Page 192 ⋆ Jersey Bites

Deviled Wings and Dicey Things

Beth

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October 24, 2011

One of the things that challenges all of us is the juggle: how to make time for work, family, friends, and ourselves. I’m lucky to be involved in 2 groups that give me time with friends every month: my book club and my bunco group. Both meet monthly and are filled with great people. We take turns hosting and the hostess of the month is responsible for food, wine and other libations. This month, I’m up as bunco hostess. I like to take October, since my house is decorated with pumpkins and witches and all things Halloween.

For the uninitiated, bunco is a game in which a set of three dice is thrown. You roll ones, two, threes, etc and get points if you roll the correct number. Three of a kind for the number that we are rolling will cause the lucky roller to yell out, “Bunco!” Our group also makes the winner don a ridiculous hat or a hot pink feather boa. We are real big spenders-all in at five dollars per person. Since we talk, play and eat, I like to set out snacks on each table where we are rolling the dice in addition to setting up an appetizer/dessert buffet in the kitchen.
Right before I was scheduled to host, I got some menu help in the form of a package in the mail filled with different varieties of Sante nuts. These were the perfect accompaniment to our dice rolling at the bunco tables: sweet, fresh and salty. They are hand roasted and use less oil than other roasted nuts. In addition to candied pecans and walnuts, I also got to try roasted salted pecans and garlic almonds. They were outstanding-in fact, I have to confess that the candied pecans never made it to bunco night because John and I devoured them beforehand. We were nuts about these nuts! They would be great for game day, your book club, or any other gathering at home. Sante has graciously offered to pass along a discount to Jersey Bites readers who order them online. If you visit www.SanteNuts.com and enter the code 2011-Blog-175, you will get 25% off of you order if you order by December 16, 2011.
Since I needed more than the nuts to feed my hungry bunco crew, I decided to make some foods with a Halloween theme. One of my favorites was devilishly good: a recipe for deviled chicken wings from “The Joy of Cooking.” They are easy to throw together and not greasy at all. I didn’t want to be accused of throwing the bunco game by causing everyone to have butter fingers, which are not conducive to dice rolling.

Deviled Chicken Wings
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a large baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Set out 1 ½ pounds of chicken wings.

Stir the following together in a large bowl:
½ cup honey
3 tablespoons whole grain mustard
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Next, combine these ingredients on a plate:
2/3 cup dry plain bread crumbs
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon red pepper

Toss the wings in the honey mixture. Roll one at a time in the bread crumb mixture, shaking off any excess. Place wings on the prepared baking sheet. Bake 20 to 30 minutes. Make sure that you turn the wings over with tongs about halfway through the cooking process. Serve hot or at room temperature. Easy peasy!

I always love getting new ideas for my book club and bunco nights. Let us know in the comment section or on our Jersey Bites Facebook page if you participate in similar gatherings. If you want to share a favorite easy recipe, so much the better!

Beth Christian, Burlington County Regional Editor 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]

Scarduzio’s at Showboat Atlantic City

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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October 23, 2011

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It’s been way too long since I got away. That’s why I didn’t hesitate when an invite to a media event at Chef Chris Scarduzio‘s new restaurant at Showboat in Atlantic City came unexpectadly via email.

Known for his successful restaurant, Table 31, in Philadelphia and Mia’s at Caesar’s, Chef Scarduzio’s latest venture in Atlantic City is a combination steakhouse and sushi lounge. The new venue encompasses a late night lounge with live entertainment, bottle service and small-plates fare, and it is oh, so sexy.

I had a very long day prior to our evening visit, annoying traffic to top it off and my feet were killing me, but when I walked in to Scarduzio’s with the elegant lighting and cool lounge vibe, Mama was happy. We enjoyed some great sushi and appetizers including the Kobe slider you see in the picture above.

After decompressing at the cocktail hour, the media mob was corralled to a very long table where basically we ate like kings, very hungry kings. We shared a charcuterie plate with fellow foodies, John and Lisa Howard-Fusco from Eating in South Jersey and were given our choice of anything on the menu. My choice as always, was the Rack of Lamb.

It was sheer perfection, and I’m embarrassed to say, I don’t think I offered to share with anyone. Come on, look at that picture. Would you share?

We did share the sides, like Scarduzio’s decadent Mac and Cheese, and the Jersey Corn Fricassee which was definitely a table favorite. The miniature flower pots filled with cornbread were a novel touch, but my favorite “stand-out” side was the Yukon Gold Whipped Potatoes. Check out their menu for the Lobster and Truffle whipped potatoes, oh my. If you are headed to Atlantic City for business or pleasure any time soon, Scarduzio’s is a sure bet. I highly recommend the lamb and be nice and share.

