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Lemon-Raspberry Cupcakes: A springtime treat with a sweet surprise inside!

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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If you’re looking for a last minute addition to your Easter Sunday menu, we have the perfect cupcakes to foot the bill. I first discovered these cupcakes when they were the cover picture of the April ‘08 issue of Bon Appétit magazine. My sister and I made them together for our family’s Easter dinner and they were a hit. My grandfather ate four before my grandmother finally told him, “Enough with the cupcakes!” (He found them before we actually ate dinner, mind you).

Even though it takes a little elbow grease to get these going, it’s worth every minute of the work once you take your first bite. To make the recipe even easier, use standard boxed vanilla cake mix- just add some lemon zest to the batter and keep the dollop of raspberry jam, and you’ll save yourself time without sacrificing flavor.

Prep: 30 minutes / Total: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes cooling time)

Makes 12-15

INGREDIENTS:

¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

3 cups powdered sugar, divided

4 ½ teaspons finely grated lemon peel, divided

2 large eggs

1 ½ cups self-rising flour

¼ cup buttermilk

4 tablespoons plus 1 tablespoon seedless raspberry jam

Fresh raspberries (for garnish)

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. Using electric mixer, beat buttter, 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, and 3 teaspoons lemon peel in large bowl until blended, then beat until fluffy and pale yellow. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating to blend after each addition. Beat in half of the flour. Add buttermilk and 2 tablespoons lemon juice; beat to blend. Beat in remaining flour.

Drop 1 rounded tablespoonful batter into each muffin liner. Spoon 1 teaspoon raspberry jam over. Cover with remaining batter, dividing equally.

Bake cupcakes until tester inserted halfway into centers comes out clean, about 23 minutes. Cool cupcakes in pan on rack.

Meanwhile, whisk remaining 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 ½ teaspoons lemon peel in a small bowl (Note: Icing will be more of a glaze). Spoon half of icing over 6 cupcakes. Whisk 1 tablespoon raspberry jam into remaining icing. Spoon over remaining cupcakes. Let stand until icing sets, about 30 minutes. Garnish with raspberries. Enjoy!

Melissa Yurasits: Grew up on the Jersey Shore and returned to the Garden State after four years of living in Boston for college. Works in publicity/promotions by day but at night loves checking out new restaurants or cooking up new recipes with her boyfriend in their Jersey City apartment. Can’t name a favorite food, except for anything and everything cooked by her Dad, who doesn’t believe in recipes (but it turns out amazing everytime!).

The Fine Diner in Clinton

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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pork roll sandwich The Fine Diner in Clinton

I grew up on the pork roll. Well, it was actually the “taylor ham and cheese” where I grew up, in Northern New Jersey, but whatever you call it, it’s a staple of New Jersey delis and diners. Taylor ham, cheese, and a kaiser roll is more Jersey than the shore. Add an egg and it’s Jersey’s breakfast. But, lately, it seems a good pork roll is hard to find… at least in Hunterdon county.

Recently someone asked us Jersey Biters where to find a good pork roll, and I realized that aside from my mother’s kitchen I hadn’t seen a good pork roll in years. All the specimens I’d come across (admittedly not a full inventory) put Jersey to shame, with bread too hard and cheese too, err, yellow. And so it’s with special pride that I’m here, telling you where in Hunterdon county you can find a damn good pork roll (among other things).

The Fine Diner in Clinton is the type of easy-going, country-kitsch diner that others want to be. There’s knick-knacks aplenty and quaint farm-life paintings on the walls, but there’s also gleaming hardwood beams in the ceiling, a gorgeous wood counter with customers eating quick lunches, and a nice view of the Raritan River. The feeling is homey, fun, relaxing. The waitstaff is genuinely friendly, real-people kind of people who care about your meal and, if you ask, will tell you exactly what they think is best. The place is open from Tuesday to Sunday, serves breakfast and lunch, and attracts a crowd.

For lunch on Friday, we ordered the pork roll and cheese, the blue cheese burger, and a side salad. I’ll admit one of my reasons for trying the Fine Diner was that I saw Mighty Leaf Black Currant tea on their menu (Mighty Leaf: always a good sign on a menu), and so that was my drink.

side salad I read a few complaints about the Fine Diner on the interwebs, mostly about the prices, and it drove me a bit mad. Yes, the side salad is $4.50, and you could probably get a side salad at a diner elsewhere for $2.00, but I’m betting that one would have iceberg lettuce, maybe a few shreds of carrots, a grape tomato or two, and bottled dressing. Personally, I’m willing to pay a little more for a house-made dressing, especially one so nicely swilled with tasty balsamic vinegar. The salad had fresh baby greens, roasted red peppers, julienned carrots, thick slabs of cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. And it was big enough for Jim and me to share. Definitely worth $4.50.

