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Thursday, June 11, 2026

Sunflower Hill Farm

Beautiful Sunflower Silos

In this post I will be reviewing my visit to Sunflower Hill Farm and the beautiful silos painted in sunflowers that are nearby.

Sunflower Hill Farm

My cousin and I were looking for a good place to meet for lunch on a sunny afternoon in May. I mentioned I wanted to photograph the painted sunflower silos in the wine country near us and she suggested a nearby cafe at Sunflower Hill Farms. It was an excellent choice. Our food was great and the whole place was a great relaxing way to spend the afternoon.

We ate on the patio and and I enjoyed a delicious veggie grilled cheese, it consisted of provolone and cheddar cheese along with mushrooms, peppers, spinach and onions, all grilled on sourdough bread. Yummy.

Sunflower Hill Farm is a wonderful event space too. The farm is located on 130 acres. Along with the cafe there is a shop with homemade items on sale. There is also a nursery on the property and a large event space. The farm has become a delightful wedding and event space. As you can see in the photo below, the event area sits up on the hill overlooking the Missouri river valley.

Sunflower Hill Farms is located at 245 Terry Road in Augusta, Missouri. On their website www.sunflowerhillfarm.com they have listed lots of information about their events, calendar, and a menu from the cafe. If you are in the area, I would highly recommend this venue. Here are a few of my photos.

Painted Silos

These beautiful silos were commissioned by the owners of the Sunflower Hill Farm. They are located near the Katy Trail just south of the entrance to the farm. It is at mile marker 661.6 on the Katy Trail. They were painted by artist Anne Molasky and her painting partner Kim Alsop and were finished in the fall of 2023.

These vibrant sunflower paintings are a nice stop for people along the Katy Trail. There is also acess to them off of Hwy 94 halfway between Defiance and Augusta deep in the heart of Missouri Wine Country.

I stopped to visit and take photographs of these beautiful works of art just before I visited Sunflower Hill Farms. They are quite amazing to look at from all different angles. I would have loved to see them as they were being painted. Very talented artists!

Zazzle Products

Here is a link to a greeting card made from my sunflower silos photograph.

Sunflower Silo Greeting Card

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Monday, October 20, 2025

Reviewing My Turned Wood Crochet Hook by A Couple 2 Tree

My son recently gave to me a handmade, beautiful and thoughtful gift. He had purchased a handmade wood crochet hook with a metal tip. Exactly the type of crochet hook I have grown to love. This crochet hook was made by A Couple 2 Tree and my son found them at a booth during the Connecticut Renaissance Faire 2025.

Turned Wood Crochet Hooks

The crochet hook my son chose for me is a combination wood and epoxy handle with a commercial made metal tip. The wood is light colored. The epoxy appeared only white to me initially. But I quickly discovered that it has a very subtle glimmer. A glimmer that reminds me of the Aurora Borealis or the Milky Way. All of you who know me, know that I do not gravitate toward big bling or neon bright colors. But I love a subtle sparkle, like the sheen of a peacock's chest feathers and dragon fly wings.

With this thicker epoxy and wooden handle, it is easier for me to use for longer periods of time. This would make a great gift for folks with grip difficulties such as arthritis. The epoxy and wood are smooth and silky, but not slippery. I am currently using this hook for a project and find it to be very comfortable.

In addition to wood-handled crochet hooks, A Couple 2 Tree also offers other great gift items:

Bottle Openers
Ice Cream Scoops
Coffee Scoops
Charcuterie boards
Decorative Items and Fidgets: Eggs and Mushrooms
Bowls

The combinations of wood, metal, epoxy, and fractal burning make unique, one-of-a-kind items that are unique gifts.

