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Cooking, Drinking&Dining OST

Plan a winning night out

(Metro Creative Connection) - In the hit movie “The Shining,” which was based on the novel of the same name by horror author Stephen King, main character Jack Torrance famously types “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” while working on his novel. Indeed, failing to take a break and devoting too much time to work can have its consequences.

Stress is an all too common byproduct of overworking. Many successful professionals do not utilize all of their vacation time, which can compound existing stress. Nights out may be rare as well, and that can be a mistake. Going out provides a reprieve from the daily grind and enables people to socialize, spend quality time with spouses or dates, enjoy informal therapy sessions with friends, and offers changes of scenery.

When a night out is on the horizon, adults can keep these tips in mind to make the most of the situation.

• Appoint an organizer. You know who the person in charge should be. He or she is a naturally take-charge individual who is great at organizing. There is likely one or two in your social circle. That’s the person who should be tasked with planning the final details and communicating with everyone who’s coming along.

• Be firm with the date and time. Trying to pick a date and time that everyone can agree to could prove impossible. There is nothing you can do about that. Find a time and date that works best for the majority and then hope others will be able to change their schedules.

• Set up a social media event or group chat. It’s easier if everyone can communicate through the same media, whether that’s Facebook, Snapchat, texting, or WhatsApp. This way everyone will be privy to the same information in real time.

• Secure a fixed menu. Anyone who has tried to split the check with a crowd at the end of the evening knows those calculations are

difficult. If possible, work with a venue that offers prix fixe menus that allow everyone to pay the same amount across the board. If possible, convince everyone to bring cash or even pay the organizer in advance for their share.

• Secure transportation. Chances are you want to have a few drinks while out. The safest way to get to and from the event is to select a designated driver or split a rideshare among the group. Avoid overindulging in alcoholic beverages, which could jeopardize your safety.

• Choose a place everyone loves. It’s difficult to turn down a night out when it is at a place everyone enjoys, whether it is a trendy gathering spot or the local haunt. Select food that appeals to the masses as well. Reserve sampling unique cuisine for when you head out with a small group.

Nights out are a chance to relax and unwind in social settings. Such excursions are even more relaxing when they’re well-planned.

Dig into these facts about a vegetarian diet

(Metro Creative Connection) - Vegetarians adhere to plant-based diets, primarily avoiding meat and poultry in lieu of alternative protein sources. The World Animal Foundation reports there are approximately 1.5 billion vegetarians across the world, making up roughly 22 percent of the global population. The organization Cook Unity reports that, as of 2022, 5 to 8 percent of the United States population declares themselves as vegetarian.

People who are considering switching to vegetarian diets may not understand how to transition to a new way of eating. Experts say that a vegetarian diet can be very healthy if it is approached in a way that ensures individuals consume a nutritionally balanced diet.

Type of vegetarians

Vegetarianism breaks down into a few different categories.

• Lacto-ovo vegetarians: These vegetarians consume eggs and dairy products but do not eat any meat, poultry or fish.

• Lacto-vegetarians: These vegetarians consume dairy but avoid eggs, meat, fish, and poultry.

• Ovo-vegetarians: These vegetarians omit meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products but consume eggs.

• Pescatarians: These vegetarians eliminate meat and poultry from their diets but allow fish.

• Vegans: Individuals who are vegans eliminate all animal-based and animal-derived products.

Can vegetarians meet their nutritional needs?

Harvard Health Publishing says in recent years

the pendulum into the study of vegetarianism has swung from the direction of pointing out potential nutritional deficiencies to confirming health benefits of meat-free eating. Today, plant-based eating is recognized as nutritionally sufficient and a way to reduce chronic illnesses.

The American Dietetic Association says a vegetarian diet should be “appropriately planned” and nutritionally diverse. While a diet of pizza and chips certainly can be billed as vegetarian, it is not a healthy way to gain nutrients. It is essential to make sure that a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains are consumed.

Pay attention to specific nutrients

Depending on which foods are eliminated, people adhering to vegetarian diets may experience nutrient deficiency. Therefore, attention should be placed on vitamin B-12, calcium, vitamin D, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, and iodine, which largely are found in animal-based products. Seaweed can be a vegetarian option for iodine; enriched cereals can provide iron and zinc; walnuts and olives can provide omega-3 fatty acids; and soy and legumes can fill in protein deficits. Individuals can work with doctors or dieticians to plan balanced, plant-based meals.

