tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5660693519101588262024-03-12T17:33:33.975-07:00A Hoppy MediumVegetarian recipes and eats...all washed down with craft beer.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-88837347866329361912016-12-02T07:59:00.004-08:002016-12-02T07:59:52.248-08:00Beer Friday: PM Dawn by Trillium Brewing Company<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">On most Fridays, I'll share a beer I particularly enjoy, and think you might as well. This series will feature beers from all over the U.S. (and when we're lucky, the world). Cheers!</i><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3XV4ke_cpao/WEGaO-PxsiI/AAAAAAAADbE/KalJ2InVHHomT1MD9_eDcGD8mHBxxuQ3QCLcB/s1600/PMDawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="PM Dawn by Trillium Brewing Company | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3XV4ke_cpao/WEGaO-PxsiI/AAAAAAAADbE/KalJ2InVHHomT1MD9_eDcGD8mHBxxuQ3QCLcB/s640/PMDawn.jpg" title="PM Dawn by Trillium Brewing Company | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">Since we <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/11/highlights-from-our-cross-country-road.html" target="_blank">moved home</a>, I've been drinking basically nothing but </span><a href="http://www.trilliumbrewing.com/" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" target="_blank">Trillium</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"> (and </span><a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/11/beer-friday-substance-by-bissell.html" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" target="_blank">Bissell Brothers</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">...) beers. I have been a huge fan of Trillium since they entered the Boston beer space a few years ago, and I've been very eager to visit their second brewery - with full pours and all! - in Canton, Massachusetts (they opened it when we were living in Oregon). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">On <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/11/scenes-from-thanksgiving-weekend.html" target="_blank">Thanksgiving weekend</a>, my opportunity to check out their new spot came - and boy am I glad it did. Canton is only about a 40-minute drive from Boston, and Trillium's new space is fantastic. The large, open setting was crowded on this Saturday afternoon, but lines moved swiftly (and, smartly, Trillium has a separate line for cans, etc. to-go and one for pours and/or bottles to be consumed on-site).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">I usually opt for <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/06/beer-friday-dialed-in-by-trillium.html" target="_blank">Trillium's hoppy beers</a>, but after a few of those, I decided to try their latest batch of PM Dawn as well. And good god, it was delicious. Here's why:</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">What: </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">PM Dawn by Trillium Brewing Company</span></div>
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<b>Style: </b>American stout</div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ABV: </span>9%</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tasting Notes: </span>Freshly roasted coffee beans (they infuse this brew with their neighbors', <a href="https://barringtoncoffee.com/" target="_blank">Barrington Coffee Roasters</a>', cold brew), smooth vanilla, rich cocoa, and a hint of peanut butter makes this beer delightfully sweet - but balanced out nicely with some necessary bitterness from the coffee. The mouthfeel is also silky smooth, making this 9% stout go down a bit too easy. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Pairing Suggestion:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> I'm drooling over the thought of pairing this with a piece of chocolate cake, but if sweets aren't your thing, I love pairing good coffee stouts with <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/07/tasty-n-sons-north-portland.html" target="_blank">brunch</a>, too.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Where Can I Find It?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> Both Trillium locations in Fort Point and Canton currently have PM Dawn available in 22-ounce bottles or growlers, but it also can be found on tap at the Canton location, when available (their Fort Point location only sells bottles, cans, and growlers to-go - no pours on-site).</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b><i>Have you had any great beers lately?</i></b></span></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-57041302540348479152016-11-30T07:53:00.003-08:002016-11-30T07:53:36.255-08:00Scenes From Thanksgiving WeekendI hope you all had a fantastic Thanksgiving, and holiday weekend! Here are some scenes from our relaxing, yet fun-filled, holiday:<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-neq8kzHeov8/WD7zsy847DI/AAAAAAAADak/X7ER4tlFTZwT1Ana_OwUHsAu1jcpZ8ruACLcB/s1600/IMG_2896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving Tablescape | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-neq8kzHeov8/WD7zsy847DI/AAAAAAAADak/X7ER4tlFTZwT1Ana_OwUHsAu1jcpZ8ruACLcB/s640/IMG_2896.JPG" title="Thanksgiving Tablescape | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4qzLsXSpEM/WD7zs4rIgeI/AAAAAAAADag/wC1n7tUWo0EfO7bZlOACcJWXTlu_o17RgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4qzLsXSpEM/WD7zs4rIgeI/AAAAAAAADag/wC1n7tUWo0EfO7bZlOACcJWXTlu_o17RgCLcB/s640/IMG_2923.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--S_YDjhQges/WD7zs0UiW7I/AAAAAAAADao/GZNtnGyujGM3UVwkRLz27cmXQrrQ2_LywCLcB/s1600/IMG_2917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Eggs Benedict with Seitan Hash from Veggie Galaxy in Cambridge, MA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--S_YDjhQges/WD7zs0UiW7I/AAAAAAAADao/GZNtnGyujGM3UVwkRLz27cmXQrrQ2_LywCLcB/s640/IMG_2917.JPG" title="Eggs Benedict with Seitan Hash from Veggie Galaxy in Cambridge, MA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w7CAOC5GPJM/WD7ztB-L0CI/AAAAAAAADas/Zcn9rmRbSUU7gkuJKHKe7b4rHcdE5I09QCLcB/s1600/IMG_2930.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bourbon County 2016 release | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="632" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w7CAOC5GPJM/WD7ztB-L0CI/AAAAAAAADas/Zcn9rmRbSUU7gkuJKHKe7b4rHcdE5I09QCLcB/s640/IMG_2930.PNG" title="Bourbon County 2016 release | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pictured: </div>
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1.) The beautiful Thanksgiving table décor at my older sister’s house in Maine. (For the meal, I contributed this <a href="http://www.veggiebelly.com/2013/11/vegetarian-wellington-recipe.html" target="_blank">Vegetarian Wellington</a> + <a href="http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017760-vegan-mushroom-make-ahead-gravy" target="_blank">vegan mushroom gravy</a>, as well as these <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2015/11/salted-caramel-apple-pie-bars.html" target="_blank">Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars</a>).</div>
2.) Me and one of my nieces, Braylee – accidentally matching!<br />
3.) Z and his younger brother, Max, at our second Thanksgiving Friday night<br />
4.) Continuing my holiday diet with brunch at <a href="http://www.veggiegalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Veggie Galaxy</a> Friday morning…this was the <b>Eggs Benedict with <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/02/spicy-seitan-tacos.html" target="_blank">seitan</a> hash</b> – SO GOOD.<br />
5.) That Eggs Benedict fueled us for a day of <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2015/12/beer-friday-bourbon-county-stout-2015.html" target="_blank">Bourbon County</a> shopping – AKA how the Lahey clan does Black Friday. This beer – and its variants – are only released once a year, on Black Friday. Cheers to that!<br />
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<b><i>Tell me all about your holiday!</i></b>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-27764269394153277492016-11-21T06:49:00.002-08:002016-11-21T06:49:17.117-08:00Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
How is <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/michellepc93/vegetarian-thanksgiving/" target="_blank">Thanksgiving</a> this week?? And why was there snow on my car this morning? Fall is going by way too fast.</div>
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If you’re like me and have absolutely nothing prepared for Thanksgiving, fear not: here’s at least a dessert recipe you can easily whip up for the big day. Who needs dinner when you have a full dessert table anyway?</div>
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I have been making these pumpkin bars for…years. They’re oh-so moist and full of flavor thanks to the addition of some fall-friendly spices…and a touch of <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/142967/easy-garam-masala/" target="_blank">garam masala</a>, which gives these bars that <i>wow</i> factor. (You can forego the garam masala if you don’t have any on-hand, but it does give these bars a little something-something, if you’re down to buy (or make) some!).</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3g9GZYd33s/WDMG3sVjYnI/AAAAAAAADZs/NiufLLfheGci-d-ZO_j7tRpf9slaqf8_QCLcB/s1600/PumpkinBars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="310" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3g9GZYd33s/WDMG3sVjYnI/AAAAAAAADZs/NiufLLfheGci-d-ZO_j7tRpf9slaqf8_QCLcB/s640/PumpkinBars.jpg" title="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars</b><br />
<b>Yields: 24 bars</b><br />
-2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
-1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon<br />
-3/4 tsp. ginger<br />
-1/2 tsp. nutmeg<br />
-1 tsp. garam masala (optional)<br />
-1 tsp. baking soda<br />
-3/4 tsp. salt<br />
-1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
-1 1/4 cups sugar<br />
-1 large egg<br />
-2 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
-1 cup canned pumpkin puree<br />
-1 package (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips<br />
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<b>Directions:</b><br />
1.) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line bottom and sides of a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang on all sides. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, spices, baking soda, and salt; set aside.<br />
2.) With an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar on medium-high speed until smooth; beat in egg and vanilla until combined. Beat in pumpkin puree (mixture may appear curdled). Reduce speed to low, and mix in dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.<br />
3.) Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Bake until edges begin to pull away from sides of pan and a toothpick inserted in center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, 35 to 40 minutes. Cool completely in pan.<br />
4.) Lift cake from pan (using foil as an aid). Peel off foil, and use a serrated knife to cut into 24 squares.<br />
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<br />These pumpkin bars are basically fall baked into a cake-like form…with chocolate chips. Your Thanksgiving dessert table needs these.<br /><br /><b><i>Are you ready for Thanksgiving? Or are you totally unprepared like I am? </i>(<a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2015/11/a-procrastinators-guide-to-hosting.html" target="_blank">This happened to me last year</a>, too, by the way…).</b>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-5927027616771205482016-11-18T07:54:00.002-08:002016-11-18T07:54:33.713-08:00Beer Friday: The Substance by Bissell Brothers Brewing Co.<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">On most Fridays, I'll share a beer I particularly enjoy, and think you might as well. This series will feature beers from all over the U.S. (and when we're lucky, the world). Cheers!</i><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;">We drank a <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/06/breweries-to-visit-in-bend-oregon-where.html" target="_blank">lot</a> <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/09/on-most-fridays-ill-share-beer-i.html" target="_blank">of</a> <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/08/beers-eats-and-views-seattle-edition.html" target="_blank">great</a> <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/05/beer-friday-san-francisco-area-edition.html" target="_blank">beer</a> in the Pacific Northwest. But in my humble, liver-quivering opinion, nothing beats East Coast IPAs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;">Many of them are juicy with just the right amount of hop presence on the tongue to prevent them from being too sweet - a fantastic balance of crushable flavors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;">And <a href="http://www.bissellbrothers.com/" target="_blank">Bissell Brothers</a>, located in Portland, Maine, is one brewery that has perfected these "hop juice" creations. </span></div>
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<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">What: </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">The Substance Ale by Bissell Brothers Brewing Co.</span></div>
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<b>Style: </b>IPA</div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ABV: </span>6.6%</span></div>
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<br /><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tasting Notes: </span>Dank yet juicy and oh-so crushable, this IPA quenches my thirst no matter what time of the year it is. Available weekly via can and on tap at the brewery (they got new digs since we moved - great space!), this brew is one of the few that's worth the wait...as you will likely be in line to get it. Brewed with </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: trebuchet ms, trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;">Falconers Flight, Centennial, Appolo, Summit, and Chinook hops, this beer packs a hoppy punch with a bright, well-balanced finish. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Pairing Suggestion:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> Um, everything? But for a few recommendations: something spicy, like these <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/02/spicy-seitan-tacos.html" target="_blank">Spicy Seitan Tacos</a> or <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/08/spicy-chickpea-salad-sandwiches.html" target="_blank">Spicy Chickpea Salad Sandwiches</a>. Or, since this is a juicy beer - pair it with brunch! This <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2015/11/chipotle-sausage-scallion-and-tomato.html" target="_blank">Chipotle Sausage, Scallion, & Tomato Frittata</a> would be a great pairing.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Where Can I Find It?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> The brewery in Portland, Maine! Or, if you're lucky, you might be able to find it on tap at <a href="http://www.bissellbrothers.com/new-page-1/" target="_blank">these Maine locations</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b><i>What have you been drinking lately?</i></b></span></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-91072780647782646352016-11-17T07:02:00.001-08:002016-11-17T07:05:52.013-08:00Highlights From Our Cross-Country Road TripWow. What a whirlwind month it's been!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W3j9ofSMsPQ/WC2_74Dwb8I/AAAAAAAADYc/XqfaZpusbws1EebnO3zv_T9E2Ea1jETLACLcB/s1600/RoadTrip10.2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Driving cross-country | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W3j9ofSMsPQ/WC2_74Dwb8I/AAAAAAAADYc/XqfaZpusbws1EebnO3zv_T9E2Ea1jETLACLcB/s640/RoadTrip10.2016.jpg" title="Driving cross-country | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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After taking 11 days to drive cross-country home to Boston, we quickly returned to our respective offices...and life has been non-stop ever since. As I write this, I am actually on a plane to Orlando for my company's customer conference. Talk about getting right back to reality!</div>
