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The Hundred-Foot Journey’s Beef Bourguignon Recipe

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I am honored to be blogging about this delicious Beef Bourguignon a la Hassan recipe, created by Chef Floyd Cardoz and brought to you by Dreamworks Pictures’ The Hundred-Foot Journey (a gastronomic movie set for release on August 8). It’s packed full of many delicious flavors, from a full head of garlic to minced ginger to burgundy wine to brown sugar and Aleppo pepper. It’s a succulent, fall-off-of-the bone, gourmet short-rib meal, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

I love preparing satisfying food at home and making a recipe come to life. I always start by chopping and measuring out all of the ingredients before I begin cooking. This recipe comes together pretty fast so I suggest you do the same!

First, cook the bacon until the fat is rendered. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate and set aside. Then start browning the short ribs. Once the short ribs are nicely seared, it’s time to brown the pearl onions, carrots, turnips and chanterelles. (I could not find baby turnips so I cut a large turnip into smaller pieces and it worked well!)

Once the vegetables have been browned and are set aside, it’s time to get the butter and onions into the pot to soften. Mmmm… it smells delicious! In goes the garlic, ginger, cumin, brown mustard seeds and tomato paste, pepper and Aleppo pepper (a variety of capsicum). Wait until you smell this mouth-watering combination! Next, deglaze the pan with the red burgundy wine, making sure you get the brown bites off of the bottom. Then add the white beef stock (yes, white beef stock). I made the white beef stock from scratch because I could not find it in the supermarket. It’s fairly easy to make and what makes it “white” is that the animal bones are blanched instead of roasted before you make the stock.

Add the short ribs and bacon back into the pot and turn the heat up to bring it to a boil. Then add the thyme sprigs. Once the pot is heated, put it into the preheated oven and cook for 2½ hours before adding the remaining vegetables and seasonings. Once they are added, cook for an additional 30 minutes then add sugar, remove cloves and bay leaves. Add the chanterelles and season with a pinch of salt. I put my stew in the fridge overnight and whipped it out for Sunday night dinner the next day! It doesn’t get much better then these oh-so-luscious short ribs that melt perfectly in your mouth. Enjoy!

Beef Bourguignon a la Hassan
Created by Chef Floyd Cardoz

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tbsp. canola oil
  • 2½ lbs. boneless short ribs of beef, fat removed and cut into 1½ x 1½ inch pieces.
  • Salt and pepper
  • ¾ cup all purpose flour
  • 6 oz. smoked bacon, cut into ¼ inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp. butter
  • 4 cloves, tied in a string
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 18 small pearl onions, peeled
  • 18 baby carrots, peeled and cut into half if longer than 2 inches (otherwise kept whole)
  • 18 baby turnips, peeled and cut into half’s
  • ½ lbs. chanterelles mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed and cut in half
  • 2 onions, diced
  • 1 garlic head, cloves separated, peeled and chopped
  • 1½ tbsp. fresh ginger root, minced
  • 1 tbsp. freshly ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp. ground brown mustard seeds
  • 2 tbsp. tomato paste
  • ½ tsp. black pepper, freshly ground
  • ½ tbsp. Aleppo pepper
  • 1 (750 ml) bottle red burgundy wine
  • 1 quart white beef stock
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 tbsp. brown sugar

For garnish:

  • ½ cup parsley
  • ¼ cup chervil, pickled

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Season the beef with salt and pepper and lightly coat with the flour. Keep at room temperature for 30 minutes. Reserve extra flour.
  3. Place a large stew pot over moderate heat and add the bacon and oil. Cook until fat is rendered. Remove bacon.
  4. In the same pot, sear the short ribs until lightly colored. Take care not to burn the pan.
  5. Remove the beef and add pearl onions cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove onions and reserve.
  6. Repeat this process with the carrots and turnips.
  7. Add the chanterelles and sauté for 1 minute, remove and reserve.
  8. Add the butter to the left over oil and add the cloves, bay leaf and cook for 1 minute. Add minced onion, garlic and ginger, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until transparent.
  9. Add the ground spice and cook for 2 more minutes. Add the left over flour and the tomato paste and cook for 2 more minutes.
  10. Deglaze with the wine and bring to a boil add the beef stock and bring up to a boil.
  11. Add the bacon and the short ribs to the pan. Bring up to a boil reduce heat. Add thyme. Season.
  12. Place the pot in the oven and cook approximately 2 to 2½ hours.
  13. Add the carrots, turnips and the pearl onions. Cook for 30 more minutes.
  14. Take out of oven, add sugar and remove cloves and bay leaves. Add the chanterelles. Preseason with salt.
  15. At this time the stew should not be as saucy and a bit thicker.
  16. This stew tastes better the next day.
  17. Garnish with parsley and chervil.

On Thursday, July 31, join Jersey Bites and Dreamworks Pictures for a FREE screening of The Hundred-Foot Journey at the Bowtie Clairidge Cinema in MontclairClick here to reserve your seat! (Please only reserve if you will definitely be able to come, as seating is limited.)

Jen MillerJennifer Miller: I am a mom on a mission: to help others foster a love of eating and preparing wonderful food. I am a passionate home cook, wine enthusiast, meal-planning specialist and budding food blogger, with a love of eating, drinking, food photography and serving fresh farm to table meals. As a mother of three, I am committed to raising  “foodie” children who enjoy farmer’s markets, restaurants and artisan food shops. In addition, I share healthy, in-season recipes and tips on my website http://mealdiva.com and on Facebook as MealDiva. I am very excited to be contributing to Jersey Bites from Hunterdon County!

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Event details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm directly before heading out!

THIS WEEKEND:

July 25 and 26: Multiple restaurants in South Jersey will be showcasing special $35 dinner menus and featuring local food products during South Jersey Hot Chefs’ Farm to Fork week wrap-up.  For details, participating restaurants, menus and reservations, visit http://www.sjhotchefs.com/ftfweek/.

