Aloha to the Monmouth/Ocean Cties, NJ Supper Club

[robinf]

Since Alan and I can't make Saturday's fiesta I thought I'd post the theme for our July 28th dinner in case you wanted to discuss.

We thought a Hawaiian Luau would be a fun summertime theme. I'll do the main course (don't expect a roasted pig though - probably an Asian-insipred fish/seafood). Karen A had already claimed gazpacho and Sheryl has dessert.

If any other courses get assigned, let me know so I can keep track.

We're sorry that we will not be able to make Saturday. Enjoy!

- robin

[SherylH]

Aloha, Robin. Sorry you are going to miss Saturday. We will taste everything for you. I hope everyone spots this new site; I just happen to see it when I was going into our old one. Thanks for handling this "technical" matter for us. Aloha sounds wonderful. My brain will be working on some yummy desserts.

[Karen Arena]

Hi Robin - We will miss you on Saturday! Looking forward to July - sounds great!

[kathleen415]

Hi all - Great time last night! Thanks Karen & John you did a wonderful job hosting.
I think we all need to be more specific describing what we're making and comparing against what everyone else is planning so that we have less duplication than last night. Both Sheryl and I made a fruit salsa with mangoes and Karen brought a fruit salad for her tres leches cake. All three of us brought a black bean salad with corn and peppers, although Sheryl's had shrimp and Karen's apparently had a cumin vinaigrette, unfortunately we didn't get to it. And there were 2 corn breads. So, for future dinners (God knows what the guys will do for brunch) I'm suggesting dividing the following courses among the seven of us -- with everyone sticking to their category, and yes, I'm anal. I try to plan what I'm bringing to represent a variety within the category. At Sheryl's Italian dinner, I did 7 appetizers, which was, I admit, excessive for 4 couples and I did try to make a variety for last night, although 3 dishes had cilantro and either jalapenos or serranos. I shouldn't have planned a black bean salad as a side dish since Sheryl posted a bean salad with the appetizers. Since I've already had appetizers (and despite the fact that Tim really wants to do coconut shrimp), I'm giving up appetizers at Robin's which I claimed last night. I didn't recall anyone else picking anything, so please post if you did. For Robin's luau it works out so far like this:
Appetizers - ??
Soup or First Course - Gazpacho - Karen A
Salad & Bread - ??
Entree - Asian fish/seafood - Robin
Side Dishes - ??
Fruit, Cheese, Nuts - pineapples, macadamias - Kathy
Dessert - Sheryl

Thoughts??

Re: Octoberfest
I'm planning Octoberfest at our house for Saturday, September 22nd. It's the first day of Fall and Karen isn't due for another few weeks. Does it work out for everyone?

[PamR]

Hi Robin - missed you Saturday night - looking forward to Luau at your house.

Hi all. We had a great time!!
Thanks Karen & John great job hosting.

I agree with Kathy there was a lot of duplication, especailly with the salads.

So I'd like to take appetizers for the Luau.
Unless some else wants to do ........ If not;
I'm thinking I'll make:
Hawaiian-Style Sweet & Sour Beef Ribs
Shrimp & Pepper Fritters

[KarenJ]

Thanks Karen and John, and thanks to everyone for the great food and company. I'm bad at committing, but maybe if I take a course it will help me focus on one thing! Since I have my own sous chef, I think I'll do salad and bread. I don't have any idea what yet, but will let you know. Also I know I said I would bring Long Island Ice Tea, but since the theme has changed, I'm thinking more about Hawaiian Rum Punch.

[SherylH]

Karen and John--Great job hosting! The leftovers were yummy too. Looks like Sept 22 works for me. I guess it is a good idea to try to stick to certain courses so we don't duplicate, but I must say, I think we all left very full and satisfied. However, it would be good to try more variety. Anyway, I am set to bring desserts for July and I think we have some time to ponder Oktoberfest course assignments. Maybe John can brew some Oktoberfest beer. Looking forward to July.

[SherylH]

I know this is really early, but I would like to claim side dishes for Oktoberfest. No wonder I cannot drop any pounds....I am always thinking about food.

[Karen Arena]

Hi Everyone, thanks for a wonderful time and delicious food on Saturday night. John and I had a great time, and Robin - we missed you! As long as we are planning in advance, I'd like to do dessert for Oktoberfest. See you all soon.

[PamR]

Hi all! Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend.
I'd like to take side dishes for the Oktoberfest.
I'm thinking german-style potato salad ....
and maybe a garden vegetable strudel

[PamR]

SORRY .... (boy am I red faced, get it?)
I just saw that Sheryl is taking side dishes for Oktoberfest .....
Okay -- so what's left? I guess we can discuss at the Luau .....
Looking forward to seeing everyone!

[robinf]

Wow - I can't believe it's been so long since I've had a chance to look at this. It sounds like the fiesta was muy bien!

I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the luau (i hope it warms up by then). I am trying to keep track of what everyone has selected -

Appetizers - Pam R
Soup - Karen A
Salad/Bread - Karen J
Entree - Me
Sides - ?
Fruit, cheese, nuts - Kathy
Dessert - Sheryl

Directions and details to follow.

I am hungry already!

- robin

[PamR]

HI ALL!
FYI -
the following is airing on Food Network TV:

Emeril's Hawaiian Luau
Sunday, June 17 at 8:00 p.m. ET
Emeril immerses himself in the local cuisine and folklore of this Hawaiian tradition.

In case anyone is looking for ideas ......

[Stefanie]

SOOO Sorry I've been neglect in posting. Since we've changed sites, I've completely forgotten to check. (Thanks Pam for reminding me!!) A very belated thanks to Karen and John for our last get together. As usual, Greg and I had a great time!!

I'll do sides for the luau...not sure what they'll be yet. But I'll make sure I let everyone know ASAP.

