Cheesy

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Cheese, glorious cheese. I think I just about like every cheese I’ve tasted.  I like it cold, gooey warm, and piping hot.  I put it on top of food, eat it on crackers (nothing quite like a slice of cheese, a piece of salami on a good cracker with a glass of my favorite vino!), love cheesecake, melt big slabs on my burgers and even go for those little corn curls that make my fingers turn orange. Yep, I’m a cheese lover. I did some digging and found it’s one of humanity’s oldest culinary creations. Research says cheese has been around for nearly 4,000 years and comes in more than 1,800 varieties. Here’s a “sampler platter” of facts about everybody’s favorite dairy product. Thanks to interestingfacts.com, youtube.com, Wikipedia, and Facebook for the info – Enjoy!

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Lunch Bunch

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It’s that time of year when all the kiddies make their way back to school. Hard to believe, as it seems like last week the summer recess bells were ringing. One of the school traditions I remember is bringing my lunch. As I got older, we had the option of “buying” lunch – you know pasty macaroni and cheese, those shaky jelly squares, mixed peas and corn and then some interesting main entrée – pizza (yum) or mystery meat loaf. At our house, Mom was always busy making lunches in the mornings before school  – lots of white bread and PB&J’s and my favorite – salami with ketchup and fritos!! She had lots of help organizing and building sandwiches, then into the lunch boxes they went which were lined up like soldiers – and they were so cool – Star Trek, GI Joe, Evil Kinevil, The Hulk, and so many more. I did some searching and found a bunch of info on lunch boxes that I just had to share. If you were a “lunchbox” kid, shoot me an email and let me know your favorite characters and lunch combo and any fun stories from cafeteria days (remember clapping when someone dropped their tray). Thanks to history.com, ciachef.edu, the Thermos Company, Aladdin, lunchbox.com, purwow.com and Wikipedia.com for the info. Enjoy!

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Junky

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The other day I was driving back from a very good customer visit and noticed the line of cars at a national chain hamburger restaurant.  Then I passed another chain, and sure enough, long line. Then I saw a wrap-around line for drive through coffee. It got me to wondering about this type of food, and other “junk food” as we all call it.  I look at the salad option when I stop, but those fries!!!  YUM.  What’s the story behind this fascination, especially the “center aisles” in grocery stores – rows of chips and dips and crackers, and then the cookies and dessert aisles.  I’ll admit, the right bag of chips, with the right brand of dip, and I’m “all in”.  With a little checking I found out junk food has a fascinating and often controversial history, filled with intriguing facts and trivia. So, enjoy the info. And thanks to Google, You Tube and Wikipedia for the info.

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Yum!

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Yum, yum, yummy, yum, yum!!!!!!!   :)))))))))))))

As I’m guessing most will agree, one of the great taste enjoyments in life is that of a red, ripe strawberry.  As a foodie, this time of year I just can’t get enough strawberries – on my cereal, in my morning smoothies, as a quick snack, on a buffet table, on vanilla ice cream, or just out of the container in the fridge as a side dish… (and “maybe” a fresh strawberry shake here and there). There’s something magical about biting into a fresh strawberry. Sweet, juicy, and yummy. Here in Ohio, our peak season for picking is in June. Jackie and I are looking forward to heading out with the grandkids for a day and do some berry picking. We bring home our harvest, clean ‘em up, and get to enjoying the “farm fresh picked” flavor. My only problem is how many I eat while washing!  I thought you’d like to know a bit more about these delectable berries and wanted to share a few great recipes – start with fresh berries and cool whip.  Thx to Wikipedia and You Tube for the input. Enjoy!

Wild strawberries have been around since ancient times and were consumed by the Romans for their medicinal properties. Strawberries symbolized perfection and righteousness and are often served at important functions to ensure peace and prosperity.

In folklore, strawberries have been associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of love, due to their heart shape and red color. In some cultures, strawberries are considered a symbol of purity, passion, and healing.

Despite being commonly referred to as a berry, the strawberry is technically an aggregate accessory fruit. Each seed on its surface is one of the ovaries of the flower, with a seed inside. The strawberry is the only fruit with seeds on the outside, typically about 200 seeds per berry.

