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WWII veterans recall D-Day on 79th anniversary: 'I realized the enormity of war'
Many visitors came to the American Cemetery ahead of the dayโs ceremonies to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives.
Author: SYLVIE CORBET and TARA COPP (Associated Press)
Published: 5:59 AM CDT June 6, 2023
Updated: 5:59 AM CDT June 6, 2023
NORMANDY, France โ An overwhelming sound of gunfire and menโs screams. Thatโs how World War II veteran Marie Scott described D-Day, as Tuesday's ceremonies got underway in honor of those who fought for freedom in the largest naval, air and land operation in history.
This year's tribute to the young soldiers who died in Normandy also reminds veterans, officials and visitors what Ukraine faces today.
You hear about it on the news and you see the pictures. But once youโre here and you see the reality and the sacrifice that has been made for our beautiful country โ I wanted to make the trip once in my life to thank all these people to whom we owe so much,โ he added.
German professor Andreas Fuchs, who is teaching French in Berlin, brought students ages 10 to 12 to Normandy via an exchange program.
โItโs very important for children to have a moment in their lives to understand the liberation of Europe. And to know what peace has been for 80 years,โ he said.
France's last surviving D-Day commando joins beach landing anniversary
"Your honour," Gautier recalled British Colonel Robert Dawson telling the French green berets. "We went in only a few seconds ahead. It was a symbolic gesture."
"By the end of the day I didnโt have many bullets left."
(This story has been corrected to show that Gautier was 21 years old, not 17, when allied forces landed on Sword Beach in paragraph 2)
COLLEVILLE-MONTGOMERY, France, June 6 (Reuters) - Leon Gautier, the last surviving member of the French commandos who stormed the Normandy beaches defended by Hitler's troops in 1944, on Tuesday joined President Emmanuel Macron at a seafront ceremony marking the 79th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
Gautier, 100, presented a student marine commando with his green beret at a passing out parade at Colleville-Montgomery, near where a 21-year-old Gautier had landed on Sword Beach in a hail of enemy fire.
Gautier was one of 177 French green berets under the command of Captain Philippe Kieffer who took part in the Normandy landings. More than 150,000 allied troops invaded France to drive out Nazi Germany forces.
At Tuesday's ceremony, the young marine knelt down on one knee to allow Gautier, sat in a wheelchair to Macron's side, to straighten his beret.
National Cheese Day 2023 June 4th
National Cheese Day is a delightful celebration that pays homage to one of the worldโs most beloved and versatile foods: cheese. This annual event offers cheese enthusiasts an opportunity to revel in the rich flavors, textures, and aromas of this delectable dairy delight. From mild and creamy to sharp and tangy, cheese has captivated taste buds for centuries. In this article, we delve into the essence of National Cheese Day 2023, its history, and how you can partake in this scrumptious celebration.
What is National Cheese Day 2023?
National Cheese Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the diverse and delicious world of cheese. It is a time to savor and appreciate the countless varieties and styles of cheese found across different cultures and cuisines. From artisanal creations to everyday favorites, this occasion allows cheese lovers to explore new flavors, indulge in their favorite cheese dishes, and discover the wonders of this ancient culinary delight.
When is National Cheese Day 2023?
National Cheese Day is observed annually on June 4th. This special day invites cheese enthusiasts and food lovers alike to embrace their passion for cheese, explore new cheese varieties, and create mouthwatering culinary experiences.
How can I get involved in National Cheese Day 2023?
- Participating in National Cheese Day is a delectable adventure that can be enjoyed by cheese enthusiasts of all levels. Here are some delightful ways to get involved:
HISTORY OF NATIONAL CHEESE DAY
Cheese making is an ancient, some might even say sacred, craft. So ancient in fact it predates recorded history. It is speculated that the magic of cheese making began somewhere around 8000BCE shortly after the domestication of animals. Archeological digs have found evidence of cheese around the world including strainers coated in milk-fat molecules in Kuyavia, Poland dated around 5500BCE, murals in Egypt dated at 2000BCE, and an artifact of preserved cheese in Xinjiang, China believed to be more than 3,000 years old! European Imperialism took their styles of cheese through Asia, sub saharan Africa, and eventually to the Americas.
The most popular cheese of all is (obviously) mozzarella. This delicious and pizza topping cheese was first created near Naples from the rich milk of water buffalos. At the time, it rarely left its home near Naples, as it was made from pasteurized milk, and a lack of refrigeration meant it had a very short shelf life. As both cheese technology and refrigeration systems advanced, this delicious cheese left the southern region of Italy and found itself traveling around the world.
