Such a fun class

This morning's canning class out at Twins Ace Hardware was great: great group, great energy, lots of fun all around. And, another good batch of Nanny's Cranberry Sauce put up and shared with others. I want to tell  you in a most sincere way (read: not because they hired or asked me to do this) that Twins is a great store. The staff couldn't be nicer or more helpful, the store is clean, bright and well-laid out. They've got a good selection of a whole host of things, and if they don't have something you're looking for, they'll order it or find you a good replacement. If ever you're in Fairfax or if you're just looking for a good hardware (and even more all-purpose than that) store, consider Twins!

Fabulous Friday fare

Y'all, I am telling you what: with this dinner, I realize I have mastered the pot roast. Damnation, this was great! I started with a top-notch sirloin tip roast from Springview Farms, an animal-welfare focused farm in Jeterville, VA, who raises its cattle on grass and roaming around outside and then slaughters them in the most humane way possible. I am truly grateful for farms like this: for folks who care about the animals who provide us with sustenance; for farmers who care about the land they work and who realize that the elements are mere parts of a greater whole on which we are all dependent and, as such, for which we should all feel an immense gratitude and responsibility. Anyway, I know the owners of this farm, and they are awesome. And this roast was awesome. It didn't take much: a good browning on all sides, some red wine, onions, thyme, bay leaves, broth and a number of hours in a low oven. Towards the end, I sauteed a mix of mushrooms in some oil and butter, seasoned them with pancetta and thyme, and stirred it all into the thickening gravy. Bellissimo!

For our sides, I decided to go simple with a sauced and parslied strozzapreti (an S-shaped pasta) and a raw kale salad dressed with a garlic and oil mash, some sherry vinegar, walnuts and sultanas. Truly a perfect and delicious dinner.

Canning class tomorrow!!

Tomorrow morning, from 10-11 am, at the Twins Ace Hardware on Main Street in Fairfax, VA, I'll be teaching a canning class focused on my Nanny's Cranberry Sauce: it's perfect for all the approaching holidays. Hope to see you there! Check my calendar for additional information.