Sunday, March 22, 2020

Eating and Drinking Tips

Many wineries and small businesses are trying have people be able to access their products easily and safely.
Municipal Wines https://municipalwinemakers.com/ has free shipping(no minimum I believe) and 20% off all wines.
Tablas Creek https://tablascreek.com/shop has $10 shipping but check to see if they deliver to your state. They do not deliver to NJ.
Montclair Bread https://squareup.com/store/montclairbread in Montclair , NJ allows you to order bread, donuts and some groceries the day before you want to pickup. No delivery. Their baked goods are excellent. Try their ancient grains bread and jelly donuts.
The Montclair Farmers market https://www.montclairfarmersmarket.org/ is open on Saturdays. Vacciano Farm is there every week and their meats are excellent.
Pizzerias are open for takeout but now is the time to make your own pizza. You will need a pizza stone or pizza pan. A stone and pizza peel (it helps place the pizza on and off the hot stone) is preferable. You can buy one easily on Amazon.

There a number of dough recipes on the internet. Dough can be ready is 2 hours if you are in a rush. You will need dried yeast.

For sauce use canned tomatoes, San Marzano (from Italy) definitely taste better. Saute a clove of garlic(finely chopped) in a tablespoon of olive oil for 30 seconds. Add a can of tomatoes. If whole chop them up with a food processor or use your fork while in the pan. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes. Add some basil. That's it.

Making the pizza. The stone should be in the oven. Oven should be preheated and turned up to highest temperature. My oven goes up to 550 degrees.

Stretch out your dough and place on floured peel. I use corn meal for flour. Slice mozzarella cheese thinly and place cheese on the dough leaving space between the slices.Valuable tip - placing the cheese directly on the dough keeps it on the dough when eating the pizza. Spoon sauce all around the cheese. Be generous but restrained. Then add your favorite toppings. I love slice mushrooms, prosciutto and a few leaves of spinach. Sprinkle with oregano. Get creative!! Practice will make perfect. Don't be afraid to experiment. Listen to your kids suggestions.

Cook until bubbling but not burnt. Use peel to take of oven.

Chianti Classico or Chianti Classico Reserva go great with pizza. Monsanto Chianti Classico Reserva $20 is a favorite. 2015 and 2016 are great vintages. La Massa La Massa 2016 $20 is also great if you can find it.

If you have any recommendations on food and wine let me know.

Enjoy.