There are two types of mozzarella produced within the United States โ low moisture and high moisture. Low moisture mozzarella has a moisture content less than 50% while high moisture has a content of over 52%. Low moisture is made specifically for transportation and mass production as the lack of moisture gives it a longer shelf life.
Today, cheese dishes can be found on every continent served savory, sweet, melted, deep fried, and even chilled in ice cream. This household staple can still satisfy any craving after thousands of years.
CHOCOLATE MACAROON DAY | JUNE 3
Each year, National Chocolate Macaroon Day celebrates a tasty treat. Last month we celebrated National Macaroon Day on May 31st. Now we add a little chocolate to the mix, sweetening the deal.
The main ingredient is always shredded coconut, usually sweetened and sometimes toasted. Other ingredients include flour, sugar or sweetened condensed milk, and egg whites and flavoring. Once the ingredients are combined, the mixture is dropped by spoonfuls onto baking sheets and baked. Chocolate is added either to the batter or the baked cookie is dipped into melted chocolate. While these cookies are quite beautiful, people either love or hate coconut.
These sturdy cookies go well with coffee and tea, too. Serve them with biscotti, shortbread or lemon cookies to add variety.
HOW TO OBSERVE CHOCOLATE MACAROON DAY
Bake up chocolate macaroons for your chocolate and coconut loving friends and family. Share your favorite recipes and combine milk, dark and white chocolates in your recipes. If youโre looking for one to make, enjoy this > (Chocolate Macaroons) recipe.
National Donut Day or National Doughnut Day, celebrated in the United States and in some other countries, is on the first Friday of June of each year, succeeding the doughnut event created by The Salvation Army in Chicago in 1938 to honor those of their members who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. The holiday celebrates the doughnut. Many American doughnut stores offer free doughnuts on the occasion.
National Donut Day, which happens on Friday, June 2, gives us a reason to devour a donut or two โ like we need one โ and get a bargain in the process.
SORRY BUT THIS OFFER IS NOT AVAILABLE ON ARRP'S FRONT PORCH!
CHECK YOUR LOCAL SHOPS TO SEE IF THEY HAVE A FREE DOUGHNUT FOR YOU.
NATIONAL MINT JULEP DAY | MAY 30
National Mint Julep Day on May 30th each year sets up a refreshing toast to summer. Each year, people around the country gather for a glass of mint julep! This refreshing southern classic is a traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby.
#MintJulepDay
A classic mint julep is made with a mint leaf, bourbon, sugar, and water. In the Southern states, where mint julep is more associated with the cuisine, spearmint is the mint of choice. Preparation of the drink may vary from one bartender to another.
- Some believe the mint julep originated in the southern United States sometime during the 18th century.
- The term โjulepโ is generally defined as a sweet drink, particularly one used as a vehicle for medicine.
- During the 19th century, Americans also enjoyed a gin-based julep.
- Each year, Churchill Downs serves almost 120,000 mint juleps over the two-day period of the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby.
- May 2008 โ Churchill Downs unveiled the worldโs largest mint julep glass (6-foot tall).
HOW TO OBSERVE MINT JULEP DAY
Enjoy a mint ju
lep on this nice spring day! Try out a delicious click >( Mint Julep ) recipe provided by National Day Calendar Ambassadors the Erratic Divas. Use #MintJulepDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL FAMILY FUN DAY
Today is May 28 and the Sunday before Memorial Day at National Day Calendar and we are celebrating National Family Fun Day. This National Day is encouraging families to celebrate everywhere to create some family fun during the long weekend and every day!
#NATIONALFAMILYFUNDAY
People across the U.S. use Memorial Weekend as the time to begin summer fun. Families are camping for the first time this season, attending graduations, and having family reunions. National Family Fun Day is your reminder that you donโt have to plan a huge event to enjoy todayโs National Day!
Why is it important to spend time with family?
Families are busy and it can be difficult to spent time together. Sadly, many get caught up in the daily activities of children, work, and family obligations. Families that spend time together are supportive of one another. When families spend time together they tend to have a greater sense of purpose and feel supportive of one another.
Studies show that healthy family relationships encourage security and love. Spending time with family offers the benefits of forming unbreakable bonds. As a family, we learn to offer support and encourage other family members to excel.