DSCN2758July 26 to August 2: The 77th Annual Warren County Farmers’ Fair featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival begins this Saturday, July 26, and runs through Saturday, August 2. Throughout the week-long event, there will be plenty of food, rides, prizes and much more. Admission is $7 for adults, and $4 for children ages 5 to 12. Kids 4 and under get in for free, and parking is free. 1350 Strykers Road, Phillipsburg, 908-859-6563.

July 26: The Manahawkin Food Truck Showdown takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Shoppes at Manahawkin Mart. The event includes food trucks from all over New Jersey, New York, and the Philadelphia area including Empanada GuyOink and Moo BBQ and Hoffman’s Ice CreamShoppes at Manahawkin Mart, 657 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin, 609-597-1017.

AND BEYOND:

Spuntino Interior_Image 4_medJuly 29: Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas hosts an Italian farm-to-table night starting at 6 p.m. with dinner beginning at 7 p.m. Guests will experience locally grown ingredients in a six-course dinner which includes paired wines, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. All net proceeds and money raised from a silent auction will go toward Table-to-Table. Tickets are $80 per person and can be purchased at the restaurant or by calling 973-661-2435. Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas, 70 Kingsland Road, Clifton, 973-661-2435.

July 31: Terhune Orchards is the spot for the 3rd annual Sustainable Fare for Sustainable Jersey dinner event. The event features a seven-course farm to table meal prepared by nine well-known NJ chefs. Cocktails begin at 5 p.m. with dinner starting at 6:30 p.m. Each course is sourced from within the state and paired with Terhune Orchard wines. All proceeds go to benefit Sustainable Jersey, a local non-profit. Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, 609-924-3210.

July 31 to August 3: Check out Highlands Business Partnership’s 20th Annual Clamfest at Huddy Park in Highlands. The four-day event features fresh seafood, live entertainment, rides, games, prizes and more. Thursday: 6 to 10 p.m., Friday: 6 to 11 p.m., Saturday: 12 to 11 p.m., Sunday: 12 to 8 p.m. Admission and parking is free. Huddy Park, 70 Waterwitch Avenue, Highlands, 732-291-4713. 

August 9: The Just Jersey Food Truck Festival heads to Randolph at the County College of Morris. From 10 a.m to 6 p.m., enjoy a fun-filled day featuring 20 of the top gourmet food trucks in the area, a beer garden, live music, and other activities. Admission is $5 for adults and kids under 12 are free. County College of Morris Parking Lot 1, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, 973-927-2794.

FTTDAugust 16, 17: Four Sisters Winery of Belvidere is home to Vintage North Jersey’s first annual Wine and Food Festival. Taste some of the best wines North Jersey has to offer along with samples of the finest cheeses, breads, produce, sauces, and more. The event beings at 12 p.m. and ends at 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $20 at the gate, or can be purchased in advance online. Four Sisters Winery, 783 County Road 519, Belvidere, 908-475-3671. 

August 16: The EARTH Center’s Garden Field Day takes place at Davidson’s Mill Pond Park  in South Brunswick. A variety of events are scheduled to take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. including garden tours, live music, samples of local produce from Middlesex County farmers, and a Backyard Garden Contest where guests are welcome to bring their biggest tomato, pumpkin or pepper. Davidson’s Mill Pond Park, 42 Riva Avenue, South Brunswick, 732-398-5262.

Sweet Escape

August 24: Sweet tooth, anyone? Kean University is the place to be for the NJ Confection & Dessert Tasting Expo. From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., enjoy workshops for all ages along with sweet samplings and goodies that will be for sale. A Sweet Demonstration Stage will feature baking demonstrations from award-winning bakers and sweet entrepreneurs. General admission tickets are $35 and VIP tickets are available for $65. Contact [email protected] for more details. Kean University, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union. 

August 31: The 30th annual ScanFest, Scandinavian Festival, will be held at Vasa Park at Budd Lake. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., experience some of the best the Scandinavian culture has to offer with ethnic food, performances and artisans. Tickets are $14 at the gate for adults, $13 for seniors, and children under 12 are free. Vasa Park, 1 Vasa Drive, Hackettstown.

October 20: The second annual March of Dimes Signature Chefs Gourmet Gala returns to The Terrace at Biaggio’s Restaurant in Paramus. Guests will experience an upscale night of dancing, spirits, and food from dozens of North Jersey’s top chefs. There will also be a silent auction and chances to win great prizes. The Terrace at Biaggio’s Restaurant299 Paramus Road, Paramus, 201-652-0201.

Sandia Recipe from Órale Mexican Kitchen

In honor of everyone’s favorite holiday, National Tequila Day! For those of us who can’t make it to a place like Órale Mexican Kitchen in Jersey City, the eatery has offered up its Sandia recipe for all to enjoy.

Ingredients:

    • 2 oz of your tequila of choice
    • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
    • 3/4 oz agave syrup
    • 3 chunks of watermelon flesh (approx. 2” cubes)
    • Watermelon wedge

Directions:

    • In a cocktail shaker, muddle the watermelon cubes. Add the remaining ingredients and fill  shaker with ice.
    • Shake well.
    • Strain into rock margarita glass.
    • Garnish with small watermelon wedge.

Órale Mexican Kitchen
341 Grove Street
Jersey City
201-333-0001

Warren County Farmers’ Fair

Sponsored

Warren County Farmers' Fair and Hot Air Balloon Festival, Jersey BitesThis sponsored article is brought to you by the Warren County Farmers’ Fair.

The 77th Annual Warren County Farmers’ Fair featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival officially kicks off this Saturday, July 26, and runs through Saturday, August 2.