People considering vegetarian diets can educate themselves about the lifestyle and how to maintain optimal health.

Tips to make baking more healthy

(Metro Creative Connection) - Baking sessions are a beloved family tradition in many households. But such sessions may not be as revered by family physicians, as baked goods are often prepared with ingredients, like sugar and butter, that aren’t necessarily sound additions to a person’s diet.

Though baked goods may never rival vegetables in nutritional value, there are ways for amateur bakers to make these beloved foods a little more healthy.

• Replace sugar with a fig puree. Figs are nutrition-rich fruits that serve as significant sources of calcium, potassium and iron. WebMD notes that figs also are excellent sources of fiber. Soaking eight ounces of figs in water can soften them before they’re pureed with between 1⁄4 to 1⁄3 cup of water. The resulting fig puree can serve as a sugar substitute.

• Make it a “dates” night. Much like figs, dates can be pureed and serve as a sugar substitute. However, WebMD notes that pureed dates will not be able to replace all of the sugar in a recipe. One cup of pureed pitted dates with 1⁄2 to 1 cup of water can replace as much as half of the sugar a recipe calls for.

• Replace butter with avocados. It’s not just

sugar that can make baked goods so unhealthy. Many baking recipes call for a substantial amount of butter. California Avocados notes that avocados can replace butter at a 1:1 ratio when baking. So if a recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, bakers can replace that with 1 cup of pureed avocados. WebMD warns that avocados have more water than butter, so bakers may want to reduce the temperature in their ovens by 25 percent and bake the foods a little longer.

• Replace white flour with whole wheat flour. White flour is often the go-to for amateur and even professional bakers. But white flour is processed, which removes the bran and germ of the grain, thus stripping white flour of much of its nutritional value. Whole wheat flour is not processed, so it retains its nutritional value. Baking with whole wheat flour may require a learning curve, and some bakers prefer to use a mix of whole-wheat and white flour to preserve the flavors they’ve grown accustomed to.

Baked goods may never pack the most nutritious punch, but there are ways for amateur bakers to make such foods a little more healthy.

Float these dessert ideas to guests

(Metro Creative Connection) - National Root Beer Float Day is celebrated each year on August 6. The day is a great chance to dig into a frosty sensation, but root beer floats are ideal just about any time of year.

A traditional root beer float is made by pouring bubbly root beer over vanilla ice cream. Frank J. Wisner, owner of Colorado’s Cripple Creek Brewing, is credited with creating the first root beer float on August 19, 1893. Wisner concocted the drink after the snowy peaks of Colorado’s Cow Mountain reminded him of ice cream floating in soda. So he combined the two and called the beverage a “Black Cow.” Most people now refer to it as a root beer float

Root beer floats can be made with any variety of root beer. Some of the popular choices include Barq’s, Dad’s, Mug, IBC, A&W, Stewart’s, and Dr. Brown’s. Take a tall glass designed for malted drinks or ice cream shakes and spoon in two scoops of vanilla ice cream. Then pour in enough root beer to submerge the ice cream. Top with whipped cream and a cherry.

A classic root beer float can’t be beat, but those looking to create a “Float Bar” for a special party dessert offering, can whip up many different combinations of ice cream and beverages. Here are a few ideas.

• Make the root beer floats pint-sized with

root beer float shooters.

• Swap vanilla ice cream for chocolate and have an even richer root beer float.

• Use cherry cola and vanilla or black cherry ice cream for a sweet surprise.

• Pair orange soda with vanilla ice cream and make a creamsicle in a cup.

• Pour your favorite iced coffee beverage over coffee or chocolate ice cream for a mocha-style treat.

• Grape soda and peanut butter ice cream creates a drinkable version of a PB&J sandwich.

• Recreate the appeal of chocolatecovered strawberries with strawberry soda poured over chocolate ice cream.

• Piña coladas take on new life when pineapple soda and cream of coconut are mixed with scoops of vanilla ice cream. Add a dash of rum for an adult version.