Hope everyone is doing well. Happy Father's Day to all the guys!!

[kathleen415]

I'm trying to make sure whatever I make doesn't impinge on anyone else's catagory, so for fruit I'm thinking of a pineapple granita and a mango-coconut sorbet. And that's as far as I've gotten. I'm still checking into macadamia nut recipes, and really enjoying the research!

[SherylH]

Glad we have this board to clarify things. Kathy, I will stay away from "frozen confections" for my dessert category if you are, in fact, going to make ices. I had been thinking of that too, but I guess since you have fruit and nuts, that might be a logical choice for you too. If you decide not to, let me know. Can't wait...I am actually going to Atlantic City this weekend with some friends. Trump Marina is having their annual luau for their "frequent players" (I am not the frequent player, but get to tag along.) Hope I get some ideas.

[PamR]

Robin-

I'd like to do Pork & Pineapple Kebabs -- they're best when done on a grill.
Would I be able to use your grill?
I'll have them all ready to go when I get there and they will only take about 15 minutes to grill.

If not I'll come up with something else.

Thanks!

[robinf]

I must apologize for not posting sooner - things have been crazy. We always get tons of company in the summer and this year has been more hectic than most. I guess it is one of the pitfalls of being within walking distance to the beach!

Pam - You are more than welcome to use my grill. In fact, we are thinking about getting a new one and this is just the sort of incentive I need!

According to my count, there will be a total of 14 people for the luau. Did I miss anyone? I want to make sure I have enough of everything.

I am in the process of putting directions together and will e-mail everyone shortly.

I am getting excited! See you in an couple of weeks.

- robin

[PamR]

Hi everyone -- getting excited !!!!

I need some help ....
For Appetizers I'm planning on making Pork & Pineapple Kebabs - how many do you think I should plan on? Two per person???

I'm also making Shrimp & Pepper Fritters -- which can be fulling. I'm guessing 3-4 per person for them.

any suggestions would be appreciated.

Also Robin I'll need to heat the fritters on a cookie sheet prior to serving -- will that be okay??
And use your grill (new??) for the kebabs.

Thanks!
:D

[robinf]

I can't believe the luau is just one week away! I am starting to get excited. Alan is busy sprucing things up outside.

Pam - The grill and oven are yours! To be honest, I don't think I have cookie sheets but I do have jelly roll pans (which I use for everything). If they'll work for you, you are welcome to use them. We went out looking for grills today. I can't make up my mind! Any suggestions?

Directions are in the works. I have a set for you "northerners". Kathy - I am not sure which works best for you - via Rte 70 or Rte 35. Both are fairly easy.

Karen J - I live a bit further down 71 from the Broadway Grill. I'll direct you from there.

Just to double check - We will be 14, no one has any food allergies or dietary restrictions we need to worry about. Right?

I'll include my phone number in the directions. Give me a buzz if you have any questions.

- robin

[PamR]

Robin - the jelly roll pans will be fine.

As far as a grill - I understand Weber's are one of the best but they are $$$. We'll probably have to replace our grill next year and I think it will be a Weber.

any feedback on the amount of Appetizers I should make???

[SherylH]

Aloha, guys. Looking forward to Saturday. Robin, how are you for refrigerator space (I seem to recall that you might have 2)? All of my desserts will need refrigeration. Is that going to be a problem? I guess if you do not have room, I can put them in a cooler. Let me know. Also, I will need 11 minutes in an oven. Okay with you? I hope we have the same weather we had last weekend.

[robinf]

Sheryl -

Yes I do have two refrigerators and have been diligently working on emptying them out over the last few dyas. I will definately make sure I have space. Oven time should be no problem.

See you Saturday!

- robin

[Karen Arena]

Hi Everyone,

Robin, I do not know if you have sent out directions, but I have not received them yet. See you Saturday.

[robinf]

Karen -

I sent them out Sunday. I think I used your new address. I'll respond to your note about your new e-mail address and attach them. Let me know if this works.

- robin

[Karen Arena]

Robin, Got 'em. See you all tomorrow.

[KarenJ]

Robin-
I don't know if you'll check the boards again, but I never received any directions. If I don't hear from u by tomorrow, I will call.
Thanks.

[robinf]

It sounds like some of you had a problem with the directions. I will resend to all. They are the same as the ones I sent Saturday. Please let me know if you are still having a problem/ still do not have them.

- robin

[kathleen415]

We had a great time last night! Great food everyone! Thanks Robin and Alan. You have a beautiful home in a lovely setting, which made the evening even more enjoyable. Tim repeated "that was a really good fish, probably the best fish dish I've ever had" several times on the way home, so Robin we'll be looking for your posting on that recipe. Also, have you used any other fish, besides sea bass?
On to Oktoberfest -- we're keeping the date of September 22nd, even though Karen A. may not be able to make it, because of conflicts with dates throughout October. Here's how things break out so far:
Appetizers: Karen
Soup or First Course: ?
Salad and Bread: ?
Entree: Kathy, probably Apricot stuffed Pork Loin
Side Dishes: Sheryl
Dessert: Robin
As you all know, my idea of Fruit, Nuts, and Cheese didn't work out, so any one else have any idea for a seventh course? Should we make it changeable based on the cuisine, like if we do Italian again we could do a pasta course, or, we could always have a fish course, or, we could do beverages like the rum punch last night and the margaritas last time? Any ideas?
See you next time.

[robinf]

Thank you all for coming last night. I spent the week crossing my fingers for good whether and I guess the inconvenience paid off. Alan's only complaint this morning was that there were not enough leftovers!

Below is the recipe for the fish. I am glad you enjoyed it.

I did end up with a couple of "new" kitchen utensils - a Tupperware container with an aqua top and basting brush (I think it may be yours, Pam), a pair of white tongs, and a Faberware ladle. Please let me know who these belong to so I can get them back to you.

