Summer Brew | Orange & Blueberry Wheat Beer

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTzHdRuWPBZp7Ow9jNuRWtqbMx_qoRUmva2_6xVc-pjRQHxGqlG9cbpEZSvVF3wBXKyRmCBMjIt0x8k-E176hJDCeh4vQheBK1-_2dnhyu_ay39hSLZtAU-mLfcj-nyXwZJZl_Rwj13M/s1600/IMG_1468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTzHdRuWPBZp7Ow9jNuRWtqbMx_qoRUmva2_6xVc-pjRQHxGqlG9cbpEZSvVF3wBXKyRmCBMjIt0x8k-E176hJDCeh4vQheBK1-_2dnhyu_ay39hSLZtAU-mLfcj-nyXwZJZl_Rwj13M/s640/IMG_1468.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONmGEObObFLLgbbvK_EIZmvUaX7DOMFJKK1ExowO9KU4s2yoLQwBIAqXJtdyU9qFHFAt0gSmYZNQAxcV0kldPDHTlxsVgph6OJgkju0Pb33sE6C4UKeXe88BkBQ4Tju2GdVHbTxw8qMs/s1600/summer-brew_02.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONmGEObObFLLgbbvK_EIZmvUaX7DOMFJKK1ExowO9KU4s2yoLQwBIAqXJtdyU9qFHFAt0gSmYZNQAxcV0kldPDHTlxsVgph6OJgkju0Pb33sE6C4UKeXe88BkBQ4Tju2GdVHbTxw8qMs/s400/summer-brew_02.jpg" width="262" /></a> Summer Brews are the best - refreshing, flavorful, citrus-y and light.  The original Summer Brew is beer mixed with vodka lemonade.  Delicious.  However, I'm a huge fan of wheat beers (Boulevard, Blue Moon, etc.) topped with an orange... so, I created my own version of a summer brew with fresh squeezed orange juice, vodka and wheat beer.  I garnished it with fresh blue berries and an orange slice to make it colorful and fun... it is, after all, a cocktail.<br /><br /><i>Orange & Blueberry</i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Summer Brew</span><br /><i>4 cocktails</i><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fsummer-brew-orange-blueberry-wheat-beer.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-rwQS3ZWIiE8%2FUcsYLfKz-iI%2FAAAAAAAAS1w%2FxE6leu_x_AE%2Fs400%2Fsummer-brew_02.jpg&description=Summer%20Brew%20Cocktail%20%3A%20Wheat%20Beer%20with%2C%20Vodka%2C%20Orange%20%26%20Blueberry"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />3 oranges, 2 juiced, 1 sliced<br />1/2 cup of water<br />1 tablespoon of sugar <br />1/4 cup of vodka<br />4 wheat beers (ex. Boulevard, Blue Moon)<br />Fresh Blue Berries<br /><br />Mix together the fresh orange juice, water, sugar and vodka just before the party - keep it cold in the refrigerator, then add the beer and garnishes when served. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5MJpVxFY6bzt3e0Pc2GRniKznjLdiypCtkKUokPyf_Q6jbwwpn9imKTQJn7P65vwIa6z_aaq_8e06_14pPGWN61DIdSLmXZ3wsFA1gG2s4QCZHt46SMwY4_fmXaaxXiWeUcXfVD5sWY/s1600/IMG_1503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5MJpVxFY6bzt3e0Pc2GRniKznjLdiypCtkKUokPyf_Q6jbwwpn9imKTQJn7P65vwIa6z_aaq_8e06_14pPGWN61DIdSLmXZ3wsFA1gG2s4QCZHt46SMwY4_fmXaaxXiWeUcXfVD5sWY/s640/IMG_1503.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Summer Brews are great for outdoor parties - more refreshing than wine on these hot summer evenings. <br /><br />Get the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/06/brown-sugar-sesame-steak-kebab-marinade.html">Marinated Steak Kebabs recipe</a>, here. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvmEgacu3eks4s4e1JG7KCP8COsVw_H7qnZIbEg_81s-reAIAmPrcWmKb358-Reywh5ku5YcequzWNSidgKlCduc9nhyphenhyphenuLK4ciIuwr27LFQBf-FFOU0WE-GJp3YEIc6fiO5Q3XROI41s4/s1600/IMG_1485.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvmEgacu3eks4s4e1JG7KCP8COsVw_H7qnZIbEg_81s-reAIAmPrcWmKb358-Reywh5ku5YcequzWNSidgKlCduc9nhyphenhyphenuLK4ciIuwr27LFQBf-FFOU0WE-GJp3YEIc6fiO5Q3XROI41s4/s640/IMG_1485.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />See all of the details of my <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/06/an-outdoor-dinner-party-on-our-porch.html">Outdoor Dinner Party, here</a>. <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Summer Brew | Orange & Blueberry Wheat Beer

Summer Brews are the best - refreshing, flavorful, citrus-y and light.  The original Summer Brew is beer mixed with vodka lemonade.  Delici...

