dough. Then we’ll talk toppings.

Sunday, September 25
Discover liquid gold—olive oil
Learn how to make the most of olive oils, whether you’re using them for cooking, finishing or flavoring foods. We’ll taste a variety of olive oils and discuss how just the right oil can elevate your cooking.

And the ones that cost money....

Thursday, September 8, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Farmers' Market: Fall Dinner, $ 50
Even when the summer produce is gone, local farmers' markets are full of peak-of-season produce well into the fall. This dinner menu features some seasonal favorites that will delight your dinner guests. On the menu. Shaved Fennel and Radish Salad, Parsnip and Potato Puree with Chives, Pork Medallions with Roasted Figs, and Rustic Apple Crostata.

Thursday, September 15, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Food Made Fast: Baking, $ 50
Using these easy recipes from our Food Made Fast series, you can prepare delectable home-baked treats in no time. They're guaranteed to be a hit, whether served as an afternoon snack for the kids or presented as a hostess gift. On the menu. Cherry Turnovers, Raspberry Lemon Muffins, Apricot-Ginger Scones, Brown Sugar Blondies, and Cinnamon Coffee Cake.

Wednesday, October 5, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Make-Ahead Fall Dinner Party, $ 50
This dinner party menu shows off autumn ingredients at their seasonal best, including wild mushrooms, hearty root vegetables, and sugar pie pumpkins. Best of all, you can do some of the prep work in advance. On the menu. Celery, Pear and Toasted Hazelnut Salad, Porter-Braised Chicken Thighs with Root Vegetables, and Brown Sugar Pumpkin Pie with Toasted Pecan Crust.

Wednesday, October 12, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Dinner in Paris, $ 50
This classic dinner with transport you to the City of Lights! We'll show you how to prepare some favorite Parisian recipes that are simple enough to create a French-inspired dinner party with. On the menu. French Onion Soup, Steak Frites, and Crème Brulee.

A little bit of Hooker and you...

Thomas Hooker

If you are a local reader then more than likely you are familiar with the city of Hartford's founder, Thomas Hooker and the brewery that appropriates his name with a quirky play on words as The Hooker Brewery. As a former bar manager, trust me when I say that the beer's popularity is due to more than its clever name, although patrons continually are amused by the sound of "I'd like a Hooker", "2 Hookers please" or the endless string of combinations one can come up with. So it is with Hooker in mind, that I thought I would throw a few things your way from dinners to brewfests to tastings. First up, the Pond House Cafe, located in Hartford's historic Elizabeth Park is hosting a beer dinner which is as follows: 


Hooker Beer Dinner/ The Pond House Cafe

Friday, August 12, 2011    Time: 6:30 PM
$47.62 per person
Passed Hors D'oeuvres - Blonde Ale
Grilled Pineapple and Tomato Salad - Watermelon Ale

Steamed Red Snapper - Munich
Pit Smoked Pork Tenderloin - IPA + Irish Red Ale
Homemade Donuts with Pineapple - Double Bach

Tapping into Twain/ Mark Twain House

Friday, Sept 23rd / Time: 6-9pm 

Annual Oktoberfest with a selection of brews and microbrews, scrumptious food from local restaurants, and rockin music to mix it all up with.

Harvest Bounty Wine and Brew Fest/ Litchfield Community Center

Saturday, Oct. 22nd/ Time 4-8pm

The Litchfield Community Center will host their 5th annual fest with multiple brewers, food vendors offering some culinary delights and live performances. A diverse selection of wines will also be offered to taste from the Village Wine Cellar of Litchfield.


Finally on any given Friday or Saturday, head over to the Hooker Brewery and treat yourself to a tour of the facility and a beer tasting at their open houses. Fridays from 5-8pm and Saturdays from 12-5pm. And if, for kicks, you would like to stop by and pay the original Hooker a visit, his grave is located in the Ancient Burying Grounds at 60 Gold Street in downtown Hartford. Website: http://www.theancientburyingground.org/


Hooker Brewery is located at 16 Tobey Rd, Bloomfield, CT 06002. Website: http://www.hookerbeer.com

Return of the Midweek Hangover: Sisson Tavern

Patio in back of Sisson Tavern

In the sudden realization that it is now August and that my postings in July were rather, uhm, sparse...I decided it was time to revitalize the "Return of the Midweek Hangover" discoveries that I had started writing the blog with. While last night found me at Bocca Rossa enjoying a balmy night, sidewalk tables, conversation with strangers passing by, cocoa flavored cigars and half priced bottle night. Tonight I shall most likely make my way to my new favorite Wed night spot. The Sisson Tavern has quietly grown in popularity as a local watering hole in Hartford's West End. It's the kind of place where the bartenders quickly learn your name and make a fuss over you when you stop by. The highly varnished bar and tables inside remind me of the cabin of my dad's sailboat in my youth. The drinks are cheap and strong. You can even find drum and bass night there on Thursdays. It's a place brimming with local personality. But it's most redeeming quality to me, is it's unparallelled offer of "free drinks" for Ladies Night on Wed (hence this post today) from 8pm to 10pm. Just when I thought nothing was for free anymore, Sisson Tavern comes to my rescue.  