We are looking forward to Oktoberfest. I have already started researching desserts. So far, I learned that almost all them include lots of whipped cream - YUM.

Thanks again for coming.

- robin



* Exported from MasterCook *

Miso Marinated Chilean Sea Bass

Recipe By :Rick Moonen
Serving Size : 0 Preparation Time :0:00
Categories :

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 oranges
1 cup orange juice -- fresh squeezed is best
1/2 cup light brown sugar
3/4 cup sake
1 1/4 cups light miso
1 tablespoon sambal olek
4 fish fillets

To prepare marinade: Remove zest from 1 orange. In small saucepan, combine zest, juice and brown sugar. Bring to boil, then lower heat and add sake, miso, and chili paste. Simmer for 10 minutes stirring occasionally to melt miso. Remove from pan and cool quickly. After cooling, place fish in marinade, let remain 48 hours.

To cook fish: Remove from marinade and remove most of it. Broil fish until done and a rich brown.


Source:
"NYT 1/24/1999


NOTES : The original recipe had you marinate the fish for 48 hours. I've done it for as long as 3 days and as short as 4 hours. The less time you marinate, the less intense the flavor. Longer marinating also changes the texture, making it firmer. I marinated the fish we had last night for 24 hours. I've used the marinade for salmon and tuna, with shorter marinating times.

[Karen Arena]

Thanks Robin and Alan and everyone for last night. The food was wonderful and the setting beautiful. John and I had a great time.

I hould know early during the weekif we will be able to make Oktoberfest. Are we picking courses based on my attendance, because I thought that I was doing desserts? It doesn't matter to me, but I think I missed something.

Robin, the ladle is mine, but no rush in getting it back.

Thanks again!

[KarenJ]

Thanks Robin and Alan, we enjoyed spending time at your home and as always, the company and the food were terrific. Thanks for the recipe. Glenn also commented on the fish. The white tongs are mine. Looks like I'll have to spring for another pair at the $ store. I hate to be a pain, but I'd like to change my course to soup if its not too late.

Robin, give me a call any time. I'll be happy to bring my daughter over any time to meet you guys. Talk to you soon

[SherylH]

Another perfect event! Thanks Robin and Alan for doing a great job hosting. Your home was lovely and, if you ever need a house sitter, let me know. Robin, I am glad you posted the fish recipe; I have been raving about it all weekend and can't wait to try it myself. What is and where can I get the ingredient sambal olek? Pam, I would love to try those fritters again too. Can you e-mail me that recipe.

Looking forward to researching my side dishes for September, and I hope I can get John moving on brewing some beer. See you all then.

[PamR]

Don & I had a great time!
Thanks to Robin and Alan for being great hosts. You have a beautiful home.
Yes Robin the tupperware container and basting brush are mine. I'll let you know about getting it back. Maybe we can wait 'til September or we can stop by and get next time we're in the area.

For Oktoberfest I'd like to take the salad and bread course. If we're short a course maybe I can do the salad and someone else can do the bread?
Let me know.

I'll have to start searching for ideas.

It was great to see everyone -- looking forward to September 22nd!

[Stefanie]

Greg & I had a wonderful time Sat. nite. Everyone outdid themselves again!! Pam - I must get that fritter recipe. Thanks to Robin and Alan for hosting...their home is beautiful!!

For Oktoberfest, we'll do soup and homemade bread. Glen and Karen's Aloha bread just made me want to do bread next time.

[Stefanie]

Oops!! I guess we'll be making bread. So Pam and Karen don't bring any to go with your soup and salad.

[robinf]

For Oktoberfest, I'll take desserts if Karen A can't make it. Otherwise, I'll come up with something since it looks like all the other courses are taken - maybe some additional appetizers and a beverage (other than beer).

Pam - I'd love the fritter recipe as well. I don't usually like fried foods but those were great. The sauces went with them perfectly.


Thanks again to everyone for coming and cooking. I declare the supper an unqualified success!


- robin

[PamR]

Hi all!
Here's the fritter receipe I got from cooking.com:

Corn, Shrimp and Pepper Fritters
Source: Far East Cafe
Makes about 24 fritters

Corn was introduced to Indonesia by Spanish colonists in the seventeenth century. It proved as agriculturally viable as rice in some parts of the archipelago. A favorite
Indonesian street-food snack, corn fritters have an addicting aroma that lingers long after they are cooked.


2 cups corn kernels (from about 3 large ears)
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined and coarsely chopped
2 shallots, finely chopped
1 small green or red bell pepper, or 1/2 of each, seeded, deribbed and finely chopped
1 fresh small red chili pepper, seeded and finely minced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 egg
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons water
Peanut or corn oil for frying
Sriracha sauce for dipping, or a squeeze of lime or lemon juice


In a food processor fitted with the metal blade, process the corn into a coarse paste. (Do not purée.) Scrape the corn into a large bowl. Add the shrimp, shallots, bell
pepper, chili, garlic and egg; mix well. In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, coriander, cumin, salt and water. Add to the corn mixture and mix well.

(I noticed that the mixture was kind of runny so I added come corn meal)

In a large, heavy frying pan over medium-high heat, pour in oil to a depth of at least 1 inch and heat to about 375 degrees F. on a deep-frying thermometer.
Drop a few generous tablespoonfuls of the corn mixture into the oil, leaving enough space for each fritter to spread.
Fry until golden brown and crisp on the underside, about 1 minute.
Turn over and continue to fry until brown and crisp on the second side, about 1 minute longer. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fritters to paper towels to drain.
Place on a platter and keep warm while frying the remaining fritters.

I used a deep fryer - and a generous teaspoon and cooked fritters for about 3 minutes for the party. I also doubled the recipe.
I originally tried recipe using a generous tablespoon and cooked fritters for about 4 minutes
in the deep fryer.