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Our trip home was nothing short of incredible, though. It was a lot of driving, but our trusty Subaru Outback stayed in great shape the whole way - we didn't even encounter so much as a flat tire. Here was our full itinerary:</div>
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Oregon ---> Redwood Forest ---> Reno, NV ---> Park City, UT ---> Denver, CO ---> Kansas City, MO ---> St. Louis, MO ---> Louisville, KY ---> Asheville, NC ---> Richmond, VA ---> Boston, MA</div>
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Along the way, we saw a ton of old and new friends, ate a lot of great food, sampled a ton of great beer, and saw #allthesights. It would take me days to recap our entire trip, so instead, here are some of the highlights from our 11-day journey across the country (in no particular order).</div>
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<b>1.) The Redwood Forest</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T0YI8y5uSNc/WC2_hRtlwLI/AAAAAAAADYU/uTRx7qERfZUm5yHK0u6kkEktsqcMVUs_QCLcB/s1600/Redwoods%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Redwood Forest | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T0YI8y5uSNc/WC2_hRtlwLI/AAAAAAAADYU/uTRx7qERfZUm5yHK0u6kkEktsqcMVUs_QCLcB/s640/Redwoods%2521.jpg" title="Redwood Forest | A Hoppy Medium" width="478" /></a></div>
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We hit the Redwoods on the tail-end of the typhoon that was hitting the Pacific Northwest, so a lot of the parks were closed. However, we stopped at one of the park ranger offices and got some fantastic recommendations for open parks - and frolicked through the massive trees in the rain. It was really a remarkable experience, and definitely a big highlight for both of us!</div>
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<b>2.) Louisville, KY</b></div>
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We stopped in Louisville on a whim - it was a great way to cut our original ride from St. Louis to Asheville shorter - and I am so glad we did. Louisville really surprised us: the downtown was gorgeous and quaint, with Louisville Slugger baseball bats scattered throughout, recognizing famous baseball players who used them. (Z loved that part!). <a href="http://www.atgbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Against the Grain Brewery</a> was also a fun stop for dinner and fresh beers, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options to boot.</div>
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<b>3.) Vegetarian Reuben from <a href="http://laughingseed.com/" target="_blank">Laughing Seed Cafe</a> in Asheville, NC</b><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc-0CtkA7hg/WC3BdIMgsJI/AAAAAAAADYo/QnB-bChGwbcI38MZ_f-zvpCkOsQY6vmGgCLcB/s1600/VegReuben.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Vegetarian Reuben from Laughing Seed Cafe in Asheville, NC | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc-0CtkA7hg/WC3BdIMgsJI/AAAAAAAADYo/QnB-bChGwbcI38MZ_f-zvpCkOsQY6vmGgCLcB/s640/VegReuben.jpg" title="Vegetarian Reuben from Laughing Seed Cafe in Asheville, NC | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Z actually ordered this, and I had major food envy. I mean...how good does this look? It was phenomenal, and definitely a food highlight from our travels.</div>
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<b>4.) The roadside scenery</b><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oWDHNO8hMhs/WC3CLtv8KjI/AAAAAAAADYs/U1RuenHGmMMZ6Q7bPMlh9e_4b_71ZJ3lwCLcB/s1600/SaltFlatsUtah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Salt Flats in Utah | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="550" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oWDHNO8hMhs/WC3CLtv8KjI/AAAAAAAADYs/U1RuenHGmMMZ6Q7bPMlh9e_4b_71ZJ3lwCLcB/s640/SaltFlatsUtah.jpg" title="Salt Flats in Utah | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7-6vbazXRY/WC3CLiAICMI/AAAAAAAADYw/3OHnxdMJ7c8z6bPYKvkjZnAVoVFp_wNUACLcB/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="On the side of the road, somewhere in California | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7-6vbazXRY/WC3CLiAICMI/AAAAAAAADYw/3OHnxdMJ7c8z6bPYKvkjZnAVoVFp_wNUACLcB/s640/unnamed.jpg" title="On the side of the road, somewhere in California | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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From the Salt Flats in Utah (first photo) to the snowy mountains in Wyoming to the gorgeous views of the Pacific in California (second photo), we saw some gorgeous, ever-changing sights along the way. </div>
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<b>5.) The beer...obviously.</b><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsqrQEDRXJY/WC3DG9YYPoI/AAAAAAAADY8/lgpgNRcc3lMzUA0rZDPUq1jTsgWD0ytkQCLcB/s1600/WickedWeed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Wicked Weed Funkatorium | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsqrQEDRXJY/WC3DG9YYPoI/AAAAAAAADY8/lgpgNRcc3lMzUA0rZDPUq1jTsgWD0ytkQCLcB/s640/WickedWeed.jpg" title="Wicked Weed Funkatorium | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HOAO4kK9HIU/WC3DUwFx6xI/AAAAAAAADZA/DuzOGBVJOJkIOkItr-6CQYlWoEr8qtYKACLcB/s1600/OdellBrewing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Odell Brewing, Fort Collins, CO | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HOAO4kK9HIU/WC3DUwFx6xI/AAAAAAAADZA/DuzOGBVJOJkIOkItr-6CQYlWoEr8qtYKACLcB/s640/OdellBrewing.jpg" title="Odell Brewing, Fort Collins, CO | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just like our last <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/01/10-things-you-need-to-know-before.html" target="_blank">cross-country trip</a>, we made a ton of stops at some breweries and beer bars we were eager to check out. Some of my favorites included: <a href="https://wickedweedbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Wicked Weed</a> (they have two locations in Asheville, but we both liked the Funkatorium the best); <a href="http://theanswerbrewpub.com/" target="_blank">The Answer</a> in Richmond - great hoppy beers and stouts; <a href="http://www.sideprojectbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Side Project</a> in St. Louis; and <a href="http://www.sergiosworldbeers.com/" target="_blank">Sergio's World Beers</a> in Louisville - very unassuming place with a brash yet super friendly owner behind the bar; who will be happy to show you his extensive beer collection, if you're nice to him. This place had some great beers on tap and for sale via the bottle; really impressive options here!<br />
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Our trip back to Boston was definitely exciting and <strike>too</strike> so much fun, but I am so excited to be home - and I promise, I'll get back in the kitchen again soon, too!<br />
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<b><i>Your turn! What's new with you??</i></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-43805190710402110702016-10-12T08:45:00.003-07:002016-10-12T08:45:33.962-07:00The Next ChapterOn October 2, 2015, Z and I arrived in Portland, Oregon. A week before, we had left our home and families to <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/01/10-things-you-need-to-know-before.html" target="_blank">drive cross-country</a> to this city we had already fallen in love with.<br />
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When we came out here, we committed to a year, knowing we'd eventually want to return to our house, our loved ones, and our cubicles. (We both work remotely for Boston-based companies).<br />
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And here we are: even though we extended our time here a <i>teeny</i> bit, it's almost time for us to pack up the car again and make the trek home. I'm very excited for our cross-country trip - we're taking a different route this time, and double the days to see everything we can - and I am so excited to be home with our families. But I never could have guessed how hard it would be to leave our home here in Oregon.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n8EvVrW5Pyk/V19OaSMvQHI/AAAAAAAAC1E/CW4sN7Djju85BAFE5HRNx1Njzy_4UfTUQCPcB/s1600/IMG_0739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tumalo Falls in Bend, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n8EvVrW5Pyk/V19OaSMvQHI/AAAAAAAAC1E/CW4sN7Djju85BAFE5HRNx1Njzy_4UfTUQCPcB/s640/IMG_0739.JPG" title="Tumalo Falls in Bend, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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Yes, the <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/09/crater-lake.html" target="_blank">scenery</a>, the <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/05/adventures-eats-in-bend-oregon.html" target="_blank">food</a>, the <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/09/on-most-fridays-ill-share-beer-i.html" target="_blank">beer</a> - it's all amazing here. Hell, even the coffee is incredible! All of these things make leaving hard, but the <b>people</b> - the lifelong friends we've made - make it the hardest.<br />
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And as I drench my keyboard in bittersweet tears, I am comforted to know we'll be back here. Many, many times. Portland, Oregon has officially become our second home - even if we're not rich enough [yet] to make that officially true. It's our second home in our souls, as cheesy as that sounds. We made some lasting memories and friendships in our year+ here; we have our favorite restaurants, bars, and bartenders; and our favorite day trips, such as to the <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/search?q=coast" target="_blank">Coast</a> and <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/01/detox-vegetable-soup.html" target="_blank">hiking through the Gorge</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dZwhjVlrt_Q/V_2T6luwKjI/AAAAAAAADL0/mbOLSxUBui8NFzO8n5C-CSzx7dXMr-sdQCLcB/s1600/Multnomah%2BFalls%2B1.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Multnomah Falls, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dZwhjVlrt_Q/V_2T6luwKjI/AAAAAAAADL0/mbOLSxUBui8NFzO8n5C-CSzx7dXMr-sdQCLcB/s640/Multnomah%2BFalls%2B1.16.jpg" title="Multnomah Falls, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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If there's one thing I learned from this crazy thing we did - you know, dropping our lives to do something totally different for a year - is that, if you can do something like this: <b>DO IT</b>. We almost didn't. But we were able to make it work, no matter how crazy it sounded in our minds initially. And if you really want to do something like this, you just have to do it. Life's too short not to. I would have totally regretted not doing this, but the worst part would have been not knowing just how life-changing, in the best way possible, this move actually was going to be.<br />
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Portland: Thanks for everything. We're sure going to miss you.<br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-59270980608196142472016-10-04T09:17:00.001-07:002016-10-04T09:17:18.069-07:00Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ah, fall. The time of year for crisp, gloriously chilly temperatures; vibrant foliage; pumpkin everything; and an excuse to have curry incorporated into every meal.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oz4CorWxCMI/V_L7WhagppI/AAAAAAAADJs/2KEh2w1C9kEwwEr828fIy5VFf33XVOtuACLcB/s1600/IMG_2208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oz4CorWxCMI/V_L7WhagppI/AAAAAAAADJs/2KEh2w1C9kEwwEr828fIy5VFf33XVOtuACLcB/s640/IMG_2208.jpg" title="Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Curry is so warming, so comforting, so delightfully spicy and flavorful that I find myself using it all the time once the temperatures begin to drop. Whether I'm using a spice blend, a paste, or concocting some sort of curry sauce - I just love the aromas, flavors, and fingernail-staining of it all. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ShmBBICK0U8/V_L7WkZrXgI/AAAAAAAADJw/7faQIcbeFv8K4Ey9KD7f-kqovpP40TI1wCLcB/s1600/IMG_2205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ShmBBICK0U8/V_L7WkZrXgI/AAAAAAAADJw/7faQIcbeFv8K4Ey9KD7f-kqovpP40TI1wCLcB/s640/IMG_2205.jpg" title="Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit | A Hoppy Medium" width="426" /></a></div>
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So, it's no surprise that one of my first recipes this fall is filled with curry flavor. (Side note: I used <a href="http://www.uptonsnaturals.com/products/thai-curry-jackfruit" target="_blank">Upton's Naturals Thai Curry Jackfruit</a> here because I had some in the fridge, but feel free to use your favorite jackfruit, or even tofu, chicken, etc. This dish is very versatile!).</div>
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<b>Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit</b></div>
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<b>Yields: 4 servings</b></div>
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<b><i>Adapted from <a href="http://www.uptonsnaturals.com/recipes/curried-noodle-bowl-thai-curry-jackfruit" target="_blank">Upton's Naturals</a></i></b></div>
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-2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided</div>
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-3 cloves garlic, minced and divided</div>
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-3 tablespoons Thai chile paste </div>
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-Cumin</div>
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-Coriander</div>
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-Salt and black pepper</div>
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-1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger</div>
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-1 15-ounce can lite coconut milk</div>
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-1 medium onion, chopped</div>
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-2 green onions, sliced</div>
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-2 small red bell peppers, chopped</div>
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-1 tablespoon of chopped pickled jalapenos (optional)</div>
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-1 10.6-ounce package Upton’s Naturals Thai Curry Jackfruit</div>
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-16 ounces udon or rice noodles, cooked</div>