Every day, the fair will host numerous events, rides, contests, and more including a mass hot air balloon launch, presented by JCP&L and powered by AmeriGas, which takes place every night at 6:30 p.m. And what’s any great fair without tons of great food?

Many of the food stands at the fair are handled by nonprofit organizations including the NJ State Grange, which run the booths. “The fair proves as an annual fundraiser for these organizations,” said Giulia Iannitelli, marketing director and one of the coordinators of the event. “They keep their prices reasonable and with the funds they raise, they give back to the community, so it’s a win-win.”

The fair features events like the Mr. and Ms. Warren County Competition, a corn-eating contest made possible by the Knowlton Lions Club. The Lions Club also runs a food stand featuring its roasted corn, funnel cakes and fresh squeezed lemonade.

The Warren Hills Wrestling Club runs an invitational wrestling tournament on the closing day of the fair and also organizes a popular food stand that opens early for breakfast.

For children, various eating competitions will take place daily at the Kids’ Corral, from pie- to watermelon- to saltine-eating contests.

Admission is $7 for adults, and $4 for children ages 5 to 12. Kids 4 and under get in for free, and parking is free.

For more information about the event flip through the fair’s Program Book!

Warren County Farmers’ Fair featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival
Click here for directions.
908-859-6563
[email protected]

JB Couture Cakes Opens in Belmar

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5563/14478012040_2c6c6027de_z.jpg
Salted caramel pretzel cupcakes

At the age of 19, Jessica Bucceri decided to follow her dreams and her passion. But she didn’t expect the outpouring of support she got. So far, her enthusiasm and deliciously sweet cupcakes have brought hundreds over to the sweet side, helping her open the doors to her very own bakery, JB Couture Cakes in Belmar, this past June.

Since she was just 15, friends and family could find Bucceri busy baking cakes and cupcakes. Two year later, after graduating from the Culinary Arts Academy in Freehold, Bucceri was accepted into the College of Culinary Arts at Johnson and Wales. Unfortunately, Bucceri became overwrought with anxiety and deferred her college acceptance.

Bucceri’s anxiety continued to worsen, making it difficult for her to leave the house. Despite her plight, Bucceri put her time at home to good use, dreaming, planning, baking (a lot), and showcasing all of her work on Facebook. Her efforts paid off and soon Bucceri found herself busy baking for client events every weekend. She knew she wanted to expand and that she had the talent. The only thing she needed was the money.

After launching a Kickstarter campaign, Bucceri appeared Memorial Day weekend on News 12 with Veronica De La Cruz. She received widespread support after her appearance, especially from individuals dealing with anxiety or parents of children who were suffering. Her favorite message stated, “There’s light at the end of the tunnel.” For Bucceri, that light is bathed in buttercream with sparkling sprinkles. With the help of people who believed in her, Bucceri raised $5,000, which allowed her to put her plans into action.

JB Couture's Wall of Sprinkles, Jersey Bites
JB Couture’s Wall of Sprinkles

Walking into JB Couture Cakes, you’re immediately transported into what feels like a glitzy Parisian bakery. It’s small, but every detail is accounted for, from the pink walls to the chandelier to the Wall of Sprinkles, where customers can decorate their own cupcakes with 50 varities sprinkles in every color you could imagine.

When asked about her goal for JB Couture Cakes, Bucceri said, “I wanted people to have the whole experience. Be hands on, be a part of the shop and just have a fun time.”

If you’re feeling lazy about decorating, Bucceri has you covered with her signature six staple cupcakes and a special of the week, which, when I visited, happened to be a marble cupcake with vanilla buttercream, drenched in chocolate ganache and sprinkled with white chocolate curls. An absolutely divine mess, which I thoroughly enjoyed eating. There’s also the fan favorite salted caramel pretzel cupcake, the s’mores cupcake with toasted marshmallows, and the simple birthday cake cupcake.

Jessica Bucceri, JB Couture
Jessica “JB” Bucceri

Most of Bucceri’s cupcakes are “filled” with ganache, raspberries, or another sweet and all of her cupcakes feature real buttercream from actual butter, not hydrogenated oils. The decadent cream complements the light, fluffy cake. Before biting into your cupcake, take a picture at the JB Couture V.I.P. wall and Bucceri will hang your picture up on her wall of fame. It’s her testament to her customers, those people whose support made it possible for her to be able to open her doors.

This fall, you can find her selling cupcakes at Rutgers football games and possibly on a future episode of Shark Tank. (She’s already passed through three separate interviews and overnighted cupcakes with pastry bags of her buttercream to Los Angeles. When I asked how much that cost, she said “a lot.”)

Bucceri is taking orders for specialty cakes and cupcakes. She’s staying busy and sweet, just the way she dreamed.

JB Couture Cakes
1005 Main Street
Belmar
732-620-1407

Melissa Beveridge, Jersey Bites from the Beach Melissa Beveridge  is a freelance journalist and editor, focusing on great food, healthy living, and wellness. Her passion for eating and living well embodies her writing. A lover of all things Jersey, she is also an avid traveler, always looking to discover those hidden culinary gems everywhere she goes. Her musings can be found on her blog mbeewell.wordpress.com.

 

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Event details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm directly before heading out!

THIS WEEKEND:

July 18 and 25: At 6:30 p.m., Haddonfield’s In The Kitchen Cooking School welcomes Chef Natalie Stone for hands-on cooking classes. The July 18 class offers Italian holiday favorites and more cooking classics will be featured on July 25. $75 per class. Call 609-206-4511 to register. In The Kitchen Cooking School, 10 Mechanic Street, Haddonfield.

