Category: We recommend!

Judith Jones on Cooking for Her Dog
Penny is a longtime fan of food writer and editor of many of her favorite cookbooks, Judith Jones who died recently. One of her books Penny bought before it disappears from stock was "Love Me, Feed Me: Sharing with Your Dog the Everyday Good Food You Cook and Enjoy."

As you may know, from our newspaper columns and some posts here, we feed our dog Poppy homemade food. Her diet is raw because of the many issues a Westie can have with food. Judith Jones, on the other hand, cooked meals that she shared with her dog Mabon.

This book is a great place to begin a discussion about what we're feeding our dogs and if we have fallen for the marketing efforts of the dog food industry. Jones worked with her veterinarian who supported this alternative feeding style.

Here are a few quotes from reviews of this delightful book:
- “Delightful….This sensible book reminded us of food writers like Elizabeth David and M. F. K. Fisher: recipes plus a pinch of life itself.”
  – The Bark
- “Clever tips abound.”
  – BookPage
- “As much about the unconditional friendship pets offer as it is about braised beef shanks and omelets, kasha and corn cakes, and as much about the nutritional requirements of caninehood…as about the companionable requirements….A loving salute to the dogs [Jones] has known and to a life filled to the brim with what they brought to her.”
  – Booklist
- “An ingenious recipe collection…What’s fascinating about Love Me, Feed Me is that the recipes are relatively simple and good, prepared daily by Jones for herself and her dog Mabon, an adorable white curly-haired Havanese straight out of central casting.”
  – The Faith Middleton Show
We highly recommend "Love Me, Feed Me" for you and your Sunday Dog or as a great gift anytime you visit someone who loves their dog.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Thanks to everyone who Hops over to Amazon from here to do their shopping. We appreciate your support.

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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

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Legendary Editor Judith Jones has Passed Away

" Judith Jones Memorial – August 26th, 2017
September 10, 2017
Your Wine Questions Answered by an Expert, Stephen Meuse!

We are students of wine, so when we find someone with real expertise, we happily follow their words of wisdom. For years we read Stephen Meuse's articles on wine in the Boston Globe. Now we follow him on his website The Wine Idea and his features on the Formaggio Kitchen Blog.

Today we'd like to direct your attention to a great piece of his that answers the five wine questions he is most often asked at Formaggio.

Read, learn, and sign-up to follow his work. We have the Wine Idea on an rss feed, so we don't miss a word.

What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List?

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

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Dive team finds body of missing 80-year-old diver

September 8, 2017
Your Wine Questions Answered by an Expert, Stephen Meuse!

We are students of wine, so when we find someone with real expertise, we happily follow their words of wisdom. For years we read Stephen Meuse's articles on wine in the Boston Globe. Now we follow him on his website The Wine Idea and his features on the Formaggio Kitchen Blog.

Today we'd like to direct your attention to a great piece of his that answers the five wine questions he is most often asked at Formaggio.

Read, learn, and sign-up to follow his work. We have the Wine Idea on an rss feed, so we don't miss a word.

What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List?

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Related articles

Dive team finds body of missing 80-year-old diver

September 8, 2017
September’s Toast with Champagne Robert Barbichon Blanc De Noirs

This month we are chilling a bottle of Robert Barbichon Blanc De Noirs. It's an organic, biodynamic, grower Champagne from a small producer. You may have noticed that we toast with a lot of wines similar to this one. Like many of you, there are flavor profiles, business philosophies, importers, and regional terroirs that we prefer over others. This wine checks a lot of boxes on our preference list.

Humboldt Importers describe this wine maker well, "Located in the Cote des Bar in the Aube region to the southeast of the Marne, the Barbichon family have been growing Champagne grapes for 4 generations. Today Robert Barbichon produces a range of elegant, stylish Champagnes with bright mineral-driven fruit and just a hint of toast."

And (here's the part we especially like) Humboldt Importers characterize the Blanc de Noirs Brut NV as, "Crafted of pure Pinot Noir, it exhibits a creamy nose filled with bright white fruit, chalk/mineral notes and a crisp, elegant finish. 100% Pinot Noir from the Cote des Bar."

One of the fun things about this bottle is that it's a "Transatlantic Bubbles Selection." This is a new import category to us. But reading about their love of sparkling wine and the places where their selections are served makes us open to other wines from their portfolio.

They say:

"Transatlantic Bubbles LLC. specializes in finding and importing grower-producer Champagnes that offer superior quality at a better cost to the customer. We are a trusted supplier in the growing niche market for recoltant-manipulant Champagne."

We're looking forward to raising our glasses to the extension of this lovely summer that we have declared, "… will not end until October 15th, at the earliest!"