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Lime wedges, extra chopped scallions, and chopped cilantro for garnish</div>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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1.) In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over low heat. Add 1 clove of the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the red curry paste along with the spices and grated fresh ginger. Add the coconut milk, and stir until thoroughly mixed. Turn heat to simmer and set aside.</div>
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2.) In a skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat, then add the onion, remaining garlic, and green onions. Stir-fry until golden, then add the red pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the jackfruit. Stir until the jackfruit is thoroughly heated and the vegetables are tender. Season as needed with salt and black pepper.</div>
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3.) To serve, place a portion of noodles in a medium-size bowl and top with veggies as desired. Ladle some coconut curry sauce over the noodles and veggies, then top off with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, scallions, and cilantro. (We also added chopped pistachios to ours, for extra protein and crunch. Highly recommended, but certainly not necessary).</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKEE6AKcrDE/V_L9al4veSI/AAAAAAAADJ8/8AvOsbTkCX0Q3DbBT8-UclGGFhoqv5fcgCLcB/s1600/RiceNoodlesJackfruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKEE6AKcrDE/V_L9al4veSI/AAAAAAAADJ8/8AvOsbTkCX0Q3DbBT8-UclGGFhoqv5fcgCLcB/s640/RiceNoodlesJackfruit.jpg" title="Curried Rice Noodles with Jackfruit | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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This dish is super easy to whip up, and I loved all of the aromas and flavors that came with it.<br />
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Happy autumn, all!<b><i> </i></b><br />
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<b><i>What's your favorite thing about fall?</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-10111037811937443452016-09-28T09:53:00.000-07:002016-09-28T09:53:11.691-07:00Crater Lake<div style="text-align: left;">
Behold the beauty that is Crater Lake:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uz8haB7ULz0/V-vy1zG0DdI/AAAAAAAADJE/1cJlyAmBZ7EwHqQH9uj8DZtFhFFZMaxuACLcB/s1600/IMG_1633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uz8haB7ULz0/V-vy1zG0DdI/AAAAAAAADJE/1cJlyAmBZ7EwHqQH9uj8DZtFhFFZMaxuACLcB/s640/IMG_1633.JPG" title="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OIDMiftilYw/V-vy22Q0VQI/AAAAAAAADJM/zmlQ30JXL_YNvpQmEVx1TLE-uid8dPcPgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OIDMiftilYw/V-vy22Q0VQI/AAAAAAAADJM/zmlQ30JXL_YNvpQmEVx1TLE-uid8dPcPgCLcB/s640/IMG_1679.JPG" title="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yg9O29MxBJA/V-vy0oB3kmI/AAAAAAAADI4/npxajhtuy4IJ44mJWoXImderfVgliWCGQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yg9O29MxBJA/V-vy0oB3kmI/AAAAAAAADI4/npxajhtuy4IJ44mJWoXImderfVgliWCGQCLcB/s640/IMG_1624.JPG" title="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E-rVHyFhY6I/V-vy0rmSqlI/AAAAAAAADI0/2h8sQ-kV3aoGFdnain0ORF5xGL3StsJNgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E-rVHyFhY6I/V-vy0rmSqlI/AAAAAAAADI0/2h8sQ-kV3aoGFdnain0ORF5xGL3StsJNgCLcB/s640/IMG_1630.JPG" title="Crater Lake in Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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Last month, several friends from Boston visited us in Oregon so we could explore <a href="https://www.nps.gov/crla/index.htm" target="_blank">Crater Lake</a>. We drove from Portland to <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/05/adventures-eats-in-bend-oregon.html" target="_blank">Bend</a>, then Crater Lake, then up to the <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/03/adventures-in-tillamook-oregon-and.html" target="_blank">Coast</a> for a few days of road trippin', camping, and hiking.<br />
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Crater Lake, as you can see, is a sight to behold, and a must-visit if and when you're in Oregon. (It's a little over four hours from Portland). <a href="http://www.craterlakelodges.com/lodging/mazama-village-campground/" target="_blank">Mazama Village Campground</a> was perfect for our "glamping" adventure - once you reserve a spot ahead of time, you can drive to find a vacant campsite, park your car right there, and unload accordingly. (The only odd thing is that, even though we reserved a spot, we still had to drive around to find a vacant one versus having our own spot pre-claimed).<br />
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Many hikes are within a short driving distance from Mazama, boasting gorgeous views at all angles of the mighty lake.<br />
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It was a fantastic trip - one I wish we had time to do again before we leave! (More on that soon...).<br />
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<b><i>Have you taken any fun trips lately?</i></b>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-66604834265695997072016-09-23T09:55:00.001-07:002016-09-23T09:56:36.127-07:00Beer Friday: Fresh IPA by Fort George Brewery<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">On most Fridays, I'll share a beer I particularly enjoy, and think you might as well. This series will feature beers from all over the U.S. (and when we're lucky, the world). Cheers!</i><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">Um, apparently I haven't written a Beer Friday post in over a month? I promise, at some point, this will be a regular thing again...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">But for today, we're talking about<b> fresh hops</b> (sometimes called "wet hops"). </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fresh hops are bold and unblemished hop oils, </span></span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">and they only drop in Oregon once a year - but they go quickly - so I've been trying to get my hands on #allofthebeers before they disappear!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;">One particular fresh hop beer I've enjoyed so far is <b>Fort George's Fresh IPA</b> (we actually visited the brewery in <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/09/exploring-astoria-oregon.html" target="_blank">Astoria</a> a few weeks ago). Here's why it rocks:</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">What: </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Fresh IPA by <a href="http://www.fortgeorgebrewery.com/" target="_blank">Fort George Brewery</a></span></div>
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<b>Style: </b>Wet Hop IPA</div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ABV: </span>6.4%</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tasting Notes:</span> Super clean, and borderline crushable, this is a fantastic IPA for those of you who might not love the hop bombs. It's also a great transitional IPA from summer to fall - still light and slightly citrus-y, with a bit more malt flavor and floral, grassy notes.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Pairing Suggestion:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> Although this beer is nicely complex and flavorful, it's still on the lighter side - so I'd pair it with something a little more bold, like spicy Thai (or Indian) food. It can also stand up to the heaviness (read: grease) of a great bar pie...so go ahead and treat yo self.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Where Can I Find It?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> For my Oregon friends, this beer is widely available in 16-ounce cans and on-tap throughout the state - but only for a limited time! <a href="http://www.fortgeorgebrewery.com/beerfinder/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to see where it's available near you.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b><i>What have you been drinking lately?</i></b></span></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-86757398839330785082016-09-21T08:57:00.003-07:002016-09-21T08:59:41.916-07:00PaaDee | SE PortlandOne of our dear, fellow food-obsessed friends here in Portland has been giving us the same "demand" since we moved here: "Go to PaaDee."<br />
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After almost a year of being here, we finally gave into his orders a few weeks ago.<br />
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<a href="http://www.paadeepdx.com/" target="_blank">PaaDee</a> (which means "to bring good things") serves up modern Thai dishes in an intimate, bustling setting in SE Portland. The decor's a little funky, the employees are friendly, and everything from the food to the cocktails is inventive yet familiar.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iD0LY-Po4Fw/V-HS9i7tkcI/AAAAAAAADH8/Meln6KKzi7wGS2KL42CZq8E29o4Bwh3PwCLcB/s1600/PaaDeeCocktail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cocktail at PaaDee in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="588" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iD0LY-Po4Fw/V-HS9i7tkcI/AAAAAAAADH8/Meln6KKzi7wGS2KL42CZq8E29o4Bwh3PwCLcB/s640/PaaDeeCocktail.jpg" title="Cocktail at PaaDee in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our meal on this particular night kicked off with cocktails (naturally). Since we dined here so long ago - and I'm the worst blogger ever - I don't remember what cocktail I ordered, but it was delightfully strong and delicious. (As was Z's).<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X9n2dNnRrhA/V-HTHkDVVaI/AAAAAAAADIA/0ElVuD_HIK8UFcRi-z5VnZMJP2_w0MmOgCLcB/s1600/BrusselsSprouts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="PaaDee in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X9n2dNnRrhA/V-HTHkDVVaI/AAAAAAAADIA/0ElVuD_HIK8UFcRi-z5VnZMJP2_w0MmOgCLcB/s640/BrusselsSprouts.jpg" title="PaaDee in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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For an appetizer, we went with a Brussels sprouts dish (a special that night) that was fantastic. The Brussels sprouts were cooked perfectly, and the flavor was wonderfully savory and interesting. I could eat this every night.<br />
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PaaDee's dinner menu is organized by Snacks, Soup & Salad, Noodles & More, Entrees, and Vegetables (vegetarian-friendly entrees). I went with the <b>Pad Ma Khua ($10)</b>, and added wild prawns for an extra $3. The original dish consists of Japanese eggplant, red bell pepper, scallions, onions, basil, and sweet chile paste. (It was also served with rice on the side).<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kUhoraNlrnQ/V-HTR0ocHNI/AAAAAAAADIE/5_4RguUFle0pug9kQVhp6ZeemBuXPXC-ACLcB/s1600/PaaDee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="PaaDee in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kUhoraNlrnQ/V-HTR0ocHNI/AAAAAAAADIE/5_4RguUFle0pug9kQVhp6ZeemBuXPXC-ACLcB/s640/PaaDee.jpg" title="PaaDee in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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This dish was seasoned perfectly, and I loved how vibrant all of the colors were! If you're a seafood fan, definitely add the wild prawns - they helped add additional flavor, texture, and some protein to the dish.<br />
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Overall, we loved our first visit to PaaDee. Our only regret is not taking our friend's advice sooner!<br />
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<i><b>Where have you had a great meal lately?</b></i><br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/portland/paadee-kerns" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about PaaDee, Kerns and other Restaurants in Portland"><img alt="PaaDee Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17050780/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a> Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-50113072928624228142016-09-13T09:22:00.003-07:002016-09-13T09:22:56.493-07:00Exploring Astoria, OregonBefore I had to fly back to Boston (on Labor Day) for work, Z and I took full advantage of our holiday weekend. We kicked things off Friday afternoon, first stopping at <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/03/adventures-in-tillamook-oregon-and.html" target="_blank">de Garde Brewing in Tillamook</a>, and then making the gorgeous sunset ride into Astoria (about 1.5 hours away).<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQyEHC-wMQs/V9dZJkc0ClI/AAAAAAAADHA/9YKamQME_t8NRfgsjRyHl48rk3UVEdyqQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Oregon Coast | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="528" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQyEHC-wMQs/V9dZJkc0ClI/AAAAAAAADHA/9YKamQME_t8NRfgsjRyHl48rk3UVEdyqQCLcB/s640/IMG_1837.JPG" title="The Oregon Coast | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZluJjg4xLI/V9dZJo74XdI/AAAAAAAADG8/_81zw2tC-Scgy0GxMiwBH4FILCM-Mik4wCLcB/s1600/IMG_1801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Oregon Coast | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZluJjg4xLI/V9dZJo74XdI/AAAAAAAADG8/_81zw2tC-Scgy0GxMiwBH4FILCM-Mik4wCLcB/s640/IMG_1801.JPG" title="The Oregon Coast | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Astoria is a place I've wanted to check out for a while now. Z and I love the Oregon Coast, and Astoria is saturated with <a href="http://www.astoria.or.us/History.aspx" target="_blank">history</a> (and the house from <i><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-goonies-house-astoria-2" target="_blank">The Goonies</a></i> is there, which is extra cool).<br />
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We stayed at an <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/" target="_blank">Airbnb</a> Friday night, which was located right in downtown Astoria...AKA only a short walk to the breweries we wanted to visit. Astoria's downtown is located right on the water, so everywhere we went during our short stay had lovely, ship-filled views.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EbdkRJX-gL8/V9dY0hvYINI/AAAAAAAADG4/knk0mnFLb1wkM6K7e14xw3JC8LtWn7vdgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EbdkRJX-gL8/V9dY0hvYINI/AAAAAAAADG4/knk0mnFLb1wkM6K7e14xw3JC8LtWn7vdgCLcB/s640/IMG_1804.JPG" title="Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dr82U2SgqE4/V9dY0quhI4I/AAAAAAAADGw/1HMv-Co1iwMiulaOhVUStWX-FBA4aW8WwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dr82U2SgqE4/V9dY0quhI4I/AAAAAAAADGw/1HMv-Co1iwMiulaOhVUStWX-FBA4aW8WwCLcB/s640/IMG_1806.JPG" title="Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CoAiBsRuBU/V9ddYjc8X9I/AAAAAAAADHs/3DSs-MhAwfwnt1YrEvD5nPAtO495jL6bgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CoAiBsRuBU/V9ddYjc8X9I/AAAAAAAADHs/3DSs-MhAwfwnt1YrEvD5nPAtO495jL6bgCLcB/s640/IMG_1805.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Some of our most noteworthy stops in Astoria included:</span>