Read more »

An Outdoor Dinner Party on our Porch | Blue Hydrangeas

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsdAxANkjEApkFZBOQOrv3ObKZ0WZMXcqNQxE6iBmJUgUZZCkggscrfpExhnUtWhNRKfoFCnB6BB6P9vL69Q9GXcX0F_K9izRqo0KjVM1C4m6ecywQWUnPvuQVjMf27ozTXM3jHWVAKI/s1600/IMG_1551.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsdAxANkjEApkFZBOQOrv3ObKZ0WZMXcqNQxE6iBmJUgUZZCkggscrfpExhnUtWhNRKfoFCnB6BB6P9vL69Q9GXcX0F_K9izRqo0KjVM1C4m6ecywQWUnPvuQVjMf27ozTXM3jHWVAKI/s640/IMG_1551.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bTAvftP_8n_-SpiCo6zOv2Li5QyokrGhhYI1cgdcnp0iIdyK6Fmi3uVRV5JFj9IAQxMrxz1vh3CewhfBwqO6_GD7qN_Fy0khLdtUYYrAiwGaoOZoAvUSwUHrsmUIxtt0MImCPb9x-r8/s1600/IMG_1529.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bTAvftP_8n_-SpiCo6zOv2Li5QyokrGhhYI1cgdcnp0iIdyK6Fmi3uVRV5JFj9IAQxMrxz1vh3CewhfBwqO6_GD7qN_Fy0khLdtUYYrAiwGaoOZoAvUSwUHrsmUIxtt0MImCPb9x-r8/s400/IMG_1529.jpg" width="266" /></a> Recently, we hosted a dinner for a dear friend of ours that was in town.  As I mentioned in <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/a-porch-kind-of-weekend-breakfast.html">my "A Porch Kind of Weekend" post</a>, I love eating out on our porch - but previously had only had casual meals on our loveseats.  After writing my monthly article for <a href="http://www.mywell-being.com/outdoor-entertaining-101-0">MyWell-Being.com</a> all about creative Outdoor Entertaining, I was itching to set a complete table outside... so, I pulled our dinning room furniture out onto the porch for a magical dinner alfresco.</div><br />Read more of my Outdoor Entertaining tips and inspiration in my recent post on <a href="http://www.mywell-being.com/outdoor-entertaining-101-0">MyWell-Being.com.</a><br /><br />Outdoor Dinner Party Menu : <br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fan-outdoor-dinner-party-on-our-porch.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QqarmdrlUlw%2FUcm1m78tdhI%2FAAAAAAAAS1I%2Ft-NjJzMWpNs%2Fs1600%2Foutdoor-dinner-party_03.jpg&description=An%20Outdoor%20Dinner%20Party%20with%20Menu%2C%20Table%20Setting%20%26%20Recipes"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br />Orange & Blueberry Summer Brew Cocktails<br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/05/tomato-zucchini-and-olive-bruschetta.html">Tomato & Squash Grilled Bruschetta</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/06/brown-sugar-sesame-steak-kebab-marinade.html">Brown Sugar & Sesame Steak Kebabs</a><br />Grilled Fingerling Potatoes with Chives and Sour Cream<br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/10/bite-sized-smores-in-oven-easy-fall.html">Mini S'mores in the Oven</a><br /><br />Stay tuned next week for the recipes!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEv1LRzIw1lWR1YA-tr33lcjK85H6jJbbjaRvMWZUMtXX7ypTzpkH0ypd8tXZf685uaYcHGZ2_hgTibZxzM0U99YKiZdWDXbnR5p63T3HSNYdEc6egA7TCLHS28HDYx91AN6KM18lHe2c/s1600/IMG_1533.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEv1LRzIw1lWR1YA-tr33lcjK85H6jJbbjaRvMWZUMtXX7ypTzpkH0ypd8tXZf685uaYcHGZ2_hgTibZxzM0U99YKiZdWDXbnR5p63T3HSNYdEc6egA7TCLHS28HDYx91AN6KM18lHe2c/s640/IMG_1533.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEYbo55QNiLCQ9hgxDun0cu2vVGH5Vy-i3mMOLWYDub5jsJIhzE0PFE73ClJzQMUdoZbtalaggaefpXsO2OXgFPxVRAbHPn3FILPRXHAiz8f28idOeK9qjwC60IHfbtVNOhwUmwjoQUE/s1600/IMG_1468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEYbo55QNiLCQ9hgxDun0cu2vVGH5Vy-i3mMOLWYDub5jsJIhzE0PFE73ClJzQMUdoZbtalaggaefpXsO2OXgFPxVRAbHPn3FILPRXHAiz8f28idOeK9qjwC60IHfbtVNOhwUmwjoQUE/s640/IMG_1468.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I love wheat beers.  During the summer I'll take a cold wheat beer with a slice of orange over a glass of wine any day.  For this party, I used Boulevard Wheat Beer, fresh squeezed orange juice, vodka and blueberries for a new twist on a Summer Brew (usually vodka lemonade + beer).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQVdf83aJ5wzZCQ09TGeR3G9PKXxMkP63xosI95yjtTKstZBcVs1ka0KyD_iRpIiiYqHzHDpJpSmFSCRrWqzMCLJ0gRM9LQYs-xhiecMlQb6QLY1y3ZxYqRIY5nS1YVL491IxgWlgDLI/s1600/IMG_1503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQVdf83aJ5wzZCQ09TGeR3G9PKXxMkP63xosI95yjtTKstZBcVs1ka0KyD_iRpIiiYqHzHDpJpSmFSCRrWqzMCLJ0gRM9LQYs-xhiecMlQb6QLY1y3ZxYqRIY5nS1YVL491IxgWlgDLI/s640/IMG_1503.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For dinner, we grilled steak and vegetable kebabs marinated in a brown sugar, sesame and garlic marinade.  