We purchased our bottle of Champagne Robert Barbichon Blanc De Noirs Brut at City Liquors in Cambridge for ~ $45.

UPDATE: (09.02.17) We had such high hopes for this Champagne and, well … at the risk of stooping to a cliché, "It exceeded our highest expectations!" We chilled the wine to ~ 55ºF and began tasting while enjoying some thinly sliced pork loin, pepper-flavored boursin, Jasper Hill Moses Sleeper (cows milk cheese inspired by French Brie), figs, and local cherry tomatoes – why skimp?

This combination added to the enjoyment of the Barbichon Blanc De Noirs Brut which only improved as it warmed.

Penny was haunted by a flavor she was experiencing tasted in the fruit of this wine. Then she realized it was like the charred, caramelized pineapple served with our Jamaican jerk chicken wings plate at Little Donkey. I liked the wine's yeasty character and hints of chalk.

We both agreed that the full, rich, round, "elegant finish" remained throughout our meal. And, the best news, we saved some more of this lovely bottle of bubbles for today.

We are buying another bottle the next time we find this little gem!

Cheers!

Related Posts:

Our Sparkling Resolution is covered in this post: Join Us as We Toast …

A Few of Our Favorite Gifts for Wine Lovers

Here are all the wines we've covered. Since this is a category, this post may appear at the top. Just scroll down for more.

Want to learn more about wine? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site! Here are three of our favorite wine books …

The Food Lover's Guide to Wine

The New Wine Lover's Companion

The Wine Bible

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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino, Screengrab from Transatlantic Bubbles LLC

September 1, 2017
Our First Visit to Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square

It took a while for our first visit to Little Donkey in Cambridge's Central Square, but it won't take as long for us to return!

Choosing our lunch was harder than we thought, when we scanned the menu. After examining details of the options, we decided to share these dishes and come back soon for a few others.

Charred avocado with pepitas, pomegranate molasses and crema

Jamaican jerk chicken wings with charred pineapple – this photo was taken after Penny had already grabbed a piece. The aroma totally over-road her desire to have photos.

Wok fried chow fun with tofu, Calabrian chili, black beans, scallions.

Ed had a Notch Session Pils draft and Penny enjoyed a Portuguese Sparkler–Caves São João Rosé. (You know how we love finding a new-to-us sparkler!)

We sat at the bar and had great service! At lunch the noise level was perfect for conversation, but we imagine it might be a bit louder on a busy evening.

Our verdict on each item was that we would order it again and we immediately began thinking of friends who would also love that dish. Since we love hot and spicy, we also reviewed the menu with a thought to friends who preferred a milder level of spice and happily decided we could bring them here, too.

We wondered about the restaurant's name, but found a quote here from the chefs that explains it. It refers to the multicultural nature of the menu, "The donkey has been an important assistance animal in cultures around the world, say the chefs, both hard-working and comforting."

What's on your Food Lover's shopping list?

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

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August 30, 2017
Our First Visit to Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square

It took a while for our first visit to Little Donkey in Cambridge's Central Square, but it won't take as long for us to return!

Choosing our lunch was harder than we thought, when we scanned the menu. After examining details of the options, we decided to share these dishes and come back soon for a few others.

Charred avocado with pepitas, pomegranate molasses and crema

Jamaican jerk chicken wings with charred pineapple – this photo was taken after Penny had already grabbed a piece. The aroma totally over-road her desire to have photos.

Wok fried chow fun with tofu, Calabrian chili, black beans, scallions.

Ed had a Notch Session Pils draft and Penny enjoyed a Portuguese Sparkler–Caves São João Rosé. (You know how we love finding a new-to-us sparkler!)

We sat at the bar and had great service! At lunch the noise level was perfect for conversation, but we imagine it might be a bit louder on a busy evening.

Our verdict on each item was that we would order it again and we immediately began thinking of friends who would also love that dish. Since we love hot and spicy, we also reviewed the menu with a thought to friends who preferred a milder level of spice and happily decided we could bring them here, too.

We wondered about the restaurant's name, but found a quote here from the chefs that explains it. It refers to the multicultural nature of the menu, "The donkey has been an important assistance animal in cultures around the world, say the chefs, both hard-working and comforting."

What's on your Food Lover's shopping list?

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Related articles

Back When Harvard's Weld Boathouse Was Drafted as a Navy Training Facility…

Welcome Luke's Lobster to Boston

August 30, 2017
Into the Woods with Your Sunday Dog

We all have favorite forms of recreation with our dogs. Ours happens to be long walks on a beach and seaside vacations. But, we realize that for some of you, a long hike or camping in a the woods is the way to go. Knowing that, we’ve done some research on that topic and will share what we’ve learned.