Scarduzio’s Steak | Sushi | Lounge
Website

Deborah Smith , Founder and Executive Editor of jerseybites.com. Launched in 2007 as a home for her growing collection of recipes, Jersey Bites soon grew into a hub for all things edible in the Garden State. In her spare time, (Ha) she works as a Social Media consultant and speaker. You can learn more about her services and marketing through social media on her blog www.DeborahLSmith.com

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Events

Jon Faronea

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October 21, 2011

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The Fantastic Fall Hot Pepper Harvest On Friday Oct 21, the EARTH Center will offer a garden/cooking workshop entitled, The Fantastic Fall Hot Pepper Harvest from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park, 42 Riva Ave. South Brunswick. The workshop aims to introduce attendees to the love of hot peppers and will feature some great recipes.. growing considerations and of course, ways to cool the burn…Registration is required by Wednesday Oct. 19. The program fee is $20. The size of the class will be limited, so register early to insure a space. For more information contact the Ag office at 732-398-5262.

Oktoberfest, Friday, October 21st from 7:30pm-11pm. Sponsored by Amanti Vino, Montclair, will be held at the Wellmont Theater to benefit Intensive Therapeutics, which provides occupational therapy for children. General admission, 7:30 to 11 PM, $80, includes unlimited food and beverages; VIP tickets, $150, allow, in addition to all of the above, entrance at 6:30 PM, access to the balcony area, and a swag bag. For tickets, call Amanti Vino at 973-509-9463.

Break Ground & Break Bread, Saturday, october 22 from 10am-3pm at the School Lunch Farm (Formerly Charters Farm) in Mount Olive. Come volunteer for a crop mob—where volunteers swarm a farm and accomplish a task that normally takes several days, we will be harvesting potatoes–that will be sold as a fundraiser for Slow Food Northern NJ’s school garden grant program. A light lunch will be provided–a $4 donation is suggested to offset the cost of food, please bring water or a beverage.
If you could bring a locally sourced potluck dish that would be appreciated–no food heating or refrigeration available. Please call: 908-654-3242

Clifton Street Fair, Saturday, October 22nd from 10am-5pm. The main thoroughfare of Clifton Ave. will be transformed into an open air pedestrian marketplace with non-stop entertainment, festival foods and a variety of family activities. Non-stop music and entertainment along with family fun attractions. For more information: Clifton Street Fair

Tour CHEESE ROOM AND TASTE SOME RAW CHEESES… Saturday, October 22nd from 10-11:30 am at Cherry Grove Farm in Laurenceville. Take a walk into our cheese room, visit our caves, meet our cheese maker Kelly Harding and sample grass-fed raw milk cheeses while discussing the health benefits of using grass-fed raw milk in cheese making. We will taste each one of the raw cheeses we make here at the farm as well as cheeses from around the world. $20 to register, please email [email protected]. The Class will end just in time for lunch and this is when you can stop by the stand out front and enjoy a farmstead grilled cheese prepared on the spot by Chef Sacchitello. Taste the flavors of our raw milk cheese straight from the cave and see how the depth of flavor changes with the addition of a little heat.

Italian Festival, Saturday & Sunday, October 22nd and 23rd from 11am-5pm. Bellview Winery, Landisville, NJ. $10, children free; includes parking, wine tasting, vineyard and winery tours, and a souvenir wineglass. For more information, go to www.bellviewwinery.com or call 856-697-7172.

Laurita Winery Harvest Festival, Saturday, Oct. 22nd from 12pm-9pm & Sunday, Oct. 23rd from 12pm-8pm. Free admission. Celebrate the ongoing harvest at one of the Outer Coastal Plain’s most highly regarded wineries. Live music and entertainment, fine wine and good food. Kids will enjoy pony rides, REX the pumpkin eating dinosaur and the playground. Vineyard wagon tours offered from 1-4pm. For more information: Laurita Winery

Waterfront Wine & Food Festival, Mays Landing. Saturday & Sunday, October 22nf & 23rd from 12pm-5pm. 8 South Jersey wineries for tastings, crafters, food vendors, local restaurant samplings, entertainment & much more! For more information: Waterfront Wine & Food Fest

ReRun, Inc. Fall For Horses, Allentown. Sunday, October 23rd. If you like horses and food then this is for you. Enjoy an all-thoroughbred charity horse show, clinic and FOOD festival. For more information: 732-521-1370 and ReRun

And Beyond…

From Pecorino to Parmigiana: The Cheeses Of Italy, Monday, October 24th from 7pm-10pm. Presented by Cranford’s Cheese…Please! An Educated Cheese Shop, attend this class to learn about Italy’s famous and secret cheeses. To register visit www.westfieldadultschool.com

Locals Feeding Locals – a Taste of Autumn Wednesday, October 26, 2011, 5:00 – 10:00PM Giamano’s Restaurant, 301 Main Street in Bradley Beach 07720 Locals Feeding Locals is the third event Giamano’s has sponsored to raise funds for the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. This taste of autumn will be an evening to experience the finest Italian dining on the Jersey Shore. Ticket cost is $50 per guest and may be reserved by calling 732-918-2600. Seats are limited.