Strawberries are propagated through runners, which are horizontal stems that grow out from the main plant and take root to form new plants. If you’ve had strawberries in your garden, you’ve experienced this growth pattern – and how tough it is to stop them from spreading.

Raw strawberries are 91% water, 8% carbohydrates, 1% protein.

The first garden strawberries were grown in France during the late 18th century. These were hybrids of two wild species from North America and Chile.

Strawberry picking season typically runs from late spring to early summer, depending on the region and climate. Peak strawberry season in the United States varies by region but generally falls between April and June. June is a good time to pick here in northern Ohio.

Strawberries are delicate and require careful handpicking to avoid bruising the fruit.
Pickers must choose ripe strawberries, which are fully red and have a glossy appearance. They should also be firm to the touch.
There are over 600 varieties of strawberries, each differing in flavor, size, and texture.
Some popular varieties include Albion, Seascape, and Chandler.

Many regions celebrate the strawberry harvest with festivals. These events often feature strawberry-themed foods, contests, and entertainment. One of the most famous is the California Strawberry Festival, held annually in Oxnard, California.

In the United States in 2021, the collective commercial production of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries was a $6 billion industry dominated by the California growing and marketing company Driscoll’s. In 2021, strawberries alone were a $3.5 billion market of which 82% was for fresh fruit.

The prior world’s heaviest strawberry was grown in Japan in 2015, weighing 250 grams (8.82 ounces).Click here to see the current record holder.

The longest strawberry shortcake ever made was created in the United States in 2004, measuring 1,368 meters (4,488 feet). Learn more HERE.

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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Flakey

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Who hasn’t enjoyed corn flakes? I’ve certainly had my share.  :))))))))))  In row six are brothers John & Wil Kellogg. If they could only see the cereal aisle today!!

Rise and shine. Up and at ‘em. Fall in. Giddyap Cowboy. Let’s Do This! So many ways to kick off your morning. And, of course, for so many, it includes a hot cup of Joe and a bowl of cereal.  For me most often I start my day with a smoothie (email me for my recipe skowalski@khtheat.com), but I will indulge in a bowl of cereal every now and then.  Today my favorite go to cereal is Cheerios Oat Crunch Cinnamon (my grandkids like it too!). Growing up, I loved Captain Crunch or Raisin Bran. There was also a special breakfast that consisted of Frosted Flakes, vanilla pudding, and fruit cocktail which to this day is amazing! . Today marks the day one (or two or three) inventors patented a flakey cereal we still enjoy.  I’m a huge fan of inventors – I’m surrounded by them every day, as they tackle your PIA (pain in the @%$) Jobs! Thanks to John, Ella and Will Kellogg, the breakfast cereal was born. Kellogg’s has a rich history, and their flaked cereal is no exception. Here are some fun history and facts about Kellogg’s flaked cereal. Special thanks to Google, Wikipedia and lekkanovaus.com for the info.  Enjoy!

A Million A Day – Cereal Production Video

Corn flakes, or cornflakes, are a breakfast cereal made from toasting flakes of corn (maize). Originally invented as a breakfast food to counter indigestion, it has become a popular food item in the American diet.

The development of the flaked cereal in 1894 has been variously described by John Kellogg, his wife Ella Eaton Kellogg, his younger brother Will, and other family members. There is considerable disagreement over who was involved in the discovery, and the role that they played. According to some accounts, Ella suggested rolling out the dough into thin sheets, and John developed a set of rollers for the purpose while Will said it was his idea from the start. (siblings – ha!).

According to John, he had the idea in a dream, and used equipment in his wife’s kitchen to do the rolling. It is generally agreed that upon being called out one night, John Kellogg left a batch of wheat-berry dough behind. Rather than throwing it out the next morning, he sent it through the rollers and was surprised to obtain delicate flakes, which could then be baked.

Will Kellogg was tasked with figuring out what had happened and worked to recreate the process reliably. Ella and Will were often at odds, and their versions of the story tend to minimize or deny each other’s involvement, while emphasizing their own. Tempering, the process the Kellogg’s had discovered, was to become a fundamental technique of the flaked cereal industry. Tempering is a favorite process here at KHT!!