National Oatmeal Cookie Day April 30, 2023
Celebrate National Oatmeal Cookie Day with the family - bake delicious oatmeal cookies and enjoy a tasty treat!
cookies from scratch. Decorate with icing, candies, and other toppings while chatting away.
Why We Love National Oatmeal Cookie Day
A. Oatmeal cookies are healthy
Oatmeal cookies are packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, raisins, and nuts. Not only do they taste good, but they provide essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stay healthy. Plus, oatmeal adds an irresistible chewiness that you just can't get from other kinds of cookie!
B. Oatmeal cookies are easy to make
No matter your baking experience level, everyone can make delicious oatmeal cookies. All you need is a few basic ingredients such as butter, sugar, and oats and you're on your way to homemade cookie greatness. Plus, there's also lots of recipes available online to help get you started!
C. Oatmeal cookies are customizable
The beauty of oatmeal cookies is that you can easily change them up depending on your tastes. Whether you prefer them chewy or crunchy, loaded with add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit, or simply eaten plain - the possibilities for creativity and flavor combinations are endless!
National Zucchini Bread Day April 25th, 2023
Zucchini happens to be a vegetable that tends to take on the flavor of the other ingredients it is combined with. It is a commonly used ingredient in savory meals such as casseroles, stir fry, or side dishes. But many people donโt know that it can also be a yummy, healthful ingredient that is part of a variety of baked goods. Moist and sweet, this popular bread is delicious enough to deserve its own day to celebrate: National Zucchini Bread Day.
History of National Zucchini Bread Day
Zucchini, as it is known today, seems to have developed fairly recently, somewhere around the late 1800s, in Italy. (Although some sources say it may have been around in Mexico for several thousand years prior to this!)
The gourd seems to have made its way to the United States through Italian immigrants and to other places in the world as well. Many countries and cultures now have dishes that they love to cook or bake using this versatile vegetable.
Celebrating National Lineworker Appreciation Day April 18, 2023
When Superstorm Sandy hit the United States in late October 2012, more than 6 million people in 15 states and the District of Columbia lost power, some for weeks. And, while police, firefighters, and other emergency workers came to the nationโs aid, the real unsung heroes of the recovery were the linemen. These brave men and women not only worked tirelessly for 16 hours a day to restore power and phone lines, they helped FEMA clear roads, remove debris, pull up fallen trees, and of course climb poles to rehang fallen lines โ one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. In honor of their service, Congress named April 18th National Lineman Appreciation Day. So, if you see a lineman climbing a pole, give a wave and thank them for their tireless, and critical, work!
NATIONAL CHEESE FONDUE DAY APRIL 11TH
Observed annually on April 11th, National Cheese Fondue Day recognizes a food holiday many enjoy. Fondue is a dish of melted cheese or other ingredients, served in a communal pot (caquelon) over a small portable stove (rรฉchaud). Participants then dip the bread into the cheese using long-stemmed forks. Cheese fondue consists of a blend of cheeses, wine, and seasoning.
#National Cheese Fondue Day
A 1966 book published in Zurich, under the name โKass mit Wein zu kochenโ is known for having the earliest known cheese fondue recipe. It calls for grated or cut up cheese melted with wine and for the bread dipped into it.
Cornstarch may be the reason the Swiss became so fond of fondue. In 1905, the thickener was introduced to the land of Switzerland. As many may know, cornstarch thickens liquid and makes smooth and creamy gravies. It also creates a smooth and stable emulsion of the wine and cheese.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL CHEESE FONDUE DAY
- Whip up a cheese fondue.
- Invite friends and family (near and far) to join you with their own versions.
- Host an online celebration and catch up with friends.
- Discover how they celebrate with cheese fondue and make a toast to good times.
- Share recipes, and if you donโt have one, we found a recipe for you to try.
- Enjoy this delicious Creamy Cheese Fondue recipe.
- Use #NationalCheeseFondueDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY DAY
On April 2nd each year, National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day celebrates a classic food favorite. The average American will have eaten over 2000 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches by the time they graduate from high school.