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<b><a href="http://www.traillink.com/trail/astoria-riverwalk.aspx" target="_blank">The Riverwalk</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a12qB8YbboM/V9dY0ixKexI/AAAAAAAADG0/7mdyQM8pOI4qUE0Al8VGEln5aKpaHoGtwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a12qB8YbboM/V9dY0ixKexI/AAAAAAAADG0/7mdyQM8pOI4qUE0Al8VGEln5aKpaHoGtwCLcB/s640/IMG_1811.JPG" title="Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Riverwalk in Astoria stretches for over 6 miles, but we enjoyed walking just a short distance of that after our breakfast (see below). The Riverwalk was a nice way to get around the downtown area on a beautiful day - right along the water, with lovely views everywhere you look.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.fortgeorgebrewery.com/" target="_blank">Fort George Brewery</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eFyfiVOrSGo/V9dcZX6cFcI/AAAAAAAADHY/est5SZ9QjAgbK7Kl0pCGhfidVITiSEoWACLcB/s1600/IMG_1813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fort George Brewery, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eFyfiVOrSGo/V9dcZX6cFcI/AAAAAAAADHY/est5SZ9QjAgbK7Kl0pCGhfidVITiSEoWACLcB/s640/IMG_1813.JPG" title="Fort George Brewery, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yG0RWXcAWWU/V9dcZeCJjII/AAAAAAAADHg/kkINekrU-9Iojt8HbQh5IRrVfYphwkC-QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fort George Brewery, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yG0RWXcAWWU/V9dcZeCJjII/AAAAAAAADHg/kkINekrU-9Iojt8HbQh5IRrVfYphwkC-QCLcB/s640/IMG_1817.JPG" title="Fort George Brewery, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfq4KMq6EGI/V9dcZShjuNI/AAAAAAAADHc/hh9VUZCHu3IfdcGNwwBcoUrTFl4N6KPBgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fort George Brewery & Taproom, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfq4KMq6EGI/V9dcZShjuNI/AAAAAAAADHc/hh9VUZCHu3IfdcGNwwBcoUrTFl4N6KPBgCLcB/s640/IMG_1815.JPG" title="Fort George Brewery & Taproom, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the Taproom.</td></tr>
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Fort George was high on our must-visit list. The brewery has two different settings, including their Public House (with an upstairs and downstairs menu) and, right next door, their Lovell Brewery & Taproom. We had dinner upstairs in the Public House Friday night, where mason jars full of beer and delicious pizzas (and a just OK tofu banh mi) hit the spot. On Saturday afternoon, we hit up the taproom, where the beer list was more "special" (i.e., featured several brewery-only beers, which the Public House lacked). Oh, and the bartender at the taproom put fresh hops in my <a href="http://www.fortgeorgebrewery.com/beers/seasonal/3-way-ipa-2016/" target="_blank">3-Way IPA</a> sample (pictured above). Winning!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.buoybeer.com/" target="_blank">Buoy Beer Company</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jb8aF1SKAAA/V9dcu7BXsyI/AAAAAAAADHk/KhnYpDD6q88Bkp8ASdmTiAc53-vbesy5wCLcB/s1600/IMG_1800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Buoy Beer Company, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jb8aF1SKAAA/V9dcu7BXsyI/AAAAAAAADHk/KhnYpDD6q88Bkp8ASdmTiAc53-vbesy5wCLcB/s640/IMG_1800.jpg" title="Buoy Beer Company, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="490" /></a></div>
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To be honest, I wasn't a big fan of the beer I tried at Buoy (their IPA). However, their taproom floor is open to the water below - where several seals were sleeping! It was really cool to drink a pint and watch the show below us. We checked out Buoy right before it closed Friday night, but I'd be open to going back during the day time to enjoy their views of the river (and more seals, obviously).</div>
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<a href="http://columbianvoodoo.com/cafe/" target="_blank"><b>Columbian Cafe</b></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vGjDWXKE4MY/V9da2lSJyXI/AAAAAAAADHM/GJx5u7zzj8w4jKVIrdvN4ukBhPU7P1WbwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Columbian Cafe, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vGjDWXKE4MY/V9da2lSJyXI/AAAAAAAADHM/GJx5u7zzj8w4jKVIrdvN4ukBhPU7P1WbwCLcB/s640/IMG_1803.JPG" title="Columbian Cafe, Astoria, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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It looks incredibly unimpressive from the outside, but this teeny little joint pushes out some incredible breakfast dishes - with plenty of vegetarian options to boot. There are only a few booths, as well as bar stools overlooking the one chef/griddle, which is where we delightfully sat and enjoyed the show. We were lucky to go here on an unusually quiet weekend, but expect some wait time (it's worth it!) if you're not as fortunate as we were.<br />
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There are many other places to visit in Astoria, but we made the most of our short trip!<br />
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<b><i>How did you spend the last long weekend of summer?</i></b><br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/astoria-or/columbian-cafe-astoria" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Columbian Cafe, Astoria and other Restaurants in Astoria"><img alt="Columbian Cafe Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17557751/biglink" style="border: none; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-58219141216673015462016-08-30T09:17:00.002-07:002016-08-30T09:17:58.837-07:00Spicy Chickpea Salad SandwichesIt's too hot to cook, and - despite what all my Facebook friends say - <b>it's still summer</b>...and I'm lazy these days. Which is why this blog has been seriously lacking in recipes lately. (Come the REAL fall, I'll start cooking again. I promise).<br />
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Anyway, my laziness has led me to whip up all of the no-cooking-required recipes I can (which equates to about one per week these days). And when I was looking for a way to use up leftover chickpeas recently, these hot weather-friendly sandwiches were born.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uuUsdTxrlz0/V8TcWncqSSI/AAAAAAAADGQ/rYSccH3dq3YG7M9-OKPbPN8hE4yRGUFdgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spicy Chickpea Salad Sandwiches | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uuUsdTxrlz0/V8TcWncqSSI/AAAAAAAADGQ/rYSccH3dq3YG7M9-OKPbPN8hE4yRGUFdgCLcB/s640/IMG_2181.jpg" title="Spicy Chickpea Salad Sandwiches | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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This recipe is completely customizable, depending on what you like in your sandwiches. And if you have a 15-ounce can of chickpeas lying around, you can still use that with the ingredients below (it won't make much of a difference in terms of flavor/texture). But whatever you do...just make these. I promise you'll like them.</div>
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<b>Spicy Chickpea Salad Sandwiches</b></div>
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<b>Serves: 2</b></div>
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-1 1/2 cups chickpeas, drained and rinsed</div>
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-2 tablespoons Trader Joe's Wasabi Mayonnaise (or whatever mayonnaise you prefer)</div>
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-1 tablespoon diced dill pickles</div>
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-Salt and black pepper</div>
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-4 slices good bread (I used <a href="http://www.daveskillerbread.com/powerseed/" target="_blank">Dave's Killer Bread Powerseed</a>)</div>
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-2 slices Havarti cheese (or whatever cheese you prefer)</div>
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-1/2 avocado, sliced</div>
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-Tomato slices</div>
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-Arugula</div>
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-Dijon mustard</div>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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1.) In a food processor, pulse chickpeas until slightly mashed, but not pureed (you want some texture; not hummus). You can also mash the chickpeas with a fork, if you don't have a food processor. </div>
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2.) Transfer chickpeas to a small bowl. Stir in the mayonnaise and dill pickles; season with salt and black pepper. </div>
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3.) Toast the bread lightly, with a slice of cheese on two of the slices of bread, to let it melt. Lightly smash 1/4 of the avocado evenly on two slices of bread. Scoop the chickpea mixture evenly over the avocado (you may have some leftover, depending on how full you want your sandwiches). Layer as you wish with additional ingredients (I added tomato, arugula, and a drizzle of Dijon).</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FIMQbWmgouM/V8TcWvorxeI/AAAAAAAADGM/u-yP-SNSVA0UVHL_wKthNkuiEq3gTBDGQCLcB/s1600/spicychickpeasalad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spicy Chickpea Salad Sandwiches | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FIMQbWmgouM/V8TcWvorxeI/AAAAAAAADGM/u-yP-SNSVA0UVHL_wKthNkuiEq3gTBDGQCLcB/s640/spicychickpeasalad.jpg" title="Spicy Chickpea Salad Sandwiches | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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This really is a great alternative to tuna, or even egg salad (although, I do love a good egg salad). This here is protein-packed and not drenched in mayonnaise, so you can feel full without any of the guilt. </div>
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Now...make a batch of these, get outside, and go enjoy the rest of your summer! </div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-20555784242553647522016-08-25T08:54:00.003-07:002016-08-25T08:54:35.777-07:00Beers, Eats, and Views - The Seattle EditionSeattle. Is. Awesome.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_CN-tQy3c4/V75iHjobO8I/AAAAAAAADFI/ycSVKcaKXFwMLyuE6vkY2Winlm9UW9S8gCEw/s1600/IMG_1587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_CN-tQy3c4/V75iHjobO8I/AAAAAAAADFI/ycSVKcaKXFwMLyuE6vkY2Winlm9UW9S8gCEw/s640/IMG_1587.JPG" title="Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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You've already heard a little about our trip to Washington (<a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/08/three-magnets-brewing-co-olympia.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/08/georgetown-liquor-company-seattle-wa.html" target="_blank">here</a>), but these are the remaining noteworthy stops we visited during our weekend getaway.<br />
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<b>Columbia Center - Sky View Observatory</b><br />
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That photo above? That was just one of 10,000 pictures I took at the top of <a href="http://www.skyviewobservatory.com/" target="_blank">Columbia Center</a>. My cousin told me about it, and I am so glad she did. No lines + affordable entry price + the tallest building in Washington = better experience and better views than the Space Needle. Winning!<br />
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<b>The Hangar Cafe</b><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-65FPQ47uh6k/V75iGsvvWoI/AAAAAAAADE4/jYPdS3c77NUjrHUZdQttcXgTQT-9AaHSQCEw/s1600/IMG_1557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Hangar Cafe, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-65FPQ47uh6k/V75iGsvvWoI/AAAAAAAADE4/jYPdS3c77NUjrHUZdQttcXgTQT-9AaHSQCEw/s640/IMG_1557.jpg" title="The Hangar Cafe, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DiBtNbGIrsM/V75iGgo9j4I/AAAAAAAADE0/XvMjt5xKurYbBL1C2_Vapca2lvDVKRi0QCEw/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mimosa at The Hangar Cafe, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DiBtNbGIrsM/V75iGgo9j4I/AAAAAAAADE0/XvMjt5xKurYbBL1C2_Vapca2lvDVKRi0QCEw/s640/IMG_1556.JPG" title="Mimosa at The Hangar Cafe, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thehangarcafe.com/" target="_blank">The Hangar Cafe</a> is a small, no-frills spot in the <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/08/georgetown-liquor-company-seattle-wa.html" target="_blank">Georgetown</a> area of Seattle, and we lucked out with zero wait time. (An apparent rarity here!). The abundance of sandwiches as well as savory and sweet crepes and waffles on the menu was enticing, and they have several different kinds of mimosas. Oh, and plenty of vegetarian options/substitutions to boot. I went with the <b>Hangar Crepe ($10.75)</b>, filled with egg, Swiss, cheddar, slivered red onion, Roma tomatoes, baby spinach, and Field Roast Chipotle Sausage in place of Black Forest ham. The crepe was also drizzled with housemade poblano-basil vinaigrette and creme fraiche. </div>
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On the side: a mason jar glass of the OG mimosa (OJ + champagne).</div>
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<b>Pike Place Market</b></div>
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I mean...duh.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXquIKV7JzE/V75iG5wmsDI/AAAAAAAADE8/YcNax7Fz8aIVPwv_27iZiRVp6Kj-steRQCEw/s1600/IMG_1562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pike Place Market, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RXquIKV7JzE/V75iG5wmsDI/AAAAAAAADE8/YcNax7Fz8aIVPwv_27iZiRVp6Kj-steRQCEw/s640/IMG_1562.JPG" title="Pike Place Market, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pikeplacemarket.org/" target="_blank">Pike Place Market</a> was high on my list - mainly for the "full Seattle tourist experience" - and it was definitely worth the walk-through.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KitbKxMQPck/V75iHdLqApI/AAAAAAAADFA/9H5wST13M5o8H61q3YdCjCDsqIxy1T2qACEw/s1600/IMG_1565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pike Place Market, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KitbKxMQPck/V75iHdLqApI/AAAAAAAADFA/9H5wST13M5o8H61q3YdCjCDsqIxy1T2qACEw/s640/IMG_1565.JPG" title="Pike Place Market, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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The farm stands and people-watching were fantastic (as expected), but it was also fun to check out the <a href="http://pikebrewing.com/" target="_blank">Pike Brewery</a> for a quick pint</div>
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<b>Fremont Brewing</b></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v3xNt26vJMY/V75iGNf9oDI/AAAAAAAADEw/el6eWTa8Q3ogUeTUSJDMujELaPemhkNIACEw/s1600/IMG_1551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fremont Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v3xNt26vJMY/V75iGNf9oDI/AAAAAAAADEw/el6eWTa8Q3ogUeTUSJDMujELaPemhkNIACEw/s640/IMG_1551.JPG" title="Fremont Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.fremontbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Fremont Brewing</a> was high on our must-visit brewery list, and it did not disappoint. Their bustling Urban Beer Garden had great views of the water + boats + sunset across the street - I could have sat out there all night. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v10NHsrEwHc/V75iGLw7H4I/AAAAAAAADEo/GlHuty1bG_UCUjUrLRjwbBI7yJMS49oXACEw/s1600/IMG_1553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fremont Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v10NHsrEwHc/V75iGLw7H4I/AAAAAAAADEo/GlHuty1bG_UCUjUrLRjwbBI7yJMS49oXACEw/s640/IMG_1553.JPG" title="Fremont Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a><br />
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At the time of our visit, Fremont also had their <b>Ales for ALS IPA</b> on tap, which was a delicious, borderline juicy IPA (my favorite!). Great beer for a great cause = win-win.</div>