Psychic Wine Predictions, Rosie’s Wine Bar, Garwood, NJ. Wednesday, October 26th from 8pm-10pm. Feeling SPIRITED? Want your fortune read? Join us as we kick off HalloWINE Week with a visit from local psychic Gale Summers, and see how with her help, Rosie can predict the perfect wine for you. Enjoy a glass of punch while Gale enlightens us about the world of psychic readings. Let Gale read just a little bit into who you are individually (LIMITED TO THE FIRST 20 RSVP’S!!). Then, equipped with this little insight, Rosie will expertly match your personality to a type of wine that you receive a glass of. In addition, Gale will be around for additional types of readings if you so desire. $25/pp, First RSVP, First Read. RSVP: (908) 518-WINE (9463)

Sugarloaf Crafts Festival, Somerset. Friday & Saturday, October 28 & 29 from 10am to 6pm, & Sunday, October 30, 10am to 5pm. The festival will feature crafts including functional and decorative pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, wood, metal, furniture, home accessories, photography and fine art. Gourmet foods and seasonal favorites—including candies and chocolates, hearty soups, artisan breads, jams and dips, syrups, and olive oils—will be available to sample and purchase from dozens of specialty food purveyors. For more information: www.sugarloafcrafts.com

Crab Cake Dinner, Tuesday, November 1st. Mud City Crab House will be hosting the 1^st annual crab cake dinner to benefit David’s Dream and Believe Foundation. They will be hosting 2 seating’s, 5: 30 and 8, in the dining room, each seating accommodating approximately 75 people. The night will consist of dinner, wine & beer cash bar, and an auction. Tickets can be purchased at Mud City Crab House for $35.00/ticket. The meal will consist of family style appetizers, soup or salad course, a crab cake dinner, (there will be a non-seafood option), and dessert. Mud City Crab House 609-978-3660

Wine and Cheese Tasting Fundraiser to Benefit Holiday Express, Sickles Market greenhouse, Little Silver, NJ. Friday, November 4 from 7-10 p.m. Sickles Market will dress up its greenhouse in magical holiday style, serve spectacular gourmet foods, artisanal cheeses and pour premium wines. The event – which is denim casual – will offer live entertainment by some of the best talent from the Holiday Express band; a silent auction brimming with rare, collectible wines; and a live auction that includes the hugely popular Wine Crawls – progressive tours of some of the Jersey Shore’s best private wine cellars. Plus so much more! Last year’s event was sold out so attendees are urged to reserve tickets as soon as possible. Tickets are $125 and sponsorships are available. To reserve tickets or make a sponsorship please call Tori Sickles at 732.741.9563. Or, purchase online at www.sicklesmarket.com/holidayexpress

Restaurant Week at Cork Genuine Food & Drink, Westmont, NJ. On November 2nd, 3rd, and 4th they will have celebrity chefs cooking a special 4-course $35 menu created with the help of Cork’s chef Anthony Marini. For details please visit: corknj.com

Wednesday, November 2nd: Master chef Olivier de St Martin, born and raised in Champagne, France, is the owner of Caribou Café & Zinc Restaurants in Philadelphia and winner of the Food Network’s “Chopped.” He will be creating a bistro menu featuring French comfort foods and cultural dishes.

Thursday, November 3rd: Chef Jim Coleman, cookbook author and host of PBS’ long running “Flavors of America” will be providing a menu inspired by flavors of America. Coleman was a longtime chef of the 4 star Rittenhouse Hotel and then the Normandy Farms Hotel in Blue Bell, Pa.

Friday, November 4th: Chef Philippe Chin from Paris, France, a celebrity and master chef, will be providing a menu. Philippe is well known for is cross culture cooking inspired by his Chinese Father and his French mother. Philippe had a restaurant in Philadelphia and most recently in Augusta, Georgia. He was featured numerous times on the Food Network.