Serve the fritters hot or at room temperature with Sriracha sauce or lime or lemon juice.

Reprinted by permission of Weldon Owen. All rights reserved.

Makes about 24 fritters

ENJOY!

[PamR]

Hey Karen A -- can I get the recipe for your gazpacho? It was wonderful and Don really liked it too (I have a hard time getting him to eat veggies so this would be a good way to do that!)

- thanks

P.S...
Sheryl -- just wanted to say that your desserts were great. And your presentation was
very creative (especially the coconuts!)

[Karen Arena]

Hello everyone,

Thank you for trying to accomodate me, but we won't be able to attend Oktoberfest. I think it will be too much running around, plus I will have to transport my course all day, which could be pretty difficult. I am sorry that I will have to miss it. Please don't vote me out of the Supper Club!

Depending upon what time we get done at my Mom's and my energy level, I'd like to stop by Kathy's on our way home, just to say hello. Please send me directions and phone number as well. We'll call from the road if that's a possibility.

Pam - you can find the Gazpacho recipe at www.cuisinemagazine.com/recipes/gazpacho.html. If you have trouble accessing it, let me know, and I'll post it.

Karen

[Stefanie]

Karen, sorry you won't be able to make it for the Oktoberfest. Since it looks like noone is doing appetizers, and Greg and I always seem to be the first guests, we'll do appetizers.

[PamR]

Hi All!

Here are some thoughts for salads for the Oktoberfest:

Schnittbohnensalat (Green-Bean Salad)
Rohkostsalat (Cabbage Fruit Salad With Sour-cream Dressing)
German Cucumber Salad
Braised Red Cabbage and Apples

Does anyone not like cabbage??? If so I'll go with recipes without ....

Sheryl -- I'm assuming you'll be doing German Potato Salad for a side. If not - I can make, let me know.

[SherylH]

Hi everyone. Pam, I have not really decided on my sides yet and need to do more research to find some that I think everyone will like and that will go with the pork. Some of the salads you mentioned seemed like sides, so you and I will have to work closely together to make sure we don't duplicate. Give me a few days to look into this and then I will let you know. Were you going to make all of those you mentioned? I was actually thinking of the cabbage/apple one too. I will let you know some of my ideas in a few days. Hope everyone is well...and Karen, I hope you do stop by that night.

[PamR]

Sheryl
Good idea -- let's coordinate our dishes.
I think there's a thin line between sides and salads anyway.
I wasn't planning on making everything I mentioned, just threw them out as possiblities.

There's no rush -- take your time on deciding and we'll take it from there.

Have fun!

Any news on John making the beer???????

[kathleen415]

So Oktoberfest is working out like this:
Appetizers and Bread - Stefanie
Soup/First Course - Karen J
Salad - Pam
Entree - Kathy
Side Dishes - Sheryl
Dessert - Robin

Karen A. I'll make sure to send you directions from the south, and you guys should just get here when you can.

I've been doing a lot of sorbets the last few weeks and I found a great recipe for a pear sorbet I'd like to serve.

I have double ovens so oven space is available.

Looking forward to seeing you all.

[PamR]

Hi Everyone --

It was very hard to find our "thread" !!!!

Anyway -- Hope everyone is well.

Sheryl have you decided on sides yet??
I'd really like to know if I need to do more research .

I'd like to make the green-bean salad and/or the cucumber salad.
And I can make greman potato salad, if you're not.
You said you wanted to make the cabbage/apple salad.

Please let me know -- thanks.

[SherylH]

Believe it or not, this German theme is not as easy as it looks. Pam, the bean/cucumber salad and potatoe salad are all yours. I am hoping to make some sort of cabbage/apple dish and, possibly spetzele (if I can figure out whether it will transport without getting all stuck together). If not spetzele, something else...

[PamR]

Here's a web site I found for German Recipes that may help ........

http://www.geocities.com/NapaValley/6579/page2.html

[KarenJ]

Cheryl-

Please post to let everyone know you're okay.

KarenJ

[SherylH]

Kathy, thanks for the call...and Karen, the post. Both John and I are okay. It was quite an experience for both of us, and it will take some time to forget it all. Anyway....we are happy to be safe and look forward to seeing everyone next week.

[kathleen415]

Sometime soon I'll be sending out emails with directions. I'm making the pork loin with an apple and prune stuffing instead of apricots. What does everyone need vis-a-vis oven, stovetop, refrigerator??
Karen J. what kind of soup are you making - well actually what kind of bowl does it go in?
Hopefully it will warm up enough so we can have appetizers by the pool. I wasn't quite ready for 50' weather today.
Looking forward to seeing everyone.

[KarenJ]

Actually, Glenn is making the soup called Riesling Soup which is a creamy turnip and leek soup with Riesling wine. I'm sure any type of bowl will be fine. I had nothing to do with this one, but I'll be there to do the eating! See you soon.

[robinf]

I can't believe Oktoberfest is just a week away. I am having a lot of fun recipe testing. Right now, I am planning on making a black forest cake and a linzer tart. The cake will need to be refrigerated but the tart should be fine left out.

See you all Saturday!

- robin

[PamR]

Hey Robin-
Can you please bring our tupperware container that we left at your house?
Thanks!

Kathy - I'll need refrigerator space for the salads, I hope that's not a problem -- if so let me know and we'll pack them in a cooler.

Sheryl - Are we going to have some Oktoberfest beer to sample???

Looking forward to seeing everyone!!!

[robinf]

Pam - No problem. I'll bring your Tupperware and every else's stuff that I still have. We are looking forward to Saturday.

- robin

[PamR]

Don & I would like to volunteer our house for the next supper.

Maybe we talk about dates and theme on Saturday?

So start thinking .................. and bring your calanders (or palm pilots) ...............