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<b>Holy Mountain Brewing Co.</b></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUkzXIXlCLI/V75iHlEcOSI/AAAAAAAADFE/bmw3wgwU11so0htM0IVefbZFfCWbr-MrACEw/s1600/IMG_1569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Holy Mountain Brewing Co., Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUkzXIXlCLI/V75iHlEcOSI/AAAAAAAADFE/bmw3wgwU11so0htM0IVefbZFfCWbr-MrACEw/s640/IMG_1569.JPG" title="Holy Mountain Brewing Co., Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HolyMountainBrewing/" target="_blank">Holy Mountain</a> was also fun to check out, despite the lack of air conditioning in their not-so-breezy taproom. (Heads up: Few places we visited actually had A/C, so plan accordingly if you visit Seattle during the hot summer months!). I really enjoyed the<b> Somnium saison </b>- wonderfully thirst-quenching on such a hot day.</div>
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<b>Elliott Bay Brewery & Pub</b></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daDIqVpblJ0/V75iIG5OTtI/AAAAAAAADFM/jLpvvBtjBVsV09qfZVFNVE9pFCiFy9WPgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pan-Seared Tofu Sandwich at Elliott Bay Brewery & Pub, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daDIqVpblJ0/V75iIG5OTtI/AAAAAAAADFM/jLpvvBtjBVsV09qfZVFNVE9pFCiFy9WPgCLcB/s640/IMG_1596.JPG" title="Pan-Seared Tofu Sandwich at Elliott Bay Brewery & Pub, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Elliott Bay has a few locations in and around Seattle, but we stopped into the West Seattle location before heading back to Portland. The beer, in all honesty, isn't anything too special - and the space inside is dark, loud, and overall unimpressive - but I'd go back here 500 times for the sandwich above alone. This here is the <b>Pan-Seared Tofu Sandwich ($10.50)</b>, piled HIGH with chile garlic-marinated tofu (cooked to perfection), tomatoes, lettuce, red onions, sliced avocado, and cilantro-garlic sauce, all sandwiched between a fantastic, toasted seed bread. Served on the side were addictive fries and housemade pickles.<br />
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For being a no-frills spot, I was really impressed with this sandwich and the thought that went into all of the food overall.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VkzH0N5askE/V75iGGTAItI/AAAAAAAADEs/ZOo32Hwz-qI8CAuvt7x8AGwNr0aN9DFiQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Fremont Troll, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VkzH0N5askE/V75iGGTAItI/AAAAAAAADEs/ZOo32Hwz-qI8CAuvt7x8AGwNr0aN9DFiQCLcB/s640/IMG_1547.jpg" title="The Fremont Troll, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who's seen "<a href="http://seattle.curbed.com/maps/heres-the-filming-locations-of-10-things-i-hate-about-you" target="_blank">10 Things I Hate About You</a>"?</td></tr>
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Other notable breweries/beer bars to visit in Seattle: <a href="http://www.reubensbrews.com/" target="_blank">Reuben's Brews</a>, <a href="http://www.cloudburstbrew.com/" target="_blank">Cloudburst Brewing</a>, <a href="https://outlanderbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Outlander Brewery & Pub</a> (for weirder beer flavors - like Lavender!), and <a href="http://toronadoseattle.com/" target="_blank">Toronado</a>.</div>
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<i><b>Have you done any traveling this summer? </b></i></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-5929189244860610692016-08-24T08:34:00.004-07:002016-08-24T08:34:56.824-07:00Georgetown Liquor Company | Seattle, WAA full vegetarian menu in a [sunny] dive bar with plenty of old school video games. Did we find heaven?<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nVhat_-MfEQ/V726qy0ff3I/AAAAAAAADDw/-rXgPJJjcsUST585efNX9utfwKYZs3jmwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Georgetown Liquor Company, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nVhat_-MfEQ/V726qy0ff3I/AAAAAAAADDw/-rXgPJJjcsUST585efNX9utfwKYZs3jmwCLcB/s640/IMG_1535.JPG" title="Georgetown Liquor Company, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://georgetownliquorco.com/" target="_blank">Georgetown Liquor Company</a> is situated just a short drive outside of downtown Seattle in the cute - yet no-frills - section of the city called...you guessed it...Georgetown. Our friends who we were staying with highly recommended this spot, and we were so glad they did.<br />
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Beers on tap are mostly local, and a Crikey IPA by <a href="http://www.reubensbrews.com/" target="_blank">Reuben's Brews</a> did not disappoint.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEyklpwRjpA/V727SW-V3VI/AAAAAAAADD0/p74MC1mBN4cIgaaOvyprDWIVKGcjWmqygCLcB/s1600/IMG_1534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Georgetown Liquor Company, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEyklpwRjpA/V727SW-V3VI/AAAAAAAADD0/p74MC1mBN4cIgaaOvyprDWIVKGcjWmqygCLcB/s640/IMG_1534.JPG" title="Georgetown Liquor Company, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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The indulgent-sounding, all-vegetarian menu (that could be all-vegan, too, if you ask for no dairy, etc.) made it hard to choose what to order for lunch. (Their motto is "strong enough for a carnivore, made for an herbivore." I love that!). I ended up going with a solid choice: the <b>Captain Nemo sandwich ($10.45) </b>- a toasted whole wheat hoagie piled high with<b> </b>housemade vegan chickpea salad, provolone cheese, Romaine lettuce, and tomato. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KT_4VGGlmA/V728H0jYKdI/AAAAAAAADD8/h9IB-tKxguggRM8ZIBINSEmbtVpKnfE7QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Captain Nemo Sandwich at Georgetown Liquor Company, Seattle | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="556" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KT_4VGGlmA/V728H0jYKdI/AAAAAAAADD8/h9IB-tKxguggRM8ZIBINSEmbtVpKnfE7QCLcB/s640/IMG_1538.JPG" title="Captain Nemo Sandwich at Georgetown Liquor Company, Seattle | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Served with a pickle spear and my choice of side (salad, soup, or tortilla chips and salsa - I went with the chips), this was one filling lunch. We were amazed at how such incredible food can be pushed out of a tiny kitchen. Clearly, the chefs here know what they're doing. We <i>almost</i> came back that night for dinner, but decided we should explore some more of downtown Seattle instead.</div>
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After lunch (and some Mario Kart on Super Nintendo), we made the short walk over to <a href="http://georgetownbeer.com/" target="_blank">Georgetown Brewing</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ja-nnYxUvoE/V728zSJBBBI/AAAAAAAADEM/Eo7dX1d3QuAFEvSQv8fgNJgOlj6SGG82gCLcB/s1600/IMG_1539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Georgetown Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ja-nnYxUvoE/V728zSJBBBI/AAAAAAAADEM/Eo7dX1d3QuAFEvSQv8fgNJgOlj6SGG82gCLcB/s640/IMG_1539.JPG" title="Georgetown Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EXswf7fxylw/V728zXtM70I/AAAAAAAADEI/fZ9Xt5M17iYYFPQTNzlAcwf4OYNfs6A0gCLcB/s1600/IMG_1541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Georgetown Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EXswf7fxylw/V728zXtM70I/AAAAAAAADEI/fZ9Xt5M17iYYFPQTNzlAcwf4OYNfs6A0gCLcB/s640/IMG_1541.JPG" title="Georgetown Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHyVZsyPl7g/V728zSWugFI/AAAAAAAADEE/saxhdfUf2hoIG7C3Z5HcRcqEyLD7JNBQACLcB/s1600/IMG_1540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Georgetown Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHyVZsyPl7g/V728zSWugFI/AAAAAAAADEE/saxhdfUf2hoIG7C3Z5HcRcqEyLD7JNBQACLcB/s640/IMG_1540.JPG" title="Georgetown Brewing, Seattle, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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We were hoping they'd have their Gusto Crema Coffee Ale that we tried at the <a href="http://www.oregonbrewfest.com/" target="_blank">Oregon Brewers Festival</a> (it legit tasted like iced coffee), but they didn't have it at the brewery that day. The beers were still decent, though, and it was fun to check out the source! (FYI: they only serve samples of their beer on-site here - for free - but have plenty of growlers, etc. to-go).</div>
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Overall, we had a fantastic time exploring Georgetown, and I'm still dreaming about that chickpea salad sandwich.......</div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-32226040247747747512016-08-18T06:00:00.000-07:002016-08-18T06:00:10.108-07:00Three Magnets Brewing Co. | Olympia, WashingtonLast weekend, Z and I hopped in the car and headed to Seattle.<br />
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Seattle's almost a three-hour drive from Portland, so we made a much-needed pit stop along the way at <a href="http://www.threemagnetsbrewing.com/home.html" target="_blank">Three Magnets Brewing</a> in Olympia, Washington.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--IkzAsetjDg/V7TCE_Dl88I/AAAAAAAADDM/1SvBALmOktcwMCe5mt4tm25xUmG5VGRBQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--IkzAsetjDg/V7TCE_Dl88I/AAAAAAAADDM/1SvBALmOktcwMCe5mt4tm25xUmG5VGRBQCLcB/s640/IMG_1617.JPG" title="Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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We've tried several of Three Magnets' beers since we moved to Portland, and we've been big fans of every one of them - so we were excited to finally check out the source.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hkj8ueT2Heg/V7TBlsWxLtI/AAAAAAAADDA/PSHnbiuhTTYrvOmkOM-uZj3LQLXbBsunACLcB/s1600/IMG_1523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hkj8ueT2Heg/V7TBlsWxLtI/AAAAAAAADDA/PSHnbiuhTTYrvOmkOM-uZj3LQLXbBsunACLcB/s640/IMG_1523.JPG" title="Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Three Magnets is setup where you can seat yourself, outside on their medium-sized patio (overlooking apartment building construction - normal stuff in these parts), or inside their bar/lounge area. We opted to stand at the small bar (that had a few stools), as we just drove over an hour and wanted to stretch our legs. The service behind the bar was odd at first - no one could understand why we opted to stand vs. sit, and we waited a solid 10 minutes before anyone even asked us what we wanted to order. Thankfully - and strangely - the service got much better as the night went on (and after we got hungry/a table), but the first impression was not ideal.</div>
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Regardless: the beer here is good, and the food was also quite tasty.</div>
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For beer, I loved the<b> Little Juice IPA</b> as well as the <b>New Mex Lager</b> - something I would typically never order, but it was delightfully refreshing on a hot night (and paired well with guacamole).</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QR99QaPIC8w/V7TBlTJ-XCI/AAAAAAAADC8/6aWP9kEa3tYh9Vwuf6x2UhZ1lBIL_bDbgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QR99QaPIC8w/V7TBlTJ-XCI/AAAAAAAADC8/6aWP9kEa3tYh9Vwuf6x2UhZ1lBIL_bDbgCLcB/s640/IMG_1524.JPG" title="Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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For an appetizer, we got the <b>Nopales and Guacamole ($9)</b>, which included lime, cilantro, pickled red onion, tomatillo, queso fresco, and tortilla chips. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gD0QSBcUisQ/V7TBlYfTpwI/AAAAAAAADC4/sUOmi-bjqh0rlmDzDa24JzNopqzcUiCDwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Nopales & Guacamole at Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gD0QSBcUisQ/V7TBlYfTpwI/AAAAAAAADC4/sUOmi-bjqh0rlmDzDa24JzNopqzcUiCDwCLcB/s640/IMG_1525.JPG" title="Nopales & Guacamole at Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was some good guac, and all of the toppings worked nicely. The chips were also delightfully sturdy and salty - making them able to stand up to the thick guac and accompaniments.<br />
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For my entree, I went with the <b>Grilled Sockeye Salmon Veracruz ($14)</b>, which consisted of grape tomatoes, Castelvetrano olives, caperberries, cilantro, lime, aji amarillo crema, and grilled flour tortilla.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGFDU_5DB3E/V7TBl0QzPxI/AAAAAAAADDE/qn3gBBTTTjoeUiIod4HZdXVDvXdO5vW6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_1528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grilled Sockeye Salmon at Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGFDU_5DB3E/V7TBl0QzPxI/AAAAAAAADDE/qn3gBBTTTjoeUiIod4HZdXVDvXdO5vW6ACLcB/s640/IMG_1528.JPG" title="Grilled Sockeye Salmon at Three Magnets Brewing Co. in Olympia, WA | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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The salmon was cooked a fantastic medium-rare, and the accompanying crema and vegetables made this dish really fantastic. The grilled tortilla, however, I found to be an odd choice as a "side." I would have preferred something a little lighter - like rice - to help soak up the sauce.</div>
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Overall, we really enjoyed checking out Three Magnets, and the location is a prime pit-stop between Portland and Seattle.</div>
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More on our Seattle adventures coming soon!</div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-2429538190029658822016-08-16T09:38:00.002-07:002016-08-16T09:38:37.084-07:00My Current Obsessions IIISince I haven't written one of these posts since April...I think it's high time I share with you what I'm currently obsessed with!<br />
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<b>Pickling...Everything.</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DNoI5IVVXzE/V073UHO1BLI/AAAAAAAACyo/sdRV2janLxw2ndDin4byZdYkvcbVscsyACPcB/s1600/IMG_2067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pickled Red Grapes | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DNoI5IVVXzE/V073UHO1BLI/AAAAAAAACyo/sdRV2janLxw2ndDin4byZdYkvcbVscsyACPcB/s640/IMG_2067.jpg" title="Pickled Red Grapes | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pickling always intimidated me - until I tried "quick-pickling" earlier this year. Now, I'm obsessed. So far, I've pickled <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/04/quick-pickled-vegetables.html" target="_blank">carrots, jalapenos, asparagus, radishes</a>, <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/06/pickled-red-grapes.html" target="_blank">grapes</a>, and just recently pickled red cabbage - which I've been putting on wraps, veggie burgers, tacos, salads, <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/04/baked-falafel-bowls-with-tahini-sauce.html" target="_blank">falafel bowls</a>...you name it. Quick-pickling is super easy, doesn't require many ingredients (depending on how many things you're pickling, of course), and the results are so darn tasty.<br />
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<b>My New Hat</b><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--6U_v4c-YUY/V7JzxVrssRI/AAAAAAAADCc/Rq3dOOEacSEXl9NgOFIplkRKqPysiv2qwCLcB/s1600/MyHat%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--6U_v4c-YUY/V7JzxVrssRI/AAAAAAAADCc/Rq3dOOEacSEXl9NgOFIplkRKqPysiv2qwCLcB/s640/MyHat%2521.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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All summer [so far], I have been telling Z I want one of those fancy hats for the beach/life in general. Mainly to keep the sun from burning my face off, but also because I just think they look cool. Well, last week - for our third wedding anniversary - Z surprised me with the hat above. And I'm in love. I wore it all over Seattle this past weekend (more on that later). (And I call this my "vacation hair." Don't judge).<br />