Supporting Small Businesses

This small business, according to social media and website information, has been a small, part time hobby/passion for years and has just begun to turn toward full time. I celebrate that leap of faith and following a passion. A Couple 2 Tree appears to have offered the majority of their items during fairs and festivals. They do have a website and an Instagram page. If you don't see a large selection, or the item you would like, on the website I encourage you to leave a message. When I had left a message, I received a response that same day (despite it being during the time they were at the Renaissance Faire)

One Wish - Maybe

There is only one thing that I might (or might not) like added to my next A couple 2 Tree crochet hook. Because of the handmade handle, the spot where the metal crochet hook size is usually displayed is covered. Perhaps, if the size of the hook (for example, a US hook size is "G") could somehow be stamped into the flat end of the handle, it would be useful and wouldn't mar the beautiful aesthetics of the rest of the handle. But perhaps, it would mar the appearance of the handle. Or make a roughness that would snag my yarn. I am not familiar with epoxy so I'm not sure if the size could be place there discreetly or not. However, unlike very experienced crocheters I cannot determine the size of the hook by sight alone. I have to hold it up to other crochet hooks for comparison in order to remember which size this is.

Fortunately, my son reported that he spoke with the helpful folks with A Couple 2 Tree, who helped determine which sizes of yarn I most often use (worsted) and the size hook that I most use.

For more information:

Check out the A Couple 2 Tree website for more information.

I am very hopeful that you will support this small business owner with his wood shop business. However, I realize that some folks prefer using Amazon. In that case, there are many Wood Crochet Hooks to choose from.

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Saturday, September 20, 2025

Review of National Fried Rice Day

A delicious food holiday celebrated on September 20th each year.

National Fried Rice Day Origins

In 2018, the renowned Japanese restaurant chain Benihana partnered with the National Day Calendar to create the National Fried Rice Day holiday. This flavorful holiday was founded to spotlight the culinary importance of high-quality rice and encourage people to enjoy their favorite versions of fried rice.

I have seen many versions of recipes for fried rice. It is a popular and tasty way to use up leftovers, especially turkey, chicken and pork. Most of these recipes appear to include peas & carrots, but my preferred version instead includes onions and/or scallions and mushrooms. The scrambled eggs are one of my favorite ingredients. Therefore, I usually add an extra egg for LOTS of egg in every bite. I’ve often made fried rice with leftover roast turkey or rotisserie chicken, but my most favorite is Shrimp Fried Rice.

Personal Fried Rice Story

As a newlywed, I was not a very good cook, as you can see by some of my earliest cooking disasters in my story ‘Potholder Soup’. Actually, if truth be told, I couldn’t cook at all.

It took a long time, but I finally learned to cook. Luckily, my hubby was a good cook, so he didn't starve while I learned. (LOL)

During those first couple of years, my parents used to come visit about twice a year (especially after their very first grandchild was born). Each visit, my dad (the cook in our family during my growing up years) would give me a cooking lesson of one of my favorite childhood dishes. One trip, the lesson was how to prepare ‘fried rice’ since we had leftover turkey from a roast turkey meal.

First, you have to understand that my dad had a fantastic sense of humor, so you never knew what he was going to come up with. On this particular evening, as we began to gather the ingredients for our fried rice dish, dad announced that the time it takes for food preparation of any recipe can be measured by beer! It is either a 1-beer, 2-beer, or 3-beer job. I like beer, just like my dad, but my limit is usually one; maybe sometimes two. We enjoyed cooking the meal together, completed the recipe, and the family enjoyed a delicious fried rice meal.

Now it’s about five years later. My parents were coming for a visit, and I wanted to make something comforting yet practical—chicken fried rice. It’s one of those dishes that can be made ahead of time and still taste great no matter when they arrive.

At dinnertime, I served the chicken fried rice. As we were eating, my mom asked “how much soy sauce did you use in this dish of fried rice?”

Me: “Soy Sauce?” “Soy Sauce?”

Do you believe that my original cooking lesson of fried rice became a 3-beer job? And that the soy sauce was the last ingredient to be added? Well ~ I admit I have absolutely no memory of the soy sauce ingredient! For five years I made meals of fried rice - with NO soy sauce. Hubby used to add it to his portion, but never once asked me why I didn’t use it in the recipe. I think he thought I didn’t like soy sauce, so never mentioned it.