• For another spirited concoction, skip the ice cream and use lime-flavored sherbet and tequila for a margarita-inspired treat.

• Chocolate soda or Yoo-hoo Chocolate Drink can be added to marshmallow-flavored ice cream and topped with a dusting of graham cracker crumbs for a s’moresflavored float.

The possibilities are endless when creating floats inspired by the original root beer float.

Must-haves when hosting game night at home

(Metro Creative Connection) - Game night makes for a fun way to get together with friends. Competitive fire may not disappear on game night, but the atmosphere is generally more laid back. Indeed, a great game night is less about the games and more about the laughs and fun to be had.

Game night hosts can focus on fun as they prepare to welcome friends and family into their homes. The following are some must-haves for a fun and memorable game night.

Food

Game night participants are not expecting a meal. Game nights typically begin after dinnertime, so hosts need not feel responsible for preparing or catering a meal. However, snacks typically are made available during game night. Charcuterie boards, cheese, chips, pretzels, and even some healthy fare like vegetables and hummus can be offered so no one goes hungry during game night.

Beverages

Simplicity also reigns supreme when picking which drinks to serve during game night. Formal dinner parties may call for specialty cocktails and a carefully curated wine list, but game night does not require that same level of planning. Non-alcoholic drinks like water, soda, lemonade, and iced

tea should be readily available. Beer and wine can be offered to guests who want a drink, but hosts must be sure to avoid overserving guests. Hosts can request that some guests serve as designated drivers and hosts should be ready to perform that duty as well.

Games

Of course, hosts will need to pick games for the party as well. It’s best to avoid complicated

games so no time is wasted explaining the rules to novices. Many adults are familiar with the rules of poker, so keep some decks of cards and chips on hand in the event guests want to play a round. Additional games that do not require too great a familiarity with the rulebook include Scrabble and Monopoly. Hosts also can consider something a little more sinister like Cards Against Humanity if the crowd is willing to play.

Music

Some music playing in the background can loosen things up and help to establish a relaxed atmosphere. Hosts should keep in mind that it’s best to avoid turning the television on, as a game or movie playing in the background can distract guests from the games and lead to less mingling.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere should be warm and inviting so everyone feels right at home upon arriving. Make sure there’s ample lighting available in the game room but don’t make things too bright. Slightly dimmed lights can set a welcoming tone and create a relaxed vibe. Comfortable seating also helps to create a pleasant atmosphere that can make guests feel right at home.

Some simple game night essentials can ensure hosts and guests have a fun and relaxing night with friends and family.

The origins of Oktoberfest

(Metro Creative Connection) - Oktoberfest is a celebration that transcends geographical boundaries. Much like people in various pockets of the globe celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Cinco de Mayo even if they have little or no connection to Ireland or Mexico, respectively, Bavarian heritage is not a prerequisite for participation in Oktoberfest revelry.

According to Oktoberfest.de, each year millions of people are attracted to the festival of Oktoberfest. It’s not hard to see why so many people attend Oktoberfest, which is synonymous with fun, food, music, and, of course, beer. But the chance to engage in what might be best characterized as living history undoubtedly is part of the appeal of Oktoberfest as well. Oktoberfest is indeed steeped in tradition, and understanding the history of the beloved festival can make the celebration even more enjoyable.

The first Oktoberfest occurred as part of a wedding. Kronprinz Ludwig of Bavaria, who later became King Ludwig I, was set to marry Princess

Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen on October 12, 1810. The couple’s nuptials were deemed a cause for great celebration, and a horse race was held in their honor on October 17. The inspiration for the races and the subsequent celebration of Oktoberfest remains a topic of debate. But there’s no debating that Ludwig’s decision to invite the people of Munich to join in the festivities had a lasting effect, inspiring many of the city’s wealthiest residents to decorate the city. But even the less well-to-do joined in the celebrations. In fact, according to Oktoberfest-guide. com, 32,065 buns; 3,922 pounds of swiss cheese; 400 kilos of mutton; 8,120 cervelat sausages; and