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<b>"<a href="http://www.hbo.com/the-night-of" target="_blank">The Night Of</a>"</b><br />
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WHO IS WATCHING THIS? This show is amazing. It's a limited series on HBO, and it has Z and I glued to the TV every Sunday night. There are only two episodes left, and so many twists are taking place. Plus, the acting is fantastic. Seriously, who out there is watching it too and wants to talk about it for 5 hours?<br />
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<b>Bagels & Lox</b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6PpS-fhp9C4/V7Jy7cj3wDI/AAAAAAAADCY/mwYJU_7Mt5UcRLslXtQsfE6-P-JF6OasQCLcB/s1600/BagelsandLox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bagel & Lox, Spielman Bagels, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6PpS-fhp9C4/V7Jy7cj3wDI/AAAAAAAADCY/mwYJU_7Mt5UcRLslXtQsfE6-P-JF6OasQCLcB/s640/BagelsandLox.jpg" title="Bagel & Lox, Spielman Bagels, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bagel & Lox from Spielman Bagels in NW Portland.</td></tr>
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I've always loved a good bagel, but it wasn't until recently that I discovered the magic that bagels with lox holds. I only occasionally eat fish, and really only when I know it's local and/or super fresh, so lox has always scared me a little bit. However, once I gave it a chance, I was hooked. Slightly smokey lox, a crusty bagel, creamy cheese, sharp red onion, salty capers?? I'm sold.<br />
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<b>Running</b><br />
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Anyone who's known me for longer than 2 years knows that "running" has never been in my vocabulary. However, after turning 30 two years ago - and having this whole <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/07/beer-friday-haze-by-tree-house-brewing.html" target="_blank">beer</a> hobby thing - I realized my once bean pole figure is long gone. Running has definitely helped in that department, but running also clears my head, and - with a good playlist - is actually way more fun than I ever thought it would be.<br />
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<b><i>What are you currently obsessed with?</i></b><br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-17302028861449031352016-08-11T09:56:00.001-07:002016-08-11T10:01:52.201-07:00Mother's Bistro | SW PortlandHappiness is...putting your name down for an hour wait for brunch, only to immediately turn around and see two first-come, first-served bar seats open up. BRUNCH WIN.<br />
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That's how lucky we got at <a href="http://www.mothersbistro.com/" target="_blank">Mother's Bistro</a> a few Saturdays ago. (Yes, I'm way behind in blog posts).<br />
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Mother's Bistro is an adorable restaurant in downtown Portland - the chic decor includes black and gold wallpaper and charming chandeliers. At Mother's, everything is made from-scratch and the menu features dishes from mothers around the world. There's also a special menu each month that features a <a href="http://www.mothersbistro.com/m-o-m/" target="_blank">Mother of the Month</a> (or “M.O.M.”)'s best dishes.<br />
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On this particular day, brunch - of course - began with Bloodys.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqKI9QL1Zxs/V6yfJVlgp2I/AAAAAAAADCE/oq7W0S1eJoAHrJ7GfW-4lehQuXpvbKwGQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mother's Bistro, SW Portland | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqKI9QL1Zxs/V6yfJVlgp2I/AAAAAAAADCE/oq7W0S1eJoAHrJ7GfW-4lehQuXpvbKwGQCLcB/s640/IMG_1388.JPG" title="Mother's Bistro, SW Portland | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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This Bloody was perfectly spicy and strong - just the way I like them!</div>
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We were apparently feeling extra indulgent on this Saturday morning, as we then proceeded to order the cinnamon roll, which was [basically] the size of my head.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9NANXxYPKdQ/V6yfJQXLNaI/AAAAAAAADCI/L5yylgtlyGM8CSqC3SGFqULvzGZbjpl9wCLcB/s1600/IMG_1390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mother's Bistro, SW Portland | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9NANXxYPKdQ/V6yfJQXLNaI/AAAAAAAADCI/L5yylgtlyGM8CSqC3SGFqULvzGZbjpl9wCLcB/s640/IMG_1390.JPG" title="Mother's Bistro, SW Portland | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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The cinnamon roll, prepared by Mother's in-house pastry chef, was delightful. Perfectly flaky yet pillowy on the inside, bursting with gooey cinnamon, and topped with a thick, not-too-sweet cream cheese frosting. Totally worth the calories.<br />
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For my entree, I went with the <b>Grilled Portabella Mushroom Scramble ($11.95)</b>. The dish was made with grilled portabellas that had been marinated in garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, then scrambled with eggs, fresh sautéed spinach, and asiago cheese. On the side was nicely thick, toasted wheat bread with soft butter and crispy home fries.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVWLD-CtCRs/V6yfJIbiMmI/AAAAAAAADCA/nD3WwFWoSRgVTaC6o9YZwacsJgPaOOnsgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mother's Bistro, SW Portland | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVWLD-CtCRs/V6yfJIbiMmI/AAAAAAAADCA/nD3WwFWoSRgVTaC6o9YZwacsJgPaOOnsgCLcB/s640/IMG_1395.JPG" title="Mother's Bistro, SW Portland | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Despite having less room in my stomach thanks to the cinnamon bun, I managed to eat most of this. Everything was seasoned well, and I loved the bite of the asiago cheese in my scramble.<br />
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Overall, we had a fantastic brunch at Mother's. Breakfast is served from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Tuesday through Friday, and from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on weekends. Be prepared for a wait on Saturday or Sunday, or keep your eye on those first-available bar seats!<br />
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<i><b>Where have you had a great brunch lately? </b></i><br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/portland/mothers-bistro-bar-portland" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Mother's Bistro & Bar, Downtown and other Restaurants in Portland"><img alt="Mother's Bistro & Bar Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17047969/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a> Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-57795625506377677112016-08-09T09:42:00.001-07:002016-08-09T09:42:53.822-07:00Quinoa with Mushrooms and Sausage<div style="text-align: center;">
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We're about to get really healthy up in here.</div>
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But I can't help it. The markets here in Portland are brimming with incredible produce right now, and I must taste everything. </div>
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Last week's fun find? Beautiful oyster 'shrooms.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-45MSmghb6mc/V6n38c5dEbI/AAAAAAAADBY/ixlhNU5jWWs1uIaoFEzu-tWC657TT0T0ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Oyster Mushrooms | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="326" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-45MSmghb6mc/V6n38c5dEbI/AAAAAAAADBY/ixlhNU5jWWs1uIaoFEzu-tWC657TT0T0ACLcB/s640/IMG_2169.jpg" title="Oyster Mushrooms | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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And in an attempt to balance out all my <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/07/beer-friday-haze-by-tree-house-brewing.html" target="_blank">beer</a> carbs with healthy meals, this protein-packed dish was born. (Bonus: It doesn't taste as healthy as it is!).</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1qWOOCiGjuE/V6oDvW1YvyI/AAAAAAAADBs/R1aZzOeQ20oLLE1KEZtE5msc-D6o4M5CgCLcB/s1600/Quinoa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Quinoa with Mushrooms & Sausage | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="528" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1qWOOCiGjuE/V6oDvW1YvyI/AAAAAAAADBs/R1aZzOeQ20oLLE1KEZtE5msc-D6o4M5CgCLcB/s640/Quinoa.jpg" title="Quinoa with Mushrooms & Sausage | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Quinoa with Mushrooms & Sausage</b></div>
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<b>Yields: 4 servings</b></div>
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-1 cup quinoa</div>
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-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil</div>
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-1 small yellow onion, diced</div>
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-1 clove garlic, minced</div>
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-5 ounces oyster mushrooms, roughly chopped</div>
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-1/2 teaspoon dried thyme</div>
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-Healthy pinch of crushed red pepper flakes</div>
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-1 <a href="http://fieldroast.com/product/field-roast-sausages/" target="_blank">Field Roast Italian Sausage</a>, chopped</div>
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-Salt and black pepper, to taste</div>
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-1 1/2 cups baby spinach</div>
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-Splash of good Balsamic vinegar</div>
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-Crumbled feta cheese, for serving</div>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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1.) Cook quinoa according to package directions. While quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium to high heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion begins to soften - about 5 minutes.</div>
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2.) Add mushrooms, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper to the pan. Cook until mushrooms begin to soften slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Add sausage and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.</div>
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3.) In a large bowl, mix quinoa with onion, mushroom, and sausage mixture. Stir in baby spinach and let wilt; add a splash of Balsamic. Taste, and season with salt and pepper as necessary. Serve with crumbled feta on top (because feta makes everything better).</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0u-0RVsGVJY/V6n38VPWlUI/AAAAAAAADBc/KWjHdWIyafk7QtraEWj371eA_sM5jZ3sQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Quinoa with Mushrooms and Sausage | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0u-0RVsGVJY/V6n38VPWlUI/AAAAAAAADBc/KWjHdWIyafk7QtraEWj371eA_sM5jZ3sQCLcB/s640/IMG_2174.jpg" title="Quinoa with Mushrooms and Sausage | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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This dish is a nutrient powerhouse. Protein-packed quinoa, mushrooms, and sausage + vitamin-laden spinach - with the feta cheese helping to make it seem not so healthy. Given the protein factor in this dish, it's also super satiating. Win-win!</div>
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Oh, and if you can't find oyster mushrooms, really any other mushrooms would do. And if you want to make this dish vegan? Simply leave out the feta.</div>
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<b><i>What dishes have you cooked lately?</i></b></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-71729961748706439912016-08-02T08:24:00.005-07:002016-08-02T08:24:49.894-07:00Summer [So Far]This is my first summer living anywhere but New England...and as much as I love New England summers, I am relishing in everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer this time of year. The humidity is basically nonexistent; the cool, delightful breezes are abundant; I'm pretty sure mosquitoes don't exist here??; and all that rain we dealt with in the winter? It basically disappears June through October. I've been chasing the sun all summer long so far, and I will continue to do so until those rain clouds rear their ugly (yet necessary) heads again in October.<br />
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Here's just a taste of how we've been enjoying our first (and final...more on that later) Oregon summer!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w9phmooMycI/V6ANMfgHzhI/AAAAAAAADAk/EQtWkHmyhSUZuNPliQk6ggNCKssb3aviwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Oneonta Gorge, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w9phmooMycI/V6ANMfgHzhI/AAAAAAAADAk/EQtWkHmyhSUZuNPliQk6ggNCKssb3aviwCLcB/s640/IMG_1215.JPG" title="Oneonta Gorge, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FxJp3rjOrA/V6ANMav8fqI/AAAAAAAADAg/PIIHmhYvRdEBFpa69y772OHF1ZDeAf2zwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dalton Point, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FxJp3rjOrA/V6ANMav8fqI/AAAAAAAADAg/PIIHmhYvRdEBFpa69y772OHF1ZDeAf2zwCLcB/s640/IMG_1224.JPG" title="Dalton Point, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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A hike in and around <a href="http://www.oregon.com/recreation/oneonta-gorge" target="_blank">Oneonta Gorge</a> was borderline perfection. The Gorge area is a short drive from Portland (about 45 minutes, give or take), so our sleeping in didn't affect our hiking goals. After the hike, we pulled off at <a href="http://columbiariverimages.com/Regions/Places/dalton_point.html" target="_blank">Dalton Point</a> for much-needed beers and sandwiches by the water. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M2cIaLA0Uhk/V6ANMtG7kBI/AAAAAAAADAo/29-8sRW9MGEWQsUOBHOOUuhtALpQVMUjgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bay Ocean Spit, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M2cIaLA0Uhk/V6ANMtG7kBI/AAAAAAAADAo/29-8sRW9MGEWQsUOBHOOUuhtALpQVMUjgCLcB/s640/IMG_1274.JPG" title="Bay Ocean Spit, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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The Oregon Coast is my happy place, but <b>Bay Ocean Spit</b> might just be the happiest. This hidden gem takes about 10 minutes to walk to once you're parked, but the quiet beach and incredible views are worth every single step.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8I-P0c277dA/V6ANNACmaFI/AAAAAAAADAs/c_5ZWDqgQRMtbVc1Ook1UMR-De2XBn0cgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cascade Brewing, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8I-P0c277dA/V6ANNACmaFI/AAAAAAAADAs/c_5ZWDqgQRMtbVc1Ook1UMR-De2XBn0cgCLcB/s640/IMG_1313.JPG" title="Cascade Brewing, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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We've been beyond fortunate to have so many great friends from the East Coast come visit us. Most recently, our friends Steve and Kristen - fellow beer nerds - were in town, and we had a fun afternoon on the patio at <a href="http://www.cascadebrewingbarrelhouse.com/" target="_blank">Cascade Brewing</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IK0bpIHDx7M/V6ANNDy_XHI/AAAAAAAADA0/sn9RsA58_swaO5chj--4iKK8GCmPbFflQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Angel's Rest, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="542" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IK0bpIHDx7M/V6ANNDy_XHI/AAAAAAAADA0/sn9RsA58_swaO5chj--4iKK8GCmPbFflQCLcB/s640/IMG_1375.JPG" title="Angel's Rest, Oregon | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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This past Saturday, we joined friends for yet another hike in the Gorge - this time, <a href="http://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/oregon/angels-rest-trail" target="_blank">Angel's Rest</a>. Although this hike was a bit steeper, it's also a lot shorter than the previously mentioned adventure (it's a little over two miles to the summit).</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hlOmYb-OHtI/V6ANNLi6I8I/AAAAAAAADAw/4JJgoUNIC8sVD_nE4Np70mARRUkv-dmxwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Summer beers | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hlOmYb-OHtI/V6ANNLi6I8I/AAAAAAAADAw/4JJgoUNIC8sVD_nE4Np70mARRUkv-dmxwCLcB/s640/IMG_1398.JPG" title="Summer beers | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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And what's a Sunday Funday without enjoying beers on your friends' roof deck? Beers, friends, a great view of the Willamette River - it doesn't get much better than that.</div>