[SherylH]

Hi, guys. Unfortunately, John did not get around to making any homemade beer (I nagged until I knew I had better stop.) We have a great beverage store near us, and I am sure we will be able to find some great Oktoberfest beers there...and some German wines too. Kathy, when you e-mail the directions, please do not send mine to the office....I am still at home. Please send them to our home e-mail: jrforbesnj@hotmail.com. Thanks, and Robin, black forest cake is my all-time favorite. I can't wait...mmmmm

[kathleen415]

The window treatment girl called yesterday to postpone hanging my new window treatments on Friday (she's only had the fabric since July!), so everyone bring sunglasses if it's at all sunny. I'm serious, about half of us will be blinded from 5pm to 7pm. She can join my woodwork guy in a circle of hell - he can't possibly get my moldings and jambs done before mid-October, maybe November!!!

I finally sent out the directions to our partially finished home tonight. It's the first time I put together a group on email, so please email me if you didn't get it.

Tim picked up 3 different Octoberfest beers, Sam Adams, Brooklyn Brewery, and Pete's Wicked, as well as Heineken Dark.

There's a restaurant in New Brunswick, Old Man Rafferty's, that has a motto that I'm misquoting here, to the effect of "it's an uncertain world, so eat dessert first." I've fork in hand for the linzer torte and black forest cake!

See you all soon.

[robinf]

I received the directions no problem.

Uh oh - if we are going to eat dessert first I better make sure I am on time (which is something I am not known for).

-robin

[Stefanie]

Kathy and Tim, let me be the first to say how wonderful the dinner was last nite...the food, the company, and last but not least your hospitality. Your home is spacious and warm, we can't wait to see the "finished' view next time.

Robin, we missed you and Alan, but your cake was fabulous!!! Please send me the recipe. I hope your feeling better soon.

Karen and John, we missed you guys too. Let us know what's going on...has the baby boy arrived yet?

Just a reminder...the next official supper club date is Jan12th at Pam and Don's in Manalapan, theme "Comfort Food". Greg and I will be bringing sides (like garlic mashed potatoes).

Also we will be getting together for pizza and beer on Nov. 9th (Friday) at 7:30pm at Pete & Elda's in Neptune. Hope everyone can make it. As the date gets closer, we'll get a better head count and try to make reservations.

Everyone take care and stay safe!!!

[Karen Arena]

Hi All,

Sorry we missed it. Sounds like it was a great success as usual. Is this where we are posting for the Jan. 12th date or have we moved to a new location? Please let me know what courses are open, so I can start thinking about what to bring.

Kathy - I sent you an email yesterday morning, but it came back (I used the wrong address). We didn't leave my Mom's till after 11:00 PM, so I'm glad I didn't commit to making it to both places.

Still no baby yet, but we'll keep you posted.

Karen

[SherylH]

Kathy & Tim--thanks so much for hosting. John and I had a wonderful evening. Everyone did a great job with their dishes. I wish January 12th wasn't so far away.

As discussed, I am grabbing desserts. What says comfort food better than chocolate cake? Nothing! (Well, maybe my carrot cake will be a close second, so we will have to have both.)

See everyone for pizza in November!

[Karen Arena]

Has anyone chosen appetizers for Jan. 12th? If not, I'd like to grab that course.

[kathleen415]

Thanks everyone for coming and cooking and complimenting. We all do such a good job together.
Karen, I have a soup ladle that I think is yours.
Robin, so sorry you guys couldn't make it though many thanks to Alan for dropping off your cake.
We're doing soup in January.
See you all at Pete and Elda's.

[KarenJ]

Thanks Kathy and Tim for a great job hosting and thanks everyone for such an enjoyable evening.
Kathy, the ladle is not mine, we borrowed it from you!
Karen, I had taken the appetizers that night because it was something I hadn't done yet.
Also looking forward to January, but not to the weather that comes with it. Hopefully, that "comfort food" will do its job.
See you all in November.

[KarenJ]

P.S. Hey Robin, your dessert was awesome. I'd hate to see how you bake when you're well!!

[PamR]

Kathy & Tim -- Don & I had a great time! Ditto on everyone's posts. Can't wait to see your home when finished!!! Thanks for having us

Robin I hope you're feeling better. It was so good of you to send your dessert -- which was fantastic!!

Karen A -- we missed you & John. You know Don & I are so close to you if you need anything (especially after baby comes), please let us know .....

So January 12th at our house -- the courses taken do far are:

Soup - Kathy
Appetizers - Karen J
Sides - Stefanie
Main Course - Pam
Dessert - Sheryl

that leaves what - Salad and Bread, Have I missed anything? Does anyone have ideas on another course we can add?

We have plenty of time to think about it...
I wish we didn't have to wait so long .....

Anyway we'll seee everyone for pizza!

[kathleen415]

Karen J are you sure the soup ladle isn't yours because it's absolutely not mine - did anyone else bring a white ladle?
Karen A what is your correct email? let us know when the baby comes!!

[Karen Arena]

If the ladle in question is a white Farberware, it belongs to me. I left it at Robin's luau.

My email is gourmet_on_the_go@yahoo.com.

I guess I will take salad and bread (although I am not much of a baker - perhaps motherhood will change that?)

We can always add more sides as a course, as long as the cooks coordinate their dishes.

We saw the doctor today; he thinks I will go this week. Keep your fingers crossed and we'll keep you posted.


Karen

[robinf]

It sounds like we missed a really great time. Thank you all for your well wishes - I'm feeling much better. I'm glad everyone enjoyed the cake. Alan and Jordana are having fun eating the chocolate cake that should have been the Black Forest cake. I just couldn't muster the strenth to whip cream and cook cherries. Maybe next time.

Both the next supper and the pizza party are on the calendar. If I did my math right, we can make both of them.

As for the Comfort Foods - it looks like all the courses are taken. Pam - do you need help with main courses? If not, what do we need more of (as if we never have enough food!).

