Win A Trip To New Orleans With Sandeman’s Summer Sangria Challenge

by Laurel Miller on

Port enthusiasts will be familiar with the Sandeman brand, but this summer, the distinguished producer wants you to think of their fortified wine in a new light: as a mixer. For their Sandeman Summer Sangria Challenge, participants must submit a photo and original sangria recipe that incorporates a bottle of Sandeman Founders Reserve Porto.

Anything else goes ingredient-wise, but it’s helpful to remember that true sangria is a red wine punch from Rioja, Spain. Traditionally, it combines Rioja or another varietal of regional wine with Brandy and fresh fruit. It’s hard to improve upon a classic, but in my experience, Port makes everything better.

The winner will receive a trip for two to New Orleans to attend Tales of the Cocktail – the world’s premier cocktail festival – in July. To enter, visit www.facebook.com/SandemanPorto by June 1. Recipes should yield one pitcher of sangria.

[Photo credit: Flickr user divya_]

Cinco De Mayo: Five Fiesta-Worthy Foods To Make Or Try

by Laurel Miller on

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo (“fifth of May”) is essentially yet another excuse to get hammered. In the Mexican state of Puebla, however, the holiday commemorates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

Cinco de Mayo is also celebrated in other regions of Mexico; as in the States, it’s a day of honoring Mexican pride and heritage. This year, instead of the standard chips and guacamole (and crippling hangover), try some beloved Mexican foods that are well suited to serve a crowd. They’re easily made, or purchased if you live in a community with a sizable Hispanic population. Buen provecho!

1. Flor de Calabaza (squash blossoms): Available now at your local farmers market or specialty produce shop, and a favorite of Mexican home cooks. Try sautéing them and tucking into quesadillas or dipping in batter and frying (stuff them with fresh goat cheese mixed with chopped herbs for a really special treat; click here for the recipe).

2. Elotes: Whether served as whole, grilled ears of corn or kernels-in-a-cup, these mayonnaise, lime, and chile-slathered street eats are worth every ripple of cellulite they produce. True, corn isn’t in season right now; see if your favorite local farm stand, market vendor, or specialty grocer has frozen kernels for sale.

3. Churros: Fried, sugary goodness in phallic form: what’s not to love? Uh, except maybe churros con cajeta (filled with caramelized goat milk).

4. Antojitos: Traditionally found in the fondas, or beer bars of Mexico City, these small, fried or griddled masa dough “cravings (antojos)” or “little whims” are now more commonly associated with street food, and have regional adaptations. The differences in shape and fillings are often subtle: a chalupa (not to be confused with the Taco Bell concoction) is a thin, fried cup with a slight depression for holding meat and/or beans, shredded cabbage, crumbled fresh cheese or crema, and avocado or guacamole, while a huarache is like a slightly thicker tortilla in the shape of a sandal (hence the name). In Oaxaca, regional antojitos such as tlacoyos (like a skinny huarache) and memelas (think round huarache) may be topped with black beans and complex salsas indigenous to the region. In a word, addictive.

5. Michelada: Forget margaritas. This refreshing beverage has hair-of-the-dog built right in, and indeed, it’s a traditional Mexican hangover helper (as is a steaming bowl of menudo). Combine one icy cold Mexican beer (My pick: Pacifico) with fresh-squeezed lime juice, tomato juice or Clamato, a dash of hot sauce and a pinch of kosher or celery salt. The variations are many, but this recipe from Food52 is a winner.

[Photo credit: Flickr user the queen of subtle]

Want more antojitos? Check out this assortment, below:
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Party With The Ponies: Kentucky Derby Parties And Packages

by McLean Robbins on

The most famous horse race of the year takes place on Saturday, and it’s time to place your bets. ­­Our safest pick? A party. Can’t make it to Louisville and the famed Barnstable Brown celebrity bash? Some of our favorite events around the Run for the Roses are listed below.