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I <3 summer.</div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-59194539487584702262016-07-29T09:48:00.002-07:002016-07-29T09:48:18.511-07:00Beer Friday: Haze by Tree House Brewing Co.<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">On most Fridays, I'll share a beer I particularly enjoy, and think you might as well. This series will feature beers from all over the U.S. (and when we're lucky, the world). Cheers!</i><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5-OLcKGmTkw/V5uDOulMemI/AAAAAAAAC94/nihS5Lea_mMNCD7XYYwYOnpYoLygs0e0ACLcB/s1600/Haze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Haze by Tree House Brewing | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5-OLcKGmTkw/V5uDOulMemI/AAAAAAAAC94/nihS5Lea_mMNCD7XYYwYOnpYoLygs0e0ACLcB/s400/Haze.jpg" title="Haze by Tree House Brewing | A Hoppy Medium" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Z and I have some awesome friends.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;">Last week, we hosted two of those friends here in Portland - they flew in from Boston - and they were gracious enough to bring us a whole slew of goodies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;">Goodies like <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2015/11/beer-friday-alter-ego-by-tree-house.html" target="_blank">Tree House beer</a>. One of my very favorite breweries from the East Coast. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;">While all of Tree House's beers are good, I'm focusing on <b>Haze</b> today because that's what I drank on the beach. And it doesn't get any more "summer" then enjoying a good beer by the sand and waves...am I right?</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">What: </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Haze by <a href="http://treehousebrew.com/" target="_blank">Tree House Brewing Co</a>.</span></div>
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<b>Style: </b>American Double/Imperial IPA</div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ABV: </span>8.2%</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tasting Notes:</span> If you're not typically a fan of IPAs (or, Imperial IPAs), this beer might just change your mind. While it definitely packs a hop punch, it is in no way those hop/malt bombs we've all been burned by before. Instead, Haze is a refreshing, hoppy, tropical fruit-forward beer that tastes delightful on a hot summer day. (Let's be honest: it tastes delightful on a freezing cold day, too).</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Pairing Suggestion:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> This beer could stand up to salty (and/or stinky) cheeses, like a sharp cheddar or blue cheese. IPAs always go well with spicy food, too - and for dessert? Carrot cake. Trust me.</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Where Can I Find It?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> Tree House Brewing in Monson, MA! (Even though <a href="http://treehousebrew.com/blog/2016/2/28/a-reflection-and-plans-for-the-future" target="_blank">they're moving eventually</a>). It's worth the short drive from Boston, and it's worth waiting in line for. I promise.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Cheers to the weekend!</span></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-81428985508106744242016-07-28T09:42:00.002-07:002016-07-28T09:43:04.301-07:00Easy Summer Slaw {Vegan}We're lucky that here in Portland, we don't get the humidity we get back home in Boston. 80-90 degrees here has a nice breeze, and when the sun goes down? The temperature is beyond ideal...with few mosquitoes to bother us.<br />
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However...our highest temperatures for the day hit right before dinnertime (4-5 p.m.), which causes me to lose all motivation to cook. That's where no-oven-necessary recipes like this one come in handy.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mUyRa5lUY5Q/V5owBDMzkhI/AAAAAAAAC9g/AZ82TNNP6PYomlVUbcZ5xbidwiKwkNdmwCLcB/s1600/Slaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Summer Slaw | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="376" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mUyRa5lUY5Q/V5owBDMzkhI/AAAAAAAAC9g/AZ82TNNP6PYomlVUbcZ5xbidwiKwkNdmwCLcB/s640/Slaw.jpg" title="Easy Summer Slaw | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made this slaw the other night when I had some haddock to cook up (yes, sometimes I eat fish!), but this slaw would also go with...just about anything. Tofu, burgers, sausages, you name it. It's just a versatile, tasty, easy-to-throw-together side dish - no extra heat required. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yyiJ_4wBY5w/V5ooDwp-vUI/AAAAAAAAC9E/DB2pWwqDjTEg2iWGYmzYhrGPFbKQaUTVwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Summer Slaw | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="376" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yyiJ_4wBY5w/V5ooDwp-vUI/AAAAAAAAC9E/DB2pWwqDjTEg2iWGYmzYhrGPFbKQaUTVwCLcB/s640/IMG_2164.jpg" title="Easy Summer Slaw | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Easy Summer Slaw</b></div>
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<b>Yields: 4-6 servings</b></div>
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-1/2 head red cabbage, cored and thinly sliced</div>
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-2 large carrots, peeled and shredded</div>
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-1/2 cup cilantro, roughly chopped</div>
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-1 jalapeno, seeded and diced (optional)</div>
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-2 tablespoons rice vinegar</div>
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-Juice of 1/2 an orange</div>
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-Salt and black pepper, to taste</div>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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1.) In a large bowl, mix all of ingredients (before salt and pepper) together. Season as necessary with salt and pepper. </div>
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2.) Cover and place in fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving (although overnight provides the best flavor!).</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4bA5EOyIDE/V5ooDzp35UI/AAAAAAAAC9I/r44931tL0zIywW3qUPiszlRhopNo0ztwACLcB/s1600/IMG_2160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Summer Slaw | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="432" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4bA5EOyIDE/V5ooDzp35UI/AAAAAAAAC9I/r44931tL0zIywW3qUPiszlRhopNo0ztwACLcB/s640/IMG_2160.jpg" title="Easy Summer Slaw | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a><br />
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Told you it was easy. ;)</div>
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<b><i>What no-cook dishes are you loving lately?</i></b></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-1410285159634894782016-07-26T09:56:00.003-07:002016-07-26T09:56:33.775-07:00The Sudra | NE Portland100 percent vegan, Indian-inspired food served in casual digs (order-at-the-counter style) with a giant patio - which is shared with the adjacent two fast-casual restaurants (one's a taco joint, the other a burger place). This, my friends, is <a href="http://www.thesudra.com/" target="_blank">The Sudra</a>.<br />
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A recent dinner there started with two cocktails: the <b>Beet Generation ($8)</b>, made with Volstead vodka, beet and lemon juices, brine, and a pickled bean for garnish; as well as the <b>King Louie ($10)</b>, made with Cazadores Blanco, Hot Monkey vodka, Combier Orange, pineapple and lime juices, and a chile salt rim.<br />
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The King Louie was wildly refreshing with a healthy kick of spice, while the Beet Generation was definitely earthy (read: beet-y), but still quite delicious.</div>
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For an appetizer, the<b> Pakora</b> (price...I don't have #greatblogger) is a must-try. Our medley included crispy-fried broccoli and cauliflower with sauces that I don't actually know the names of, but worked well with the vegetables. (One's a creamy, tangy sauce; the other a thinner, berry-forward sauce). Again, #greatblogger.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qrHq90w27Y8/V5eSSqo5c-I/AAAAAAAAC8o/nmW5Jpk9kQEgwkGSdXxnfj1ho3D7xMjfgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pakora at The Sudra in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qrHq90w27Y8/V5eSSqo5c-I/AAAAAAAAC8o/nmW5Jpk9kQEgwkGSdXxnfj1ho3D7xMjfgCLcB/s640/IMG_1243.JPG" title="Pakora at The Sudra in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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For my entree, I went with the <b>Kale-Infused Dosa Plate ($10)</b>, which consisted of kale-infused dosa, black-eyed pea korma, potato masala, collards, and pickled Anaheim chiles, with cilantro-lemon sauce and roasted red pepper-cashew chutney on the side. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M7dPf63oePU/V5eSSm9P3iI/AAAAAAAAC8s/lm1N6LwH73Mqj_cTRVcIpUt9d0uUxEaDACLcB/s1600/IMG_1245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kale-Infused Dosa Plate at The Sudra in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="506" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M7dPf63oePU/V5eSSm9P3iI/AAAAAAAAC8s/lm1N6LwH73Mqj_cTRVcIpUt9d0uUxEaDACLcB/s640/IMG_1245.JPG" title="Kale-Infused Dosa Plate at The Sudra in Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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The collards, black-eyed peas, and potatoes were cooked and seasoned wonderfully, and the accompanying sauce and chutney were borderline addictive. The kale-infused dosa was good and interesting, but the texture of the dosa itself was a bit dry and crumbly. </div>
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Overall, we really enjoyed our meal at The Sudra, and we loved the wide-open patio. I'd go back for the cocktails and pakora alone, although I'm eager to try some of their other dishes, too.</div>
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<b><i>Have you ever been to an all-vegan Indian restaurant before?</i></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/portland/the-sudra-kerns" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about The Sudra, Kerns and other Restaurants in Portland"><img alt="The Sudra Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17051907/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a> <br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-36933311882437850472016-07-20T09:45:00.002-07:002016-07-20T09:49:27.379-07:00Tasty n Sons | North PortlandI know what you're thinking: <i>You've lived in Portland for over 9 months, and you </i>still <i>haven't been to Tasty n Sons for brunch?</i><br />
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But after last weekend, I can now say I have. And I'm hoping to go back about 800 times.<br />
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Here's the thing: If I know that a restaurant typically has a long wait for brunch, I almost always never go (yes, even though I realize a wait means the food's probably pretty damn good). My morning hangriness is not to be trifled with, however, and a long wait usually means disaster for the Laheys. But for some reason, this past weekend, I was willing to take our chances with <a href="http://www.tastynsons.com/" target="_blank">Tasty n Sons</a>. I figured if the wait was longer than an hour, there's about a gazillion more restaurants we can go to instead if need be.<br />
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But luck was on our side last Saturday. The wait was only about 45 minutes (although, it ended up being even shorter), and Tasty n Sons takes your cell phone number so they can call you when your table's ready. No need to stand around and starve. So, while we waited for our table, we walked a few doors down to <a href="http://www.tin-bucket.com/" target="_blank">Tin Bucket</a> for some early afternoon brews...naturally.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idQRCogj7Qo/V47MHmKYVeI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/TS_IZ1dp6iMpBoUtjcBAwLQYC_E6bTRAwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Stiegl Radler Grapefruit Naturtrub | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idQRCogj7Qo/V47MHmKYVeI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/TS_IZ1dp6iMpBoUtjcBAwLQYC_E6bTRAwCLcB/s640/IMG_1191.JPG" title="Stiegl Radler Grapefruit Naturtrub | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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We hadn't even finished our beers before Tasty n Sons called, a welcome surprise for us hungry drinkers. </div>
