THANKSGIVING

"As we express our gratitude today, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." 
- John F. Kennedy

Thanksgiving 2012 was quite possibly the best one yet. Celebrations with friends over homemade meals, laughter over eclectic commentary of football games, and partaking in festivities around the city; I couldn't have asked for a more perfect holiday.

5chw4r7z and Ms. 5chw4r7z in the kitchen.

 

Jeff and Becky brought a chocolate torte for dessert.

Apple cider pie, pumpkin pie, and chocolate mousse pie.

A DORK AND HIS PIZZA PARTY

My friend Jeff, author of the blog A Dork and His Pork, hosted a small rendezvous to share his new recipe: made from scratch pizza pies.

Each guest had personal sized pizza made from hand-tossed dough and freshly prepared sauce. Everyone was responsible for bringing their own ingredients. I selected sweet peppers, mozzarella, and bacon, while others brought specialties like fig, goat cheese, and pineapple. I was fortunate enough to try a few bites of each.

Like everything that comes out of Jeff's kitchen, the pizzas were extraordinary! He perfected the method of toasting the bottom of the crust in a frying pan, then baking it in the broiler for a few minutes. This resulted in a crisp, solid crust with molten, savory toppings.

Jeff also treated us with homemade gherkins that put all other pickles to shame. You can find the recipe on his blog.

JAPP'S GRILLED CHEESE COOK OFF

This Sunday at Japp's Annex, six sandwich chefs took part in a competition for the warmest, gooiest, tastiest grilled cheese in Cincinnati.

With eclectic combinations like buffalo bleu cheese with chicken, fried green tomatoes, four cheese, or cheddar with salsa and sour cream, each chef showcased their secret recipe.

The cook off audience had a chance to sample each of the grilled cheeses and vote for their favorite using a token handed out upon arrival. There was also a panel of Cincinnati food bloggers serving as judges to award the best grilled cheese the coveted Golden Spatula award.

In addition to piping hot sandwiches, Molly Wellmann was mixing up Bloody Marys behind the bar. She fixed me an incredible drink loaded with veggie garnish.

While each of the grilled cheeses was uniquely delicious, my appetite was won over by the fried green tomato grilled cheese. The texture, the savory flavors that changed with each chew; it was a cold weather winner in my book.