Derby Day at Sea Island
Sea Island, the Forbes Five-Star resort on the southeastern coast of Georgia, is joining in the Derby celebrations with their own package for resort guests. The resort’s 11th Annual Derby Day Party will include a viewing party of the Derby along with a silent and live auction, hat parade, live music and dancing under the stars. In addition to celebrating this Saturday, Sea Island is also hosting a pre-party on Friday night with a casual evening of corn hole games, potato sack races, bocce ball, horses and jockeys to greet everyone and a bourbon tasting. Stay overnight and the weekend ($1,400) includes a Cloister River View Room (with upgrade if available), access to parties Friday and Saturday, a $100 experience credit per person and a welcome amenity.

Mint Juleps Galore in DC
Washington’s historic Willard InterContinental hosts their 26th annual “Bonnets and Bow-Ties” party in honor of the Derby on Saturday. A $75 cover fee includes red carpet entry, two handcrafted Henry Clay Mint Juleps – the Round Robin Bar’s signature cocktail – or two cocktails of choice and a traditional Southern buffet with prizes and raffles throughout the event.

Double Down in Austin
The Four Seasons Hotel Austin hosts an annual Derby Day event in their Lobby Lounge, featuring a live broadcast of the races, mint juleps and other drink specials as well as a contest for Best Hat (for the ladies) and Best Seersucker Suit (for men). The two winners of these contests will each take home a silver-plated cup that they can bring in to receive free mint juleps for an entire year.

Run for the Roses at The Plaza
New Yorkers and guests of The Plaza alike can watch the race and attend a “Best Hat” contest at the hotel’s legendary Rose Club. The lucky winner of the hat contest will receive a bottle of Special Edition Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby Bourbon.
Fun in the Irons at the Iron Horse Hotel
Milwaukee’s equine-inspired hotel is getting into the action with their second annual Derby party, offering a best hat contest, photo op with the hotel’s own “winner’s circle,” Mint Juleps and an array of prizes. You can even “bet” on your favorite horse and win prizes via a donation of gently used business clothing, which will be given to a local charity.

Noir Does the Derby
The Charles Hotel’s Noir bar is hosting their first annual Derby Infield Party. Watch the race on a 9-foot projection screen while sipping a variety of Mint Julep-inspired cocktails and enjoying southern-themed bites. Dressing the part is encouraged, and prizes will be awarded for Best Attire (Southern belle and Southern gentleman) as well as Best Hat. Cast your vote for the winning horse to win a chance to receive Derby related prizes. Tables are available with a $95 food and beverage minimum for up to four people ($50 for up to two people).

Hold Your Horses with the Los Angeles Athletic Club
The club is hosting their second Annual Kentucky Derby Viewing Party appropriately named “Hold Your Horses” on its newly renovated third floor. Races will be shown on multiple TVs, guests will enjoy equine-inspired activities, a live band, southern-inspired dishes and whiskey flights. There will even be a hat designer onsite. $30 per person includes entry, complimentary Mint Julep, buffet, games and live entertainment.

Show Your Horse Racing Love at in St. Augustine
In St. Augustine, Florida, the Casa Monica Hotel is hosting Derby and a Dinner on Saturday, May 5 from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Upon entering the event, guests will participate in a blind draw to select their horse. Attendees enjoy complimentary mint juleps and light hors d’oeuvres along with a cash bar, but those who pick horses “in the money” (first, second or third) will win prizes, and all guests wearing a hat are entered to win brunch for two. Tickets are $25 per person, and everyone attending will receive a $25 dinner credit at 95 Cordova after the event.

Cheesey Street Foods Of Latin America

by Laurel Miller on

With the possible exception of Argentina, most people don’t associate Central or South America with cheese. Like all of Latin America, these countries are a mix of indigenous cultures, colonizing forces, immigrant influences, and varied terroir, climatic extremes, and levels of industrialization. They possess some of the most biologically and geographically diverse habitats on earth. As a result, the cuisine and agricultural practices of each country have developed accordingly.