Peanut butter was considered a delicacy in the early 1900s and was only served in New York Cityโs finest tea rooms. In a May 1896 article published in the Good Housekeeping magazine, a recipe โurged homemakers to use a meat grinder to make peanut butter and spread the result on bread.โ That same year, in June, the culinary magazine Table Talk, published a โpeanut butter sandwich recipe.โ
It is thought that Julia Davis Chandler issued the first reference to peanut butter (or paste) paired with jelly on bread in the United States in 1901. Her article is found in the Boston Cooking School Magazine of Culinary Science and Domestic Economics. In the late 1920s, the price of peanut butter declined, and the sandwich became very popular with children.
According to the Peanut Board, during World War II, both peanut butter and jelly were part of the United States soldiersโ military ration list.
In 1968, The J.M. Smucker Co. introduced Goober, a jarred product that combined alternating vertical stripes of peanut butter and jelly.
April Foolsโ Dayโoccurring on April 1 each yearโhas been celebrated for several centuries by different cultures, though its exact origins remain a mystery. April Fools' Day traditions include playing hoaxes or practical jokes on others, often yelling โApril Fools!โ at the end to clue in the subject of the April Fools' Day prank. While its exact history is shrouded in mystery, the embrace of April Fools' Day jokes by the media and major brands has ensured the unofficial holidayโs long life.
April Foolsโ Day Pranks
In modern times, people have gone to great lengths to create elaborate April Foolsโ Day hoaxes. Newspapers, radio and TV stations and websites have participated in the April 1 tradition of reporting outrageous fictional claims that have fooled their audiences.
In 1957, the BBC reported that Swiss farmers were experiencing a record spaghetti crop and showed footage of people harvesting noodles from trees. In 1985, Sports Illustrated writer George Plimpton tricked many readers when he ran a made-up article about a rookie pitcher named Sidd Finch who could throw a fastball over 168 miles per hour.
In 1992, National Public Radio ran a spot with former President Richard Nixon saying he was running for president againโฆ only it was an actor, not Nixon, and the segment was all an April Foolsโ Day prank that caught the country by surprise.
In 1996, Taco Bell, the fast-food restaurant chain, duped people when it announced it had agreed to purchase Philadelphiaโs Liberty Bell and intended to rename it the Taco Liberty Bell. In 1998, after Burger King advertised a โLeft-Handed Whopper,โ scores of clueless customers requested the fake sandwich. Google notoriously hosts an annual April Foolsโ Day prank that has included everything from โtelepathic searchโ to the ability to play Pac Man on Google Maps.
In 1992, National Public Radio ran a spot with former President Richard Nixon saying he was running for president againโฆ only it was an actor, not Nixon, and the segment was all an April Foolsโ Day prank that caught the country by surprise.
In 1996, Taco Bell, the fast-food restaurant chain, duped people when it announced it had agreed to purchase Philadelphiaโs Liberty Bell and intended to rename it the Taco Liberty Bell. In 1998, after Burger King advertised a โLeft-Handed Whopper,โ scores of clueless customers requested the fake sandwich. Google notoriously hosts an annual April Foolsโ Day prank that has included everything from โtelepathic searchโ to the ability to play Pac Man on Google Maps.
National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day
There are a ton of different holidays that are dedicated to chocolate and chocolate desserts, so it should be no surprise to anyone that there is also a day dedicated to chocolate-covered raisins. This holiday is called National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day and it falls on March 24th every year. Itโs a great day to purchase a box of Raisinets at the concession stand of your local movie theater, or simply enjoy some chocolate-covered raisins while youโre sitting on the couch watching TV.
History and Origin of National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day
Our research did not find the creator or the origin of this day. This day was most likely created by the candy makers. We also find it surprising that this day is during the Christian season of Lent when many people give up chocolates. Sometimes, life just isnโt fairโฆโฆ..
We found no documentation in congressional records to confirm that this is truly a national day. Nor, did we find a presidential proclamation.
NATIONAL PUPPY DAY
Observed each year on March 23rd, National Puppy Day celebrates the unconditional love and affection puppies bring to our lives. Their cuddles and wiggles make us smile and without a doubt, there are squeals of delight when there are puppies around!
National Puppy Day
The day also brings awareness to the need for care of and homes for orphaned pups as well as to educate people about the horrors of puppy mills across the country. Puppies are a big responsibility. Be sure to consider everything involved and adopt from a shelter. The puppies there need love and a home just as much as any other and they grow into loyal pets, too!
Kona is our daughter
Janice's rescue dog. She is an American Boxer.