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week: Various locations. For more details and tickets for the events below, please visit: www.jerseyshorerestaurantweek.com

“The Kick-off Party” The Breakers Hotel, Spring Lake. Thursday, November 3rd. Great Jersey Shore chefs prepare their favorite “Comfort Foods” including: Wine Bar, Cheese Station, Pate Bar, Desset Bar.

Great Jersey Shore Burger Contest, Saturday, November 5th at Bar A, Belmar. Taste and Vote for the Shore’s Best Burger.

“Great Chefs Cook Italian” Spring Lake Manor, Spring Lake Heights, Monday, November 7th. “Chopped” champ Matthew Zappoli of Tre Amici, Top 25 Zagat rated Piccola italia chef/owner Brian Gualtieri and legendary Joe Leone prepare a 5 course meal paired with Italian Wines.

Sushi and Sake Night at 709, Point Pleasant Tuesday, November 8th. A sushi, sake and white wine tasting.

“Souper Happy Hour” The Mill, Spring Lake Heights. Wednesday, November 9th. “Soup and Sammy”….delicious harvest soups paired with savory mini sandwiches.

The After Party “Cocktails and Cupcakes” Watermark, Asbury Park. Thursday, November 10th. Killer after dinner cocktails, make your own cupcakes and dance the night away.

Charley’s Craft Beer & Comedy Night Charley’s Ocean Grill, Long Branch. Friday, November 11th. Sample craft beers and delicious appetizers and enjoy some of the Shore’s top comedians.

“Burgers, Bloodies and Brews” at Harpoon Willy’s, Manasquan. Saturday, November 12th. Enjoy your choice of burger with a Bloody Mary or Shinerboch Beer.

A Taste of Italy at Undici. Sunday, November 13th. This popular event features tastings of over 50 Italian wines paired with delicious cheeses, meats and pastas from the regions of Italy. Spirits table.

Jon Bon Jovi’s Soul Kitchen Opens in Red Bank

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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October 20, 2011

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What do you get when you invite a Food Writer to the opening of a restaurant owned by a New Jersey Rock Icon? The same thing you always get, show me the food! Yeah, he’s cute that Jon Bon Jovi guy and yeah, he’s worth a gazillion bucks, and he and his wife, Dorothea, are doing great things to fight hunger (and you know we love that) but, out of my way, Handsome, and let me in that kitchen.

Did that seem convincing? I’m really trying. (Oh, alright, I admit ladies, he’s still a hottie and the whole philanthropic/happily married thing just makes him hotter. Satisfied?)

But, lets keep it professional and get back to the kitchen, or better yet, back to the inception of Soul Kitchen. While all the press insists on calling it Jon Bon Jovi’s new restaurant, it is actually the brainchild of his wife Dorothea, who is incredibly humble and never even spoke at the event. The lady is a class act. Of course, adoring husband (dammit) Jon, was right with her all the way on getting the concept going. They actually started two years ago at St. Anthony’s Church in Red Bank, experimenting with the model and working out the kinks. They outgrew the church and moved a few blocks over to Lunch Break where they met Lunch Break’s resident chef, Terrence Stewart. Terrence earned his culinary degree at the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties Culinary School. Can this story get any better? (Terrence candidly told me that in all his life he’s never had so many pictures taken of him. I told him to get used to it, and from the looks of things, I think he’s getting the hang of it.)

Guess who else we found in the kitchen, a gentleman they call, Mr. B. Yep, that would be Jon’s Dad, Mr. Bongiovi, slaving away, and Anthony Serpico, who was a volunteer cook at Lunch Break and is now working full time at Soul Kitchen. I hope these guys get along, because they are back to back in a very tight galley kitchen, open to the dining crowd. No Chef Ramsey tantrum meltdowns happening here.

One of my burning questions of the day was “Does this model work?” Had they copied another successful “Pay What You Can” restaurant from somewhere else? My question was answered by Lou Morreale, another cook and one of the individuals who has been with Soul Kitchen from the incubation phase at Saint Anthony’s. “Yes, it works.” Lou said. “Some people throw down a $100 bill, others pay $15. It just seems to balance out.” The answer to the second question, is No, they are paving the way for this new model that they hope spreads throughout the country.

There are no prices on the menu. Guests are encouraged to pay the “suggested donation” or diners can earn a seat at the table for themselves or their family for time worked either at Soul Kitchen, Lunch Break or other local organizations. As Jon put it during the press conference. “The 12 year old who has worked in the garden is empowered by coming home with a gift certificate for a meal the family can enjoy and celebrate with.” They make it very clear, Soul Kitchen is not a Soup Kitchen. There are no free meals.