Karen - Best Wishes. I hope your dr. is right but in my experience, they have no idea what is going on. I had a dr. appointment at 10:00 in the morning, at which time my docotor told me there was no way I'd be having the baby any time soon. In fact, I had to make an appointment to be induce a week later. I was in labor by 2:00 that afternoon!

Can't wait to see everyone in Novemeber.

- robin

[PamR]

Robin-
Why don't we wait and talk when we get together in November?

I think we'll all have a better idea what we're going to do.

But if no one needs help with their course then I'll be glad to share the main course with you!

:)
TO EVERYONE:

Can everyone think of their favorite "comfort food" when it comes to the main course and post it?
This way I can get ideas.

THANKS!

[Karen Arena]

Good morning. Our bundle of joy came a little early...
Eric Maximos was born on Thursday, September 27th at 3:12 pm. He was 7 pounds, 9 ounces and 21 inches long. We are all doing great and happy to be home. Just wanted to let you all know; now it's nap time. Bye.

[SherylH]

Karen---CONGRATULATIONS. Hope you, John and Eric are doing well. Have fun with him and keep us posted.

[Karen Arena]

Do salad and bread go together, or are they different courses? If they are different, I'll do the bread. If courses are still needed, perhaps someone can take salad. If they go together, I'll do both, but would like to know so that I can start looking for recipes. Hope that everyone had a great holiday.

Sheryl - thanks for your well wishes. We are all doing well and starting to get into a groove.

[PamR]

Hi Everyone! Hope you all had a good Thanksgiving!

I just want to verify the courses for our next Dinner themed "Comfort Foods":
Soup - Kathy
Bread & Salad - Karen A
Appetizers - Karen J & Robin
Sides - Stefanie
Main Course - Pam
Dessert - Sheryl

Could everyone please let me know what their favorite "comfort food" is when it comes to the
main course and post it?
This way we can get ideas and it will hopefully make it easier to coordinate the sides and salad.

Thanks!

[KarenJ]

Believe it or not, my favorite comfort food is the ones we just had last week. Turkey, sweet potatoes, gravy, rolls, etc., etc. I love this so much I have to make it at least once over the summer. I also like pot roast, but turkey is definitely my favorite!:p

[SherylH]

Meat loaf, mashed potatoes, pot roast and mac and cheese sound good to me. Looking forward to this.

[Karen Arena]

Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Chicken Pot Pie, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Baked Macaroni and Cheese, French Onion Soup, Biscuits and Gravy, Stuffed Cabbage, Shepherd's Pie, Eggplant Parm...just to name a few.

[robinf]

My all time favorite comfort food has got to be CHOCOLATE!

Others include macaroni with sour cream and cottage cheese, oatmeal with brown sugar, cinnamon and raisins, split pea soup,
PB and J on toast.

I guess I'm not big on main courses.


- robin

[kathleen415]

Farfalle or gnocchi with lots of butter and pecorino romano cheese, beef stroganoff, or Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia ice cream, and also lots of Shrimp with lots of garlic and a little linguine.

I was thinking of making the Golden Oyster Soup in Cooking Light (either Nov or Dec). Would that be ok with everyone?

Looking forward to seeing you all. How was Pete and Elda's?

[PamR]

Kathy-

Sorry - But I don't like oysters, so count me out for soup.

Pam

[KarenJ]

I don't want Pam to be all alone in this - I don't like oysters either, but if everyone else likes oysters I can skip the soup.

[Karen Arena]

I'm not a fan of oysters, either. Pam - have you decided on a main course yet? Just trying to coordinate salad and bread.

Hope that everyone is doing well and has a very happy holiday and safe New Year.

[PamR]

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!

Okay for main course -- I've got it narrowed down to the following:
Meat Loaf
Pot Roast
Beef Stew or Beef Stroganoff or Beef Burgundy
Lasagna (one of my favorites)

I have off thru New Years so I'll be experimenting with recipes (lucky Don!).

I'm planning on making 2 of the above ...

Any feedback on the above courses would be appreciated.

Based on the past posts from you all I guess everyone has a different idea on what "comfort food" is to them! So -- I'm having a hard time deciding ...

Anyway -- I'll let you know my final picks ASAP.
I hope this helps you Karen???

Haven't heard from Stefanie, though .........

[Karen Arena]

Here's my vote: Meatloaf and Lasagna! Thanks Pam - I can figure out what I'm doing now. Looking forward to it!

[robinf]

Any of them is fine with me but I know Alan would vote for pot roast.

Karen J and I are coordinating appetizers. I'm leaning toward an hors d'ouevre platter with a bunch of the classics our mothers made - pigs in a blanket, stuffed mushrooms, cheese ball, and the like. Let me know if you have any favorites.


Happy Holidays Everyone!

- robin

[SherylH]

Hope everyone has been enjoying the holidays. I am thinking of carrot cake, chocolate cake (must have chocolate) and something else...possibly rice pudding, so save room for dessert!!!

Happy New Year!!!!

[kathleen415]

Unfortunately, I have to have some minor abdominal surgery on 1/8. I'm supposed to be off my feet and resting for weeks!!! So, I think we're not going to be able to make it on 1/12. Sorry - so the soup course is up for grabs - but with meat loaf and lasagna on the menu, soup is probably extra anyway.

[PamR]

Kathy - sorry you & Tim can't make it ..... hope your surgery goes okay.
Please post and let us know how you're doing!

So .... does anyone want to do soup??

But, I guess Kathy is right - we probably don't need soup, unless Karen J or Robin want to take since you're both doing Appetizers.

What do you guys think????

[robinf]

Kathy - I am sorry to hear that you will not be able to make the next dinner. I hope all goes smoothly and your recovery is swift.

I don't mind doing soup instead of appetizers but I also think that it may be a bit much. To be honest - I love appetizers and often prefer them to a real main course for dinner.