Needless to say, I now know ALL the ingredients for my fried rice recipes. :)

So, for National Fried Rice Day, or any day you are in the mood for fried rice, pick your favorite recipe (or look online for a new one), and enjoy this tasty Asian dish. Don’t forget the soy sauce!

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

The Protein Advantage Cookbook — A Delicious, Healthy New Cookbook

The Protein Advantage Cookbook is a collection of 100 high-protein, low-carb recipes and tips from bestselling author Carolyn Ketchum, the deservedly popular recipe developer and blogger behind All Day I Dream About Food. Ketchum’s newest cookbook blends quick weeknight meals with make-ahead basics and treats, wrapped in her pragmatic, low-carb approach, this time with a focus on high-protein recipes.

Its official launch date was yesterday, August 12, 2025, but I was lucky enough to get an advance review copy courtesy of the author and the publisher, Fair Winds Press (an imprint of Quarto). It’s a terrific cookbook for anyone interested in increasing their protein intake, and I’m delighted to share my review.

The Protein Advantage Cookbook by Carolyn Ketchum

Who It's For

This low carb, high protein cookbook is for anyone looking to improve their health through “weight loss, blood sugar management, building lean muscle mass, or simply having more energy for daily life” while eating delicious, easy to prepare, wholesome food.

Ketchum’s stance of prioritizing protein aligns with the current science: increasing protein intake can improve satiety and support lean mass, especially alongside resistance training. And for adults 40+, adequate protein becomes increasingly important.

What's Inside

Ketchum opens with a concise science and strategy overview, including what “protein-forward, low-carb” means, why prioritizing protein matters from a health perspective, and how to stock a high-protein, low-carb pantry with healthy, tasty ingredients.

True to its name, of course, the majority of The Protein Advantage Cookbook is devoted to the recipes. I was delighted to see Ketchum's signature format: clear, easy to follow, step-by-step instructions, lots of full-color photos (although not every recipe has a photo), and practical tips, such as for swapping ingredients or scaling portions.

The 100 recipes are organized into chapters with straightforward labels:

Breakfast
Breads and Muffins
Appetizers and Snacks
Soups and Salads
Main Dishes
Desserts

The Breakfast chapter includes 22 tasty recipes, such as Loaded Breakfast Casserole (29.5g of protein), Chocolate Protein Pancakes (19.7g of protein), Hot Maple Cereal (29.7g of protein), and Everything Bagel Smoked Salmon Toast (26.5g of protein).

Loaded Breakfast Casserole recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Breads and Muffins chapter has 10 yummy high-protein recipes including Easy Protein Bagels (13.3g of protein), Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread (11g protein), Cheddar Jalapeño Biscuits (12.9g protein), and even Chocolate-Glazed Donuts (10g protein)!

The Appetizers and Snacks chapter caters to both savory and sweet cravings, including 17 recipes such as Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms (12.8g protein), Taco Bites (18.7g protein), Frozen Hot Chocolate (17.6g protein) and Chocolate Hazelnut Spread (9.8g protein).

Asian Chicken Noodle Soup recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Soups and Salads chapter features 13 simple yet satisfying recipes such as Asian Chicken Noodle Soup (31.1g protein), Chicken Chile Verde (35.3g protein), Turkey Club Salad (29.1g protein) and Old Bay Shrimp Salad (23.3g protein).

Easy Steak Fajitas recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Main Dishes chapter contains 22 terrific recipes to suit a wide range of tastes, such as Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs (33.3g protein), Easy Steak Fajitas (25.2g protein), Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce (33.4g protein), and Teriyaki Salmon (30.2g protein).

If you have a sweet tooth, never fear! Carolyn Ketchum is also the author of The Ultimate Guide to Keto Baking, and The Protein Advantage Cookbook includes 16 luscious desserts with a high-protein twist, such as Deep Dish Brownies (16g of protein), Lemon Cheesecake Bars (12.3g of protein), Coconut Candy Bars reminiscent of Mounds bars (10.4g of protein), and Strawberry Lemonade Ice Pops (10.1g of protein).