13,300 pairs of smoked sausage were distributed for free. Alcohol and music also featured prominently during the inaugural Oktoberfest, as 232 hectoliters of beer and four hectoliters of Austrian white wine were served during a celebration that also featured 150 musicians. Though the festive atmosphere of Oktoberfest is known across the globe, the celebration

has not been without its tragic moments. For example, Oktoberfest 1980 was shaken by a bomb that exploded at the festival entrance on September 25. Thirteen people were killed and more than 200 were injured, and the bombing remains under investigation more than 40 years later. World wars also affected the beloved festival, which was suspended between 1914 to 1918 due to World War I and then again from 1939 to 1945 due to World War II. The years immediately following both wars also featured toned down events that were not characterized as Oktoberfest but rather autumn celebrations. Celebrations in 2020 and 2021 were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Oktoberfest remains a popular celebration more than 200 years after the inaugural event. Though devotees insist nothing can match the annual celebration in Munich, those who can’t make it to Germany can likely find some Oktoberfest festivities close to home, wherever that home happens to be.

Some great places to eat pizza

(Metro Creative Connection) - A school experience goes beyond lessons learned Pizza is a beloved food that originated in Italy but is enjoyed around the world. While many cultures have made a flatbread product a meal, there is something special about the combination of dough, sauce and cheese on pizza that perhaps contributes to its addictive qualities.

According to the mozzarella distribution company Maestrella, the worldwide pizza market reached US $132 billion in 2021. Pizza is a favorite takeout dish worldwide. Though pizza is beloved in the U.S., Norway ranks No. 1 in pizza consumption across the globe. The U.S. comes in second and the United Kingdom rounds out the top three.

Pizza comes in many options — from Margherita to Chicago to NY style — so there is something for everyone. Furthermore, just about anyone can quickly grab a bite of pizza no matter where they live. There are many beloved and top-rated pizza establishments around the globe. Here’s a look at some of them.

10 by Diego Vitagliano, Naples

The team at this restaurant embraces its culinary creativity and utilizes high-quality seasonal ingredients. The pizzas also are quite affordable. This is a premiere spot in Italy. Adding to its allure for pizza lovers is it’s in the city of Naples, where pizza is reported to have been invented.

Peppe Pizzeria, Paris

This pizza spot was crowned the best pizzeria in Europe in 2022. Peppe is the nickname of the chef who won the title of World Champion of the best pizza in Naples. This is a prime location to enjoy a delicious pizza in front of the SaintGermain de Charonne Church.

Una

Pizza Napoletana, New York, NY

This Lower East Side establishment is the sixth iteration of Anthony Mangieri’s pizzeria. He

focuses on naturally-leavened, wood-fired pizzas and is considered a pioneer in Neapolitan pizza in America.

Pizzeria L’Operetta, Singapore

Although this restaurant is not run by Italians and the chef is not Italian, it is said to serve up the best Neopolitan pizza in Singapore.

Pizzeria Mozza, Los Angeles

This pizzeria takes Italian style of pizza craft and melds it with delicious California-grown ingredients for a pizza that wins raves.

Goodfellas, Goa, India

Traditional wood-fired pizzas are the name of the game in this cozy restaurant. Visitors to the region looking for a change from the native cuisine can enjoy a taste of Italy.

Pequod’s, Chicago

This Lincoln Park eatery has been producing pizzas since 1970 and is a local favorite. It is so popular that visitors can expect to wait for some delicious deep dish.

Pizza is enjoyed and beloved around the world. Certain establishments are well regarded, but that shouldn’t deter anyone from trying their local pizza spots as well.

5 perks to enjoying raw, local honey

(Metro Creative Connection) - Whether one places a dollop in tea or drizzles some in a yogurt smoothie, honey is the sweet finish that can make various foods and beverages taste that much better. In fact, honey is perhaps Mother Nature’s most natural sweetener.

While honey in any form can provide its share of healthy offerings, raw honey — which is unprocessed and taken straight from a honeycomb — may be even healthier than the alternatives. According to a 2019 report in Medical News Today, some people believe that processing honey, which often involves pasteurization, removes many of its natural beneficial elements. But honey taken straight from the beehive contains bee pollen, bee propolis and scores of antioxidants.

Individuals interested in trying raw, local honey should consider buying it from a trusted local producer. For those who need more convincing, the following are five beneficial properties of raw honey.