A patent for “Flaked Cereals and Process of Preparing Same” was filed on May 31, 1895, and issued on April 14, 1896, to John Harvey Kellogg as Patent No. 558,393. Significantly, the patent applied to a variety of types of grains, not just to wheat. John Harvey Kellogg was the only person named on the patent. Will later insisted that he, not Ella, had worked with John, and repeatedly asserted that he should have received more credit than he was given for the discovery of the flaked cereal.

The flakes of grain, which the Kellogg brothers called Granose, were a very popular food among the patients at the Battle Creek Sanitarium. Learn More Years later, Kellogg’s expanded its line of flaked cereals to include various grains, such as rice, wheat, and oats, to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

In 1906, Will Keith Kellogg, who served as the business manager of the sanitarium, decided to try to mass-market the new food. At his new company, Battle Creek Toasted Corn Flake Company, he added sugar to the flakes to make them more palatable to a mass audience, but this caused a rift between his brother and him…surprised?

In 1907 his company ran an ad campaign which offered a free box of cereal to any woman who winked at her grocer (imagine that today?). To increase sales, in 1909 he added a special offer, the Funny Jungleland Moving Pictures Booklet, which was made available to anyone who bought two boxes of the cereal. This same premium was offered for 22 years.

At about the same time, Kellogg also began experimenting with new grain cereals to expand its product line. Rice Krispies, his next great hit, first went on sale in 1928. (one of my “go to” favorites!) Snap, Crackle, Pop!

There have been many mascots of Kellogg’s Cornflakes. The most popular one is a green rooster named Cornelius “Corny” Rooster, which has been the mascot since his debut. In early commercials, he would speak the catchphrase “Wake up, up, up to Kellogg’s Cornflakes!” Dallas McKennon and Andy Devine voiced him. Later, he stopped talking and simply crowed.  I personally think that Tony the Tiger is one of the best mascots ever – “ They’re Great”!) Commercials

See list of Top 20 Breakfast Cereals – (see how many you have eaten)

Kellogg’s flaked cereal has come a long way since its accidental invention, shaping not only the breakfast habits of millions but also becoming a part of global culture. Kellanova (formerly Kellogg’s) in 2022 had worldwide net sales around 15.3 billion U.S. dollars. Kellanova is a multinational consumer goods company with a focus on breakfast cereals and convenience foods. Learn more

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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That’s Bananas

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Have you heard any of these?  1. Why do bananas have to wear sunscreen? If not, they’ll peel. 2. Why don’t bananas snore? They don’t want to wake up the rest of the bunch. 3. How does a banana answer the phone? Yellow. 4. Where do bananas go to get educated? Sundae school. 5. Why was the monkey attracted to the banana? Because it had appeal. 6. What type of key opens a banana? A monkey. 7. Why was the banana sent to the hospital? Because it had yellow fever. 9. What is a sheep’s favourite fruit? Baaa-nana. 12. What to do if you see a blue banana? Try to cheer it up. 13. Why did the banana go out with a walnut? Because he couldn’t find a date. 14. What do you call two bananas? A pair of slippers. 15.What was Beethoven’s favourite fruit? Ba-na-na-naaa.  Ok, I’ll stop now..  :))))))))))))

I have a whole bunch of habits and favorites (wearing crazy socks, sausage gravy, baked beans – I could go on). One of my favorite breakfast meals is a fresh smoothie.  As an early bird, it’s perfect for me – open the fridge, find some ingredients, into the blender with yogurt, frozen berries, orange juice a little spinach and finally peanut butter!  Bingo, I’m set. Of course, I have my favorite ingredients (list), including a fresh banana.  The banana gives it a wonderful smooth flavor and it’s packed with vitamins and potassium I need to keep my KHT energy engine going. It got me to thinking about smoothie ingredients, and especially bananas.  I found some fun facts online and wanted to share. Thanks to facinatingfacts.com, chat.openai.com and foodnetwork.com for the info.  And be sure to click on the smoothie recipe below.

Starter recipe

A banana is the common name for a type of fruit and also the name for the herbaceous plants that grow it. These plants belong to the genus Musa. They are native to the tropical region of southeast Asia. Historians think the first people to grow bananas for food lived in Papua New Guinea.

There’s no wrong way to eat a banana — in a smoothie, underneath a mountain of ice cream, or even green (according to a 2019 poll, 5% of Americans prefer bananas in that unripened state). This grocery store staple is one that humans have been eating for at least 6,000 years, with no sign of slowing anytime soon; on average, people around the globe eat 130 bananas per year. Here are facts to highlight a few things you may not know about one of the planet’s most beloved fruits.