I'm not sure how I just figured this out - but... did you know you can grill potatoes?  They take no time at all and have a great smokey flavor.  </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi73lDf2ewLIZlhJ7fJji93TaxE0mje-v4QJgQUKqinNyHJb8Mh0A8qS65ofsksgEUy25ezuQ3acQr6fPM56ndkfzmdlrR8njrOZU1lyAhsNNINlqBxhoQ6sGcM4rxZRJCnEjnoJOjHVsQ/s1600/IMG_1549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi73lDf2ewLIZlhJ7fJji93TaxE0mje-v4QJgQUKqinNyHJb8Mh0A8qS65ofsksgEUy25ezuQ3acQr6fPM56ndkfzmdlrR8njrOZU1lyAhsNNINlqBxhoQ6sGcM4rxZRJCnEjnoJOjHVsQ/s640/IMG_1549.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fzPDrzvs9ouwsBt4j01SyC5wWF0e8U8bQs17NYNz9g_RIiHaJ2uuhjgHL99t_SVsfxiAQFhGnwo6mqmgdJphY7M5zwiqTHZUdx4o50jvlsixxkXYKUG6KCISdhBP4rEy0f9aeWxsgH0/s1600/IMG_1536.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fzPDrzvs9ouwsBt4j01SyC5wWF0e8U8bQs17NYNz9g_RIiHaJ2uuhjgHL99t_SVsfxiAQFhGnwo6mqmgdJphY7M5zwiqTHZUdx4o50jvlsixxkXYKUG6KCISdhBP4rEy0f9aeWxsgH0/s400/IMG_1536.jpg" width="266" /></a>Blue hydrangea are my summer favorites and happen to be blooming in masses everywhere this year because of all of the rain.  I miss my big hydrangea bushes in our old house and have settled on planting them in our urns on the front steps this year.   <br /><br />A big bunch of hydrangeas is my favorite "non-arrangement" floral arrangement.  Unlike other flowers that look great mixed with others, hydrangea are meant to be on their own bountiful in bunches - they set a sophisticated yet casual tone.  I have these in a Match Pewter vase, a wedding present that we've gotten soooo much use out of.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcut1jhRO-Bv_Y2C7KDrqplFIvDpW6YoEjtmyg8A8o_X7_JikeOJaawbFeBrieDmnfIWNmqBD2-mvzamKSbhbJ2eb8Z-8bJc9BZFydYQgqKFTScnTIf5o2z6q3yK-Ujffi7jihR0mby5k/s1600/IMG_1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcut1jhRO-Bv_Y2C7KDrqplFIvDpW6YoEjtmyg8A8o_X7_JikeOJaawbFeBrieDmnfIWNmqBD2-mvzamKSbhbJ2eb8Z-8bJc9BZFydYQgqKFTScnTIf5o2z6q3yK-Ujffi7jihR0mby5k/s640/IMG_1559.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is the view of the table from the dining room, just outside the french doors.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3SPGHL-_nCOKMiJZCKHYP467cyPKIgh6NFq-w-WqlECP0MSZAHz-eWYyyzYskmoqzLuOjonPgm-5sUGZGmggYR4P3IL6Dl60U9dmOPXRZBdVBFzKXNqJysrVRZgRQlY4RSjvZdJLT84/s1600/IMG_1579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3SPGHL-_nCOKMiJZCKHYP467cyPKIgh6NFq-w-WqlECP0MSZAHz-eWYyyzYskmoqzLuOjonPgm-5sUGZGmggYR4P3IL6Dl60U9dmOPXRZBdVBFzKXNqJysrVRZgRQlY4RSjvZdJLT84/s640/IMG_1579.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />The scene - just as the sun was setting and just before our guests arrived.  I love these Celebration candles.  I used small, thick-glassed votive holders with sea salt to hold the candles.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFCmdJ_W5B7ZgBEDskT-5ToF-ETnw54LlUOYgZyA9_4cxksK8zj1upb-tRhAL4rQyxmYxV-p8msemt07u_LNhpXDsbCJSJG0IEn5Pt5AprjXG-nABB7pGefdy5Hhd264eh0PlI3AZXkc/s1600/IMG_1588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFCmdJ_W5B7ZgBEDskT-5ToF-ETnw54LlUOYgZyA9_4cxksK8zj1upb-tRhAL4rQyxmYxV-p8msemt07u_LNhpXDsbCJSJG0IEn5Pt5AprjXG-nABB7pGefdy5Hhd264eh0PlI3AZXkc/s640/IMG_1588.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Aren't they magical and very chic?  Stay tuned for the recipes to come!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3c4-AFM7Z2Te3yPDWe6tKcdfjyYJMbfdioyWojQEsB7jP6FnvBIQnUQ8mjvlb-rOYqWq61AMuYUed-h6d9LIce6CtfkWcj38-LdKSpLuEXNGSZxE9IW7loj8O-QzDnT7DytgkygSIGDk/s1600/outdoor-dinner-party_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3c4-AFM7Z2Te3yPDWe6tKcdfjyYJMbfdioyWojQEsB7jP6FnvBIQnUQ8mjvlb-rOYqWq61AMuYUed-h6d9LIce6CtfkWcj38-LdKSpLuEXNGSZxE9IW7loj8O-QzDnT7DytgkygSIGDk/s1600/outdoor-dinner-party_03.jpg" /></a></div>Don't forget - I've shared more of my Outdoor Entertaining tips and inspiration in my recent post on <a href="http://www.mywell-being.com/outdoor-entertaining-101-0">MyWell-Being.com, read the article here</a>.<br /><br />Here is the easy to pin strip!<br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fan-outdoor-dinner-party-on-our-porch.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QqarmdrlUlw%2FUcm1m78tdhI%2FAAAAAAAAS1I%2Ft-NjJzMWpNs%2Fs1600%2Foutdoor-dinner-party_03.jpg&description=An%20Outdoor%20Dinner%20Party%20with%20Menu%2C%20Table%20Setting%20%26%20Recipes"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