blue cheese burgerJim ordered a blue cheese burger, because if anyone should be appointed blue cheese burger judge, it’s him. The man orders the blue cheese burger every chance he gets. So when I tell you Jim deemed the burger “one of the best blue cheese burgers” he’s ever had, that’s supremely high praise. And I whole-heartedly agree. Between the well-chosen blue (strong, creamy), the roasted red peppers and lightly sauteed onions, and the beautifully charred meat (I swear, chefs should have to spend one year just charring), you’re not missing bacon in the least. Really, it’s better without. And the choice of bun impressed us even more: a whole wheat soft enough to mold to the burger, but grainy enough to maintain its integrity to the last un-mushy bite. My only nit to pick was the size of the patty — which, had it been bigger, would have made this the best blue cheese burger either of us had ever had without qualification. But that’s more a wish than a complaint. For nine bucks, the burger’s a steal.

The pork roll was as thoughtfully constructed as the burger, with a kaiser roll that was fresh as hell (even though we were some of the last customers of the day) and soft enough not to give your mouth a workout. Well flavored, too. I don’t believe the pork was Taylor ham — it seemed thinner — and that suited me well, since I find Taylor ham brand a bit salty. White American cheese layered the slices of ham, making for a nice cheesy pork roll. Simply done and very tasty, with big slabs of pickles good enough to satisfy my pickle obsession. There was also nice, sweetish, mayo-y coleslaw. Next time I have a hankering for a pork roll, the Fine Diner is where I’m going, for sure.

linzer cookieWe ended the meal with a linzer cookie. The raspberry jam sandwiched inside was hardly sweet, which was a good thing because there was a lot of powdered sugar on top. It worked very well — big, soft, crumbly almond cookies with thick raspberry jam and a sugary sweet kick on top. And when I say big, I mean it: 3 people could share it.

As we were leaving, the waitress bragged about the french toast and, judging by her other recommendations, I’ll take her word on it. We’ll be back soon to try it for ourselves.

The Fine Diner

1 West Main Street

Clinton, NJ 08809-1292

(908) 238-1637

You can find the Fine Diner at facebook. There’s a sign at the cash register there that tells you that you can fan them on facebook because “it’s free and serves no real purpose.”

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Robin Damstra, Regional Edtior Hunterdon & Mercer Counties

Robin Damstra is the Regional Editor for Hunterdon and Mercer Counties. She graduated Douglass College at Rutgers University, where she majored in English. She met her fiancé, Jim, in 2006 and began teaching herself to cook around the same time. In 2007 she started her food blog, Caviar and Codfish. She currently lives in Stockton, New Jersey.

Robin Damstra

PO Box 161

Stockton, NJ 08559

Phone: (973) 919-2453

Email: [email protected]

Caviar and Codfish

http://caviarandcodfish.com

Regional Editor, Jersey Bites Hunterdon & Mercer Counties

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Turning Point: Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch in Monmouth County

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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Classic Eggs Benedict at Turning PointOn a very cold February morning after re-scheduling my visit three times due to three different snowstorms, I was finally able to make a visit to the Turning Point in Holmdel.  This comfy restaurant fixed in the Commons at Holmdel is located next to the Barnes & Nobles and was a welcome respite from the still angry winter wind.

Cate, our waitress,  approached the table with a smile and minutes later brought my friend, Eileen, and I a warm-up coffee and tea (my choice ‘White Orchard’)  Not only was the coffee fresh and smooth, but there were many choices for tea lovers as well!

After much deliberation over their dizzying menu which included everything from fresh fruit bruschetta, Grande Huevos Rancheros, Classic Eggs Benefit, Omelettes, Stuffed French Toast, Caribbean Crepes, Tropical Crunch Waffles, Blue Point Crabcake Salad, Beach Club Wrap, Pavo Cubano Sandwich,  (Oh, it just goes on and on)   Eileen and I chose the Florentine Benedict (can you tell why we are friends?)  A spin on the Classic Eggs Benedict which used to be my favorite until now was a perfect combination of sautéed spinach, portabello mushrooms and smoked bacon with two poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce.  I get hungry just thinking about it!  Our breakfast arrived promptly and Eileen and I, on a mission, attempted to devour everything on our plates!

cooks in the kitchen at Turning PointCarolyn Dan Valerio, Turning Point’s bubbly manager, welcomed us during our meal and told us a little bit about Turning Point and their Director of Operations and Menu Selection,  Bonnie Iavaroni, who was the chef for 10 years at the Little Silver location.  The Turning Point breakfast brunch and lunch started in 1998 in Little Silver.  In 2002 they opened their 2nd location in Holmdel.  Kudos Bonnie, keep up the good work…your menu is outrageous!  Judging by the number of items on it,  I think we will both be growing old together!