One of the most striking first impressions you get of the restaurant as you approach is their organic garden beds in the front yard of what was once a parking lot for a dingy auto shop. It’s a small place with only enough seating for 30, so reservations are recommended. This weekend is their grand opening, so I am going to recommend you wait a few weeks. As we huddled under the tent set up for press yesterday and I was flanked by ABC, NBC, and what seemed like every other major news network, it was apparant that the Bon Jovi name has done its magic for this fantastic new restaurant concept.

Being born and raised in Red Bank, with roots that grow very deep and for many generations, I am thrilled and so very proud that the Bon Jovi family has chosen my town, our town, as its first stop on what I know will be one of many. One of the big shot personalities from one of the big shot TV stations asked Jon during the conference, “Why Red Bank?” My first reaction was to kick her in the shins, but I refrained. Jon had a better answer, ” From the time I could afford to live away from my parents, I’ve live in Monmouth County. I still have a home in Monmouth County. Red Bank is Home Town USA.”

For more fabulous pictures from yesterday’s press event, visit our Facebook page and thank you to our talented photographer Chantale Taurozzi for braving the truly nasty weather under a tent we were sure was going to blow away with all of us in it.

The JBJ Soul Kitchen
207 Monmouth Street
Red Bank, NJ 07701

Deborah Smith , Founder and Executive Editor of jerseybites.com.

Taking Bar Food Up a Notch at Morristown’s UPtown

Deanna Quinones

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October 19, 2011

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UPtown Dining Room Morristown has a lively sports bar scene with a cluster of popular restaurant-pubs on and around the Green. Now UPtown, with its spacious, friendly interior and snappy fresh-twist bar food menu, is hoping to establish itself as a hot spot just off the beaten path.

Located at 4 John Street, a quick turn off Ridgedale Avenue, it’s easily accessible from Rt. 287 or a short cab ride for train commuters looking for a place to unwind after listening to those incessant NJ Transit announcements. In warm-weather months, it boasts a 15,000 sq-foot outdoor patio lounge that would make a fantastic meet-up spot.

Full disclosure … I’m not a big sports bar gal but with the World Series underway and football season in full swing, I can definitely see the allure of settling onto a comfortable bar stool with a cold beer and a good plate of grub to watch a game. (Or, better yet, sending my husband out to do that while I watch Colin Firth in Pride and Prejudice, again.) And I can definitely see the allure of doing it at this up and coming new place.

Continue

Chef John Adamson of The Shannon Rose Makes his Mark

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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October 18, 2011

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Since joining The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in January of 2011, Head Chef John Adamson has begun to make his mark on this well-known and lively eatery. Having experience running 3 other Irish restaurants throughout Monmouth County, he brought with him a passion for fresh ingredients, innovative dishes, and a “laid back and relaxed” style of cooking. He impressively studied and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY after realizing that cooking was the career for him and being in the kitchen is where he was meant to be.

Known for establishing the weekend specials and a variety of seafood dishes, John maintains a leadership role in the kitchen. Working with his staff, he believes it is important to have a willingness to learn and the ability to ask questions when working with him. He strives to become not only their leader, but their teacher.

He is passionate about relying on fresh ingredients and proud to remark that the kitchen he dwells in most hours of the day is a “scratch” one. Although he enjoys cooking anything, he holds a special place within for seafood; most attributable to being brought up in the shore town of Pt. Pleasant. It is not surprising then to note that the Harp Battered Fish & Chips is one of the most popular menu items. Besides that, other highly requested dishes include Homemade Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef and Cabbage, Guinness Beef Stew and the infamous, FoodBeast.com featured, Murder Burger. Curious? Described as a burger served on a Kaiser roll with American and Jack cheese, sautéed onions, jalapenos, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup and Thousand Island dressing, then dipped in Harp beer batter and deep fried until golden and crispy, it is a bragging-right novelty that might take 3 days to digest!

As for personal favorites, Adamson recommends the Guinness BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Shepherd’s Pie and the Corned Beef. Too heavy for you? Well, good news, he maintains his slim figure by not only eating lightly while on the job but working on new “lighter” fare. One of these creations, “The Naked Asian” is a low-carb option that consists of an Asian-marinated Angus beef patty served on a bed of lettuce and topped with a teriyaki glaze and sesame seeds, alongside is a soy ginger cucumber salad. Besides turning out this healthy option for diners, he continues to work on other gluten-free dishes that reflect his respect for customers and their dietary concerns.