An Outdoor Dinner Party on our Porch | Blue Hydrangeas

Recently, we hosted a dinner for a dear friend of ours that was in town.  As I mentioned in my "A Porch Kind of Weekend" post , I...

Read more »

A Porch Kind of Weekend - Breakfast & Dinner alfresco

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZXvH13g9izsv6hErPam8-3o77FKfkC88T3e8AdvygCVi8E8M40YGnZfVv7idHDdam9y8I8oXT7Fow0GbLxlDRIri7B2kxDHPZoplZhBSzsCqyEg_ZdnCM-PG5bn1ETY8FwzcGQ3Elz78/s1600/IMG_9349.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZXvH13g9izsv6hErPam8-3o77FKfkC88T3e8AdvygCVi8E8M40YGnZfVv7idHDdam9y8I8oXT7Fow0GbLxlDRIri7B2kxDHPZoplZhBSzsCqyEg_ZdnCM-PG5bn1ETY8FwzcGQ3Elz78/s640/IMG_9349.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>It officially feels like spring - thank goodness.  We took advantage of every peep of the sunshine this weekend having almost all of our meals outside on the porch.<br /><br />When <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-before-house-tour-be-kind-dont.html">we bought the house the cozy little side porch</a> was a huge motivation for us.  Like home buyers do, I had visions of us drinking our morning coffee out there and sipping on wine in the evenings - and this weekend we fulfilled that and more.  Unfortunately, I think to often people don't make an effort to live out their 'perfect life' visions.   <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9k4bzed8o0uepQSObAdYboMYuJNLPm7NvfiSMuNJmCYsrfOQAQJh2IMMuVgD9zlQ4GkrMfCTkj2IHUdjq3hSC1U7TblF1y9G5kVTJOFz1k_DH4mciCISe8zHHrc9XqSOsLMXYQeIZSw/s1600/IMG_9350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9k4bzed8o0uepQSObAdYboMYuJNLPm7NvfiSMuNJmCYsrfOQAQJh2IMMuVgD9zlQ4GkrMfCTkj2IHUdjq3hSC1U7TblF1y9G5kVTJOFz1k_DH4mciCISe8zHHrc9XqSOsLMXYQeIZSw/s640/IMG_9350.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Emma and I spent the end of last week gathering various flowers, herbs and pots to plant outside.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmOh_XDXPbSbzAO65Rhj7bsc6lGUulSaeLUrsszEKR1OuKl-E_4Rn2PUWuAgATKqOZX0EFUPUEJhmwll_MtLpz5CMO8Wl9CRS7CLJ_FksRcdZO5BvRTxJp6bkkENXG1C0HbzaHqkZAkA/s1600/IMG_9346.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmOh_XDXPbSbzAO65Rhj7bsc6lGUulSaeLUrsszEKR1OuKl-E_4Rn2PUWuAgATKqOZX0EFUPUEJhmwll_MtLpz5CMO8Wl9CRS7CLJ_FksRcdZO5BvRTxJp6bkkENXG1C0HbzaHqkZAkA/s640/IMG_9346.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />These fern lavender were the best find of the weekend.  They smell great and will bloom like this all Spring/Summer.  Aren't they whimsical? <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh1yWKTiQuQEtB9aDteh2KHtA5LIWdBYRB7431k80FLOOZ6P1rfotqZsb_MFEq_eod-hNdraRuhxq5LEIrXxXktbdjHGpbIT5Ie4jGoj6EQajFuuXO9QivGtUjrQjS1Npc7MV5bAIETM/s1600/IMG_9371.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh1yWKTiQuQEtB9aDteh2KHtA5LIWdBYRB7431k80FLOOZ6P1rfotqZsb_MFEq_eod-hNdraRuhxq5LEIrXxXktbdjHGpbIT5Ie4jGoj6EQajFuuXO9QivGtUjrQjS1Npc7MV5bAIETM/s640/IMG_9371.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Our porch weekend started with a little get together with homemade pizza + friends + kids + dogs on Saturday night.  So, when we woke up on Sunday morning we were searching for something to eat with our coffee... 10 minutes later Cinnamon (pizza) Bread was ready.  Recipe coming soon.  It was sooo good and silly easy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qeaGk5mFRp1c_Ck21rmUR0fPSv_fpZJUMftYTehm3SqbsPD7evk9IliJ3rnsH-QBnThDsA4e4RDzjzKihCxAd7jz5OJq_ctldOQQMQ9MrwP0rjNxkLIldOP1Tvyo5eV8JlLZ-6V0bo4/s1600/IMG_9354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qeaGk5mFRp1c_Ck21rmUR0fPSv_fpZJUMftYTehm3SqbsPD7evk9IliJ3rnsH-QBnThDsA4e4RDzjzKihCxAd7jz5OJq_ctldOQQMQ9MrwP0rjNxkLIldOP1Tvyo5eV8JlLZ-6V0bo4/s640/IMG_9354.