July 19: Ice House Restaurant in Wildwood hosts the New Jersey State Crab Festival. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. and features a beer garden, fresh blue claw crabs and a crab race for kids. Also, donate to the event’s Crabby Fundraiser with proceeds benefiting Lunch with Lynch. A $5 donation enters you for a chance to win $1,000 at the Crabby Fundraiser Crab Race at 7 p.m. Ice House Restaurant, 4415 Park Boulevard, Wildwood. 

July 20 to 25: Collingswood’s Farm Fresh Restaurant Week starts July 20 and will feature several of area restaurants including: Tortilla PressNunzio’s Ristorante, and more. Restaurants will include discounted specials on their most popular dishes. Check online for more information.

July 20 to 26: More than 40 eateries in Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties are set to participate in this year’s SJ Hot Chef’s Farm to Fork Week. The week features four-course summer-themed meals for $35, with some restaurants preparing a $25 menu. For a full list of SJ Hot Chef’s restaurants, click here.

AND BEYOND:

July 24: Fascino Restaurant in Montclair will host a 4-course Wilde Farm Wines dinner at 7 p.m. Loren Grossman’s Wilde Farm Wines of Forestville, California will be paired with Chef Ryan DePersio’s tasting menu. The cost is $65 per person, plus tax & gratuity. Fascino Restaurant, 331 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, 973-233-0350.

July 25: Chef Bryan Gregg of Escape Montclair will be celebrating New Jersey corn with a one night, 5-course dinner showcasing the freshest produce in the Garden State. Cost is $65 per person plus taxes and gratuity. Menu and details available online. Escape Montclair, 345 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, 973-744-0712. 

July 31 to August 3: Check out Highlands Business Partnership’s 20th annual Clamfest at Huddy Park in Highlands. The four-day event features fresh seafood, live entertainment, rides, games, prizes and more. Thursday: 6 to 10 p.m., Friday: 6 to 11 p.m., Saturday: 12 to 11 p.m., Sunday: 12 to 8 p.m. Admission and parking is free. Huddy Park, 70 Waterwitch Avenue, Highlands, 732-291-4713. 

August 9: The Just Jersey Food Truck Festival heads to Randolph at the County College of Morris. From 10 a.m to 6 p.m., enjoy a fun-filled day featuring 20 of the top gourmet food trucks in the area, a beer garden, live music, and other activities. Admission is $5 for adults and kids under 12 are free. County College of Morris Parking Lot 1, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, 973-927-2794.

FTTDAugust 16, 17: Four Sisters Winery of Belvidere is home to Vintage North Jersey’s first annual Wine and Food Festival. Taste some of the best wines North Jersey has to offer along with samples of the finest cheeses, breads, produce, sauces, and more. The event beings at 12 p.m. and ends at 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $20 at the gate, or can be purchased in advance online. Four Sisters Winery, 783 County Road 519, Belvidere, 908-475-3671. 

August 16: The EARTH Center’s Garden Field Day takes place at Davidson’s Mill Pond Park  in South Brunswick. A variety of events are scheduled to take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. including garden tours, live music, samples of local produce from Middlesex County farmers, and a Backyard Garden Contest where guests are welcome to bring their biggest tomato, pumpkin or pepper. Davidson’s Mill Pond Park, 42 Riva Avenue, South Brunswick, 732-398-5262.

Sweet Escape

August 24: Sweet tooth, anyone? Kean University is the place to be for the NJ Confection & Dessert Tasting Expo. From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., enjoy workshops for all ages along with sweet samplings and goodies that will be for sale. A Sweet Demonstration Stage will feature baking demonstrations from award-winning bakers and sweet entrepreneurs. General admission tickets are $35 and VIP tickets are available for $65. Contact [email protected] for more details. Kean University, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union. 

August 31: The 30th annual ScanFest, Scandinavian Festival, will be held at Vasa Park at Budd Lake. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., experience some of the best the Scandinavian culture has to offer with ethnic food, performances and artisans. Tickets are $14 at the gate for adults, $13 for seniors, and children under 12 are free. Vasa Park, 1 Vasa Drive, Hackettstown.

October 20: The second annual March of Dimes Signature Chefs Gourmet Gala returns to The Terrace at Biaggio’s Restaurant in Paramus. Guests will experience an upscale night of dancing, spirits, and food from dozens of North Jersey’s top chefs. There will also be a silent auction and chances to win great prizes. The Terrace at Biaggio’s Restaurant299 Paramus Road, Paramus, 201-652-0201.

Jersey Girls Food Tours in Jersey City

This summer, Jersey Girls Food Tours brings its walking culinary adventure to Jersey City. These tours lead anyone with an appetite to enjoy the great culture of Jersey City through some of the best cuisine the city has to offer.

Market Fish Mazeman Scallop, Jersey Girls Food Tours, Jersey Bites
Market Fish Mazeman scallop

Janis Borroto and Alessia Aron, Jersey Girls Food Tours’ cofounders, thought it would be a great idea for people across the state to be able to experience some of the area’s great, diverse eateries. Aron says she wants food tours to become just as popular in New Jersey as they have become across the river. “Currently there are no other statewide food tour companies, and we want to change that,” Aron said. “While we love NYC, we want to give people another reason to explore the food scene right here in New Jersey.”

Formerly known as Garden State Food Tours, Jersey Girls Food Tours has partnered with more than 25 restaurants and currently offers three different Jersey City tours: Best of Downtown, Hamilton Park, and New on Newark Avenue.

For each two- to three-hour tour, ticket prices range from $45 to $55. Guests have the opportunity to talk with the chefs and owners of each establishment while sampling their food along the way.

Aside from tasting fresh food, Aron believes that the food tours are also a great way for “tourists” to learn something new about a unique area the country. “Guests get to try not one, but four to seven different food samples in one go,” Aron said. “Locals and non-locals alike can expect to learn something new, whether it’s about the food vendors themselves, the history of the city being toured or menu items they didn’t even know existed.”

