Thursday, August 19, 2010

Summer Grilling

It's summertime here on the east coast, and that means it's time to feast on some bbq chicken and asparagus. (Yes, I know it's not really in season, but it tastes good on the grill and I couldn't resist it!) We also received the first cobs of corn from the family farm, and thought it would be good to have a feast.

We are traditional grillers, which means everything is cooked on a charcoal grill using hardwood charcoal, without the use of lighter fluid. While a gas grill is convenient, I don't think it really imparts any flavor to the food. So, I'm sticking with old, slow charcoal.

Corn and the first tomatoes of the season!


The grilled feast:

No Knead Foccacia Bread

This month's issue of Cook's Illustrated included a recipe for no knead focaccia bread. This is one of my favorite breads, despite it being a little heavier on the olive oil than I'd like. I thought it was a little heavy on time. If you just knead the bread, it takes alot less! But, the end result was a much tastier, fluffier foccacia. This was my first time baking bread on my baking stone, and it really does make a difference!

Bread in pan


Detail View

My Favorite Season



My favorite season is fall, but in food terms, it's when tomatoes are in full effect. I am spoiled, and have a Dad who grows phenomenal chemical-free produce. The tomatoes and potatoes are my favorite. During tomato season, I probably eat a BLT sandwich every week. I am always saddened when they are all turned into sauce.

I wish I could capture the beauty of them. These pictures will have to do.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Burgers I've Eaten - Part 14 - Sunshine General Store

This weekend, we took a little trip up the road to a place recommended by my husband's co-worker for burgers. The place? Sunshine General Store. Let's be clear. This is not somewhere you'd take a girl (or guy) for a romantic first date. But, if said girl or guy is into huge, 1/2 pound, very tasty burgers, you might want to consider it. Sure, this place could use a good cleaning, but the grime is part of its charm.

And the burgers are no joke.

These are a generous 1/2 pound, well done burgers served on a roll that was perfectly toasted on the grill. Toppings range from tomatoes to fried onions, but I'm a simple girl, and just got cheese, lettuce, and mayo.

For a burger under 7 dollars, this is the place. I don't think I'll go to Five Guys ever again.

Sunshine General store is located at:

22300 Georgia Avenue
Brookeville, MD 20833

Don't forget to stop by the ATM before visiting. They do not take credit cards.