National Blueberry Popover Day โ March 10, 2023
In honor of National Blueberry Popover Day (which is March 10th), weโve got a tasty recipe for a homemade blueberry popover for you! This is a delicious treat that your kids will love to wake up to in the morning or come home to for an after school snack. This recipe is also healthier and cheaper than the box of stale Pop-Tarts thatโs sitting in your pantry. [image via flickr]
What exactly is a popover? Itโs not really a muffin or cupcake, itโs more of a hollow bread that rises when baked, hence the term popover. If you really like this recipe and want to try it with other things like apples, strawberries, chocolate chunks, or chopped nuts, feel free to do so. You could also add a touch of cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups of all-purpose flour
4 eggs
1 cup of sugar
4 tablespoons of butter or margarine
2 cups of non-fat or low-fat milk
2 cups of fresh blueberries
Cooking spray
Directions
Preheat the oven to about 350 degrees. Coat your muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray like Pam. Divide the butter evenly into each cup of the pan. Place the pan in the oven.
In a bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and sugar. Slowly pour in the all-purpose flour and whisk well.
Chop up the blueberries into smaller chunks or chop them up in the food processor. Ideally, youโll want slightly smaller chunks of blueberries, just be careful not to turn them into mush.
Pour the blueberries into the batter and mix well. Take out the muffin pans and let them cool before you pour the batter into the pans. Put them back in the oven to bake. Leave them in for about twenty minutes or until soft and golden.
Blueberry popovers are a delicious treat to make day or night. These treats are also easy enough for kids to make with the help of adult supervision of course. Why not make this recipe a part of every Saturday morning?
NATIONAL WHITE CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE DAY
National White Chocolate Cheesecake Day on March 6th offers another way to celebrate one of our favorite desserts. This indulgent day inspires bakers across the country to wow us with their delicious creations!
#WhiteChocolateCheesecakeDay
Cheesecake is a sweet dessert that is a mixture of soft fresh cheese, cream cheese or cottage cheese, eggs, and sugar on a crust made from crushed graham crackers, crushed cookies, pastry, or sponge cake. Cheesecakes can be prepared baked or unbaked and are often served topped with fruit, chocolate, or whipped cream. There are many flavors in which cheesecakes can be prepared. However, this day honors the white chocolate cheesecake.
National Margarita Day: Grab These Drink Discounts and Deals
Take these National Margarita Day deals on the rocks, blended or with a salted rim.
National Margarita Day is today, and many restaurants are offering discounts on margaritas and other promotions to celebrate.
But first, where did this cocktail come from? There's a lot of debate over the origin of the 'rita. According to tequila brand Jose Cuervo, the first margarita was made in 1938 by a bartender hoping to "capture the heart" of Mexican showgirl Rita de la Rosa.
Another origin story credits Francisco "Pancho" Morales with inventing the drink on July 4, 1942, at Tommy's Place, a bar in Juรกrez, Mexico.
And yet another claims Dallas socialite Margarita Sames concocted the cocktail at her vacation home in Acapulco in 1948.
We may never know the truth. But with great National Margarita Day deals like this, does it matter?
National Margarita Day, an annual made-up holiday, is Wednesday this year, and many restaurants will offer special deals and promotions to celebrate the popular cocktail.
A traditional margarita consists of tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice, often served with salt on the rim of the glass. Tequila, the cocktail's primary base, is among the five fastest-growing spirits categories in the U.S., according to the industry group Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.
Want more drink deals? Check out the best alcohol delivery apps and the best nonalcoholic cocktails and spirits.
Bahama Breeze
Bahama Breeze has more than 40 locations across 15 states. Today, the Caribbean-inspired chain is offering $2.22 classic margaritas.
Chevy's Fresh Tex Mex
On National Margarita Day, sip on a flight of Chevy's strawberry, mango and signature lime margaritas for $10.
Chili's
Chili's Tequila Trifecta, Straw-Eddy Rita and Grand Romance Ritas are just $5 on National Margarita Day. Plus, you get to keep your "Rita with the Best" souvenir cup.
Do you have a favorite place to get a Margarita? Or do you fix them at home?
FEBRUARY 21, 2023 | NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY
The Christian tradition, Pancake Day, also called Pancake Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras (which is French for "Fat Tuesday"), is the last day of feasting before Lent begins on the following day, Ash Wednesday. It's called so due to the custom of eating pancakes on this day, a tradition that comes from a time when any remaining rich foods were eaten on the day before Lent to use them up, and fasting begins. It's observed mainly in English-speaking countries, especially Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States, but also in the Philippines and Germany.