9C Poppers, Ninth and Coles Tavern, Jersey Girls Food Tours
9C poppers, Ninth and Coles Tavern

In the upcoming months, Borroto and Aron hope to expand their idea to other foodie-friendly communities like Rutherford, Montclair, Hoboken, and New Brunswick.

Register for upcoming tours in Jersey City, or follow Jersey Girls Food Tours on Facebook or Twitter.

PLEASE NOTE: Vendors and food items are subject to change without notice.

Jersey Girls Food Tours
Jersey City
[email protected]
908-420-2590

photoEditorial Intern: Lou Petrella is a senior at Rutgers University, with a double major in Journalism and Media Studies, and Sports Management. Having grown up in Whippany, Lou is passionate about his Morris County roots. Aside from being an avid sports lover, Lou cares deeply about food and should not be bothered while enjoying a good meal. Italian food and seafood are his favorites, but a nice summer barbecue just may trump them both. At school, Lou works as a correspondent for the Daily Targum, and is preparing for a career in writing or communications.

 

Vintage North Jersey Wine and Food Festival

Four Sisters Winery
Four Sisters Winery
Old York Cellars
Old York Cellars’ award-winning wines

This sponsored article is brought to you by Vintage North Jersey.

Four Sisters Winery of Belvidere will host Vintage North Jersey’s first annual Wine and Food Festival on August 16 and 17.

Vintage North Jersey—a collaboration of northern New Jersey wineries—is excited to welcome some of the top wineries in the area, along with local specialty food vendors and live music, to one of the oldest vineyards in the area.

In addition to hosting the festival, Four Sisters Winery will offer up tastings of several of their wines, with homemade bread and dipping oil, and spice samples as well. Owner, chef and winemaker Matty Matarazzo is happy to host guests at his vineyard so they can taste a wide variety of items. “I hope this festival provides a unique experience for all those who attend,” Matarazzo said. “It will offer a close look at the ten wineries that make up Vintage North Jersey while sharing some of the fine foods produced in our region.”

The festival’s featured wines will be paired with local specialty food, including fresh cheeses and fruit (available for purchase), Greek spreads, baked goods, and more. Old York Cellars winery of Ringoes is one of the vineyards involved in the wine and food pairings. General Manager Laurin Dorman says the selected pairings highlight the association between certain foods and wines. “This was so important to us that we are pairing each winery with a local provider,” Dorman said. “Whether that be cheese, bread, produce, honey, handmade hummus and even olive oil. We are showcasing the wineries in this fashion to show the connection between food and wine and how they highlight and elevate each other.” 

Accompanying the food and wine will be the sounds of two classic rock cover bands. The Wilson Brothers will play on Saturday and the Brother John Brown band takes the stage on Sunday.

Cava Winery

Dorman says that the festival is a great way for people to come out and see for themselves how great some of the locally grown food and wine is here in New Jersey. “This event is intended to highlight all that New Jersey has to offer,” Dorman said. “[It] is a continued effort to show that not only are there great wineries right in your backyard, but they are producing award-winning wines.”

The event begins at 12 p.m. and ends at 5 p.m. both Saturday, August 16, and Sunday, August 17. Tickets are $20 at the gate which includes tasting and a complimentary wine glass. Tickets for ages 13 to 20 are $15 and children 12 and under are free. Advance-sale tickets are available online

For more information contact Valerie at Four Sisters Winery at 908-475-3671 or via email at [email protected] or [email protected].

Participating Vendors:

vintage north jersey bakery photo
Baked goods from Terhune Orchards will be available at the event.

The Farm & Fisherman in Cherry Hill

A recent article in a local magazine woke me up to the fact that there are some seriously good Happy Hour deals at some of our local restaurants. While Happy Hour used to mean cheap beer and soggy chicken wings, some area food purveyors are stepping it up a notch (or three or four) in the Happy Hour quality department. One recent Friday night, we sampled the Happy Hour at the Farm & Fisherman Tavern + Market in Cherry Hill.

The Farm and Fisherman, Jersey Bites

The Farm & Fisherman has a mission: featuring local food and libations on its menu. Josh Lawler and Todd Fuller (chef/owners) are well-known Philly restaurateurs who have opened up a combination restaurant, bar and take-out market on Route 70 in Cherry Hill. We perused the market before sitting down for our meal. Drool-worthy cheeses from both Cherry Grove Farm and Valley Shepherd Creamery were among the carefully curated products featured in the market. We promised ourselves that we would come back and peruse some more when we had a bit more time.

When we sat down for our meal in the bar, we were happy to see that the craft beer on tap, wines and specialty cocktails were all discounted. John tried a Carton of Milk Stout Nitro which has chocolate overtones. I was thrilled to find Namaste, one of my favorite Dogfish Head brews. It features notes of lemongrass, citrus and coriander and is not something found at a typical Happy Hour.

And what goes better with a Happy Hour beer than a burger? The $5 Happy Hour burger special (offered for a limited time) really delivered. Its part short-rib pedigree made it incredibly moist and tender. The fixings bar was pretty sweet, too. In addition to the usual ketchup, tomato and lettuce toppings, there were sundried tomatoes, softly sauteed red onions, and—of all things—ramps.

While we filled up on our burgers, the restaurant has a number of interesting, locavore-friendly salads and entrees on the menu. The seating around the bar was filled, with numerous patrons chatting and sampling a variety of dishes. The warm atmosphere made it the perfect stopping point after a long week of work. Although we only had time for a couple of beers and burgers, the quality of the food and drink made us promise each other that we would return.