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />I planted a couple of strawberry plants in pots on the porch, too.  Because the strawberry plants were fairly minimal, I added some of these muscari that had already bloomed in our yard.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuj-7s9V4Ksk-Wg70SeSF17okoy9GwC9YTUATWF8xxHeEPpL5fm-rJ-CjFhd20lOrNKHxy4ufgWUkKKNRnHvVqkq_D6hDWioX4tL7PA1MxtuEOCHuGNFBDTjBawSDmA2d0t8PCI37TDWA/s1600/IMG_9355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuj-7s9V4Ksk-Wg70SeSF17okoy9GwC9YTUATWF8xxHeEPpL5fm-rJ-CjFhd20lOrNKHxy4ufgWUkKKNRnHvVqkq_D6hDWioX4tL7PA1MxtuEOCHuGNFBDTjBawSDmA2d0t8PCI37TDWA/s640/IMG_9355.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love how they are peeking above the strawberry plants.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VpPYg8Yduc3i-dWWA9k6wF9fJZ5ezmIwJihftOh-HFKqlhqrPZ43aBlGuL_8zo18-fEbkHx_FxyaV5UhhWgl-vWRQ60-4O6LRCg2c8sIAnBc4_EnujOFJIzo1EjgHr3NfQdlAnMR4oE/s1600/IMG_9383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VpPYg8Yduc3i-dWWA9k6wF9fJZ5ezmIwJihftOh-HFKqlhqrPZ43aBlGuL_8zo18-fEbkHx_FxyaV5UhhWgl-vWRQ60-4O6LRCg2c8sIAnBc4_EnujOFJIzo1EjgHr3NfQdlAnMR4oE/s640/IMG_9383.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got these G. Wolff & Co. pots this year at a fabulous local nursery called Red Cedar.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqfmgCtKI3niuj4gX7U_Mx91gLzkotH9wgHwwZXYzXyOIzrEd_cZbgemlhylG2bb9G3D_5YYUa7m_IWtFrfilGl_3MWV35w9Tm7XRtOsix-TegzVqNIcWkOPABWh16XaRSo9Wq77Xla4/s1600/IMG_9384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqfmgCtKI3niuj4gX7U_Mx91gLzkotH9wgHwwZXYzXyOIzrEd_cZbgemlhylG2bb9G3D_5YYUa7m_IWtFrfilGl_3MWV35w9Tm7XRtOsix-TegzVqNIcWkOPABWh16XaRSo9Wq77Xla4/s640/IMG_9384.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I had purchased these pots there three years ago.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_yXDQhfjvhCW9yqQPf8voWWzD5qOCxW3VtGch8SnYv7pZOU6KyiPfczCCybKuGBXd6GhxfaslJfXkFtJMYOv-Vh88X3zArFg6Praoky-Iv1hu57jQjsHz61Pt5uR_ggfqzTIbYHlqedM/s1600/IMG_9389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_yXDQhfjvhCW9yqQPf8voWWzD5qOCxW3VtGch8SnYv7pZOU6KyiPfczCCybKuGBXd6GhxfaslJfXkFtJMYOv-Vh88X3zArFg6Praoky-Iv1hu57jQjsHz61Pt5uR_ggfqzTIbYHlqedM/s640/IMG_9389.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While I was fixing cinnamon bread and snapping photos, backyard wagon rides began.  Bunny ears and all.<br /><br />After some yard work and many more wagon rides...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-SRMNSIqfueQucC5BRkN5T_171-3L7uRlDDS_M1kcgdDvVwyzHyqKnfmZcdbec5Jog8Lfp0wGjuX6EjWpGT7lD-Fsy9fFk05bSfbd6IdGqF7C5EfLmMt1ok_OcSuHX6HulyAx3Df5XP4/s1600/IMG_9423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-SRMNSIqfueQucC5BRkN5T_171-3L7uRlDDS_M1kcgdDvVwyzHyqKnfmZcdbec5Jog8Lfp0wGjuX6EjWpGT7lD-Fsy9fFk05bSfbd6IdGqF7C5EfLmMt1ok_OcSuHX6HulyAx3Df5XP4/s640/IMG_9423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dinner was served.  On the porch. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgkImOn4FnEepWlSjuT3RKLpm5_SaO508O-wzDbbsgJpi0XCf2upwsUK_7IscB98of_OdK6Gfzqr8v4RPAYP5lLxK2qhsHAIVqUbt_HhDD6BzHw174JYcTz7TbjNRf0R4pZkqDdMm6wk/s1600/IMG_9418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgkImOn4FnEepWlSjuT3RKLpm5_SaO508O-wzDbbsgJpi0XCf2upwsUK_7IscB98of_OdK6Gfzqr8v4RPAYP5lLxK2qhsHAIVqUbt_HhDD6BzHw174JYcTz7TbjNRf0R4pZkqDdMm6wk/s640/IMG_9418.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Seared Steaks with a Sweet Shallot & Wine Sauce (inspired by the Barefoot Contessa's, of course).  Recipes coming later this week!

