A Tribute to New Orleans & The Saints

I had the pleasure of working in New Orleans for several years, and living there part-time for three.  New Orleans is not for everyone, with it's eclectic characters, humidity, and yes, sin, however I came to love it not for these reasons, but for it's community, it's spirit, and most of all it's food!


The Saints will be going to the Superbowl in the middle of the Mardi Gras season, and I can guess that the Carnival parades on that day will be sparsely attended, or you will find TVs on all the floats and large screens along the parade route.  And, they will be playing the Colts, whose quarterback, Peyton Manning, is a New Orleans son.  A very exciting and long-deserved occurrence for New Orleans and the Saints.

So, this year, I hope you all cheer for the Saints and cook up some good food for the Superbowl.  Cooking Up A Storm is a unique cookbook that was compiled by the New Orleans Times-Picayune after Hurricane Katrina.  Many people not only lost their homes and possessions, they lost their beloved recipes, so the newspaper started a recipe connection column to regather these lost treasures.  These are recipes that home cooks make, so if you're looking for chef food, try John Besh's latest cookbook, which I hear is very good.




Here's a quick drink recipe for Brandy Milk Punch that is very popular during Carnival in New Orleans.  You can even freeze it in milk jugs and take it to the parade with you for a slushy treat!




Brandy Milk Punch:
12 oz brandy or bourbon
4 C Half-and-half
1/4 C confectioner's sugar
2 t. vanilla extract
1/2 C heavy cream, whipped (optional for serving)


In large pitcher, stir together the liquor, half-and-half, confectioner's sugar and vanilla until the sugar is completely dissolved.  Refrigerate (or freeze) for 3 hours or overnight.  Serve with whipped cream, if desired.


Who Dat!  Geaux Saints!


The Real Housewife of Sheboygan County