After looking over the menu, it becomes immediately obvious that this is not just a “burger and appetizer” kind-of-place, a point this chef wants to get across. New menu items include a Chiptole Chicken Salad- mixed greens topped with a seared chicken breast, apple slices, bleu cheese, sun-dried cranberries, walnuts, then drizzled with Chipotle Ranch dressing, the Molly’s Chicken Wrap- grilled chicken, sun-dried cranberries, diced tomato, spring mix, Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinaigrette all wrapped up in a pesto tortilla, and The Caprese- large sliced vine-ripe tomato with fresh mozzarella, red onion slices, fresh basil and then drizzled with a balsamic glaze. Not too shabby for an Irish Pub, right? As for the “Burger & Appetizer” reputation, that might be in part due to mouth-watering options such as the new Bag O’ Rings- large onion rings breaded and fried then seasoned with Kosher salt and served in a paper bag, the new Memphis Burger- topped with Guinness BBQ pulled pork, cole slaw, an over-sized onion ring, and pepper jack cheese, or The Dublin Burger- covered with Irish Cheddar and Irish bacon, served on a toasted English Muffin with lettuce, tomato, and red onion.

It takes one talented and hard-working chef to not only pump out dishes like that, but to also keep his or her costumers coming back for more. Chef John Adamson exemplifies those qualities and remarks that seeing people smile when eating his food and interacting with both familiar and new faces each day is one of the best parts of his job. The warm and inviting, yet trendy and hopping atmosphere is one that he admires and looks forward to growing in. With a menu as described and a dedicated chef like Chef Adamson, I am one that foresees this place growing, flourishing, and being home to people looking for a great meal with flavor, freshness, and flair.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub
855 St. George’s Avenue,
Woodbridge, NJ. There is also another location in Clifton, NJ.

Gina Glazier, Middlesex County Regional Editor is a born and raised Jersey Girl. She recently earned her Master’s degree in Reading & Literacy and currently teaches 5th grade. Gina lives with her husband Matt who is her number one fan and shares in her passion for the culinary arts, minus the cooking part! Her “culinary life” became a reality a few years back when she was chosen to be a guest of The Star Ledger’s Munchmobile. This ignited Gina’s desire to be around food and all its counterparts all the time, meaning restaurants, cookbooks, TV shows, cooking, etc. Gina says her “biggest and most monumental experience” was being a part of The Star Ledger’s Pizza Patrol two years ago where she traveled the entire state, eating at 3, 4, sometimes 5 pizzerias a night for just about 6 months! You can check out her Hungry Teacher adventures, on her blog www.ahungryteacher.blogspot.com.

A Hearty Wecome To Heart Juice

Beth

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October 17, 2011

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We’re always pleased here at Jersey Bites when we catch wind of new Jersey-based food products. It does our Jersey hearts good to see local businesses grow and prosper.

We recently got an offer to sample a new product called “Heart Juice,” so we decided to give it a try. Heart Juice is the brainchild (or heart throb?) of Ray Li (a Rutgers alum) and John Vitug, (a Kean University alum). It is formulated with Hawthorn berries and Reversatol from red grapes, and is fortified with vitamins and antioxidants as well as other heart healthy ingredients.

The two founders decided to create Heart Juice as a weapon in the fight against heart disease. Got to love that! They recently came in second in a Rutgers University business competition, and rolled the first bottles of Heart Juice off of the production lines in August of 2011. Their story of how they moved 22 pallets of Heart Juice to their warehouse one pallet at a time is very engaging: http://www.heartjuice.com/our-news

I tried the sample that Ray and John sent me and was impressed. The Pulse Berry flavor was sweet, but not too sweet, and quenched my thirst beautifully. There is no high fructose corn syrup, either. Another bonus-each bottle only has twenty calories and they use glass bottles, which is an environmentally friendly touch. On their website they have some great smoothie recipes that really bump up the heart healthy benefits by adding fresh fruits. http://www.heartjuice.com/recipes.

Heart Juice came to be after Ray and John saw Ray’s college professor and several loved ones suffer from the impact of high cholesterol and heart disease. It’s great to see young people making a difference, and I hope that Ray and John achieve success with their new and worthwhile venture. Heart Juice can be found at the locations listed here: http://www.heartjuice.com/stores

Beth Christian, Burlington County Regional Editor 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]

Recipe: Pumpkin Pancakes

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

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October 15, 2011

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My fourteen year old hasn’t shown any interest in learning how to cook, but his interest in eating what I cook is growing as fast as his six-foot teenage frame. He spotted a Pumpkin Pancake recipe on the cover of one of my cooking magazines a few days ago and sent me a text “Pumpkin Pancakes.” I’m curious how many mothers have their teenage boys texting them their wish lists for menu items. I’m guessing not a lot.