The use of dairy may not be particularly diverse in this part of the world, especially when it comes to styles of cheese, but it’s an important source of nutrition and income in rural areas, and a part of nearly every meal.

While writing a book on cheese during the course of this past year, I tapped into my rather obsessive love of both street food and South America for inspiration. As I learned during my research, the sheer variety of cheesey street snacks from Mexico to Tierra del Fuego are as varied as the ethnic influences responsible for their creation. Read on for a tasty tribute to queso.

Arepas: These flat little corn or flour cakes from Colombia, Venezuela and Panama may be grilled, baked, boiled, or fried. They’re usually stuffed or topped with a melting cheese, but may also feature meat, chicken, seafood, egg, or vegetables.

Anafres: Essentially Honduran nachos, composed of giant tortilla chips, refried beans and melted cheese. Named for an anafre, the coal-fired clay pot the dish is served in.

Pupusas: This Salvadorean staple is similar to an arepa: a thick, griddled corn cake stuffed with meat, cheese–usually a mild melting variety known as quesillo–chicarrones (pork cracklings), or queso con loroco (cheese with the buds or flowers of a vine native to Central America).Choclo con queso: Boiled corn with slices or a chunk of mild, milky, fresh white cheese may not sound like much, but this roadside and market staple of Peru and Ecuador is irresistible. The secret is the corn, which is an indigenous Andean variety with large, white, nutty, starchy kernels. It’s satisfying as a snack all by itself, but it’s even better between bites of slightly salty queso.

Empanadas (empadinhas in Brazil): Perhaps the most ubiquitous Latin American street food, riffs on these baked or fried, stuffed pastries can be found from Argentina (where they’re practically a religion) and Chile to Costa Rica and El Salvador. The dough, which is usually lard-based, may be made from wheat, corn or plantain, with fillings ranging from melted, mild white cheese to meat, seafood, corn, or vegetables. In Ecuador, empanadas de viento (“wind”) are everywhere; they’re fried until airy,filled with sweetened queso fresco and dusted with powdered sugar.

Quesadillas: Nearly everyone loves these crisp little tortilla and cheese “sandwiches.” Traditionally cooked on a comal (a flat, cast-iron pan used as a griddle), they’re a popular street food and equally beloved Stateside.

Provoleta: This Argentinean and Uruguayan favorite is made from a domestic provolone cheese. It’s often seasoned with oregano or crushed chile, and grilled or placed on hot stones until caramelized and crispy on the exterior, and melted on the inside. It’s often served at asados (barbecues) as an appetizer, and accompanied by chimmichuri (an oil, herb, and spice sauce).

Queijo coaljo: A firm, white, salty, squeaky cheese from Brazil; it’s most commonly sold on the beach on a stick, after being cooked over coals or in handheld charcoal ovens; also known as queijo assado.

Croquettes de Queijo: Cheese croquettes, a favorite appetizer or street food in Brazil.

Coxinhas: A type of Brazilian salgado (snack), these are popular late-night fare. Typically, coxinhas are shredded chicken coated in wheat or manioc flour that have been shaped into a drumstick, and fried. A variation is stuffed with catupiry, a gooey white melting cheese reminiscent of Laughing Cow. Like crack. Crack.

Queijadinhas: These irresistable little cheese custards are a popular snack in Brazil. Like Pringles, stopping at just one is nearly impossible.

Pão de queijo: Made with tapioca or wheat flour, these light, cheesy rolls are among the most popular breads in Brazil.

[Photo credit: Empanada, Flickr user ci_polla; food vendor, Provoleta, Laurel Miller]

Mother’s Day Hotel Deals Around The United States

by Jessica Festa on

Want to do something special for Mom this Mother’s Day? Check out these U.S. hotels offering promotions, packages and programming for the holiday, to help plan a special weekend getaway.