The Farm and Fisherman, burger

The Farm & Fisherman Tavern + Market
1442 Marlton Pike East
Cherry Hill
Tavern: 856-356-2282
Market: 856-356-2286

Beth Christian subsisted primarily on cheeseburgers and liverwurst sandwiches during childhood and refused to try most new foods.  Her culinary horizons were expanded during her college days in Schenectady, New York, where she learned the joys of trying slow-simmered Italian dishes, Szechuan cuisine, and everything in between. When not engaged in the practice of law in Monmouth County, Beth is busy scouting out interesting restaurants, farmer’s markets and food purveyors near her home in Burlington County. Beth’s primary dining sidekick is her husband John, but she also enjoys having her daughter Meghan, son Michael and her wonderful friends come along for the ride. Email Beth at [email protected].

Chef Spotlight: Todd Villani

Todd Villani
Chef Todd Villani

Fresh food. Exotic flavors. International experience. And true respect for what it means to dine local. All in Bergen County’s own Carlstadt, where Chef Todd Villani heads up the kitchen at Terre à Terre

JERSEY BITES: What is your earliest food memory?
CHEF TODD VILLANI: Summer in the garden at my grandmother’s house. We were eating fresh veggies from her garden – cucumbers, tomatoes – and I remember thinking if food could be any better than that.

When did you realize you wanted to make cooking a career? Was there an “a-ha” moment?
I don’t ever remember an “a-ha” moment. I just remember food being such an important part of our family life as far back as I can remember. And I never really thought about cooking as a career or a separate part of who I was – it was more like an integral part of my life, of my makeup as a person.

Any interesting stories about where and with whom you started cooking professionally?
My professional career had a lot of starts and stops, but I really got my opportunity after moving to Greece, where I started working with a classically-trained chef at one of the premier five-star luxury resorts in the northern part of the country. I was really inexperienced back then and when I think back about the experience of foraging for wild greens for the evening’s dinner or choosing the fish right off the boat, I realize how much that experience shaped my culinary style and my unrelenting hunt for fresh food.

What is your cooking style?
My cooking style is the result of my life’s journey and what I’ve been exposed to. I prepare cuisine using French technique with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences combined with Scandinavian flavors and preparation, which I can attribute to my experience working at a subsidiary interest of acclaimed “Top Chef” Marcus Samuelsson. Over the years I’ve figured out what I like and what flavors can go together into a single plate – regardless of the country of origin. In that regard I’m a risk taker. Beyond taste, the ingredients need to look good visually on the plate.

What is the greatest opportunity that has come from cooking?
There is no one thing. Cooking has opened many doors. I’ve traveled and had the opportunity to work with some of the most talented and passionate people in the industry. I’ve met people who have inspired me. I’ve grown closer to my family. I’ve helped other people grow and stretch in their own creativity. And I’ve used my profession as a platform for other people to experience new flavors and tastes.

What is the most memorable meal you’ve had, what did you eat and where was it?
The most memorable meal I’ve had was at Vedema Resort on Santorini. Interestingly, though, it wasn’t the meal itself that’s stuck with me. It was the experience. The vibe of the place. The restaurant is in a 400-year-old winery surrounded by black volcanic stones. I do remember I had rack of lamb but I was so caught up in the music, lighting, and the atmosphere that I was carried away. Carlstadt isn’t Santorini, but I knew if I ever opened a restaurant I would want the experience to be just as important as the food.

It’s your last day on earth. What will your final meal be?
Either lamb smothered in awesome mushrooms like truffles, or a peanut butter and jelly sandwich – it would just depend on my mood.

Smokey Lump Crab Cake - Terre a Terre
Smokey lump crab cake (photo by Danny Chin/Eat With Dan)

What is the best advice you have to share with young folks interested in becoming chefs?
Consider carefully. You will work long hours with little pay – and often little recognition. But you’re going to love it, and in the end, it really won’t matter.

If you could choose to be any food item, what would it be?
A potato. Clean slate. It can be made into anything.

What is the one “staple” food you always have in your cupboard at home?
Olive oil.

What is your beverage of choice?
At the moment, green tea ginger ale.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Pizza.

What New Jersey restaurant do you enjoy dining at, besides your own?
My mood determines what type of cuisine I’ll enjoy. For fine dining, Chakra is my choice. For Italian, Regina Margherita (Queen Margherita) in Nutley. But there are dozens of others.

If you could have dinner with any three people, living, deceased or fictional, who would they be and why?
Thomas Keller, Michael Jordan, and my yet-to-be-born children because I would want my children to be as inspired by them as I’ve been.

Are you working on any upcoming projects our readers would be interested in learning about?
I’m probably like every other chef on the planet because I’m secretly—not so secretly—working on a cookbook.

Click here for other Jersey Bites coverage of Terre à Terre.

Terre à Terre
312 Hackensack Street
Carlstadt
201-507-0500

Cheers,

Veronique Deblois is a food and wine blogger based in Morris County, NJ. As the author of the popular blog, Food & Wine Chickie Insider, Veronique shares recipes, wine and restaurant reviews. Follow Veronique on Twitter or like her Facebook page.

 

Six NJ Restaurants Make National OpenTable List

After reviewing more than 5 million restaurant reviews, online reservation and review service OpenTable named six New Jersey restaurants to its 2014 Diners’ Choice list for the Top 100 Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in America.

Camden County dominated the Jersey contingency with Casa Bella Trattoria of Haddonfield, Crux Café of Audubon, and L’Oceano Ristorante and El Sitio Steak Grille & Café of Collingswood all being included. Farther north, Pascal and Sabine of Asbury Park and Grange of Westwood were were also named to the exclusive list.

The Garden State was tied with Pennsylvania for third most restaurants to receive nods, behind California (24) and New York (10). The list is calculated by OpenTable, which analyzed more than 19,000 restaurants from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Perhaps it’s time to give one of them a try! Congrats to all who were named to this list!