There's also a chapter called "A Day in the Life" which chronicles what Ketchum ate over the course of a few typical days, along with the workouts she did on those days. As a very active, extremely fit woman, her calorie limits are much higher than mine, but it was still helpful to see how she incorporates the cookbook recipes into her daily meal plans.

Why It Deserves a Place in Your Kitchen

The Protein Advantage Cookbook delivers exactly what it promises: approachable, protein-centric low-carb recipes anchored in sensible nutrition guidance. For those of us who want to feel more satiated, lift heavier weights, or simply be stronger as we age, while eating delicious, nutritious food and without spending all day in the kitchen, this book will be an excellent, much-used addition to our cookbook collections.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Easy Grow at Home Mushroom Kits

If you like mushrooms, these easy-to-grow kits are an excellent choice for fresh mushrooms. Fran belongs to our local Lakewood Village Women's Club, and last month, they had a guest speaker and demonstration from Barnett's Mushrooms, a local farm in Western New York. You can visit their Facebook page here: Barnett's Mushrooms

Grow at home mushroom kits - Reviewed

Fran was the lucky winner of this Blue Oyster grow-at-home mushroom kit. I was amazed because I've never seen these mushroom kits before. We opened the box and followed the instructions. It looks like a mini bale of hay wrapped in plastic.

It has an X on the front that you cut to open. Then, you place a small bowl in a larger bowl and fill the larger bowl halfway up the smaller one with water. Wrap a dish towel around three sides, not covering the X, and spray with water. The kit came with a spray bottle. Continue to spray the towel several times a day to keep it wet. In about 3 or 4 weeks, we had these beautiful Blue Oyster Mushrooms.

We picked and cut these, sautéed them with butter, onions, and garlic, and served them over a couple of strip steaks Fran picked up at our local grocery store. They were absolutely delicious.

Find more Product Reviews Here: ReviewThisProductReviews.com

Find more Garden Reviews Here: ReviewThisGardening.com

You can buy these kits on Amazon; they have a variety of mushroom kits. These kits make great gifts for Holidays and gardeners.

Back to the Roots Organic Mini Mushroom Grow Kit, Harvest Gourmet Oyster Mushrooms In 10 days, Top Gardening Gift, Holiday Gift, & Unique GiftCheck the Price

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Thursday, January 23, 2025

Reviewing Solar Garden Lantern

For Christmas this year, I received a beautiful solar garden light from a special friend. This lamp is decorated with hummingbirds and flowers and at night will light up your garden with a lovely pattern.

Features of the Solar Lantern

In the photo below you can see the lamp in the dark after it has been charged by the sun for 6 hours.

Isn't it beautiful? I charged it outdoors today, but since it is winter time I brought it inside to take the photo on my dining room table.

Here are some of the features of this beautiful solar lantern.

Lantern can be used by hanging up or sitting on a table or stand
It features auto on and off.
It is solar powered and will automatically light up at night.
When charged in sunlight for 8-10 hours it will then work at night for 8-10 hours.
It is waterproof and is suitable for all outdoor environments.
It comes in four designs: the hummingbird (shown in photos), butterflies, mushrooms, or frogs.

You too can own one of these beautiful lamps. Just go to Amazon at the following link. Solar Garden Decor

About my Special Friend

I'd like to share with you a little about my special friend. Her name is Anna and over 60 years ago, when I was in girl scouts, I was working toward my pen pal badge. I was matched up with several pen pals from various countries and most I wrote to for a few months or maybe even a year and then the letters stopped. One of my pen pals was Anna who lived in the London area in England. I live in the midwestern United States. Anna and I seemed to really connect with each other, and we now have been pen pals for 63 years. Our lives took similar routes, we each married and had two children and we both have granddaughters.

We wrote letters to each other in snail mail for years and when we were each in our 40's we finally met each other in person. Anna and her family traveled to the US to visit us. Since then, we have visited several times and now with technology we message each other regularly. Our husbands have also become friends and will sometimes email each other. We have vacationed together in Cyprus and Memphis Tennessee. My husband and I have also visited Anna and Peter at their home in England near the border of Wales. We attended their son's wedding and have met up with them when we were on cruises, and they would travel to one of our stops (Plymouth in England and Bruges in Belgium.) We have developed a wonderful friendship over the years.