Bananas are one of the oldest cultivated fruits. Evidence suggests that they have been cultivated for over 7,000 years. Bananas are typically harvested green and ripen as they age. The ripening process can be accelerated by exposing bananas to ethene gas.

Ecuador is the world’s largest exporter of bananas.

The term “banana republic” originated from the economic and political dominance of banana-exporting countries in Central America. It was first coined by the American author O. Henry in the early 20th century.

Bananas made their U.S. debut in Philadelphia in 1876, sold to fairgoers attending the Centennial Exhibition (the first world’s fair held in America). For 10 cents, visitors could purchase a foil-wrapped banana and get a taste of a fruit many had never seen before. Today, bananas are one of the most popular fruits among American snackers, who consume an average of 13.2 pounds per person each year.

While banana trees can reach upwards of 40 feet tall, these lumbering plants technically aren’t trees — they’re instead considered giant herbs.

The way scientists classify berries doesn’t always jive with how fruit eaters categorize them. That’s certainly the case for bananas, which are botanically berries. To be considered a true berry, a fruit must develop from a flower that contains an ovary; bananas form from nearly foot-long flowers that meet this criteria.

Bananas are radioactive (you won’t need a Geiger counter to pick out a bunch of bananas at the supermarket). The potassium in bananas contains trace amounts of radioactive atoms, though because our bodies regularly flush the nutrient out, it’s unable to build up to dangerous levels in our system. Bananas aren’t the only radioactive food: spinach, potatoes, and oranges are, too.

Banana peels are not just waste; Some people use them as a natural fertilizer, polish shoes with the inside of the peel, or even use them to whiten teeth. Bananas can also purify water – researchers experimenting with ways to remove heavy metals from water have found that banana peels can get the job done. a 2011 study found that minced banana peels were able to quickly remove lead and copper from water. (you are all set next time you’re marooned on an island).

There are more than 1,000 species in the banana family, though it’s rare to see more than one kind at the grocery store. More than 55 million tons of Cavendish bananas are harvested each year, making them the most popularly grown and consumed species. Cavendish bananas get their name from William Spencer Cavendish, Britain’s sixth Duke of Devonshire, whose estate was home to numerous exotic plants. The duke’s eponymous banana stalks would eventually play a huge role in worldwide banana production — all modern Cavendish banana plants are descendants from those grown at the U.K. estate in the 1830s.

Contrary to popular belief, not all monkeys and apes love bananas. In the wild, they eat a variety of fruits, and bananas are just one of many options.

 

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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Stay In

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Just have fun!  :))))))

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I’ve been thinking about what to do this year. It’s one of my favorite days of the year, as I get to share some extra love for my amazing wife Jackie, my beautiful daughters and their significant others, and of course the grandkids. I thought about the traditional candy and flowers and goodies and a night out – but think what I’ll try this year is to just stay home and make a fun meal together with Jackie. And try to have some of the family over too!  Now I’m not a chef – although I certainly know my way around the kitchen!  It is amazing how many bowls I can use while preparing the sumptuous feast! I went online and typed in “homemade Valentine’s Day dinners” and boom, up came tons of ideas. According to the writers, “whatever Valentine’s dinner ideas you choose, it’ll be fine. The care you put into cooking for someone is much more important than whether you splash out on caviar and lobster or spend half your grocery budget on a bottle of Champagne. None of those things are Jackie and I anyway. Jackie just has fun with me asking her questions on various seasonings and cooking times. Below are links to recipes including creamy pastas, easy risotto, impressive but foolproof soup, yummy steaks, and more. (I have chosen some of my favorites to get you going). Once your main course is settled, it’s time to start thinking about simple appetizers, dessert (something chocolate of course), wine or your favorite beverage of choice. Have fun– and wish me luck in the kitchen!  Special thanks to foodnetwork.com, delish.com and millesimal.com for the ideas and YouTube.com for the tunes.  ENJOY!!

34 Special Recipes
Steve’s Picks: Check out – You Won’t Be Single for Long Vodka Cream Pasta, Beef Wellington, Prosciutto, Brie and Apricot Crostini, Surf and Turf sans the asparagus.