Occasionally, friends can tempt us to take a quick walk in the woods. However this was at Halibut Point where we knew our beloved ocean views were just a few steps away.

Are Dogs Welcome?

The first task is to locate hiking trails where dogs are welcome. When people ask about this, we always point them to the Trustees of Reservations. They have clear guidelines on their website www.thetrustees.org where you can select "Dog Walking" after choosing options on this page to help you choose a place where you and your dog are welcome.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation (DCR) has made a start on helping residents find dog-friendly spots in the state’s park system. They now have one webpage that outlines the dos and don’ts for enjoying state property with your dog. Unfortunately the don’ts and “no dogs allowed” list is far longer than the places where we are welcome.

For those of us in the Boston area, the list of places where dogs are NOT allowed, on or off leash, include: City Square Park in Charlestown, Boston Harbor Islands, DCR buildings (administrative offices, visitor centers, restrooms), all DCR playgrounds, all DCR parking areas and all DCR coastal beaches and designated swimming areas of inland beaches from May 1 through September 15, unless otherwise posted.

The look of total enjoyment on Gunner’s face is reason enough for a day in the woods. (Photo courtesy of http://indirectimages.weebly.com/)

What Are the Rules?

The basic rules of dog etiquette: keeping your dog under your control even if off leash; picking up dog waste; preventing your dog from harassing people, wildlife, or other dogs; and doing as little damage to the area as possible will serve you well in woodlands.

You will also have to check specific rules for the property you visit. Some trails may be open to your dog while others are not, and there may be special date restrictions or wildlife warnings. For example, the Blue Hills Reservation comes up on many searches for dog-friendly hiking in Massachusetts. Before you go, you should be aware that the state site map warns, "The reservation boasts a rich variety of plants and animals, including several rare and endangered species, such as the Timber rattlesnake and Eastern copperhead found nowhere else in the Boston area."

We really miss our little pal Swiffer but can't resist sharing this photo from a happy day we spent with him years ago.

Special Precautions

Naturally you’ll want to be sure you and your dog are healthy and up-to-date on disease prevention before you set off on a woody adventure. You’ll also want to make frequent and complete checks for ticks along the way.

Since you may be away from resources, you should add a few dog specific items like self-adhering bandages and a tick removal tool to your first aid kit.

Special Places

Here again we recommend turning to the Trustees. They even have a smartphone app to keep information about your destination in the palm of your hand. You can begin by finding properties near you via GPS.

Suppose you choose World’s End in Hingham to visit. The overview page on the app has a paw print to show that dog walking is allowed.

You can get directions to the location by car or public transportation, other activities the site offers, details on facilities, and a description of the place. Finally, you can pull up a map of the trails. It’s everything you need for a great adventure with your pup right on your phone.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Thanks to everyone who Hops over to Amazon from here to do their shopping. We appreciate your support.

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

(Adapted for BostonZest from one of our City Paws newspaper columns.)

August 20, 2017
Into the Woods with Your Sunday Dog

We all have favorite forms of recreation with our dogs. Ours happens to be long walks on a beach and seaside vacations. But, we realize that for some of you, a long hike or camping in a the woods is the way to go. Knowing that, we’ve done some research on that topic and will share what we’ve learned.

Occasionally, friends can tempt us to take a quick walk in the woods. However this was at Halibut Point where we knew our beloved ocean views were just a few steps away.

Are Dogs Welcome?

The first task is to locate hiking trails where dogs are welcome. When people ask about this, we always point them to the Trustees of Reservations. They have clear guidelines on their website www.thetrustees.org where you can select "Dog Walking" after choosing options on this page to help you choose a place where you and your dog are welcome.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation (DCR) has made a start on helping residents find dog-friendly spots in the state’s park system. They now have one webpage that outlines the dos and don’ts for enjoying state property with your dog. Unfortunately the don’ts and “no dogs allowed” list is far longer than the places where we are welcome.

For those of us in the Boston area, the list of places where dogs are NOT allowed, on or off leash, include: City Square Park in Charlestown, Boston Harbor Islands, DCR buildings (administrative offices, visitor centers, restrooms), all DCR playgrounds, all DCR parking areas and all DCR coastal beaches and designated swimming areas of inland beaches from May 1 through September 15, unless otherwise posted.

The look of total enjoyment on Gunner’s face is reason enough for a day in the woods. (Photo courtesy of http://indirectimages.weebly.com/)

What Are the Rules?