Anyone have any thoughts?

- robin

[PamR]

I agree with Robin I'd rather have more appetizers instead of soup ........

We'll try to send out directions to our house sometime this weekend

What kind of refrigerator space do people need??

Does anyone need to use the oven??
The Meatloaf will take about 1 & 1/2 hours and the Lasagna about an hour.

Looking forward to seeing everyone!

[SherylH]

Kathy, sorry you guys won't be able to join us. I hope your doctor realizes what you are sacrificing by having your surgery conflict with our dinner. Feel better soon.

My opinion on the soup course, is to skip it and add to the appetizers. See everyone next week.

[Karen Arena]

Kathy, sorry that you can't make it.

More appetizers sounds good to me.

I will need the oven for about 15 minutes to warm the bread. The salad could go in the fridge, but should be ok if left out till dinner.

Looking forward to it!

[Stefanie]

Happy New Year!! I finally checked the board - WOW! Sorry Tim & Kathy can't make it, hope all goes well. Any or the main courses sound great, although we've had lasagna two weekends in a row ( I guess everyone loves to make lasagna for a crowd). I was definitely doing mac n cheese and garlic mashed potatoes. I guess I should do a veggie too?? Or is salad enough for everyone? I'm glad Sheryl is making chocolate cake, now that's my idea of comfort food. Can't wait to see everyone.

P.S. How was St. Lucia Karen?

[KarenJ]

Wow, Stephanie - you're not the only one that's been out of the loop! I usually get notified when there's a post, but I should of expected the board activity to heat up by now. Kathy and Tim, we'll really miss you. I know Glenn and I look forward to seeing everyone because it's a while between dinners. Not that anyone cares at this late date, but I'm voting for appetizers as well. I'm with Robin - I could make a whole meal out of them.

St. Lucia was great (and warm). We were totally pampered we're and having trouble getting back to reality. See everyone Saturday.

Pam, I need the oven for the crab dip (15-20 min) and the top of the stove for the cocktail meatballs (to warm them)

[PamR]

HI ALL!

Okay I've sent Directions to everyone via e-mail.
Please let me know if anyone hasn't received.

Looking forward to Dinner!

See everyone around 5:00pm!

[Karen Arena]

Hi Everyone!
Robin and Kathy - sorry you couldn't make it. I hope that all is well with both of you...

Everything was fabulous as usual. Thanks Pam and Don for hosting. I'm sorry that we couldn't stay for dessert, but Sheryl - both the carrot cake and chocolate cake were OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD!

Thanks again everyone and we're looking forward already to the next time!

Karen

[KarenJ]

Thanks Pam and Don for your great hosting of another wonderful evening. Everything was delicious - I couldn't believe I was hungry the next day. We missed you Kathy/Tim/Robin/Alan and I hope when we meet next, we can all be together. Glenn and I will be hosting on April 6 if there are no objections to that date. We were trying to avoid the holidays. The theme will be Cajun/Creole. Karen A, I think I remember you were calling dibs on a course, but I don't remember what it was, so post your choice.

We were talking about a "girls night out." I don't know if everyone's up for that or it was just the Long Island Iced Teas talking! I have a couple of dates - Feb. 23 or March 2. Let me know if either of these dates are good for you.

If we're going to meet for dinner out I guess we have to talk about that date also.

[SherylH]

Pam and Don, thanks again for being the perfect host and hostess. John and I had a great time. All the food was very comforting (and delicious)....so I think our mission was achieved. Missed you guys that couldn't make it. Hope everyone is doing okay. I would like to call dibs on salad and bread. I have a Paul Prudhoume (spelling??) and an Emerill cookbook, so I will be looking through them for ideas. The date is down in my book. I think we definitely need a dinner or something before 4/6...that is so far away. Nonni's or Nonna's (that Karen A was talking about) sounds good. Anybody game?

[Stefanie]

Pam & Don thanks for a wonderful evening. Those iced teas were wicked and I'm still stuffed!! We missed having everyone there. I'd like to grab the appetizer course for our next get together. I think we definitely need to do dinner before then - Nonna's sounds great! How about sometime in March??

Pam - I'll get my grater next time we meet.

[PamR]

Dinner was great -- everyone did a great job! (like always)
Don & I had fun hosting

We missed you Robin & Alan, Kathy & Tim -- hope you're doing okay.

I'd like to call dibs on dessert.
Not sure what cajun/creole desserts are yet, though!

Don & I are out of town the weekends of 2/23 & 3/2 ....

[Karen Arena]

Dinner out in March sounds great. I need to check with John for available dates.

Stef, are we sharing the appetizer course, or what? If not, I'll do a side dish.

[kathleen415]

Sounds like we missed a great time. I'm doing ok but it's very hard to just rest. 4/6 is ok for us -- we'll take side dishes and we also have an Emeril cookbook or probably three so will have fun researching. We're in Florida from March 7 through 24, but maybe can get together earlier.

[robinf]

It sounds like we missed a really great time. What did everyone end up making?

April 6 works for us for the next dinner and I/we would love to get together before if possible. If dinner doesn't work, how about brunch one Sunday?

If I followed everyone, it looks like most of the courses may already be taken:

Stef/Karen A - Appetizers
Sheryl - Salad and bread
Kathy - Sides
Pam - Desserts
Karen J - Main Course

I think that leaves soup or doubling up on something. Do I have that right?

- robin

[PamR]

Has a date been set for dinner/brunch yet???

Don & I are out of town the weekends of 2/23 & 3/2
and our March Calendar is starting to fill up so ...
if someone could let us know that would great!

[Stefanie]

I think brunch is a great idea Robin! Anyone else up for it? How about March 10th?

Karen A - you way ahead of me for the next dinner, but sharing the appetizer course is OK by me!!

