Round Up: Cinco de Mayo Eats + Drinks.

Up until May 1999 I had heard of Cinco de Mayo, but never celebrated the day. That was my first year in Oklahoma and it became evident rather quickly that this wasn’t just another ordinary day. Restaurants host outdoor tent parties, people hold backyard fiestas and it’s all about the food and being together. With that in mind, I set about putting together this roundup of eats and drinks. (And oh, those lovely banners in the above photo are available here. via Simple Lovely)


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The Daily Eat: Mango Tart.


I have to admit that I had never tasted a fresh mango until a few years ago. That’s when my grandmother of all people introduced me to them. And all I can say is holy yummy sweetness! I hope you enjoy the recipes I have lined up for Mango Week!

I love how the mango is the star of this tart and only set off slightly with a bit of kiwi and layer of pastry cream. It looks so refreshing and light.

:: recipe and photo via Fresh from the Oven

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It’s Derby Time.

The 135th Kentucky Derby is tomorrow and I’ve put together a few links that are must-sees for anyone and everyone. Whether you’re throwing a derby party or it’s just you and a few friends, here are few link and ideas for Derby Day!

• the history and traditions of the Kentucky Derby (link)
• Derby style (link)
• the Mint Julep two ways from Joy the Baker
• recipes and libations from Chef Bobby Flay (link)
• pre-Derby party games to get in the spirit (link)
• the official Derby playlist (link)
• racing information (link)
• online betting (link)

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Mad Props: April.


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On the Rocks: Clover Club Cocktail.


The Clover Club Cocktail has quite a history dating back to at least 1911 and possibly before. Anything that’s hung around for that long has an obvious reason! Make sure to check out the other variations of this cocktail as well – The Royal Clover Club and Bitter Clover Leaf.

Ingredients:
– Juice of 1/2 lemon or lime
– 1/3 grenadine (1 part)
– 2/3 dry gin (2 parts)
– 1 egg white

Place all ingredients in cocktail shaker along with ice. Shake well and strain into glass.

Two quick notes on the use of raw eggs in cocktails: 1) There’s nothing to worry about as long as you use fresh eggs from a reliable source. I used fresh organic brown eggs. 2) When using egg whites in cocktail recipes, I prefer to do a dry shake (shake egg white by itself) first for 30 seconds to 1 minute in order to really froth the white, before adding the remaining ingredients and shaking again.

:: cocktail recipe and photo via Umami Mart

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