Now that we are older my husband and I no longer are able to travel but we enjoy the wonderful memories. We still message each other regularly sharing news of our children and granddaughters.

We also exchange Christmas gifts each year as we have for the last 60+ years. This year we received the beautiful Solar Garden Lantern from Anna and Peter.

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Wednesday, May 22, 2024

The Best Low Carb, High Protein, Gluten-Free Pasta

Kaizen Low Carb Pasta made with lupin flour is a health-conscious alternative to traditional pasta made with wheat flour and semolina. It is the best pasta I have found for those of us who follow a low-carb diet, such as keto enthusiasts, diabetics, or anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. It is also a great option for people who follow a gluten-free diet.

This product review will cover Kaizen pasta’s taste, texture, nutritional value, preparation, and overall value. As a bonus, I will also share a simple recipe I developed that uses Kaizen fusilli.

Kaizen low carb, high protein, gluten-free pasta

Taste and Texture

One of the most critical aspects of any pasta product is its taste and texture. Kaizen low carb pasta aims to mimic the familiar experience of traditional pasta, and it does a commendable job.

Taste

The pasta has a mild, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of sauces. It reminds me of chickpea pasta.

While it doesn't have the same taste as pasta made from wheat flour and semolina, it is quite enjoyable when combined with robust sauces like marinara or Alfredo.

Texture

The texture is pleasantly firm, though slightly different from traditional pasta. It is a bit chewier, which can take some getting used to, but it holds up well in both hot and cold dishes.

Nutritional Value

Kaizen low carb pasta shines in its nutritional profile, making it an attractive option for health-conscious consumers.

Low in Carbohydrates

This pasta is significantly lower in carbs compared to regular pasta, making it suitable for low-carb and keto diets. Each serving contains only 6 grams of net carbs, depending on the specific variety.

The company has also come out with an even lower-carb pasta line, which I have ordered and will review after I have tried it.

High in Protein

With 20 grams of protein per serving, this pasta helps in meeting daily protein requirements, which is beneficial for muscle maintenance and overall health.

High in Fiber

The pasta has 15 grams of dietary fiber per serving, contributing to better digestive health and helping to keep you full for longer.

Gluten-Free

Kaizen pasta has been reformulated with a gluten-free recipe, so more people can enjoy it.

No Artificial Ingredients

Kaizen prides itself on using natural ingredients, which is a big plus for those avoiding artificial additives and preservatives.

Preparation

Preparing Kaizen Low Carb Pasta is straightforward and similar to traditional pasta. Just bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, cook the pasta for about 5–6 minutes (to the desired texture), drain, and use as desired, with a sauce or in recipes.

Although the texture is different than traditional pasta made from wheat and semolina flours and cannot be cooked al dente, it's crucial to monitor the pasta closely to avoid overcooking so it does not become mushy.

Versatility

Kaizen Low Carb Pasta is versatile and, at the time of this post's publication, is available in four shapes: Fusilli, ziti, radiatore, and cavatappi. This makes it suitable for a variety of dishes.

It works well in classic hot pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, carbonara, lasagna, and baked casseroles.

I used it to make a low-carb, high-protein, high-fiber version of a traditional Jewish sweet noodle kugel (a sweet egg, cottage cheese, and noodle casserole) and it was absolutely delicious!

It also holds up well in cold pasta salads, providing a hearty base for a variety of fresh ingredients.

Overall Value

Considering its health benefits, Kaizen low carb pasta offers good value for money. Although it is more expensive than conventional pasta made with wheat flour and semolina, the added nutritional benefits will justify the higher price point for many consumers.

It's particularly valuable for those who need to manage their carbohydrate intake, follow a gluten-free diet, or want a higher protein alternative to standard pasta.