1. Antioxidants: Raw honey contains plant chemicals that act as antioxidants. Healthline says some types of honey have as many antioxidants as fruits and vegetables, which can protect the body from free radicals that damage cells.

2. Antimicrobial/antifungal properties: Raw honey has antimicrobial properties that could kill certain bacteria, says the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association. That is perhaps why honey long

has been used as a natural salve for wounds. Honey can soothe a sore throat, and it also can attack bacteria in the throat responsible for certain illnesses. Healthline says raw honey also has been studied for its use against certain Candidarelated infections.

3. Allergy relief: Raw, local honey is made from local flowers and flowering plants. By ingesting raw, local honey regularly, a person is taking in small, manageable doses of allergens from their area, which can help build up an immunity to these allergens over time.

4. Digestive relief: Raw honey has been studied for use in treatment for H. pylori bacteria, a common cause of stomach ulcers. Raw honey also may help people overcome diarrhea. Honey contains prebiotics, which nourish good bacteria that live in the gut.

5. Brain health: A 2017 study published in the journal Pharmacognosy Research found ingredients of honey have anti-inflammatory properties that may help fight inflammation in an area of the brain called the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory.

Raw, local honey can help protect the environment because the public has a vested interest in maintaining natural spaces and healthy bee populations. Raw, local honey is available from various vendors, notably small operations at farmers markets who take quality control seriously.

DID YOU KNOW?

(Metro Creative Connection) - Despite their diminutive size, blueberries pack quite a powerful, healthy punch. Blueberries contain a compound known as anthocyanin, which gives them their blue hue but also contributes to their nutritious properties. For example, the Mayo Clinic notes that studies have found consumption of foods that are high in anthocyanins can help individuals lower their risk of developing coronary heart disease. In addition, blueberries are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, making them worthy of addition to anyone’s diet.

The nutritional benefits of chicken

(Metro Creative Connection) - Few foods may be as versatile as chicken. There is seemingly no end to the ways to cook and serve chicken, which is even an integral component in soups used to combat the common cold.

The taste of chicken is enough to compel people across the globe to include it in their diets. However, chicken also packs a nutritional punch, and recognition of its many benefits may compel health-conscious individuals to consume even more chicken going forward.

Chicken helps build a stronger body

Chicken helps build strong muscles and bones. Amino acids are vital to building muscle tissue, and fans of chicken should be happy to learn that chicken is a great source of amino acids. Amino acids produce protein, which is why chicken is considered an excellent source of protein. In fact, data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicates that a 100 gram serving of chicken contains as much as 32 grams of protein.

Chicken can help to control blood pressure

High blood pressure can increase risk for a host of negative health outcomes, including heart attack and stroke. Chicken is one of a handful of protein sources that can help to lower blood pressure. One animal study from researchers in Japan found that collagen, which is a protein found in chicken legs, helps to lower blood pressure. In addition, the Harvard Medical School notes that consuming at least two servings of chicken per week can help people maintain a healthy blood pressure.

Chicken and cholesterol

Another feather in chicken’s cap is its status as

an alternative to foods such as beef, lamb and pork. Chicken contains less saturated fat and cholesterol than red meat, which includes both lamb and pork. High cholesterol can increase a person’s risk for heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosis, among other harmful conditions. So choosing a heart-healthy red meat alternative like chicken can help individuals lower their cholesterol and maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Does it matter how chicken is cooked?

How chicken is cooked affects how beneficial it can be to people who consume it. The American Heart Association notes that grilling, broiling or roasting chicken may increase the likelihood that people will develop high blood pressure. The AHA notes that research presented at its Epidemiology and Prevention | Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health Scientific Sessions 2018 indicated the risk of developing high blood pressure was 17 percent higher in people who grilled, broiled or roasted chicken more than 15 times per month compared to those who did so less than four times per month. So the less often chicken is cooked in such ways, the better for people looking to capitalize on the nutritional benefits of chicken. It’s also best to avoid frying chicken, as during the frying process foods absorb saturated fat, trans fats and cholesterol, thus negating any health benefits the poultry may otherwise provide.

The versatility of chicken is perhaps only surpassed by the many unique nutritional benefits this wildly popular food provides when cooking it in certain ways.