TURNING POINT of Holmdel

Established 2002
2132 Route 35 South

732-615-9000
Fax:  732-615-9001

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Other Locations: Little Silver, Manalapan, Hoboken, Long Branch

A Sophisticated Snack: Crepe Grill in Hoboken

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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crepe with ice cream from Crepe Grill in Hoboken

On bright, warm spring days, Hobokenites flock to their seashore: Frank Sinatra Park. Runners dart around baby strollers, dogs yank leashes out towards the end of the pier, and folks stop for an afternoon snack. Long gone are the days of the casual ice cream truck or snack stand in gentrified Hoboken. For the hungry yuppie, there’s only one sophisticated snack of choice: crepes.

Crepe Grill, on Frank Sinatra Boulevard between 4th and 5th, is the reincarnation of an old-time snack stand. Diners order at the counter, receive their food in baskets, on plastic plates, or wrapped in paper cones, and linger inside or out, munching in the middle of the riverside park.

Inside, skylights and black-and-chrome exposed beams give the café an airy feel. With the French doors opened towards the river, you feel a stone’s throw from Manhattan’s piers. Paintings and photographs of the Eiffel Tower help set the mood—and the craving—for one of France’s favorite street foods.

Crepe Grill is not only for the afternoon, though. Their all-day menu offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert items. Stop in for a mid-morning snack of a light sugar-and-lemon crepe ($4.99), with the golden crepe sides folded thinly over the sweet feeling.  Or, if you’ve got more of an appétit américain, you can toss sausages, eggs, cheese, and veggies into a burrito-like crepe that’s a satisfying—if somewhat “reimagined”—crepe meal ($4.99+). Sip hot coffee or any of their arrays of teas and watch the sun jump up over Manhattan’s skyline.

For early evenings, this BYOB is a good spot for a casual, romantic night. The entrée crepes—$7.20-$9.50—are the stars of Crepe Grill’s short menu, stuffed with melted cheeses, fresh vegetables, and grilled meats. Their Fiesta Chicken crepe is full of fresh guacamole, peppers, cheese, and hot sauce; the Philly Cheese Steak crepe comes with sliced steak, onions, peppers, and mozzarella cheese; and even a Pizza Crepe for les enfants is served with fresh diced tomatoes, pesto, and melted mozzarella.

For the healthier fare, a wide variety of veggie crepes offer different combinations of roasted peppers, spinach, artichokes, tomatoes and melted cheese. A mushroom and pesto crepe came oozing with perfectly-melted mozzarella cheese, tender mushrooms, and just a thin coating of bright green pesto. The savory crepe batter is not as sweet as the dessert crepes, so the sandwich-wrap feels satisfying—though not enormous—for a lunch or dinner meal.

But if, in the end, all you really want on a sunny city day is to hearken back to your time in Paris, swooning beneath the Eiffel Tower and munching on 3-Euro crepes, well, Crepe Grill can do that too. Gooey, gigantic Nutella crepes are the house specialty ($6.50), with chocolate hazelnut spread bulging from the overstuffed crepe, drizzled atop with more melted Nutella, sprinkled with powdered sugar, and dolloped with whipped cream.

And though the French would surely be in a coma after one bite, Americans may feel free to add a scoop of ice cream for another $1 and eat their way to bliss.

Alas, the perfect afternoon crepe in the charming riverside park would be remiss if it did not include Hoboken’s most vital asset: the view. Floor to ceiling glass windows and doors—and a well-placed telescope—offer sweeping, unobstructed views of the entire Manhattan skyline, from the tip of the Financial District up past the midtown skyscrapers. One could sit, savoring the dripping lemon-sugar crepe and soaking up the sun, and stare at that skyline for hours.

An hour—or more—is what you’ll need for a meal at Crepe Grill. Adopting a French mentality of joie de vivre, the folks pouring the batter nix the idea of “grabbing a quick bite,” with 15-20 minute wait times for each crepe. But sit back, sip a cold soda from the refrigerator or pop your own bottle of wine, and watch the setting sun douse the city skyline in orange light. It’s a good afternoon in Hoboken.

Colleen Curry, Regional Editor Hudson CountyColleen Curry is a Jersey Bites Regional Editor for Hudson County where she’s busy trying every restaurant in Hoboken.   She is also a hyperlocal web editor for the Asbury Park Press, exploring community news and citizen journalism in Freehold, New Jersey.

Celebrate New Jersey at Earth-Friendly Auction and Wine Tasting

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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Laurita winery new egypt new jerseyEarthShare New Jersey (ESNJ) is celebrating the beauty and bounty of New Jersey as part of their 4th annual EarthShare Celebrates NJ event. The festivities feature wine tasting, art in nature exhibit, and an “Experience New Jersey” auction. It will take place at the Laurita Winery in New Egypt, NJ, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, March 26.  Twenty-four of the state’s most respected environmental organizations, all members of ESNJ, join in hosting this event, which will feature exciting auctions of environmentally friendly experiences and merchandise.

Wine connoisseurs can enjoy award-winning wine from the Laurita Winery, at their amazing facility. As the premier “green” winery in the state, Laurita takes great pride in the fact that 60% of the facility is from reclaimed sources including the Cherry Hill Race Track, barns across Monmouth and Ocean County, a convent, and Trenton school houses.

Blackwell’s Organic Gelato of Red Bank will tempt your sweet tooth with tasty gelato. Ducky Life Teas of Asbury Park will offer samplings of teas, including Doreen’s Classical Green Chai of which 10% of its proceeds support ESNJ.

The Art in Nature exhibit this year will feature the works of five artists from across the state with images that reach from the Highlands, Pinelands, and wetlands. Bryan Duggan, of Middlesex, has an eye that can capture the simplest, yet most amazing elements of nature. Adrienne Imbimbo, of Lakewood, is a talented photographer with a diverse portfolio of New Jersey’s shore line and more. James Fiorentino, a world renowned portrait painter from Flemington, has a passion for birds of prey and is featuring some of his favorite pieces during the exhibit. James Ferrier, of Avon, has a brush that reveals the beauty all around some of the most well known locations in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Steven Schrenk, of Long Branch, is a talented stone sculptor whose work, inspired by nature’s forms and movement, is exhibited in private residences and businesses across the NY/NJ region. All of the art work will be available for purchase with a percentage donated to support EarthShare New Jersey.

The evening wouldn’t be complete without music. Live entertainment will be provided by Stringzville, a jazz band from the Hopewell area, for the fourth year. The band has been a long supporter of environmental organizations across the state and is thrilled to be back again at EarthShare Celebrates New Jersey.

Experience New Jersey Auction

Tickets

Tickets cost $40 per person. They may be purchased by cash, check or credit card at www.earthsharenj.org or contact the office at (609) 989-1160 for more information. Advance reservations are recommended, as tickets purchased at the door will be $50.

Johnny Piancone’s in Long Branch

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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awning finalGuest Bite by Meryl Boker

When I drove down Broadway in Long Branch recently,  I was so excited to see the new awning of Johnny Piancone’s.  This could only mean one thing, a chef I have known and enjoyed for many years had come out of retirement.

Eleven of us ventured out into the wind and rain of March 13th to get reacquainted with an old friend and enjoy a wonderful evening of friendship and great food.   As soon as I walked threw the door,  there he was, John “Rick” Piancone, greeting his guests like family.  His new restaurant is very cozy and comfortable with lots of exposed brick and warm wood tones.  There are two levels to the restaurant, each with a bar area where you can enjoy a delicious glass of sangria or one of their many house wines (all very good).  We were seated immediately upstairs and the aroma of garlicky goodness was everywhere.

Stuffed Roasted Pepper SaladOur server was very attentive and knowledgeable about the choices on the menu.   I ordered from the selection of specials a Grilled Long Steam Artichoke Heart appetizer baked with lemon butter sauce and topped with crumbled feta cheese and bread crumbs. It was delicious.  So good in fact, I had to polish the plate with a nice hunk of great bread.  My husband, Ricky, ordered the Stuffed Roasted Red Pepper which was stuffed with Gorgonzola cheese and topped with pignoli nuts and a sharp provolone cheese.  It was served on a bed of greens with balsamic vinaigrette.  The others at the table ordered the huge Homemade Meatballs and Fried Calamari and various salads that were presented beautifully and devoured immediately.

For an entree, I had the Sautéed Shrimp Special served with escarole, cannelloni beans, and plum tomatoes over pasta with a garlic white wine sauce.    My husband went with a more traditional Italian dish,  the Sunday Sauce over rigatoni with a big dollop of ricotta cheese.  Comments from around the table indicated that the Filet Mignon was a big hit as was the Clam Sauce.  The Seafood Genovese Special with Salmon, Shrimp Crabmeat and artichoke hearts in pesto scampi was another favorite.  The desert menu had many tempting choices. I had an awesome tiramisu and my husband ordered the rum cake which was outrageous.  In the end, eleven of us had a wonderful experience and I highly recommend this restaurant. The prices were very reasonable, the portions were generous and our dinner was enjoyed by all.  Welcome back Johnny Piancone.

meatballs

Meryl Boker Meryl Boker is a dedicated foodie from Wall Township.  She and her husband enjoy exploring new restaurants and taking culinary adventures in Monmouth County and beyond.