A Porch Kind of Weekend - Breakfast & Dinner alfresco

It officially feels like spring - thank goodness.  We took advantage of every peep of the sunshine this weekend having almost all of our m...

Read more »

The BEST Brisket Recipe | Sweet & Tender Soda Pop Brisket

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIUR2YeD-SZ2nw5Bi1LHzaloLTkUIG2lTs_SmiUNRYZnx_Zk_Mr-8qT6rPaigf31mwPW8Jxy7hVQ604DoVzyVAQjJcyixrQ5_877VhkSBPrdtUNj_0ZCGCKw6XNg0UQjBLnUJXbOZNfyd/s1600/IMG_0768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIUR2YeD-SZ2nw5Bi1LHzaloLTkUIG2lTs_SmiUNRYZnx_Zk_Mr-8qT6rPaigf31mwPW8Jxy7hVQ604DoVzyVAQjJcyixrQ5_877VhkSBPrdtUNj_0ZCGCKw6XNg0UQjBLnUJXbOZNfyd/s1600/IMG_0768.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F05%2Fsweet-tender-soda-pop-brisket-best.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-30aZ3GVkY-Q%2FU3pDBmv6JCI%2FAAAAAAAAWzE%2FnRxUQeTKzEE%2Fs1600%2Fsoda-pop-brisket.jpg&description=The%20BEST%20Brisket%20Recipe%20%7C%20Sweet%20and%20Tender%20Soda%20Pop%20Brisket%20%20%20%20%20%20%20Recipe%20is%202%20cups%20of%20Coke%2C%201%201%2F2%20cups%20of%20Ketchup...%20so%20easy%21"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Brisket can be somewhat of a daunting piece of meat.  It is very large, very fatty and notoriously hard to cook.  I've always been confused by it with the multitude of different recipes and recommendations that exist.   Should you cook it low and slow?  For 2 hours or 12?  The recommendations are all over the board.  To make matters worse, it is one of Mike's favorite comfort meals, which equals high expectations.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This Robin's Egg Blue Enamelware is available, <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/summer/products/robin-s-egg-blue-enamelware">here</a>, in the store starting at $16-24.  I also have matching small plates, colanders, platters, etc.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I recently saw a brisket recipe that featured Coca-Cola and ketchup as the two main ingredients.  Sound like an old, yucky recipe from the 80s?  Maybe, but it came highly recommended...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfbX77f80XVBx85QPpQeUC27Gm_KTPWdccok4GPVcQpBG57GPx1ZKsEyjU5qDWjHAKW4H5aN1Phh2xD9pf4ByJcR265DC97v7B7tadfJ9KDXrp1FZZulpGGDPi_ZDv-JJo2WnwD-CnjGVn/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfbX77f80XVBx85QPpQeUC27Gm_KTPWdccok4GPVcQpBG57GPx1ZKsEyjU5qDWjHAKW4H5aN1Phh2xD9pf4ByJcR265DC97v7B7tadfJ9KDXrp1FZZulpGGDPi_ZDv-JJo2WnwD-CnjGVn/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cook's Country (on PBS, my favorite channel) is filmed in an old Vermont farm house - which I love.  They feature unpretentious food with recipes that have been tested and retested.  Chris Kimball, the host, is a very poindexter looking fellow that seems to have a sophisticated (a bit snobby?) palette.   He knows everything about food, New England life and culture.  On the last episode, he said that this recipe was his favorite recipe of all time.  A recipe with sauteed onions, ketchup and Coca-Cola as the main ingredients.  Now that is something to try.   </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnGrQt9IfRmxj5k3gZNszMsKOPyzBGhtIVsH55xcCcKb555pzW6eYOE9h201csRqxJ2wIQaUcvjnI1pWtz7uNeHi96k0oVfbe0LP95IhHJUorCxPNqb_TGwWcGRWxlTLs2QexJ_aM5qHq/s1600/IMG_0793.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnGrQt9IfRmxj5k3gZNszMsKOPyzBGhtIVsH55xcCcKb555pzW6eYOE9h201csRqxJ2wIQaUcvjnI1pWtz7uNeHi96k0oVfbe0LP95IhHJUorCxPNqb_TGwWcGRWxlTLs2QexJ_aM5qHq/s1600/IMG_0793.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have to tell you, that I loved, loved loved this recipe.  I don't know what happens to sauteed onions, mixed with ketchup and Coke in an oven when it cooks with a brisket, but let me tell you - this sauce was incredible.   The entire thing only baked in the oven for 3.5 hours, then rested for 45 minutes.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are a couple of things that are crucial to this recipe.  The resting is a very important, apparently, as Chris described it, the many tendons of the brisket get tight during the hot cooking, but the resting period allows them to soak up the moisture of the sauce and soften, leaving the brisket fork tender.  