Forrest Hills Mountain Resort
Dahlonega, Georgia

Located about one hour north of Atlanta, Forrest Hills Mountain Resort is a relaxing accommodation surrounded by the North Georgia Mountains. This Mother’s Day the property is offering a “Taking Care of Mom” package, which includes:

  • Champagne or sparking cider upon arrival
  • Half-dozen long-stemmed roses in the room upon arrival
  • Gourmet sampler basket with chocolates, tea and hot cocoa mix
  • One-hour massage for both Mom and her guest
  • Candlelight dinner in the Secret Garden Dining Room (when booked online)
  • Mother’s Day Feast in the Rose Garden Dining Room
  • Breakfast daily

Package rates start at $457 for two nights (Saturday and Sunday). Call 706-864-6456 or click here to book. The New York Palace
New York, NY

The New York Palace, a world-class hotel located in Midtown, is celebrating the special occasion with not one, but two packages. First there is the “Mother’s Day Morning Glory” package, which begins the day with a special chef’s breakfast in bed with a Mimosa or Bellini, coffee or tea, a seasonal fruit plate, pastry, Greek yogurt parfait, Brioche bread pudding and an egg white frittata with heirloom tomatoes, asparagus, artichokes and herbs. The deal also includes luxury accommodations, red wine and chocolate upon arrival, a gift basket from New York Palace Spa and a 20% off discount on a spa treatment or service.

The other package is a “Mother’s Night Out” package, which includes luxury accommodations, two cocktails and an appetizer in GILT Bar, red wine and chocolate upon arrival, a gift basket from New York Palace Spa and a 20% off offer for a spa treatment or service.

Packages are available through June 3, 2012. Rates start at $428 for both packages. Call 212-888-7000 or click here to book.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa
Skaneateles, New York

Located in the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of New York, Mirbeau Inn & Spa is celebrating Mother’s Day all month long with a lavish “Love Your Mom” overnight package. Moms will get:

  • Two nights of accommodation
  • Daily breakfast
  • Five-course wine pairing dinner for two
  • Limo wine tour for two
  • 100-minute FarmHouse Fresh Mother Glow’s Best treatment, with a sweet cream salt body scrub, hot body wrap of honey, aloe and live papaya fruit cells and a massage using floral shea butter with blood orange oil and live fruit cells
  • 100-minute treatment of choice
  • Two micro-fiber robes
  • Two-dozen roses
  • Chocolate covered strawberries
  • $200 Skaneateles Chamber Certificate for downtown shopping

Package is valid through the month of May, with rates beginning at $2,720 mid-week and $3,035 on weekends, based on double-occupancy, including taxes and gratuities. Call 877-647-2328 or click here to book.

Country Inn Bed and Breakfast
Fort Bragg, California

A charming B&B on the Mendocino Coast, the Country Inn Bed and Breakfast is offering two great packages for Mom this holiday. First there is the “Ultimate Wine Tour” package, with two nights accommodation, a full-day wine tour with gourmet lunch, sparkling wine, a cheese platter, bottled water, special winery discounts and dinner for two at the Mendo Bistro. There is also a “Mother’s Day Massage” offer, which gives Mom a 50-minute massage, two nights of accommodation and dinner for two at Mendo Bistro.

Rates for the “Ultimate Wine Tour” package begin at $606, and $347 for the “Mother’s Day Massage” offer. Call 707-964-3737 or click here to book.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa
Lost Pines, Texas

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, a secluded 405-acre property on the Colorado River, is hosting an array of offers and programming in honor of Mother’s Day. For those looking to indulge at the spa, Mommy and Me pedicures are available for $125. Moreover, mothers golf free at Wolfdancer Golf Club. On the special day, the accommodation will host a Mother’s Day Brunch, including breakfast favorites and unique creations like smoked pork loin with house made Shiner Bock Mustard as well as a lavish dessert buffet. Additionally, many recreational activities for mom will be offered, like Mother’s Day card making, button making and mom-themed movies under the stars.