Kaizen low carb pasta is an excellent product for anyone seeking a healthier alternative to traditional pasta without compromising on taste and texture. Its high protein and fiber content, combined with its low carbohydrate profile, make it a standout option for low-carb dieters and health-conscious individuals. While it may require a slight adjustment in cooking and texture expectations, its versatility and nutritional benefits make it a worthwhile addition to your pantry.

Kaizen Fusilli Protein Pasta, 20g Protein, Low Carb (6g Net Carbs), Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free, High Fiber, Pack of 3

Kaizen Ziti Protein Pasta, 20g Protein, Low Carb (6g Net Carbs), Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free, High Fiber, Pack of 3

Kaizen Radiatori Protein Pasta, 20g Protein, Low Carb (6g Net Carbs), Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free, High Fiber, Pack of 3

Kaizen Cavatappi Protein Pasta, 20g Protein, Low Carb (6g Net Carbs), Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free, High Fiber, Pack of 3

Low Carb Fusilli With Pork and Mushroom Ragu

Kaizen low carb fusilli pasta with pork and mushroom ragu

I whip up this delicious, low carb pasta dish often because it's quick and easy to make and my husband and I both enjoy it.

I usually serve it with a side salad and, sometimes, with garlic bread made with Hero bread (expensive but 0 net carbs and exceptional taste and texture for a keto-friendly bread).

I hope you and your family enjoy it.

Buon appetito!

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Boiling water

Salt

1 pound ground pork

8 oz. portabello mushrooms

1/4 cup wine (red is traditional but white is good, too)

Chopped fresh or dried Italian herbs (optional)

15.5 oz. jar Rao's Homemade Marinara sauce

8 oz. box Kaizen Fusilli low carb pasta

Freshly grated Parmigiano-Romano cheese

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil while you make the pork and mushroom ragu (meat sauce).
In a large nonstick skillet, crumble and lightly brown the ground pork over medium-high heat.
Slice the mushrooms and add them to the browned pork. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms are soft.
Stir in the wine and the optional seasonings and cook until the wine is reduced by about half.
Stir in the marinara sauce and turn the heat to a low simmer.
Stir the fusilli into the boiling salted water (some foaming is normal) and boil for 5 minutes.
Drain and stir the cooked pasta into the pork and mushroom ragu. Turn the heat down to low and let the pasta "marry" with the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes.
Divide into four portions and grate some Parmigiano-Romano cheese over the top just before serving.

The Best Low Carb, High Protein, Gluten-Free Pasta by Margaret Schindel

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Garlic Butter Noodles with Mushrooms

This is one of my absolute favorite pasta dishes. Garlic butter noodles with mushrooms are so easy to make and you can have them on the table in 30 minutes or less.

Garlic Butter Noodles with Mushrooms - Recipe Reviewed

When looking for something quick, tasty, and easy to make this is one of our go-to meals. The butter garlic flavor really stands out. If you like mushrooms as I do, and pasta this is a perfect combination. The recipe below is enough for two people. If you're serving a crowd just add to it accordingly.

Ingredients:

12 oz. sliced mushrooms (washed and pat dry)
4 tablespoons butter (2 for the mushrooms and 2 for the noodles)
3 cloves of garlic finely chopped
1/2 bag of noodles (or your favorite pasts)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Begin cooking the mushrooms in a skillet over medium to high heat.
Stir and turn the mushrooms until you see moisture in the pan.
Add 2 tablespoons of butter and chopped garlic and continue to stir and turn until the mushrooms are golden brown.
Lower the heat to simmer and cook your noodles.
Drain the cooked noodles and return them to the pot or a bowl, add the other 2 tablespoons of butter and stir.
Pour the cooked mushrooms over the noodles and stir. Add the garnish and serve.

I always begin cooking my mushrooms in a dry pan first over medium to high heat. Mushrooms contain a lot of water, and this method allows the liquids to slowly evaporate and the mushrooms to caramelize.

You will also want a skillet large enough so the mushrooms are not piled high on top of each other. After they burn off some of their liquids and turn golden brown it is time to add the butter and any seasoning you're using.