Jersey Diners and Rock Band Team Up to Help Food Banks

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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New Jersey Diner Tour

“Diners donate dollars” tour hits 21 NJ counties in 48 hours, March 19-21, 2010

New Jersey is known for its great diners and its great bands, like Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi.  Unfortunately, today it’s also known for being hard hit by job losses and the recession, resulting in thousands of newly hungry children, seniors and adults.

kindred souls bandJersey-based band, Kindred Souls came up with an idea to help.  What if they performed at a diner in each of NJ’s 21 counties and got the diner owners and patrons to donate to the NJ Federation of Food Banks?  And what if they hit all 21 diners in just 48 hours?  That idea is now the Diners Donate Dollars Tour, slated for Friday, March 19 through Sunday, March 21.

The tour kicks off in Princeton on Friday and ends in Jersey City on Sunday.  The band and the 21 generous diner owners hope to raise enough money for the Federation to distribute 21,000 pounds of food.

“It’s going to be a wild weekend for us as we race around performing in diners throughout the state,” says keyboardist Len Bachrach.  “We hope that the community will come out and support this effort and remember that their diners went the extra mile for those less fortunate.”

More information about the Diners Donate Dollars tour, including the full tour schedule, can be found at www.dinertournj.com

Dish in Red Bank

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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lobster risotto Dish in Red BankOn a recent Sunday,  we had a very early dinner at Dish in Red Bank.  The late afternoon light provided wonderful opportunity for pictures, so I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.  (I was getting very hungry as I was editing them.)

Dish has been opened for six years now and I am so disappointed in myself for not making the trip sooner.  I have heard time and time again how great it is, and it definitely lived up to all the rumors.  Nestled in a little store front on White Street, it is easy to stroll right past little dish.  So, keep your eyes open.  Inside the room is cheerful and cozy, unpretentious.  You’re not there for waterfalls and fish tanks.  You’re there for the food.  Make no mistake about it.

crab cakes Dish in Red BankOur meal began with the gorgeous Lobster Risotto you see above and the waitress recommended Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes as appetizers.  I am allergic to Lobster, so I had to take the word of my dining companion who said it was fabulous.  The empty plate kind of gave it away.  Since mysteriously I am not allergic to crab (thank you God) I thoroughly enjoyed the crunchy goodness you see here.  Served with a Red Pepper Remoulade,  no filling,  just crabby satisfaction.

Our next course covered a little turf and surf.  I chose the hearty Stout Braised Beef Short Ribs with Maple Sweet Potato mash and asparagus and Peter chose the Bourbon glazed Cornmeal Crusted Scallops.

As the short rib tower made its way from the kitchen to table, everyone in the room short ribs at Dish in Red Bankwatched it pass by with envy.   The owner told me later that they tried taking the short ribs off the menu in the summer and were quickly informed by patrons that they had made a grievous mistake.  So, if you’re hankering for braised meats in the middle of August, Dish is the place to go, much to the chagrin of the melting kitchen crew I’m sure.

bread pudding at Dish in Red BankWe ended our meal with one of the best bread puddings I have ever tasted.  Well, we didn’t actually taste it, we quite frankly inhaled it.  At the end of the evening,  I chatted with a very nice couple from Westfield who told me that every time they come to Red Bank for a show at the Count Basie Theater, they make it a point of dining at Dish.  They admitted that they were not thrilled with my doing a review of their favorite place.  Evidently, they’d like to keep this Dish a secret.  Sorry folks.

Dish
http://www.dishredbank.com/
13 White Street Red Bank, NJ 07701-1615
Phone: (732) 345-7070

St. Patrick’s Day on the Jersey Shore

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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Monmouth Regional Marching BandThey don’t call it the Irish Irish dogsRiviera for nothing, Folks.  The central Jersey Shore knows how to get its green on.  Even the dogs are Irish, evidently all of them.

Whether you are truly of Irish decent or a “wanna be” one day a year, stop by any of these favorite Irish destinations and join in the fun.

kellysKELLY’S CORNER TAVERN, State Highway 35, NEPTUNE CITY, NJ

www.kellystavernjerseyshore.com

732-775-9517

Chef, Jeff LaPoint, Kelly’s Tavern in Neptune City, is busy preparing 20 tons of corned beef for the 1000 people expected to stop by Kellys on St. Patrick’s Day.  If you are planning to  visit Kelly’s, get their early.  I have been one of the many people waiting on line at 9 am!!!!!!!!!!!

CONNOLLY STATION, MAIN STREET, 715 Main Street, Belmar, NJ

www.connollystation.com

732-280-2266

St. Paddy’s Day Events include Live Music by Paul O’Cilinski and Bagpipers, Traditional Irish Fare (try their potato soup!), Authentic Irish Musica, giveaways, Guinness, Smithwicks and Harp specials!