The buffet is $49 for adults, $24 for children 4-12 and free for children three and under. Call 512-308-4851 or click here to book.

Delamar Greenwich Harbor
Greenwich, Connecticut

This Mother’s Day, Delamar Greenwich Harbor, a luxury waterfront property, is helping mothers and daughters spend quality time together. The one-day package is offered every weekend in May, and features:

  • One night in a double room or two-bedroom suite
  • Complimentary breakfast
  • Welcome gift from Saks 5th Avenue
  • Early check-in at 2:00 p.m. and late check out at 2:00 p.m.
  • Lunch for two in the onsite l’escale
  • Two 60-minute massages in the hotel’s Spa Suite
  • Two pedicures
  • Personal shopping session at Saks 5th Avenue with car service

Package available Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday through May, and start at $635. Call 866-335-2627 or click here to book.

The Shores Resort & Spa
Daytona, Florida

For mothers and daughters who want to have some fun in the sun this Mother’s Day, The Shores Resort & Spa is hosting a “Mother/Daughter Surf Camp” package. The offer includes two nights of accommodation, a private surf lesson for two, a 50-minute mother/daughter salt scrub and a 50-minute massage for two.

Packages start at $578 per room, based on double occupancy. Call 866-396-2217 or click here to book.

JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa
Oahu, Hawaii

On May 13, JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa will host a celebratory event for Mother’s Day. Beginning at 11:00 a.m., there is a special champagne lunch buffet. Additionally, a concert by Na Hoku Hanohano award-winner Willie K, and a fashion show hosted by Hawaiian designer Mamo Howell will be part of the programming.

Tickets for the celebration are $85 for adults, $50 for children ages 4 to 12 and free for children under four. Room rates start at $299 per night. Call 808-679-0079 or click here to book.

Meadowmere Resort
Ogunquit, Maine

Meadowmere Resort, a popular hotel for gourmet vacations on Maine’s southern coast, is featuring an array of Mother’s Day packages this holiday. First there is the “Mother’s Day Weekend Dining” package, which includes accommodations, wine and cheese, Mom’s choice of dinner at one of the hotel’s three onsite restaurants and a Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday morning. There’s also the “Mother’s Day Weekend Spa” package, featuring accommodations, a Swedish massage, mini-facial, holistic yoga session and wellness consultation.

Packages start at $179.95 for the “Mother’s Day Weekend Dining” package, and $199.95 for the “Mother’s Day Weekend Spa” package. Call 800-633-8718 or click here to book.

Arizona Biltmore
Phoenix, Arizona

The Arizona Biltmore, with its vibrant gardens and historic ambiance, is a great place for Mom to spend her special day. This holiday, the property is hosting numerous offers, from free-night offers to spa specials and Champagne brunches. First there is the 2-For-1 Mother’s Day offer, which gives guests who book a room during the week of Mother’s Day a second night free. Additionally, their “Like Mother Like Daughter” package includes an hour-long manicure and pedicure for two for $175. If Mom would like to spend more time in the spa, select treatments are 30% off, like the Dreamcatcher Aromatherapy Massage and the Restorative Anti-Aging Facial. Moreover, a Mother’s Day champagne brunch will be hosted in the McArthur Ballroom, with breakfast favorites, salads, carving stations, hot entrees and a rose for every mother. Reservations are required, and prices are $75 for adults, $35 for children 12 and under and free for infants. Another Mother’s Day champagne brunch with a different menu will be held in Wright’s at the Biltmore. Reservations are required, and prices are $95 for adults, $40 for children 12 and under and free for infants. At night, an array of Mother’s Day dinner specials will be offered throughout the hotel, with pre-fixed menus, drink specials and unique menu additions.

Two-for-one offer valid May 10 to 17, with room rates starting at $229. Use promo code “MOM” when booking. Call 800-950-0086 or click here to book.