This is such a versatile meal, you can use whatever pasta you like instead of noodles. You can also season the mushrooms with your favorite seasonings or add a little lemon juice to the mushrooms as they are cooking.

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Saturday, February 3, 2024

Review of National Pizza Day

February 9 is National Pizza Day.

A Brief History of Pizza

The word “Pizza” is from the old Italian word meaning “A Point”. This popular dish began in Italy, but pizza's original American home is New York City.

Fun Facts About Pizza

Pizza is an American standard. The most popular pizza toppings are pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms, with Pepperoni Pizza topping the list of favorites.

A poll showed that people eat pizza on the average of three times a month. The most often times are Friday nights and Movie nights.

The days most popular for ordering pizza are:

Super Bowl Sunday
Halloween
Thanksgiving Eve
New Year's Eve and New Year's Day

Pizza Days

Other days throughout the year celebrate various kinds of pizzas.

February 9 – National Pizza Day
May 17 – National Pizza Party Day
September 5 – National Cheese Pizza Day ('Hold the Toppings')
September 20 – National Pepperoni Pizza Day
November 12 – National Pizza with the works, except anchovies Day

AND - October is known as National Pizza MONTH

Pizza Places

The top rated pizza fast-food places find Domino's Pizza in first place, followed in order by Pizza Hut, Papa Johns and Little Caesars.

Many pizza fans insist that their regional type is the best. Whether it's thin or thick crust, deep dish, kinds of cheeses, or sauce, or toppings, certain regions insist it is the only way to eat pizza! These include Buffalo, California, Chicago, Detroit, Greek, New York and St. Louis styles. For a complete list of these regional favorites, check out the Wikipedia article here on Pizza in the United States.

More About Pizza

Many of the writers on Review This Reviews have written reviews about pizza recipes, and the products and supplies, such as pizza pans, which aid in creating your favorite pizza. Click HERE for a list of reviews related to PIZZA.

Summary

So, enjoy your favorite pizza on National Pizza Day this February 9th, or on any of the other Pizza Days throughout the year. Actually, probably no one needs a special day to eat pizza; any day will do!

Happy Pizza Day!

*Review of National Pizza Day is written by Wednesday Elf

+All images in this review are from Pixabay

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Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Batter Deep Fried Mushrooms

Mushrooms, people either love them or hate them. I happen to be someone who loves mushrooms. Mushrooms are one of the foods I love, no matter how they are prepared. I even love them raw and dipped in ranch dressing.

Today, I'm reviewing how I made our deep-fried mushrooms. These are a perfect side to any meal or delicious as a snack anytime.

Ingredients for Batter Deep Fried Mushrooms:

12 ounces of fresh white mushrooms ( I used medium size mushrooms)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup of water

2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs ( I used Panko)

Instructions:

Rinse the mushrooms in cold water and pat dry.
Mix, flour cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a medium size bowl.
Add the cup of water, and whisk together until you have a smooth batter.
Dip the mushrooms into the batter and let the excess drip off. You can use toothpicks or a fork.
Roll the mushrooms in the breadcrumbs until they are coated.
Deep fry until golden brown.
Place them on a plate lined with a paper towel.

After dipping the mushrooms in the batter, I rolled them in the breadcrumbs.

I coated several mushrooms at a time before placing them in the oil.

I don't have a deep fryer, so I used my 10-inch cast iron skillet. I filled the skillet a little over halfway with vegetable oil, and set the burner to medium heat. The oil needs to be between 325 to 375 degrees for frying.

I used my ThermoPro TP-18 instant-read thermometer to make sure I had the right temperature. I fried 6 or 7 mushrooms at a time until they were golden brown. I removed them with a slotted spoon and placed them on a plate lined with paper towels.

Using a deep fryer would be much easier for sure. Read my friend Cynthia's review here: of The Presto GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer. This would be the perfect kitchen tool for deep frying these mushrooms.

You can serve your mushrooms with cocktail sauce, or ranch dressing, or eat them plain.

If you like mushrooms here are some more of my favorite recipes:

Baked Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Caps Grilled Stacked Veggies Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms