Many of the National Days I feature on my blog were founded years and even decades ago. Many of them have mysterious origins and exist traditionally from year to year. But today's was established by a Brooklyn based chocolate covered pretzel empire and this year, October 7, 2019, is the very first day this National … Continue reading National Chocolate Covered Pretzel Day
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Take the ‘A’ Train to the 35th Annual Medieval Festival!
One day each year Fort Tryon Park in Northern Manhattan is transformed into a festival celebrating Medieval Times with jousting, attractions, performances, crafts, fair food and more. In 2019, it is scheduled for this Sunday, September 29 from 11:30 AM to 6 PM. It is literally next door to where I live and I have … Continue reading Take the ‘A’ Train to the 35th Annual Medieval Festival!
National Pecan Cookie Day
Today is National Pecan Cookie Day and there is only one that satisfies me - try this recipe for a copycat version and hope you enjoy. Combine and set aside 1 3/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder. Cream 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, 1/2 cup white sugar, and 1/2 … Continue reading National Pecan Cookie Day
The Return of “Good Eats”
I've been a big fan of Alton Brown and his "Good Eats" series from the beginning. While I had been a dedicated baker for most of my life I was just warming to cooking beyond the grill and pots of chili when the original show came on. It was perfect. Focus on a single iconic … Continue reading The Return of “Good Eats”
National Soft (Serve) Ice Cream Day
Warning: do not let your children (or grandchildren) see this post. Ice Cream is always a delightful sweet treat during hot summer days. While my favorite will always be the Graeter's brand from Cincinnati, I also enjoy a nice soft-serve cone. The concept was born by a young fellow named Tom Carvel - you may … Continue reading National Soft (Serve) Ice Cream Day
National Chicken Wing Day
Hard to imagine now but before the mid-sixties, chicken wings were relegated to be used for making chicken stock or soup flavoring. With meager bits of meat and no popular cooking methods they were toss-away portions of the bird. But something happened in Buffalo, New York that made their city known for a new appetizer … Continue reading National Chicken Wing Day
National BagelFest Day – TryThis – Ess-A-Bagel
It is ironic that BagelFest Day was established by Lender's Bagels (those faux bagels found in your freezer case) as the really good bagels, found right here in New York City, are a far cry than those handy but very cardboard tasting treats. Real NYC bagels are reputedly best due to the city water and … Continue reading National BagelFest Day – TryThis – Ess-A-Bagel
National Caviar Day – TryThis – Taramasalata
We've all heard of the Sturgeon Roe (fish eggs) Caviar that is the classic and very expensive gourmet item we can't afford. But if you want a luxury taste for much cheaper, look for and try Taramasalata. It is a Greek dish (similar products are from the nearby Balkans and Turkey) that combine a salted … Continue reading National Caviar Day – TryThis – Taramasalata
TryThis – Smokey Tomato Sauce
If you have a smoker you are likely using it to season meats. Try vegetables too. Here is a terrific recipe I made recently you might like. Preparation for smoking the tomatoes can be found at the end of the post. Our tasty test serving choice. Heat about 4 Tablespoons olive oil in large saucepan … Continue reading TryThis – Smokey Tomato Sauce
Walter Thinnes 
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