So, the dutiful Mommy that I am, whipped together my first ever batch of pumpkin pancakes and they were amazing. The recipe I chose was accompanied by reviews that called them “fluffy, not-too-sweet, moist” and they did not lie. Since I didn’t modify the recipe one bit, I am just going to link to it here and let you read all the reviews on AllRecipes.com. Pumpkin Pancake Recipe.

We’ll be having these again tomorrow morning. I’m thinking some stewed apples on top would be amazing. Enjoy.

Foodie Things to Do This Weekend and Beyond

Events

Jon Faronea

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October 14, 2011

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Photo By Scott O’Donnell

28^th Annual Chatsworth Cranberry Festival, Saturday & Sunday, October 15^th & 16^th from 9am-4pm. Celebrate New Jersey’s cranberry harvest with great food and tons of artists and craftsmen. For more information: Cranberry Fest

Oktoberfest at Bar Majestic, Jersey City, Friday, October 14th from 4pm-Midnight. Celebrate a 2-block event and all night party (until midnight of course). For more information: Bar Majestic

Italian Dinner at Laurita Winery, New Egypt. Friday, October 14th at 7pm. A gourmet food experience and an extraordinary night at the vineyard. The cost is $24.95 per person and $21.95 for kids ages 12 to 21. For more information: Laurita Winery

Specialty Food Showcase, McCaffrey’s Supermarket (Princeton), Friday & Saturday, October 14th & 15th from 11am-5pm. Attendees may sample organic, gourmet, and specialty meats, sauces, cheeses, breads, pastas and more. Many visiting vendors are local like GRIGGSTOWN FARMS PRODUCTS, CURLY’S CREATIONS BBQ SAUCES & RUBS and MONTANA RANCH BRAND NATURAL BEEF. McCaffrey’s Bakery Department will feature their award winning special occasion cake designs. All items will be available for sale. Attendees will also enjoy live music. A $5 admission charge will benefit The Crisis Ministry of Princeton & Trenton and Canine Support Teams, as well as entitle admitted to $5 Off at McCaffrey’s Market. For more information: Specialty Food Showcase

Smithville Italian Festival, Saturday October 15^th from 10am-5pm. Enjoy fine New Jersey wine tasting, live music and entertainment, great food and desserts, artisan vendors, bocce ball, kids events and Italian classic cars. For more information: Smithville

Matawan Day & Food Festival, Saturday October 15^th from 2pm- 8pm. Presented by the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce, this is a day where families enjoy the experience of tasting the wonderful variety of foods offered by the local restaurants, seeing the talents of local crafters and artisans. The event will be held on Main Street from the Library to Maloney’s Pub. For more information: M-A Chamber of Commerce

Saints Peter & Paul Oktoberfest 2011, Saturday, October 15^th from 12pm -10pm located at 404 Hudson Street, Hoboken. Featured will be a beer garden, food vendors, live music and a kid’s village with Polka Dot. For more information: [email protected]

Grand Harvest Wine Festival at Fosterfields Historical Living Farm, Saturday & Sunday, October 15^th & 16^th from 12pm-5pm. The festival will feature twenty wineries offering nearly 250 locally-produced wines, food, crafts vendors, live bands and the opportunity to experience one of New Jersey’s significant historic farms. For more information: Grand Harvest Wine Fest

Harvest Festival at Peaceful Valley Orchards, Saturday, October 15^th from 10am-4pm. Pick your own apples and pumpkins, enjoy a nice clam bake, hayrides, kids activities, and live music. For more information: Peaceful Valley Orchards

Harvest Wine Festival at Natali Vineyards, Cape May Courthouse, Saturday, October 15th from 12pm-5pm. Free admission, $5 wine tastings, live band, free vineyard/barrel room tour at 2pm, and lots of Sangria. For more information call 609-465-0075.

Applefest, Greenfield, Saturday, October 15th from 10am-4pm. Everything apple, live music, children’s games, food, craft artisans and more. For more information call (609) 390-5656.

Flo’s 2^nd Annual Chili Cook-Off, Saturday, October 15^th from 11am-5pm. Flo’s Annual Chili Cook-Off benefiting the Brain Tumor Center at the JFK Neuroscience Institute (Edison, NJ), will be held at the legendary Stone Pony in Asbury Park. There will be a kids tent, arts & crafts, eco-friendly products, local produce and of course chili! For more information: Flo’s Chili Cook-Off

Mercer County Cultural Festival, Saturday, October 15^th from 11am-6pm. Celebrate the diverse cultures of Mercer County through traditional food, live cultural music and dance performances, visual arts and crafts. For more information: Mercer County Cultural Fest

Giant Pumpkin Carve, Saturday, October 15^th from 5-9:30pm at the Salem County Fair Grounds. Pumpkin bake-off, musical entertainment, kids activities, hay rides, straw maze, and more. For more information: Giant Pumpkin Carve

Children’s Open Hearth Cooking, Hancock House State Historic Site, Saturday, October 15th from 10am-3pm. Introduce children to open hearth cooking by showing them how to prepare and make food in an open fireplace. For ages 8 and up. Reservations required. Please call Joan Pancoast 856-935-4221.