And it was.  The original recipe called for rubbing the meat with salt 6-24 hours before cooking, but I skipped this part due to time.  If you have the time, I'd love to hear how salting it improved the tenderness, too.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcumBQ_3DE86Edu0TC7H2K_xcnrlYkc28eevsNngu2ehm1RFQJn8YHC8lysKL9dEtn8DmdqaYBgq-awNZ5sI4jFif7QuMO3bS3V8czQuI5Dtk7Stn7_iz1dj8Z06qWHwl6s8QscVmdRTb/s1600/IMG_0733.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcumBQ_3DE86Edu0TC7H2K_xcnrlYkc28eevsNngu2ehm1RFQJn8YHC8lysKL9dEtn8DmdqaYBgq-awNZ5sI4jFif7QuMO3bS3V8czQuI5Dtk7Stn7_iz1dj8Z06qWHwl6s8QscVmdRTb/s1600/IMG_0733.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I served our Soda Pop Brisket with Ina's French Potato Salad.  It is basically steamed potatoes, dressed with herbs and a dijon vinaigrette, served warm - was a great side dish for this sweet and rich brisket.  I also served it with some really easy homemade refrigerator pickles.  I'm so excited for these simple, rustic Summer dinners.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/summer/products/robin-s-egg-blue-enamelware">Enamelware</a> : You may have noticed the beautiful robins egg blue enamelware pieces I used for this very summery dinner.  They are part of my<a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/summer/products/robin-s-egg-blue-enamelware"> Summer Collection</a>, <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/summer/products/robin-s-egg-blue-enamelware">here</a>.  They are incredibly fun and lightweight - perfect for casual, outdoor entertaining.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made a couple of changes to their original recipe - mainly the seasonings.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGoCs0gaWQQszTKJRmfxL0agi2a80_Z5Md6B0VqXItEF2VraMFHiwhkkr0aTSqjqanr77IpyScMRYkCyyJ0IDEFIvcm3Z9gJvlZwv0xRwMH92NS6saT5na54pmtZadk-yA3roL_wvZ0iDz/s1600/soda-pop-brisket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGoCs0gaWQQszTKJRmfxL0agi2a80_Z5Md6B0VqXItEF2VraMFHiwhkkr0aTSqjqanr77IpyScMRYkCyyJ0IDEFIvcm3Z9gJvlZwv0xRwMH92NS6saT5na54pmtZadk-yA3roL_wvZ0iDz/s1600/soda-pop-brisket.jpg" width="426" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><i>sweet & tender</i></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Soda Pop Brisket</span><br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F05%2Fsweet-tender-soda-pop-brisket-best.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-30aZ3GVkY-Q%2FU3pDBmv6JCI%2FAAAAAAAAWzE%2FnRxUQeTKzEE%2Fs1600%2Fsoda-pop-brisket.jpg&description=The%20BEST%20Brisket%20Recipe%20%7C%20Sweet%20and%20Tender%20Soda%20Pop%20Brisket%20%20%20%20%20%20%20Recipe%20is%202%20cups%20of%20Coke%2C%201%201%2F2%20cups%20of%20Ketchup...%20so%20easy%21"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><div><br />3 1/2 lbs beef brisket</div><div>sea salt*</div><div>4 tablespoons vegetable oil<br />1 lb onion, large dice<br />2 cups coke-cola<br />1 1/2 cups ketchup<br />4 teaspoons onion powder<br />1 teaspoon garlic powder<br /><br />*This is the part I skipped due to time, but if you plan ahead, it would be great to try.<br />With a fork, poke holes in the brisket all over.  Rub the brisket with salt.  Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 6-24 hours.<br /><br />Heat oven to 325 degrees.  Pat brisket dry with paper towel.  In a large heavy bottomed pan (I used my dutch oven), heat 2 tablespoons of oil.  Sear brisket for 4 minutes on each side.  Remove from pan.  <br /><br />Add the other 2 tablespoons of oil to the pan along with the onions.  Cook on medium until onions are tender and browned.  About 5-6 minutes.  Add ketchup, coke, onion powder and garlic powder.  Stir together, then put brisket back in, turning it to coat in the sauce.<br /><br />Cover pan and put it in the oven to bake for 3.5 hours.  Remove from the oven, leaving covered, and let rest for 30 minutes.  Remove lid, then let rest for 15-30 more minutes.  Remove from pan, and slice in thick slices.  Spoon warm sauce over to serve.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbefZi5F7AbM0hyphenhyphen3r_91I68img1T0YcfBb9ju61b2aY6Ons0WH7olWMRlERcfQ3gqWfPYsomXFTaE_bMsSmggCHm6NOuxV6NpXbz4YxzvPWPKmaTyNEXkTgVZOZzvML1p9B0JowHUnnbii/s1600/IMG_0744.