CLANCY’S TAVERN, Rt. 71, West Grove Square, Neptune, NJ

DUBLIN HOUSE PUB AND RESTAURANT, Red Bank, NJ

www.dublinhouseredbank.com

732-747-6699

ROD’S OLDE IRISH TAVERN, Rt. 71 and Sea Girt Avenue, Sea Girt, NJ

www.rodstavern.com

732-892-2090

ST. STEPHEN’S GREEN PUBLICK HOUSE, 2031 Rt. 71, Spring Lake Heights, NJ

[email protected]

732-449-2626

“Cead Mile Failte”

“Meet me at The Green”

***Traditional Irish Music and dancing every Tuesday and Sunday nights!  Open 10 am St. PATRICK’S Day!

HARRIGAN’S PUB, 703 Baltimore Blvd, Sea Girt, NJ

www.harriganspub.com

732-449-8228

FEATURE REVIEW:

MURRAY MCGREGGOR’S PUBLIK HOUSE, 132 E. River Road, Rumson, NJ

www.murraymacgregors.com

732-530-2882

“Publik House (puhb-lik hous), noun:  “An establishment which serves as the focal point of the community and a meeting place for locals to gather socially and conduct business, while enjoying the comfortable and friendly atmosphere with an abundance of good food, food drink and good music.”

This is the place to go and be on St. Patty’s Day if you are looking for traditional Irish events and fare!  Irish Specialty Dishes include:  Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips, Bangers and Mash, Irish Lamb Stew, Reubens and Shamrock Pie (Grilled Chicken, Applewood Bacon, topped with Irish Whiskey BBQ Sauce!!!).  Oh, and ‘Pionta Guinness, le do thoil’! (pass the Guinness, please)…

RECIPE for Irish Breakfast (by FoodIreland.com)

1 Packet of Donnelly Irish Sausages

1 Packet of Donnelly Irish Bacon

1 Pack of White Pepper

4 Eggs

4 Medium Tomatoes

4 Boiled (cold) potatoes

1 can Irish beans

Knob of Irish Butter

Grated Dubliner Cheese

BAND to check out!

Irish Rock/Folk Band “The Snakes”

These are Garden State entertainers fusing customary sounds of guitar strings and bass drums with the banjo and mandolin, bringing about singing and dancing!  This ‘pub band’ will appear on “Paddy’s” Day at St. Stephen’s Green Public House in Spring Lake.  For other dates and locations go to Myspace.com/thesnakesnj.

UPCOMIN EVENTS:

March 2oth

McDonagh’s Pub

2 West Front Street

Downtown Keyport, NJ

www.mcdonaghs.com

732-264-0999

March 20th Keyport Parade

Please note that due to rain many parades were rescheduled for the weekend of March 20 and 21st.  Call or check websites for details.   And remember, kiss her even if she isn’t Irish….it’s St. Patrick’s Day!

Also, check out this website for Fun Beer Facts!  www.theholidayspot.com/Irish_blessings_and_sayings.htm

“Cead mile failte romhat” (A hundred blessings to you!)

Beverly Beveridge, Regional Editor Monmouth CountyBeverly A. Beveridge, Monmouth County Regional Editor, jerseybites.com

Bev resides in Eatontown with her husband, Bob, daughters, Melissa and Brittany, son, Glenn, dog, Bailey and cats, Kitty and Slodki (polish for honey/sweet). She enjoys dining out, piano, tennis, travelling, designing her JERSEY GIRL swimsuits and Calendar, music (especially Rock Concerts) and meeting people. Enjoy her ‘fun’ reviews!  Passport to Peru – Home of the Jersey Girls Swimsuit models and ‘Calendar’ Girls!  ‘Passport Swimsuits – A Swimsuit to fit ‘every body’.  www.passporttoperu.net

The Culinary Education Center of Monmouth County: Windows Dining Room

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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Snow Culinary StudentsWindows Dining Room is a hidden gem of Monmouth County where students from the Monmouth County Vocational School District/Brookdale Community College Culinary Arts Program prepare lunches and dinners under the supervision of master chefs.

I have been ‘privy’ to Windows for quite awhile now and selfishly I admit  have only brought ‘select’ friends and family who I could trust to keep my little gem a hidden treasure.   I was afraid word would get out and it wouldn’t be my own little ‘secret’ anymore.  Well, what can I say?  I guess it is time to let the cat out of the bag.

Tucked away in a corner of Asbury Park High School, an entirely new culinary experience awaits you.  After entering the main side door, you are brought down to a small second door which enters into the warm green dining room. Our hostess, Paige, greeted us with menus and sat us at a table with flowers, and a  full view of the open kitchen.  Waiters and Waitresses (and also Chefs-in-Training) stood lined up alert and anxious for their guests this evening.

