Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month continues until October 15th so you still have time to celebrate!  I celebrated by going to the De Kalb Public Library in Doraville and conducting a cooking demo using various foods.  I had an interpreter with me and I should have made sure I had her name spellling correct, but she was wonderful! 

While I cooked, she talked about the differences between Spanish food, Mexican food, Latin American food, Caribbean food, and much more.  I learned a lot.  I made Yellow Rice with Black Beans and Corn, Chicken with Peppers, Onions and Tomatoes, Citrus Cooler drink and Lime Pudding. 

I always encourage people to use the recipes as a starting point.  Add what you enjoy or try some new things.  I used sweet bell peppers in the chicken since I was cooking for people I didn't know.  I love hot, spicy peppers.

I had peppers, onions, garlic, hot sauce from Mexico, olive oil from Spain, rice from Puerto Rico, sweetened condensed milk, pepper, orange juice, all wonderful flavors.

I like a good punch and have a hard time finding one that is refreshing and not too sweet.  The Citrus Cooler is perfect!

Citrus Cooler

• 6 cups cold water
• 4 cups orange juice
• 1 cup lime juice
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup grenadine

1. Combine ingredients in a large pitcher stirring until sugar dissolves.  Serve over ice, serves 10. 

I have been fortunate to work with Myguail who organized the programs with the libraries and invited people.  We had a great turnout today according to him and we had happy people sharing the meal.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage by cooking a new recipe, or try a new Cuban, Spanish, Mexican, etc restaurant.  Check out Buford Highway for restaurants and fun markets!

I am now going to go to make our dinner.  I am also very, very excited because I am leaving for vacation tomorrow!  I know I was just in New Orleans, but that was work even though it was lots of fun.  This is a real vacation. 

I'll be posting from the road hopefully.  I'll talk about my tours and of course meals.