Pancake Day is a movable feast whose date is determined by Easter, and it's celebrated exactly 47 days before Easter Sunday. The date can vary from as early as February 3 to as late as March 9.
Random act of kindness
A random act of kindness is a nonpremeditated, inconsistent action designed to offer kindness towards the outside world.[1] The phrase "practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty" was written by Anne Herbert on a placemat in Sausalito, California in 1982. It was based on the phrase "random acts of violence and senseless acts of cruelty". Herbert's book Random Kindness and Senseless Acts of Beauty was published in February 1993 speaking about true stories of acts of kindness.
The phrase is commonly expressed as the suggestion to "Practice random acts of kindness." There are groups around the world who are sharing acts of spontaneous kindness.
National Almond Day 2023: History, significance and all you need to know
Updated On:
16 Feb 2023 13:53:PM
80 per cent of the worldโs almonds are grown in California.
The day reminds us to allow loved ones to take a respite from their daily lives and eat almonds, the most versatile and delicious nut filled with Vitamin E, magnesium and fibre.
National Almond Day 2023
February 16
Today February 16th 2023 is National Almond Day! Who knew?
The humble almond is believed to be one of the most ancient fruit to be cultivated. There are several mentions of almonds along with dates in the Old Testament of the Bible along with another familiar nut- the pistachio.
Weโre sure you are familiar with the almond, whether you eat them whole or use them as an ingredient in your cooking and baking, but did you know that almond is not actually a nut? Itโs a stone fruit that is related to cherries, plums and peaches. But in case with almonds only stone is eaten, not the pulp.
With many varieties of almond available across the globe, one of the finest almond varieties is Jordan almond. This almond is frequently sold in a colored sugar glaze.
There is a nice legend about almonds, that comes from the Greek mythology. The myth tells about beautiful princess Phyllis, who was left waiting at the altar in the day of her marriage by Demophon, her intended. Phyllis was waiting for him, but finally died of a broken heart. Gods sympathized Phyllis and transformed her into an almond tree, that has become the symbol of hope.
Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E and magnesium, they have the highest level of protein and fiber among all tree nuts.
The protein in almonds is more like a protein of human breast milk, that is why almonds are the best base for baby formulas.
Enjoy your almonds today!
NATIONAL HOT CHOCOLATE DAY
Each year on January 31st, National Hot Chocolate Day warms up people across the country by celebrating the timeless cold-weather beverage.
With windchills of -20 to- 25 below here
there will be gallons and gallons consumed today.
A. Yes. Hot chocolate is made by melting high-quality chocolate into the milk. Itโs almost like syrup but slightly thinner. You can thin it down further by adding more milk, though.
Q. Will I like hot chocolate if I like hot cocoa?
A. Both are delicious but hot chocolate is a little more luxurious than hot cocoa. Some prefer one over the other and many people enjoy both equally.
Cocoa vs Hot Chocolate
We make hot cocoa with cocoa powder, heated milk or water, and sugar. Weโre able to do this thanks to a process developed by father and son chemists. For the thicker, more flavorful beverage, we make hot chocolate from ground chocolate containing cocoa butter. It is also called drinking chocolate. Hot chocolate has also been around longer than hot cocoa. In the early 1800s, Casparus van Houten Sr. developed a process to separate the cocoa solids from the butter. His son, Coenraad Johannes made those fats more soluble in water. Together their processes made cocoa powder possible.
NATIONAL PEANUT BUTTER DAY
National Peanut Butter Day on January 24th recognizes an American staple in our pantries. Whether creamy or chunky, with chocolate or with jelly, peanut butter gets the recognition it deserves each year on this day.
National Peanut Butter Day
The early peanut butter made by the Aztecs and Incas around 1000 BC was more of a paste and not nearly as creamy as the peanut butter we know now.
Click play and enjoy a story about National Peanut Butter Day featuring our founder, Marlo Anderson. If you enjoy the 2-minute show, subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
Adding water to the powder creates a paste very similar to creamy peanut butter. .
Q. Does powdered peanut butter have fewer calories?
A. Yes. Powdered peanut butter contains less fat and fewer calories than regular peanut butter. Two tablespoons of powdered peanut butter contain about 50 calories
National Bacon Day:
The National Bacon Day is celebrated every year on December 30 to celebrate natureโs most flavored gift.