The basic rules of dog etiquette: keeping your dog under your control even if off leash; picking up dog waste; preventing your dog from harassing people, wildlife, or other dogs; and doing as little damage to the area as possible will serve you well in woodlands.

You will also have to check specific rules for the property you visit. Some trails may be open to your dog while others are not, and there may be special date restrictions or wildlife warnings. For example, the Blue Hills Reservation comes up on many searches for dog-friendly hiking in Massachusetts. Before you go, you should be aware that the state site map warns, "The reservation boasts a rich variety of plants and animals, including several rare and endangered species, such as the Timber rattlesnake and Eastern copperhead found nowhere else in the Boston area."

We really miss our little pal Swiffer but can't resist sharing this photo from a happy day we spent with him years ago.

Special Precautions

Naturally you’ll want to be sure you and your dog are healthy and up-to-date on disease prevention before you set off on a woody adventure. You’ll also want to make frequent and complete checks for ticks along the way.

Since you may be away from resources, you should add a few dog specific items like self-adhering bandages and a tick removal tool to your first aid kit.

Special Places

Here again we recommend turning to the Trustees. They even have a smartphone app to keep information about your destination in the palm of your hand. You can begin by finding properties near you via GPS.

Suppose you choose World’s End in Hingham to visit. The overview page on the app has a paw print to show that dog walking is allowed.

You can get directions to the location by car or public transportation, other activities the site offers, details on facilities, and a description of the place. Finally, you can pull up a map of the trails. It’s everything you need for a great adventure with your pup right on your phone.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Thanks to everyone who Hops over to Amazon from here to do their shopping. We appreciate your support.

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

(Adapted for BostonZest from one of our City Paws newspaper columns.)

August 20, 2017
Grilled Cheddar Cheese with Onion, Thyme, and Tomato on a Rustic Bread? “Yes, Please!”

The lunch in the photo above was pulled together from what was left in the house before farmers market day. The sandwich is grilled cheddar cheese with onion, thyme, and tomato on a rustic bread.

Thanks to a tip I follow from David Leite, I had a jar of sautéed onions in the refrigerator. I always sauté extra, since I bought the New Portuguese Table, years ago. (Here's more about that in our post: Cook's Treasure: Sautéed Onions and Garlic.)

Since I was being lazy and trying to make a quick lunch, I don't think I would have sautéed an onion to add to these sandwiches. But since I had these softly sautéed onions all ready, I sprinkled a few on each pile of goodies as I prepared a platter of grilled cheese. The thyme came about because I keep a vase of herbs on my counter right where I do food prep.

My other helper in making this meal was my induction burner. It makes controlling the temperature of the pan, to get just enough toast on the sandwich, easier. Since I added this to my kitchen, I seldom use my stovetop. Induction gives me faster heat, better control, and a much easier clean up.

My electric stovetop has become extra counter space and the place where I setup my induction burner, since that puts it under the kitchen vent. I place a large wooden cutting board under the induction burner and a full sheet pan covered with newspaper or parchment over the burners next to it. This makes clean up a snap!

What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List?

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

August 16, 2017
Bone China for Everyday: A Little Luxury We’ve Never Regretted Buying

Some readers have noticed that we use Wedgwood bone china in our food photo shots. That's because these are our everyday dishes. Once upon a time, Penny managed the home furnishings division of a department store. The china department was part of her domain and she learned about the pros and cons of various types of dinnerware.

In a small city home, we decided we only had space to store one set of dishes. We didn't mind paying for something that would last. Here we are decades later enjoying the same pieces of Wedgwood Nantucket that we bought way back then. We have replaced a couple of pieces what were broken in a really bad drop onto a slate floor. However, since our choice is a classic pattern, we've been able to do that easily.

Why Bone China?

Because it is attractive, graceful, lightweight, strong, durable, and if you buy a timeless pattern from a major fine china producer, you will be able to buy additional pieces or replacement pieces if you ever need them.

If you don't have gold or silver trim, it is dishwasher and microwave safe.

As a cook, Penny loves the look of food on a white plate, so we confined our original search to while bone china with or without an embossed pattern. What's more, with a white pattern, you don't have to worry about colors fading or wearing off. Wedgwood happens to have a great collection of all white bone china, so we narrowed our search to that firm.

Our original plan was to add some pieces of the Wedgwood White pattern as a calmer, simpler choice. You can mix and match the pieces from the various patterns because the white bone china material is all the same color and tone. Since we never tired of our Wedgwood Nantucket Basket pattern, we never did add the second pattern.

Today you have an even wider selection than we had back then. Here are some of the popular Wedgwood all white patterns available on Amazon:

What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List?

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino

August 11, 2017