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbefZi5F7AbM0hyphenhyphen3r_91I68img1T0YcfBb9ju61b2aY6Ons0WH7olWMRlERcfQ3gqWfPYsomXFTaE_bMsSmggCHm6NOuxV6NpXbz4YxzvPWPKmaTyNEXkTgVZOZzvML1p9B0JowHUnnbii/s1600/IMG_0744.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is the brisket before slicing.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir7niV-q0pArFSPX5GZh7z1cLCiC022KwikjXmOePnLBJn4Y24CKm9cbcZGNOxnNL1BM-YhvPFzZuXKOCnxc1NlR8jokXNnvk7ci7IogCwX7ooIQk06a5pvG5r3BRHA-Cpb41NH1IccvCg/s1600/IMG_0746.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir7niV-q0pArFSPX5GZh7z1cLCiC022KwikjXmOePnLBJn4Y24CKm9cbcZGNOxnNL1BM-YhvPFzZuXKOCnxc1NlR8jokXNnvk7ci7IogCwX7ooIQk06a5pvG5r3BRHA-Cpb41NH1IccvCg/s1600/IMG_0746.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See how tender and juicy?  It is the resting that does it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfcb6F6ZfsGr7WN7S5TPfd1WaJMiwUpFhYfSbkvyVQW90TCFrDqjhsa8OCApDnKPGuKhZn8SBSnQ6UaRZ3RyKEkoW7AS-L-VHVdymj3l6-lhFc0NTL6MO-pY93JqfBiCxgbXNIJJj2gPy/s1600/IMG_0761.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfcb6F6ZfsGr7WN7S5TPfd1WaJMiwUpFhYfSbkvyVQW90TCFrDqjhsa8OCApDnKPGuKhZn8SBSnQ6UaRZ3RyKEkoW7AS-L-VHVdymj3l6-lhFc0NTL6MO-pY93JqfBiCxgbXNIJJj2gPy/s1600/IMG_0761.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You really have to try it.  A very special recipe from very humble ingredients. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And for the potato salad...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqBKyZYRFkRvedbVn13EJH7IMoncROIw-HHMcHu7g9prR1n3obj99Ul-ePE7IExYwdfdnXz6TzKqezJe4lVa8rbV4chMer7zM11f3KM2MqxzGnY9noe5blA9UB9XcFxMjUMAavfxxuUEe/s1600/herbed-potato-salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqBKyZYRFkRvedbVn13EJH7IMoncROIw-HHMcHu7g9prR1n3obj99Ul-ePE7IExYwdfdnXz6TzKqezJe4lVa8rbV4chMer7zM11f3KM2MqxzGnY9noe5blA9UB9XcFxMjUMAavfxxuUEe/s1600/herbed-potato-salad.jpg" width="426" /></a>I used the Barefoot Contessa's recipe for French Potato Salad, recipe, <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/french-potato-salad-recipe.html">here</a>.</div><br /><br />It is a very simple - steamed potatoes tossed in a dijon and champagne vinaigrette with parsley, dill and scallions.  It was tart and tangy with the dressing and herbs - a perfect compliment to the sweet brisket sauce.  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHDheKR-Kc0UK4mQvwuUaAe6ydHrkYIzkKUXoh_V4-RogFphU0F421vRkRipOTXP1nSUdAkF4fC_kSbMV9e97rJ29GShiI9yAk0wqS3p_EUs8At5OABtU4Gv-dRsPPnoVaTK4XzaZnM5S/s1600/IMG_0725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHDheKR-Kc0UK4mQvwuUaAe6ydHrkYIzkKUXoh_V4-RogFphU0F421vRkRipOTXP1nSUdAkF4fC_kSbMV9e97rJ29GShiI9yAk0wqS3p_EUs8At5OABtU4Gv-dRsPPnoVaTK4XzaZnM5S/s1600/IMG_0725.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Instead of cubes, I did the potatoes in slices - made it look/seem more like a dinner side dish than a potato salad. <br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezvfZX3l8VDOZfRlk_d0DM5JQdmNvVhKi6SC7NeSrDeRLB_X-y7d7nIQ5VhOJ6ssMIxU8wWFiJfe7iVhAm9k2cdFQpreLIkedsuxhX06VwxKXDVerP8CEKed3CdIUsMeP4G35CuwTDilq/s1600/IMG_0726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezvfZX3l8VDOZfRlk_d0DM5JQdmNvVhKi6SC7NeSrDeRLB_X-y7d7nIQ5VhOJ6ssMIxU8wWFiJfe7iVhAm9k2cdFQpreLIkedsuxhX06VwxKXDVerP8CEKed3CdIUsMeP4G35CuwTDilq/s1600/IMG_0726.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Simple and pretty - perfect "real" food for summer.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4HWXt12MHjpjuutagXERlcWFkwziLnQuxiOG_yOG5Mg3dpT6JI30DPeiMF2luhE9Uj0eVGk4ZCZ9t-zO4NN-1YUL-xHB2EGGsjif9tgouiRWndH-Z75RKk5Bmh3-on5tN7xJH4eS6Ghl/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4HWXt12MHjpjuutagXERlcWFkwziLnQuxiOG_yOG5Mg3dpT6JI30DPeiMF2luhE9Uj0eVGk4ZCZ9t-zO4NN-1YUL-xHB2EGGsjif9tgouiRWndH-Z75RKk5Bmh3-on5tN7xJH4eS6Ghl/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I'm excited to snack on this all week for lunch.  I'm trying to upgrade my lunches during the week from a peanut butter sandwich... any ideas?<br /><br /> <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>

The BEST Brisket Recipe | Sweet & Tender Soda Pop Brisket

Brisket can be somewhat of a daunting piece of meat.  It is very large, very fatty and notoriously hard to cook.  I've always been confu...

Read more »