The History of Bacon
In Central Asia, about 10,000 years ago, the first wild pigs were domesticated in Central Asia. Not long after that, people began to enjoy bacon. A dish that was salty, fatty and really good. However, not everyone thought that bacon was a good food. Many cultures in the Mideast thought that pigs were dirty animals and as a result, many religions from the area forbid eating the flesh of the pig. Regardless of this ban, bacon still managed to travel to the Roman Empire and was an almost immediate hit.
The Romans knew this food as petaso and was eaten not only as a breakfast food but also as a dinner food. It was widely eaten because it was inexpensive, easy to cook and it was very tasty. From Rome, it would spread to Germany where it was known as Bak. The name for this cured meat would continue to evolve until the 16th century when it became known as bacoun. Eventually, the word for it would get whittled down to simply bacon.
In 1539, Hernando de Soto brought 13 pigs to the Americas and within 3 years he had a herd of them that was 700 strong. Which is probably why heโs credited as being the father of the American pork industry. Over the years, the popularity of bacon continued to grow. Today, it is one of the most popular food items on the planet.
Until the 20th century, most types of bacon made in the U.S were what would now be called artisanal bacon. It was hand crafted using locally obtained ingredients. However, that changed in 1924, when Oscar Meyer received a patent for packaged, sliced bacon and began selling it to the American public.
Today, there is a wide variety of different types of bacon on the market, including both commercial and artisanal varieties. Bacon has also made it into a great range of products which include bacon mayonnaise, bacon chocolate, bacon brittle and even bacon popcorn. Bacon is one of the most popular foods in the U.S with sales in the billions of dollars. Over $4 billion dollars of bacon was sold in 2014 and bacon sales increase each year after that.
Types of Bacon
Of course, no two types of bacon are the same and thereโs a significant difference between the various types. For instance, Canadian Bacon is made from the back of the pig and looks quite similar to American ham. Irish bacon is also made from the back of the pig, but it is generally sliced thicker. American bacon is made from the fattier belly of the pig and then there is speck โ an Italian bacon which is from the legs of the pig and is cured with various spices which include juniper, garlic, nutmeg, and salt.
And thatโs just the tip of the pig, so to speak. Other types of bacon are made nowadays and not all of them come from pig meat. Some of the more popular forms of bacon include duck bacon, gypsy bacon, slab bacon, pepper bacon, elk bacon, lamb and beef bacon, venison bacon, turkey bacon and soy protein bacon. However, not all bacon enthusiasts agree that these types of bacon are bacon at all.
Sizzling Bacon Facts
- A bust of Kevin Bacon was once made from Bacon
- Bacon & Eggs are eaten together 71% of the time
- A 250 pound pig will yield approximately 23 pounds of bacon
- 53% of American homes keep bacon on hand at all times
- New York And Los Angeles are the top American consumers of bacon
- The average American eats 18 pounds of bacon a year
- Bacon grease was used to make explosives during WWII
Popular Bacon Dishes
There are a variety of popular bacon dishes. The following is only a partial list: BLT sandwich, Bacon Explosion, Foolโs Gold Leaf, Candied Bacon, Chicken Fried Bacon and Griebenschmalz.
Celebrating National Bacon Day
The best way to celebrate National Bacon Day is by serving or eating bacon in one of it various forms. You can have eggs and bacon, a BLT sandwich or maybe just bacon by itself. If you want a more exotic bacon dish, you can try bacon Guacamole, peanut butter & bacon sandwiches or bacon muffins.
You can also throw a bacon-themed party, order bacon novelty products or take pictures of your bacon creations and post it to social media using the hashtag #NationalBaconDay. And if you want to share this holiday with a friend or family member, you can send them a bacon gift such as bacon roses, bacon scented underwear or maybe a โMaking Baconโ T-shirt.
Conclusion
National Bacon Day is the perfect holiday to celebrate a food product that is commonly known as โmeat candy.โ If you love bacon, and who among us doesnโt, then you might think that this holiday is almost as good as bacon.
Than there is bacon on your burger.
BACON PANCAKES have been a family favorite for years! We first had these savory pancakes and bacon bits at the Calgary Stampede in Canada and have been making them ever since. If youโve been thinking about making Bacon Pancakes, today is the day! Itโs our favorite easy breakfast recipe. The savory/sweet combo just canโt be beat!
Had my first bacon pancakes about a month ago. I myself prefer my bacon separate from the pancakes.
How about you? How do you like your bacon fixed?
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