Our waitress, Stacy, educated us on the menu for the evening.   For dinner, the price of an entrée ($20.00 to $26.00) includes an appetizer, soup or salad, entrée and dessert, plus a nice warm fresh baked biscuit!  Yum!

PorkI found EXACTLY what I wanted (everything!) and so did my assistant on this outing, my husband (and photographer), Bob.  I ordered the Pork Roulade with Roasted Pepper Tomato Sauce appetizer, the INCREDIBLE Crispy Duck and Rice Noodle Salad and the Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Gruyere cheese served with Purple Potato Cream and Succotash ( a first of many times for me I hope!)  Bob’s selections included the Maryland Crab Cakes with Remoulade appetizer, Poblano Corn and Shrimp Chowder and Pan Trout with House Smoked Bacon with Dried Cherry Cornbread and Creamed leaks (Did I mention all of this food is completely fresh and prep work begins at 2:15 daily?)   Of course,  I had to taste everything including Bob’s selections (a wife’s prerogative).   For dessert, at the suggestion of the entire staff, (maybe because it took us 5 minutes and counting and we were still undecided) we chose a selection of ALL the desserts for the evening!  Yes, you heard me, you can order a dessert sampler with generous samples of – EVERYTHING!  Can life get any better?

crab cakeThank you Principal/Director, Michael Sirianni, for setting up this beautiful dinner for us, and Chef Anthony and his culinary staff for pulling it off superbly!  The warmth of the room, soft music and attentive staff,  lovely menu items with picture-perfect presentation and superb preparation …..and, of course, the unbeatable price!…will bring us back over and over again.

Snow Culinary group shotAt WINDOWS, I have also enjoyed ala carte lunches, themed buffet lunches on Fridays, and now dinner.  I just found out that they also serve a brunch (next week!).    Please note that the menu changes frequently due to the three week rotation of classes and chefs.

WINDOWS has been a ‘treat’ for me over the years and I now know it will be for you too!

The Culinary Education Center of Monmouth County: Windows Dining Room

A collaboration between Brookdale Community College and Monmouth County Vocational District

101 Drury Lane, Asbury Park, NJ
732-988-3299
American/International

Open September – May (except holidays and school vacation times)

Weekdays for Lunch (seatings from 11:30 am to 12:30; party reservations and walk-ins)

Monday-Thursday for Dinner (seatings 5:15 – 6:30 pm; reservations required)

Beverly Beveridge, Regional Editor Monmouth County

Beverly A. Beveridge, Monmouth County Regional Editor, jerseybites.com

Bev resides in Eatontown with her husband, Bob, daughters, Melissa and Brittany, son, Glenn, dog, Bailey and cats, Kitty and Slodki (polish for honey/sweet). She enjoys dining out, piano, tennis, travelling, designing her JERSEY GIRL swimsuits and Calendar, music (especially Rock Concerts) and meeting people. Enjoy her ‘fun’ reviews!  Passport to Peru – Home of the Jersey Girls Swimsuit models and ‘Calendar’ Girls!  ‘Passport Swimsuits – A Swimsuit to fit ‘every body’.  www.passporttoperu.net

St. Patricks Day, in or out

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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Soda Bread St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, guys, and sure, you may not be Irish (though, are you sure? Around 11.9% of Americans are part Irish), but I’m betting you are American, and what’s the point of America at all if not to celebrate our dizzying variety of cultures? (And maybe to get tipsy doing it!)

So, for all of you in Hunterdon and Mercer counties, here’s a list of a few things to do, besides, of course, kissing the first Irish person you see. I’m certain I haven’t covered all the fun there is to be had, or mentioned the best Irish pubs, so this is where you come in. Please comment and let me know how you’ll be getting your green on this weekend.