UPDATED Word to the wise: Turns out that the Sisson Tavern was VERY quietly closed and sold this week. Here's hoping that the new owners continue the traditions that were begun. Ah, the quirks of a small, local bar....


Sisson Tavern: 86 Sisson Ave, Hartford, CT 06105
Ph. 860-956-5008
Open till 1am most nights, 2 am on Fri and Sat.

Great Gatsby Night at Bespoke- July 21st!!!

While perhaps not entirely a "foodie" event, I have made it a point to promote events in CT that have anything to do with cocktails, food, cooking, cigars and in general, just events that make you leave the comfort of your home and explore all the cool things around our state. One such event is coming up next week on the rooftop at Bespoke in New Haven. It is going to be held on Thursday, July 21st from 8pm-11pm. There will be cigar girls from the Owl Shop (previously blogged about), Burlesque Dancers and Cocktails. Tickets are $15 and can be obtained on Bespoke's website. How fabulous does that sound?

"Organic Wine Tasting & Dinner" at Uncorked Restaurant & Wine Bar

Don't miss out on our first-ever "Organic Wine Tasting & Dinner" at Uncorked Restaurant & Wine Bar in Blue Back Square, West Hartford! Call us in the shop for reservations (860-761-2541). Join Dotcom Wine & Spirits, Uncorked Restaurant & Wine Bar, and Worldwide Wines as we present an evening of extraordinary dining and education. Each wine poured bears an "organic" certification - including: Certified Organic, Certified Biodynamic, or Certified Sustainable LIVE. Jim Millerick of Worldwide Wines will guide us through this growing category of exciting producers, with cuisine expertly paired by Steven Morron, Executive Chef of Uncorked Restaurant & Wine Bar.

MONDAY JULY 18, 6:30pm

Uncorked Restaurant & Wine Bar, 63 Memorial Rd (Blue Back Square) West Hartford, CT
$45/person (plus tax & gratuity) Seating is limited for this special event - For reservations, please call Dotcom Wine & Spirits, 860-761-2541

MENU:
Blue Point Oysters
Lemon Grass Mignonette, Kombu Melon Granita
Paul Dolan Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino (Certified Organic)

Organic Wine Braised Poussin
Steamed Kohlrabi, Cauliflower Puree
Benziger Chardonnay, Sangiacomo Vineyard (Certified Biodynamic)

Indian Spiced Rabbit Etouffee
Roco Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley Oregon (Certified Sustainable LIVE)

Balsamic Roasted and Stuffed Tomatoes
Provencal Herbs, Orzo, Pancetta, Aged Balsamic
Querciabella Mongrana, Tuscany (Certfied Biodynamic)

Pulpo a la Gallega
Diced Andouille Sausage, Galician style Octopus
Petalos, Mencia Bierzo Spain (Biodynamic)

New food films to check out, especially the one about CT!

Dive!

Watch as filmmaker Jeremy Seifert and friends dumpster dive around Los Angeles and uncover thousands of dollars of wasted food. The film explores the fact that, despite there is so much food waste, millions of people remain hungry.
http://vimeo.com/7730865 is the link to the trailer.

Farmaggedon: The Unseen War On American Family Farms
It seems like the government should have better things to do than create trouble for small, family farms but this movie details several incidences of just that (taking away sheep for unfounded fear of Mad Cow Disease, disposing of gallons of healthy milk from a Mennonite farmer...). The film feels a bit preachy at times but brings up valid questions about the role of the government in the American food system.
http://vimeo.com/16513455 is the linke to the trailer.

A Connecticut Hot Dog Tour

There are a ton of good hot dogs in the state of Connecticut, and this film will certainly having you craving one from the many hot dog joints profiled. Learn not only about what makes a great dog, but also the history surrounding many of these hot dog institutions.

FRESH The Movie
FRESH profiles various people in the food industry in order to understand how to change our current food system. What is the future of agriculture?
http://blip.tv/freshthemovie/fresh-trailer-2033436 is the link to the trailer.