Grilled oysters with béchamel (Photo courtesy of L'Oceano Ristorante)
Grilled oysters with béchamel (Photo courtesy of L’Oceano Ristorante)
Seco de Chivo (El Sitio)
Seco de Chivo (Photo courtesy of El Sitio)

photoEditorial Intern: Lou Petrella is a senior at Rutgers University, with a double major in Journalism and Media Studies, and Sports Management. Having grown up in Whippany, Lou is passionate about his Morris County roots. Aside from being an avid sports lover, Lou cares deeply about food and should not be bothered while enjoying a good meal. Italian food and seafood are his favorites, but a nice summer barbecue just may trump them both. At school, Lou works as a correspondent for the Daily Targum, and is preparing for a career in writing or communications.

Dining Al Fresco in New Jersey

The Jersey Bites team shares its favorite spots for dining al fresco around the Garden State. Know of a good one we didn’t include? Add it to the comments!

Asbury Park

Porta: Asbury Park has come quite a long way from its ghost-town reputation and is now abuzz with excellent al fresco options. When it isn’t acting as a nightclub, Porta breathes its fresh, rustic romance inside and out. Their patio, aka Porta National Park, offers shaded picnic tables and a bocce court. Porta, 911 Kingsley Street, Asbury Park, 732-776-7661.

Beach Haven

The Gables: Dine on the beautiful front porch of this Victorian Inn or on the backyard garden patio. Called an “elegant” Victorian B&B setting with a “magical” patio by Zagat and winner of the Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor, this is one spot where you do not sacrifice great food for a lovely setting. Both food and ambiance are worth the trip. Reservations recommended. The Gables, 212 Centre Street, Beach Haven, NJ, 609-492-3553.

Belmar

9th Ave Pier: Enjoy a light salad or some delicious tacos with a summer cocktail at 9th Ave Pier. It’s a great place to bring family and friends after a day out on the beach when all you’re looking to do is enjoy some music while watching the day boats come in with their latest catch. 9th Ave Pier, 905 Route 35, Belmar, 732-749-3800.

Ragin’ Cajun: If you’re in the mood for some cajun flair including spicy jambalaya, etouffee, gumbo, and blackened tuna, Ragin’ Cajun is the place to go. Enjoy local bands like Billy Hector on Thursday nights while sitting outside enjoying the sunset over Shark River. Ragin’ Cajun, 1102 Route 35, Belmar 732-280-6828.

Brick

Coastal Chaos–The Waterfront Restaurant: Owners Roger and Josh Barnhard, along with Executive Chef Matt Levine, are in charge at Coastal Chaos–The Waterfront Restaurant. Located on the beautiful Metedeconk River in Brick Township, visitors will enjoy breathtaking views, while sampling some of the Jersey Shore’s finest cuisine. Coastal Chaos–The Waterfront Restaurant, 281 Princeton Ave, Brick, 732-701-3313.

Carlstadt

Terre à Terre: At Terre à Terre, Chef Todd Villani offers a farm-to-table dining experience featuring sustainable, locally grown produce, meat, and wild seafood. Guests will enjoy their meal on a newly-opened patio featuring a vertical edible garden – a wall garden featuring a variety of herbs, edible ornamentals and small crops. Terre à Terre, 312 Hackensack Street, Carlstadt, 201-507-0500.

Terre à Terre
Terre à Terre, Carlstadt (photo courtesy of Terre à Terre)

Edgewater

HAVEN Riverfront Restaurant & Bar: HAVEN’s Waterfront Patio is now open for its first season! Located 20 feet from the Hudson River with iconic NYC views, the handsome outdoor space seats 72 and features a bright red awning, boxwood border and, as the weather gets warmer, colorful flower baskets. Experience Chef Peter Larsen’s recently launched lunch service along with new spring menu offerings. HAVEN Riverfront Restaurant & Bar, 2 Main Street, Edgewater Harbor, Edgewater, 201-943-1900.

Fairfield

Cielo Restaurant: Classic Italian-American “peasant” fare with a handsome outdoor patio featuring an active waterfall, loads of plantings and seating for 60. All in full view of Chef/Owner Anthony Pucciarello’s 300-yard long herb and vegetable garden, which he tends all summer. On Tuesday through Thursday in season, guests may enjoy Chef Pucciarello’s “Grillin’ -n- Chillin'” special: a tomato salad, straight from the garden, plus a 16 oz. steak. Cielo Restaurant, 168 Passaic Avenue, Fairfield, 973-808-1414.

Hamburg

Chef’s Garden at Crystal Springs Resort: This breathtaking outdoor restaurant provides guests a unique garden-to-table dining experience set amidst beautiful organic vegetables, flowers, herbs and a Kittatinny Mountains backdrop. Guests can watch as the chefs pick the ingredients from the surrounding gardens and use them to prepare their meal right in front of their eyes. Chef’s Garden at Crystal Springs Resort, 3 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, 973-827-5996, ext. 3.

Springs Bistro: Springs Bistro features authentic Tuscan-inspired cuisine with outdoor patio seating. Guests will enjoy fresh local ingredients presented with artistic flair. Enjoy dining with a Mexican twist at this Crystal Springs Resort casual poolside café. Enjoy a creative cocktail or tequilas from an extensive list. Springs Bistro 3 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, 973-827-5996, ext. 3.

Crystal Springs 2
Springs Bistro, Hamburg

Hoboken

Bin 14: Bin 14, Hoboken’s first and only wine bar, offers a secluded, shaded backyard where guests can enjoy Chef Anthony Pino’s modern Italian tapas and choose from more than 80 wines to sample by the glass. Bin 14, 1314 Washington Street, Hoboken, 201-963-WINE.

Pier 13Spend the afternoon or evening overlooking the Manhattan skyline. There is one large mobile bar serving a range of beers and select wines. Food trucks like Luke’s Lobster, Pizza Vita, Amanda’s Bananas and Polka Dot Cupcake serve up food day and night. Picnic style seating is available, along with a variety of lounge furniture. Take a skyline cruise, which picks up at the pier, and enjoy the rest of your afternoon taking in boats splashing by. Pier 13, 1301 Sinatra Drive North, Hoboken.