50 Romantic Dinners
Steve’s Picks: Check out – Creamy Steak Fettuccine, French Onion Gnocchi Soup, , Honey Garlic Salmon,  + boyfriend steak! ( Nothing like a good steak!)

Best Wines to Compliment
Steve’s Picks: Check Out – ALL!

YouTube Dinner Music

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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Bittersweet

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Any way you slice it, grapefruits are good and good for you!  :))))

As we roll into the early winter season (yep still rolling from my indulgence on Turkey Day), I find there are some foods that are just part of the season.  One of my favorites is grapefruit.  There’s something special about “winter” grapefruit – cold, tangy, sweet, and just the perfect kick-starter to my day. Eggs, bacon, sausage, waffles, toast, juice, coffee, pastry, potatoes … and of course a half of grapefruit to complete my “healthy” meal. Of all the flavors, I think pink is my favorite – especially when I sprinkle a little sugar on top. I got to thinking about the “good” and the “bad” about grapefruit (I am amazed by the number of adverse effects that occur when mixing with medicines) and decided to do some digging. Here’s some trivia and info I think you’ll enjoy. Thanks always to Wikipedia, YouTube, Google and liquor.com for the info.  Watching both the harvesting and the packaging videos below is absolutely incredible and mesmerizing!

Mechanical Harvesting
Clean, Pack and Ship

Grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi) is believed to be a crossbreed between a sweet orange and a pomelo. It was first discovered in Barbados in the 18th century. There are different varieties of grapefruit, including white, pink, and red, each with its distinct flavor and color intensity.

Grapefruit is a low-calorie fruit that packs a nutritional punch. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing over 70% of the recommended daily intake in just one serving. Additionally, it contains fiber, potassium, and various antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

The flavor of grapefruit is a distinctive combination of sweet and tart notes. The bitterness of grapefruit comes from compounds known as furanocoumarins, which are responsible for its unique taste making grapefruit a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

Grapefruit has gained popularity as a “weight-loss fruit” due to studies suggesting its potential impact on weight management. Some research indicates that incorporating grapefruit into a balanced diet may help reduce overall calorie intake and contribute to weight loss.

Certain compounds in grapefruit, particularly naringin, have been studied for their potential effects on metabolism. Naringin has been associated with increased fat burning and may have implications for metabolic health. However, more research is needed to fully understand these effects.

One of the most well-known trivia about grapefruit involves its interaction with medications. Consuming grapefruit or its juice can interfere with the metabolism of certain drugs by inhibiting a key enzyme in the liver. This can lead to higher-than-intended levels of the medication in the bloodstream, potentially causing adverse effects. Medications such as statins, antiarrhythmics, and immunosuppressants are among those affected, making it essential for individuals on medication to be cautious about their grapefruit intake.

While relatively rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to compounds found in grapefruit. These reactions can range from mild itching and skin rashes to more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing.

Some studies have explored the potential anti-cancer properties of compounds found in grapefruit. Certain antioxidants and phytochemicals present in the fruit have been investigated for their ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. While research is ongoing, these findings highlight the multifaceted nature of grapefruit’s impact on health.

For individuals managing diabetes, grapefruit might be a surprising addition to their dietary considerations.

Major grapefruit-producing countries include the United States (particularly Florida and Texas), China, South Africa, and Mexico. The fruit is typically harvested during the winter months when it reaches peak ripeness.

About 585 million tons is harvested in the US each year – yeeowsa! For those mathematicians out there, this would be about 2,500,000,000,000 grapefruit!! Which is 2 trillion five hundred d billion!

Beyond being enjoyed fresh, grapefruit adds a zesty flavor to a variety of dishes. It is used in salads, cocktails, marinades, and desserts, showcasing its versatility in both sweet and savory culinary creations. It’s a popular beverage, either on its own or as a mixer in cocktails.

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Steve’s Day

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I’ve been thinking about this…if I could rename every day of the week, I’m thinking food might be a good idea. Hey, why not?  :)))). Read on to see why the days of the week are named what they are.  (But I still think food might be good.)