Rea’s Harvest Country Fair on October 15, 2011 at Rea’s Farm, Bayshore & Stevens Streets, West Cape May. Rea’s Country Harvest Fair offers a unique setting on a down to earth working farm that was once one of the largest farms in Cape May county. County fair atmosphere with pony rides, family hayrides, contests and games for kids and adults. Unique food vendors, antiques, art and crafts and high quality flea market dealers. The fun begins at 10:00AM till 5:00PM. Rain date October 16. Vendors and visitors call 609-884-4522 or 609-408-3219 for information.

Organized Crime, Fine Dining, Baseball and Laughs at Trenton Thunder Stadium. “The Falsetto’s Murder” dinner theater on October 15 at 7:00 pm in the Yankee Club & Conference Center at Waterfront Park. Tickets are $49 each and include a gourmet dinner menu and a performance of the regionally-renowned show. Seating is limited and can be reserved by contacting the Thunder 609-394-3300 ext 116 or tickets can be purchased online right here. LIMITED SEATS REMAIN

Oktoberfest at the Stockton Inn, Sunday, October 16^th from 12pm- 6pm. Enjoy some great brews, German food and live entertainment. For more information: Stockton Inn

Beyond…

An Evening of Hope: A Taste of the Jersey Shore, Woodlake Country Club. Monday, October 17th. A number of local restaurants (Capone’s, Kyoto, and Shut Up and Eat! just to name a few) will be there preparing the food. The cost is $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Proceeds benefit The HOPE Center, which helps the homeless in Ocean County. For more information please call 732.341.4447.

The Fantastic Fall Hot Pepper Harvest On Friday Oct 21, the EARTH Center will offer a garden/cooking workshop entitled, The Fantastic Fall Hot Pepper Harvest from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park, 42 Riva Ave. South Brunswick. The workshop aims to introduce attendees to the love of hot peppers and will feature some great recipes.. growing considerations and of course, ways to cool the burn…Registration is required by Wednesday Oct. 19. The program fee is $20. The size of the class will be limited, so register early to insure a space. For more information contact the Ag office at 732-398-5262.

Tour CHEESE ROOM AND TASTE SOME RAW CHEESES… Saturday, October 22nd from 10-11:30 am Take a walk into our cheese room, visit our caves, meet our cheese maker Kelly Harding and sample grass-fed raw milk cheeses while discussing the health benefits of using grass-fed raw milk in cheese making. We will taste each one of the raw cheeses we make here at the farm as well as cheeses from around the world. $20 to register, please email [email protected]. The Class will end just in time for lunch and this is when you can stop by the stand out front and enjoy a farmstead grilled cheese prepared on the spot by Chef Sacchitello. Taste the flavors of our raw milk cheese straight from the cave and see how the depth of flavor changes with the addition of a little heat.

Locals Feeding Locals – a Taste of Autumn Wednesday, October 26, 2011, 5:00 – 10:00PM Giamano’s Restaurant, 301 Main Street in Bradley Beach 07720 Locals Feeding Locals is the third event Giamano’s has sponsored to raise funds for the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. This taste of autumn will be an evening to experience the finest Italian dining on the Jersey Shore. Ticket cost is $50 per guest and may be reserved by calling 732-918-2600. Seats are limited.

Wine and Cheese Tasting Fundraiser to Benefit Holiday Express will be held in the Sickles Market greenhouse, Little Silver, New Jersey, on Friday, November 4, 7-10 p.m. Once again Sickles Market will dress up its greenhouse in magical holiday style, serve spectacular gourmet foods, artisanal cheeses and pour premium wines. The event – which is denim casual – will offer live entertainment by some of the best talent from the Holiday Express band; a silent auction brimming with rare, collectible wines; and a live auction that includes the hugely popular Wine Crawls – progressive tours of some of the Jersey Shore’s best private wine cellars. Plus so much more! Last year’s event was sold out so attendees are urged to reserve tickets as soon as possible. Tickets are $125 and sponsorships are available. To reserve tickets or make a sponsorship please call Tori Sickles at 732.741.9563. Or, purchase online at www.sicklesmarket.com/holidayexpress

For event details and tickets on the below events, please visit: www.jerseyshorerestaurantweek.com