wildfire's Profile
Dirt Cheap but good wines
If I were you, I would look for varietals of grape that tends to be lighter bodied. For example, I would imagine it is much easier to find an under $10 montepulciano than an under $10 merlot. (Though I once had an $13 Malbec that was absolutely amazing, I really wish I could remember the name of it). Go to a wine store and tell them your price range and what you personally like in wine. The salesperson might actually enjoy the challenge, and you'll be much more likely to like the wine that you get!
PHX: Two Hippies Magic Mushroom Burgers?
I went to this place when I was passing through, and really enjoyed it. There is a great hippy vibe that is fun and completely natural (not the faux-hippie some restaurants do just as a marketing scheme). If you like mushrooms AT ALL, go to this joint. It is pretty delicious. And as a bonus, you can get a full meal for like $5 (and I mean burger, fries, and a drink).
Anything new in Broomfield/Louisville?
Tibet's is delicious. I rarely venture in between Boulder and Denver for dinner, but I absolutely love this place!!! Their Indian is good, but if you have never been there, I would also suggest getting a genuine Tibetan dish, they are some of the best in the state.
Baby Shower Menu
I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions for what to serve at a baby shower (or some menus from their own showers). I am in charge of being the hostess for my cousin, and am looking for some ideas. Right now, I know I am going to serve salad (with toasted walnuts, goat cheese, sliced apples, and a raspberry vinegarette) and chocolate dipped strawberries. However, a full meal this does not make :) She does not eat any red meat, but other than that is very open anything. Thank you in advance!
Bridal Shower Menu Suggestions
That sounds like a wonderful shower menu! (Especially the chocolate dipped strawberries :) )
Bridal Shower Menu Suggestions
Quiches always seem to be a staple in bridal showers. Not sure why, but they are delicious, easy to make, and most people like them. Also, to spice up the salad (especially if the bride is not a vegetarian, and everyone else eats some fish), you could try making a salmon salad. There are quite a few excellent recipies for this and it would add some variety.
fruited beer
I think that making a raspberry wheat would be a very do-able project. Some friends of mine recently got into brewing their own beer and one of their first projects was actually a raspberry wheat. I know they had a little trouble with it (because it is definately harder than you standard brewing projects), but is was very worth it. We don't even live in a state where you can find really fresh raspberries, and people still ask them to make it again! I think that if that is what you are missing at your local breweries, then that should be what you make (you'll be much more committed to making an excellent product). Good luck!
Brasserie d' Ecaussinnes (Belgium)
I actually managed to find that, and was surprised by how flavorful it was. The pinapple undertone was perfect, definately there but not overwhelmingly sweet. Thank you for posting it!
Has anyone ever heard of Brand?
I tried a beer in Amsterdam called Brand and really, really liked it. I am pretty sure it is a Dutch beer, so I doubt I will be able to find it where I live, but I was just wondering if anyone else had tried it.
Chub, a Scottish ale
On draft it is amazing! They have it at my favorite bar and wow! I liked it already, but man, it is that much better on tap!
Found Champagne......
Yeah, seriously, I'll get in on that. However, your best bet is probably the Tattinger.
Best wines with pizza? Best pizzeria wine lists?
I tend to like any Montepulciano d'Abruzzo with pizza...especially home-made pizza :)
German recipe website recommendations
I would check out:
http://www.germanculture.com.ua/recipes/blrecipes.htm (this is a german culture site, but has some great recipes!)
This one also looked good (I haven't personally tried any of the recipes, but it is really comprehensive): http://www.germanfoods.org/
DESSERT Cookbook of the Month Suggestions
I love Perfect Light Desserts! I know we aren't voting, but I was about to suggest that when I saw this thread.
Why is a great wine great?
A wine that you love so much that you save it for special occations (even if it isn't expensive). Wine that you are excited to drink that you don't want to waste it on a night that is just normal.
BBQ Rust
Oven cleaner's always worked for me. How much rust are you talking about though?
Kegerator Advice
I have the one you are talking about. I have never had any trouble with it at all. (Of course really anything seems better than the terrible homemade one my husband had before I moved in...). Great idea for a wedding present btw! :)
Dinnerware safety--brand suggestions?
I completely understand your concern given that you have children. Here is a really cheap lead tester (it's like $7 ish), so you can check before you spend a lot of money buying all new dinnerware:
http://www.amazon.com/Homax-Household-Lead-Test-5250/dp/B000E3DX0C
Please rate my downtown Denver options
i recently went to Steubens to grab a bite before a concert at the Fillmore and absolutely loved it. I usually go to Hamburger Mary's when I'm in that area (which is quite good as well), but I may have been converted. Fruitation is always delicious. Also, if you are looking for sushi (and don't mind the cab ride), I would suggest Hapas. I personally like it more than Sonodas or Sushi Den.
OK i admit it, i'm intimidated by bitters
You can use angostura bitters in a wide variety of drinks (they are a huge fan of it in the Playboy's Bartending Guide). I recently tried a recipe that was Champagne, a dash of angostura bitters, a bit of sugar, and a twist of lemon. It was amazing: great blend of spice and sweetness!!! (And for those of you wondering why I was using champagne as a mixer, it's because my roomie bought not as good of champagne as I generally like, so we decided to experiment:) )
What to drink with spiced shepherd pie ?
I agree with the Chianti, if you can find a full-bodied one.
Looking for great local food producers in Boulder
Check out the farmer's market on Saturdays. That will give you a great idea of what's around, most of the local food producers go there (and there is always live music, etc, so it is just a ton of fun in general). Also, make sure to go to Spruce St. Confectionary
Good Dinner Party Food for Watching Basketball?
I would agree with the homemade grilled pizza. You can make it easily and be creative with toppings so everyone has something they like. You could also go with the general appetizer table and put togeather some dips (ie-spinach and artichoke, guac, etc) and some other easy to eat, not too messy appetizers.
THE Best in Amsterdam
I go to Amsterdam all of the time and I have never had a problem finding good food! Granted, there are also some places that are not great, but if you want a cheap snack or pastry go into any of the little shops. However, as far as dinner, etc goes, it is just a matter of how much you are willing to spend. I think amsterdam has some amazing food, it just tends to be rediculously expensive.
Any good carrot cake recipes?
I am baking my friend a carrot cake for her b-day and am looking for a recipe that don't involve raisins or traditional (super-sweet) frosting...any suggestions?
Cheese/Dessert Wine...........
You can always ask your server for suggestions under a certain dollar amount. You will at least know that they have tasted all of the wines.
Display Stands
I actually found the mirrored ones! After looking at party supply rental places, etc. I finally just Googled catering suppiles and mirrored display stands and found these gorgeous ones: http://www.foodservicewarehouse.com/product/CalMil.1002-12.TriTowerMirrorDisplay.331539.c4079
