What happened to the practice of conversation and the art of debate?  Why are certain topics off limits at all times? For some reason we are no longer happy with a simple exchange of information and learning from one another; now someone has to win.
Political correctness, self-importance, ignorance - cast these things away.  Research what you do not know, trust and ask those around you for their thoughts, and accept that you may be wrong.
Conversation is not a competition, but an opportunity to learn.
Who wants to sit down for coffee?

It's Cold Out There - Chili Will Help

A little something to case the cold away

1 lb ground burger
2 or 3 Sausages
1.5 red onions (diced)
2 cans crushed tomatoes
2-3 hot peppers ( depending on type ) - or good hot sauce
2 Red or yellow bell peppers, cored and cut into quarters
3 whole carrots, peeled and cut into 1in lengths
I can red or black beans (Goya)
Beer
cumin, S&P

Strain beans well and hold

Heat oven to 450 - put a skillet or roasting pan in the oven to heat with some olive oil in it.
Once hot, add the bell peepers and carrots to roast (10 - 15min) a little char is good.
Remove, cool and dice.

In another pot, heat some oil and brown the burger & sausage, remove and set into a bowl.
In the same pot add the onions and cook in the rendered fat till tender

Add Beans and meat to the onions. Add the Crushed tomatoes and the browned bell peppers and carrots

Add the hot peppers (or sauce) and let it simmer together.

Enjoy

Setting Sail

Greetings all.
This will be a space where I will include my thoughts of the day, recipes, and other general wisdom.
As things get rolling, please leave your comments and topic suggestions (I can't do it alone).

Fall is certainly here in New England and it could be my favorite season.
Leaves turn, hockey begins, the meals get hardier, and we break out the brown liquors. Summer cuisine is wonderful, but everyone seems to linger at the dinner table as the evening air turns cold.
Time for roasted root vegetables, risotto, grilled whole tenderloin, double cut chops, and (Famous) White Bean Stew.
Go to the cellar and find that Zin you have been saving; may I suggest Hook&Ladder? Cut up some crusty bread and unwrap the Humboldt Fog. Welcome friends to sit by the fire while all the dinner flavors come together. Pour another glass and sit, say Grace (or not) and enjoy the food as well as the conversation. Remember the old times and laugh.
Take that fresh apple pie out of the oven and don't forget the sharp cheddar or vanilla ice cream. Scotch anyone? Port?
Thank you for sharing our table...

Cheers,
Toby