  • Trenton Saint Patrick’s Day Parade: Saturday, March 13, 2020.  Opening Ceremonies Start at 12:30 P.M.  Parade Begins at 1:00 P.M. “The Parade begins with opening ceremonies on the steps of St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church on Olden Avenue. The Parade then marches down Olden Avenue turning left onto Hamilton Avenue. Then going down Hamilton Avenue, the main route of the Parade, participants pass the Reviewing Stand at Columbus Park. The Parade then turns left onto Chestnut Avenue and finally ends at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church. The Trenton St. Patrick’s Day Parade annually features in excess of 120 Marching Units and Floats and draws well over 60,000 spectators.”  Read more… Stop in at one of the Irish bars nearby afterwards: Killarney’s Publick House or Buddy Shamrock’s.
  • Robbinsville Saint Patrick’s Day Parade: Sunday, March 14, 2010. Opening Ceremonies Start at 12:00 P.M.  Parade Begins at 1:00 P.M. “Opening ceremonies will take place at the Foxmoor Shopping Center.  The Parade will then proceed North on Washington Boulevard and then take a right onto North Street, and then take a right onto Newtown Boulevard, and then take a right onto Lake Drive East, pass the reviewing stand in the gazebo area, followed by a left onto Union Street, then proceed to the back entrance of the parking area behind the businesses on Rt. 33 in the Town Center. We will disband in this area.  The route is approximately one and one-quarter miles.”  (See the parade route online here.) Food provided by Glenn’s Grillin and Chillin. Read more…
  • Tapping and Clapping with Pride of Erin School of Irish Dance AND Beautiful harmony vocals from Barry & Brooks with special guest Mara Levine: Sunday, March 14, 2010 at 1:30 PM in the Lambertville Justice Center.  Follow it up with a pint at the Lambertville pub, Mitchell’s Cafe.  Read more…
  • Irish vs. Scotch Whiskey class at Joe Canal’s Discount Liquors: Saturday, March 15, 2010.  1:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M. Fee for the class is $15 per person; call 732-726-0077 to reserve.  Read more…
  • Porter’s Pub: 700 Northampton St, Easton, PA 18042, United States. Call: (610) 250-6561 (Okay, not NJ, but worth a drive for some Celtic music.) Monday, March 15, 2010. Seanachie Og will be playing. Read more…

Brown Butter Soda BreadAnd if you’d rather pick up some vintage Jameson from Bourbon Street Wine & Spirits and stay home to watch the Departed to celebrate, here’s something to pop in the oven. It’s not traditional Irish soda bread, but it is indeed soda bread. And even though there’s no caraway, or raisins, there is rosemary, and black pepper, and brown butter. I’m Irish-Italian, so let’s call it a compromise.

Brown Butter Soda Bread

from Bon Appétit, February 2006

makes 2 loaves

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper plus additional for topping
1 3/4 cups buttermilk

1 egg white, beaten to blend

Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 375°F. Stir butter in heavy small saucepan over medium heat until melted and golden brown, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Stir flour, oats, sugar, rosemary, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 3/4 teaspoon pepper in large bowl to blend. Pour buttermilk and melted browned butter over flour mixture; stir with fork until flour mixture is moistened.

Turn dough out onto floured work surface. Knead gently until dough comes together, about 7 turns. Divide in half. Shape each half into ball; flatten each into 6-inch round. Place rounds on ungreased baking sheet, spacing 5 inches apart. Brush tops with beaten egg white. Sprinkle lightly with ground black pepper. Using small sharp knife, cut 1/2-inch-deep X in top of each dough round.

Bake breads until deep golden brown and tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Cool breads on rack at least 30 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Baker’s Wisdom:
You’ll get the most tender soda bread by kneading the dough gently and briefly, just until it comes together, so the gluten is minimally developed.

Robin Damstra, Regional Editor for Huntergon and Mercer CountiesRobin Damstra is the Regional Editor for Hunterdon and Mercer Counties. She graduated Douglass College at Rutgers University, where she majored in English. She met her fiancé, Jim, in 2006 and began teaching herself to cook around the same time. In 2007 she started her food blog, Caviar and Codfish. She currently lives in Stockton, New Jersey.

“Taste of Madison” Gala Fundraiser: Bigger & Better!

Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
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Taste of Madison 2010Napa Valley Vintners Making NJ Appearance

Monday, March 15, 2010

A highly anticipated annual wine + food extravaganza, Taste of Madison has become THE premiere tasting event in Morris County, providing the opportunity to sample signature dishes from more than 30 of Madison’s finest chefs and restaurants, all on one night and under one roof.

This year’s event will once again feature numerous vintners from Napa Valley pouring their most distinguished wines –from Ladera and HALL to Vineyard 29! A must-attend event for any wine lover.

Taste of Madison is organized and presented by a committee of volunteers from the Madison Rotary Club, Madison Chamber of Commerce, and the Madison Downtown Development Commission.  All proceeds from this event benefit local charities and business development.

Special This Year!  Tables devoted to tastings of specialty beers and liquors.

Taste of Madison 2010

7:00 – 9:30 PM

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Ferguson Recreation Center
285 Madison Ave. Madison, NJ

Information:

973.377.7830

VIP Admission

6:00 – 7:00 pm

$100

(includes complimentary vale parkingt)

Taster’s Guild Members Receive

$10 Off VIP admission

General Admission

7:00 – 9:30 pm

$65

How to Buy Tickets:

Online at www.garyswine.com

All 3 Gary’s Wine & Marketplace stores:

Gary’s Madison:

121 Main St.

973.822.0200

Gary’s Bernardsville:

100 Morristown Road –

Rt. 202

908.766.6699

Gary’s Wayne:

1308 Rt. 23 North

973.633.3900

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