[KarenJ]

I usually get notified via email when there's been a post, but for some reason it didn't happen this time. I'm glad I checked. It's very possible no one else is looking at the board. We're ok for 3/10 as well. I don't know all the places where they have a brunch, but I've been to Peterson's on the border of Brick/Brielle. It's on the river which is nice and I think it's around $15 per person. Let's try to contact everyone else soon!

[PamR]

We're okay for March 10th too.
Peterson's sounds good we've also been there for both dinner and brunch and it's always been good.
Karen - do they take reservations for brunch??

[SherylH]

Hi Guys. John and I will have to pass on 3/10. I am going to see the Full Monty with a friend and brunch in the City that day. Enjoy!

[robinf]

The 10th works for me too. Is this girl's only or mixed? It doesn't matter but makes a difference in my need for a babysitter.

Also, I am still not sure what course(s) we need for our next dinner. I think soup or doubling up on something were the options. Any preferences? I'd like to start researching (and recipe testing).

- robin

[KarenJ]

This is couples Robin - we never got around to talking about a "girl's night out". If everyone is interested, we could talk about it on the 10th. Glenn and I had our "reception" at Peterson's and they took our reservations at that time. I just need to be sure that's ok with everyone and I'll be happy to make the arrangements.

[Stefanie]

The 10th works for us too! Greg and I were wondering if we could make this a "family" gathering. Our children love to eat out and are generally well behaved (especially if we bring crayons and such with us). We thought it would be a nice change and a chance to meet everyone elses families too! What do you guys think?? We're open to any suggestions either way.

[robinf]

Bringing kids works for me!

[KarenJ]

It's fine with me also!

[Karen Arena]

John, Eric and I will be there. Please just let us know what time and where it is. Thanks.

[robinf]

Jordana, Alan and I are planning on coming too.

We will be in Florida next week and won't have access to the board until we get back. Assuming that there are no major weather problems (or we're not offered big bucks to get bumped) we will back Saturday afternoon.

See you Sunday

- robin

[KarenJ]

We have reservations for Petersons for 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. It will be $15.95 for adults and $8.95 for children plus an automatic 20% gratuity because of the size of our party.

Those of you coming from the north, take either Rt. 33 or Rt. 18 to Rt. 34 south. Make a right onto Rt. 70 west (it is a large intersection). After you cross the bridge over the river, make the first right at the light and Petersons is directly on your right.

See you all on Sunday!

[KarenJ]

Pam and Don will have trouble making it at 10:30. The restaurant gave me a choice of 10:30 or 12:00. Assuming I can still get 12:00, does anyone have any strong objections to changing the time? Please let me know ASAP!!!

[Stefanie]

Noon doesn't really work for us. Sorry!

[PamR]

Well it looks like Don & I will not be able to go to Brunch.

We can't make it that early.

Have fun all - see you in April!

[Karen Arena]

I am sorry to have to cancel, but we've have had a family situation come up and we won't be able to make brunch on Sunday.

[KarenJ]

Well, Stephanie and Robin. It looks like our brunch group has become very small. Maybe we should try to reschedule for next weekend. What do you think?

[KarenJ]

Oops, I just remembered that we're committed for a "family thing" next Sunday. If everyone else is available, I guess we'll be the ones to skip this one.

[Karen Arena]

Unbeknownst to me, my husband has committed us to another function on April 6th. Regretfully, we not be able to attend dinner at Karen J’s.

Did anyone get together on Sunday, or is a get-together rescheduled?

[robinf]

Karen - I am sorry to hear you won't be able to make it to the next dinner. I think the last time I saw you was before the baby was born. I have a present for him that I hope he won't outgrow before I can get it to you.

Since Karen A can't make it, and since I didn't have a course yet, I'll do appetizers with Stefanie if that is ok with everyone.

- robin

[KarenJ]

Well, I guess we're down to the wire - so I'll be emailing directions to those of you who need them. If you don't receive them by Friday, please let me know! I will keep checking the board up until Saturday. If you need to get in touch with us my number is (732) 556-0864. Let me know if you have any special needs as far as cooking or storage. I only have one refrigerator, but will work on emptying it during the week. I hope you're all looking forward to this as much as we are! See everyone Saturday.

[kathleen415]

Karen, I need the stovetop for 25 min or so to make "dirty rice". Is the time still 5pm on Saturday?

[KarenJ]

Yes, Kathy we're still beginning at 5. Thanks for the info about the stove. Our dishes are both cooked on the range, so that helps us with our timing.

[robinf]

Sorry it has taken me so long to respond. I've been debating among a couple of appetizers. I am still not 100% sure but will definately need the oven/broiler for about 10 minutes.

See you all Saturday.

- robin

[SherylH]

We're looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday. I will just need some frig space for the salad greens. Not sure if my bread will need to be heated or not, but that would only be a few minutes. See you all at 5:00.

[Stefanie]

I finally decided what appetizer I'm bringing (nothing like waiting to the last minute!). Don't need anything special. Got the directions - thanks, see ya tomorrow.

[Karen Arena]

Hi. Sorry we missed it...hope that everyone had a great time. Robin started a new thread, but in case it is not noticed -
Can someone please fill me in on location and theme of next gathering? Also what courses are available? Thanks!

[SherylH]

Karen and Glenn, thanks for hosting what turned out to be another great night. It is so much fun to try so many different dishes that I normally wouldn't make. John thought this was the best food we have had so far. Karen and John--we missed you. The next event is at Stef and Greg's house--back to the beginning. We are doing all hors d'oeuvre's with complementary wine/cocktail/champagne. Sounds fun, doesn't it. The date is June 1.

[Stefanie]

We have good news and bad news. The good news is that we are probably moving...the bad news is that our closing date is June 1st!! Everything has happened so fast that we can hardly think straight. Unfortunately that means we can't have the next shindig unless we do it soon (mid May) or later (July/August). Let me know what everyone wants to do.