 

Wouldn’t that be cool – to have a day named after you? It turns out, as times have changed, so have our names for the days of the week. Dating back to the Babylonians (and Samarians) as the system was fairly simple – they gave a day of the week to each of the seven celestial bodies they knew – the sun, moon, and five planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn). Our current naming system comes from an amalgamation of the Babylonian, Anglo-Saxon, and Norse mythologies for those seven main celestial bodies — one of the last remaining vestiges of Norse mythology in our regular vernacular. Special thanks to Google, Wikipedia, interestingfacts.com, and all those cool gods and their respective virtues. Enjoy!

The seven-day week originated from the calendar of the Babylonians, which in turn is based on a Sumerian calendar dated to 21st-century B.C. Seven days corresponds to the time it takes for a moon to transition between each phase: full, waning half, new and waxing half. Because the moon cycle is 29.53 days long, the Babylonians would insert one or two days into the final week of each month.

Monday – The first day of the week got its name from the first object we see in the night sky: the moon. Formerly spelled monedæi, which comes from the Old English words mōnandæg and mōndæg (literally “moon’s day”), it’s traditionally considered the second day of the week rather than the first. That links it back to our Nordic friends, who reserved the second day of the week for worshipping Máni, their personification of the moon. The name Mona is also part of a related tradition: It’s the Old English word for “moon,” and girls born on Monday in ancient Britain were sometimes given this name as a result.  Moon symbolism often carries associations with femininity and emotions, which might explain why Monday is often associated with a case of the “Monday blues.”

Tuesday – Whether you consider it the second day of the week or the third, Tuesday is named for the god of war. For the Anglo-Saxons it was Tiu, while the Vikings called him Tyr; split the difference and you come up with something close to Tuesday. That also explains why Romance languages have similar-sounding names for the day: mardi (French), martes (Spanish), and martedi (Italian) all come from Mars, the Roman god of war. Týr’s association with war makes Tuesday a fitting day for taking action and tackling challenges.

Wednesday – Another day, another mythological god. Traces of the Latin term dies Mercurii, or “day of Mercury,” can again be found in the Romance languages: mercredi (French), mercoledì (Italian), and miércoles (Spanish). “Wednesday” itself is derived from the Old English Wōdnesdæg and Middle English Wednesdei, which means “day of Woden” — another form of Odin, the god of all gods in Norse mythology. (Anglo-Saxon paganism owed some of its practices to Nordic culture, hence the crossover.). Odin was associated with wisdom and poetry, making Wednesday a day often associated with intellect and communication.

Thursday – If you’re familiar with a certain hammer-wielding god of thunder, you already know for whom Thursday is named: Thor, the popular Norse god (I’m a big fan!). Thursday was called Þūnresdæg in Old English, whereas the Romance languages (like French, which has it as jeudi) deriving from Latin (dies Iovis) name the day after Jupiter. That’s no coincidence, as Jupiter was the Roman god of the sky and thunder, not to mention the king of all gods.  Thor’s association with thunderstorms and strength and Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir, is a well-known symbol of this day.

Friday – The last day of the traditional workweek derives its English name from a Norse deity, but its origin is a bit murkier than the others. Coming from the Nordic goddess Freyja and the Germanic goddess Frigg, it was called Frīġedæġ in Old English. Confusion sets in when you delve into the theory that the two goddesses are actually one and the same. Frigg was known to be wise and have the power of foresight, while Freyja rode a chariot led by two cats and personified everything from love and beauty to fertility and war – she’s the most important Nordic goddess. This day has often been associated with love, romance, and social gatherings.

Saturday – This one’s simple: Saturday is named for Saturn. That’s because, according to second-century astrologer Vettius Valens, the ringed planet controls the day’s first hour. The heavenly body itself is named after the Roman god of wealth and agriculture, and various languages’ names for the day are more similar than most: Sæturnesdæg in Old English, dies Saturni in Latin, samedi in French. A slight exception is German, which has two terms for Saturday: Samstag is the more commonly used, but Sonnabend (“Sun-evening”) is sometimes used in northern and western Germany. Saturn was associated with agriculture and time, making Saturday a day for both work and leisure.

Sunday – You guessed it: Sunday is named for the sun. In German, Sonntag is Sunday, which derives from sonne, their word for sun. In Latin, dies solis translates as “day of the sun” or “day of Sol,” a Roman sun god. Similarly, Norse mythology personified the sun in the form of Sól, a goddess also known as Sunna (who happens to be the sister of Monday’s Máni, the moon). Sun worship was prevalent in these societies, and Sunday was reserved as a day of rest and celebration.