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We were seated at the counter overlooking the kitchen - a fun and entertaining place to sit! To start our meal off, I ordered a cup of coffee - Tasty n Sons brews <a href="http://wateravenuecoffee.com/" target="_blank">Water Avenue</a>, one of my favorite local coffee brands.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i4c6quW5XdU/V47MH6A7J2I/AAAAAAAAC7Y/RFvzIf1VMr4AuzY1oKGvvNcw3XuChbghgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Water Avenue Coffee at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i4c6quW5XdU/V47MH6A7J2I/AAAAAAAAC7Y/RFvzIf1VMr4AuzY1oKGvvNcw3XuChbghgCLcB/s640/IMG_1193.JPG" title="Water Avenue Coffee at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i>How cute is that creamer bottle, by the way?</i></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">And, of course, no brunch would be complete without a Bloody - and Tasty n Sons makes several different kinds. I went for the traditional </span><b style="text-align: left;">Tasty Mary ($9)</b><span style="text-align: left;">, pictured, made with vodka, tomato, Worcestershire, horseradish, lemon, Sriracha, celery salt rim, and house pickles. Z opted for the </span><b style="text-align: left;">Maiken Tasty ($9)</b><span style="text-align: left;">, made with Aquavit, tomato, Worcestershire, horseradish, lemon, dill, and house pickles. We loved both of them, but Z's version was delightfully refreshing - a nice, subtle spin on the typical Bloody Mary.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RvWgIHVsOFY/V47MHy0hBeI/AAAAAAAAC7U/gL69jdmYOgA9JQS5qwIWEsBbnaa2lNyjgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bloody Mary at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RvWgIHVsOFY/V47MHy0hBeI/AAAAAAAAC7U/gL69jdmYOgA9JQS5qwIWEsBbnaa2lNyjgCLcB/s640/IMG_1194.JPG" title="Bloody Mary at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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Tasty n Sons' dishes are meant to be shared - and come out as they're ready - so we ordered a few plates for the table. First up were the <b>Potatoes Bravas ($5 for small; $8 for large</b>, which is what we ordered). The perfectly fried, saucy potatoes were topped with an over easy egg and a silky smooth aioli.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8cDMZG-ALL8/V47MIES6EaI/AAAAAAAAC7c/s8S1XOscLn4ah-78ag1yWwNZiOM_nvSagCLcB/s1600/IMG_1198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Potatoes Bravas at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8cDMZG-ALL8/V47MIES6EaI/AAAAAAAAC7c/s8S1XOscLn4ah-78ag1yWwNZiOM_nvSagCLcB/s640/IMG_1198.JPG" title="Potatoes Bravas at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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We also shared the <b>Cast Iron Frittata ($10)</b>, made with spicy stewed green beans, dry jack cheese, and micro greens. We loved how thin and delicate the frittata was, while also being incredibly flavorful - between the spices used and the jack cheese, this was one delicious dish. (Side note: both the Potatoes Bravas and this frittata are listed under "Smaller" plates on Tasty n Sons' brunch menu, but they were both the perfect size for two people).</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-isQB0apWUvQ/V47MIJoUJSI/AAAAAAAAC7g/f9XEnQoJ0NALaC7RBtocOrFuy1JGSnNVgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cast Iron Frittata at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-isQB0apWUvQ/V47MIJoUJSI/AAAAAAAAC7g/f9XEnQoJ0NALaC7RBtocOrFuy1JGSnNVgCLcB/s640/IMG_1203.JPG" title="Cast Iron Frittata at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our third and final dish was the star of the show: the <b>Summer Muffin board ($9)</b>, which consisted of an obviously homemade English muffin, piled high with heirloom tomato, pickled beet mayonnaise, <a href="http://www.beechershandmadecheese.com/" target="_blank">Beecher's</a> cheddar, summer greens, and a fried egg. (The sandwich didn't come cut in half...we did that, for sharing purposes).<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gH-k8vd1se0/V47MIboseMI/AAAAAAAAC7k/ERf0ARAPPxwUAWRULwrTVKsvmPRguaXVwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Summer Muffin at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gH-k8vd1se0/V47MIboseMI/AAAAAAAAC7k/ERf0ARAPPxwUAWRULwrTVKsvmPRguaXVwCLcB/s640/IMG_1205.JPG" title="Summer Muffin at Tasty n Sons, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Um, this sandwich was epic. Every single component was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and both of us easily could have eaten five more of these if we weren't already so full. </div>
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Tasty n Sons is open daily for brunch from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (They're also open daily for dinner starting at 5 p.m., and have happy hour in the bar from 2:30 - 5 p.m.).<br />
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Aaaaand now I want to go back.</div>
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/portland/tasty-n-sons-boise-eliot" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Tasty n Sons, Boise-Eliot and other Restaurants in Portland"><img alt="Tasty n Sons Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17049624/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a> <br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-43428606642785607732016-07-19T08:52:00.001-07:002016-07-19T08:52:12.895-07:00Two Days in OhioAfter all of <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/07/4th-of-july-weekend-in-government-camp.html" target="_blank">our July 4th shenanigans</a>, Z and I unfortunately had to make a quick - and unexpected - trip out to Ohio for a funeral. Although we were only in the state for a little over two days, we decided to make the most of our time there, outside of the sad yet touching services.<br />
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We flew in and out of Cleveland, although the bulk of our trip was spent in Wooster, Ohio. (We actually stopped here first when we started making our way <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/01/10-things-you-need-to-know-before.html" target="_blank">cross-country</a>!). We revisited <a href="http://www.jafbwooster.com/" target="_blank">JAFB Brewery</a> (this place rocks - the bartender even remembered us from our last visit), and also tried the cheesiest pizza I've ever had in my life at <a href="http://www.cocciahouse.com/" target="_blank">Coccia House</a> - a no-frills spot right in town. This pizza is an odd yet deliciously indulgent obsession of the locals (at least, the locals we know), so we had to try it! (Um, and you can also get the pizza with "extra cheese." As if it doesn't already have enough cheese on it...).<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6wcF6dS0eg/V42F7o7tXSI/AAAAAAAAC6Y/qMgQgea9Q10qzc9o0IS2knsv-7MKkVPGwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Coccia House, Wooster, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6wcF6dS0eg/V42F7o7tXSI/AAAAAAAAC6Y/qMgQgea9Q10qzc9o0IS2knsv-7MKkVPGwCLcB/s640/IMG_1104.JPG" title="Coccia House, Wooster, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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(Side note: After getting your fill of beer and extra cheesy pizza in Wooster, be sure to stay at the <a href="http://www.marketstreetinnwooster.com/" target="_blank">Market Street Inn</a>. Everything about it is delightful!).<br />
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From Wooster, we also made the 45-minute drive (ish) to Akron to visit <a href="http://www.hoppinfrog.com/" target="_blank">Hoppin' Frog Brewery</a>, a spot that's been on Z's bucket list for quite some time now.<br />
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Hoppin' Frog had a ton of tap room-only beers on tap (I love that!), so we both ended up getting a sampler tray of four 5-ounce pours. Hoppin' Frog also has tap room-only "Infusions," typically blending two of their current draft beers - such as the <b>Peanut Butter & Jelly</b> I ordered after my sampler. So. Good.<br />
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On our second day in Ohio, we both worked at our B&B before making the trip to Cleveland a little early for our evening flight. (Which was delayed about 600 times. But that's besides the point).<br />
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For lunch, we sat outside at <a href="https://www.greatlakesbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Great Lakes Brewing</a>, which had an awesome patio.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kzKtJtVTQsQ/V42GuA3DykI/AAAAAAAAC6g/-y5QP-JJfkIsGAcndw7NuOjS0R9ZEIsPQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kzKtJtVTQsQ/V42GuA3DykI/AAAAAAAAC6g/-y5QP-JJfkIsGAcndw7NuOjS0R9ZEIsPQCLcB/s640/IMG_1110.JPG" title="Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" width="480" /></a></div>
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The beers were fine here, although the tap list was not as impressive as we had hoped. Nonetheless, the food was worth the visit alone - especially the <b>Housemade Tater Tots</b>, which are filled with cheese. (We obviously needed more cheese...).</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BEyk05PNDqg/V42GuOUxKJI/AAAAAAAAC6k/0-2m6wj6ndwBTXKfsC0NyVfYYIZSHTObwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BEyk05PNDqg/V42GuOUxKJI/AAAAAAAAC6k/0-2m6wj6ndwBTXKfsC0NyVfYYIZSHTObwCLcB/s640/IMG_1115.JPG" title="Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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For my entree, I went with the <b>Salmon Salad</b>, made with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/homesteadsprings/" target="_blank">Homestead Springs</a> salmon, mixed peppers, red onion, tomato, and feta, and served with a simple dressing of oil and vinegar on the side. It was fantastic, and a nice balance from those giant, cheese-filled tater tots.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FualdbE9Smo/V42GukC7JAI/AAAAAAAAC6o/n25Pc7o3vEYuLP-tiOzt7G39rmcE_-cUACLcB/s1600/IMG_1116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FualdbE9Smo/V42GukC7JAI/AAAAAAAAC6o/n25Pc7o3vEYuLP-tiOzt7G39rmcE_-cUACLcB/s640/IMG_1116.JPG" title="Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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After Great Lakes, we made a quick pit stop at <a href="http://fatheadscleveland.com/" target="_blank">Fat Head's Brewery & Saloon</a>. We love visiting their Portland location, so it was fun checking out their Cleveland spot! (Side note: There's a second Fat Head's location in/around Cleveland, but we opted for this one as it was closest to the airport).<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XC92qTRueTE/V42HF22XQjI/AAAAAAAAC60/wgGzVLN0YdoTt42ZtD_nJyaSElBOT00fwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fat Head's Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XC92qTRueTE/V42HF22XQjI/AAAAAAAAC60/wgGzVLN0YdoTt42ZtD_nJyaSElBOT00fwCLcB/s640/IMG_1124.jpg" title="Fat Head's Brewery in Cleveland, Ohio | A Hoppy Medium" width="640" /></a></div>
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Despite our quick trip, we were able to fit a lot in! I just don't know if I can eat cheese again anytime soon....</div>
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/cleveland/the-tasting-room-at-hoppin-frog-akron" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about The Tasting Room at Hoppin' Frog, Akron and other Restaurants in Cleveland"><img alt="The Tasting Room at Hoppin' Frog Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/16965654/biglink" style="border: none; height: 146px; padding: 0; width: 200px;" /></a>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-566069351910158826.post-49613598998942049452016-07-15T09:07:00.002-07:002016-07-15T09:07:34.187-07:00Beer Friday: Hallelujah Hopricot by Reverend Nat's Hard Cider<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">On most Fridays, I'll share a beer I particularly enjoy, and think you might as well. This series will feature beers from all over the U.S. (and when we're lucky, the world). Cheers!</i><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W12E3CDo5uE/V4gtFGAB5SI/AAAAAAAAC6E/yiPdjOfK-hMY7awq6d5lQBwzLpoCD1ETwCLcB/s1600/RevNats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Reverend Nat's Hard Cider, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" border="0" height="281" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W12E3CDo5uE/V4gtFGAB5SI/AAAAAAAAC6E/yiPdjOfK-hMY7awq6d5lQBwzLpoCD1ETwCLcB/s400/RevNats.jpg" title="Reverend Nat's Hard Cider, Portland, OR | A Hoppy Medium" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;">We're switching gears this week from beer...to cider! And we're talking about one of the best cideries here in good ol' PDX (in my humble opinion).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've only been to Rev Nat's a handful of times - although I've enjoyed their bottled ciders several times as well - and every time I visit, they always have a wide, unique variety of ciders available. Not usually being a cider person myself (they tend to be too sweet and artifical-tasting for me), I love how Rev Nat's ciders are always crisp, not too sweet, and super spot-on in terms of flavor.</span></div>
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Last weekend, we visited their taproom again and I ordered this year-round gem that's even more ideal for summertime imbibing. (Note: Many of Rev Nat's taproom ciders rotate regularly, but this one is always available).</div>
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<b style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">What: </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Hallelujah Hopricot by <a href="http://reverendnatshardcider.com/" target="_blank">Rev Nat's</a></span></div>
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<b>Style: </b>Hard Cider</div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ABV: </span>6.7</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">%</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tasting Notes:</span> Cascade and Amarillo hops give this cider the dry, hoppy qualities it needs to help balance out the sweetness of the apricot juice and heirloom apples. I loved how crisp, refreshing, and not artificially sweet this cider is, while still letting the apricot notes be the star of the show. I can see why it's one of Rev Nat's best-sellers!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Pairing Suggestion:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> A huge bonus is that Rev Nat's has <a href="http://ahoppymedium.blogspot.com/2016/03/my-top-5-pizza-places-in-portland.html" target="_blank">Sizzle Pie</a> available at their taproom! But, if you're not hanging out there and just want a bottle to share at home (yes, <a href="http://reverendnatshardcider.com/ciders/hallelujah-hopricot/" target="_blank">Hallelujah Hopricot is also available in bottles</a>) I recommend pairing this with a cheese plate. The subtle spice from the hops and sweetness from the fruit would make any cheese pairing that much more epic. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.48px;">Where Can I Find It?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"> At Rev Nat's - on tap, in bottles, and/or growlers to-go! Their taproom is located at </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">1813 NE 2nd Avenue in Portland. However, you can also find bottles at a slew of local gourmet or specialty foods markets in Oregon, Washington, and Southern California. (You may also have luck if you live in Idaho, Hawaii, British Columbia, or Tokyo, Japan. True story). I'd just recommend calling your local shops to see if they carry Rev Nat's ciders.</span></span><br />
<b style="background-color: transparent; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><i><br /></i></b><b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><i>Are you a cider fan? What's one of your favorites?</i></b></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13454847305310650885noreply@blogger.com0