Pilsener Haus & Biergarten: Pilsener Haus & Biergarten brings the old-world biergarten tradition to life with its communal tables and frosty mugs of premium draft and bottled craft beers – not to mention delectable sausages from the grill. Pilsener Haus & Biergarten, 15th St., btw Adams & Grand, Hoboken, 201-683-5465.

Jersey City

Maritime Parc: This al fresco space—with views of the marina and NYC skyline—seats 60 for à la carte dining and 30 in the bar area. It’s also available for private cocktail parties or dinners for 100 to 200 guests on Mondays and Tuesdays. Sleek heaters surrounded by planted herb beds keep guests comfy as they enjoy cocktails and various menu selections. Maritime Parc, 84 Audrey Zapp Drive, Liberty State Park, Jersey City, 201-413-0050.

Kenilworth                

Red Knot at Galloping Hill: Red Knot is a contemporary American gastropub helmed by longtime Union County resident Executive Chef Ralph Romano. Located in the Clubhouse at Galloping Hill, Red Knot’s stunning outdoor stone-and-wood patio overlooks the golf course’s 300+ pristine acres (and it’s open to the public!). Red Knot at Galloping Hill, 3 Golf Drive, Kenilworth, 908-241-2211.

Montclair

Amanti Vino: Amanti Vino’s Vinoteca—Montclair’s best people-watching and imbibing spot—is open and hopping! Guests may purchase wine or beer, along with a carefully curated selection of artisanal cheese, crackers, charcuterie, paté, cookies and chocolate-covered figs. Enjoy your treats at one of 30 outdoor seats. BYO glasses/cups, or buy a sturdy, reusable GO VINO glass inside. A great way to wait for a neighborhood dinner reservation or for a movie to start. Vinoteca seating available during same hours the shop is open. Amanti Vino, 30 Church Street, Montclair, 973-509-WINE.

Raymond’s: With another location in Ridgewood, Raymond’s is a cornerstone eatery in the Montclair center area. The restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere with a retro feel. Raymond’s offers an open outdoor seating area, perfect for watching the hustle and bustle of Montclair. Raymond’s, 28 Church Street, Montclair, 973-744-9263/101 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, 201-445-5125. 

Morristown

Millie’s Old World Meatballs & Pizza: When the weather warms up, Millie’s raises its custom “garage-door” front window/wall to bring the outdoors in, for instant al fresco seating on Morristown’s happening South Street. It’s a great vantage point from which to enjoy the restaurant’s signature quarter-pound sirloin meatballs with vodka or marinara sauce and delectable pizzas from dueling wood- and coal-fired ovens, each with a distinctive crust, toppings and flavor profile. Millie’s Old World Meatballs & Pizza, 60 South Street, Morristown, 973-267-9616.

Ridgewood

La Lanterna Cafe and Grill: Enjoy fine Tuscan cuisine al fresco at La Lanterna Cafe in Ridgewood. The family-owned restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and local seafood. A newly renovated porch is available for diners who wish to sit outside. La Lanterna Cafe and Grill, 29 West Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, 201-444-5520. 

Rutherford

Café Matisse: Guests can enjoy splendid garden seating for dining under the stars. Along with the garden area, Matisse also has a dining room and wine shop in the front of the restaurant. Reservations for outdoor dining must be made by calling the restaurant in advance. Café Matisse, 167 Park Avenue, Rutherford, 201-935-2995.

Somerset

Stage House Tavern: The sprawling wooden patio and unmatched conviviality make Stage House feel like your own backyard. Best of all, Stage House stacks its weekly calendar with ridiculous specials: endless ravioli Mondays, martini Tuesdays, and through Labor Day, free BBQ on the patio. You can’t even get that on your own patio! Stage House Tavern, 1719 Amwell Road, Somerset, 732-837-3990.

Vernon

The Tiki Bar at Minerals Resort & Spa: Another branch of Crystal Springs, the relaxed atmosphere of the tiki bar can be enjoyed over a burger, sandwich or traditional smoked BBQ food. Fun and refreshing cocktails are served in standard size and in fun fish-bowl sized glasses, enough to quench the thirst of up to four guests. The Tiki Bar at Minerals Resort & Spa, 2 Chamonix Drive & Route 94, Vernon. 973-827-5996, ext. 3.

Vineland

Luna’s Outdoor Bar & Grille: Enjoy traditional American fare on Luna’s outdoor covered patio. Nightly specials, drinks, seafood, and more. The bar and grille also hosts live music Friday and Saturday nights. Family-friendly atmosphere. Luna’s Outdoor Bar & Grille, at Merighi’s Savoy Inn, 4940 E. Landis Avenue, Vineland, 856-691-8051.

West Orange

McLoone’s Boathouse: Situated on the banks of the Orange Reservoir within the South Mountain Recreation Complex (tight next to the Turtle Back Zoo), McLoone’s Boathouse offers some of the best views in the area, along with an elegant menu. The patio section of the boathouse offers a beautiful view of the water along with a fire pit. McLoone’s Boathouse, 9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, 862-252-7108.

Whitehouse Station

The Ryland Inn: Dine on some of New Jersey’s most inventive dishes, prepared by Executive Chef Craig Politano in a peaceful and spectacular setting on the patio at The Ryland Inn. The dining area is flanked by a grand fireplace and offers an outdoor bar convenient for a quick before-dinner cocktail. The Ryland Inn115 Old Highway 28, Whitehouse Station, 908-534-4011.   

Ryland Inn Patio
The Ryland Inn, Whitehouse Station (photo by Daniel Dai)

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