Steve’s Day – if it did happen, it would be known for very high intellect of course (hey, it’s my day ok??) from the god Coeus (smarts for solving your PIA (Pain in the @%$) Jobs!, fun, family and food. Derived from the ancient gods Venus (love and beauty), Gelos (fun and laughter) Zeus (god of family) and Dionysus (food, feast, festival). No one would have to work of course on  my day – but must spend time frolicking with family and friends. Here’s to Steve’s Day!!

 

 

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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Gourdy

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

MMM-mmm-GOOD!!!!!  There’s a pumpkin soup recipe for every taste. Actually, I think I can taste them all!!!  :))))))))

As we all gradually slide into Fall, I realize that my taste buds are also changing (of course I never lose my appetite).  Over the summer I think I’ve had my fill of watermelon and hot dogs and burgers and potato salad and barbecues. In Fall, I start thinking about heavier meals, things like chili and stews and clam bakes and Oktoberfest sausages and cheese dip and big fruity pies and … I could go on.  And with all the Fall pumpkin decorations abound, I also think about pumpkin soup.  Now I know not everyone is a fan, but I must admit, on the right day, with a chill in the air, and sour cream as a topping in the fridge, I’m all in.  A hot bowl of soup, some crackers, and a triple decker “Stevie special” sandwich – and it’s a good day at the Kowalski house (thanks Jackie!!).  Here is a little trivia and a few recipes to try – I like them both although I would like to see some of these recipes with some good kielbasa added with a hint of heat! Thanks to Google.com and possible.in for the info.  Enjoy!

Pumpkin soup has a rich history that dates back to the Native American cultures who used pumpkins and other squashes to create nourishing soups long before the arrival of Europeans in North America.  Its vibrant orange color and savory flavor make it a perfect addition to the holiday feast.

Pumpkin soup is not only delicious but also a healthy choice for those looking to boost their immune system and maintain good eye health as pumpkins are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. I will always toss in the part about being good for you, that means I get to have multiple helpings!  Learn more HERE

Pumpkin soup is prepared differently in various parts of the world. Here’s some variations:

  1. American Pumpkin Soup: In the United States, pumpkin soup is often associated with Thanksgiving and fall. It is typically made with pumpkin puree, broth, cream, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Some variations include adding maple syrup for sweetness or a touch of heat with cayenne pepper.
  2. Thai Pumpkin Soup (Tom Kha Fak Thong): This Thai-inspired pumpkin soup combines pumpkin with coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, and Thai spices like red curry paste. It has a rich and creamy texture with a hint of spiciness.
  3. Caribbean Pumpkin Soup: In the Caribbean, pumpkin soup is made with ingredients like pumpkin, coconut milk, Scotch bonnet peppers, and spices such as allspice and thyme. It often has a sweet and spicy flavor profile.
  4. Mexican Pumpkin Soup (Sopa de Calabaza): Mexican pumpkin soup incorporates pumpkin with ingredients like chiles, tomatoes, garlic, and spices such as cumin and coriander. It can be garnished with toppings like crumbled queso fresco and tortilla strips.
  5. Japanese Kabocha Soup: Kabocha is a Japanese variety of pumpkin, and kabocha soup is a popular dish in Japan. It combines kabocha with dashi broth, soy sauce, and sometimes miso paste. The result is a savory and umami-rich soup.
  6. French Pumpkin Soup (Potage au Potiron): In France, pumpkin soup is known as “potage au potiron.” It often features pumpkin cooked with onions, leeks, and potatoes, then pureed and finished with cream. It’s seasoned with herbs like thyme and sometimes garnished with croutons. (and a little wine on the side)
  7. Italian Pumpkin Soup (Zuppa di Zucca): Italian pumpkin soup typically includes ingredients like pumpkin, onions, garlic, and sometimes potatoes. It can be flavored with herbs like sage and rosemary and finished with a drizzle of olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Indian Pumpkin Soup: Indian pumpkin soup is spiced with ingredients like ginger, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It’s often finished with a touch of yogurt or cream for creaminess.
  9. Australian Pumpkin Soup: In Australia, pumpkin soup is a popular comfort food. It’s made with pumpkin, onions, and sometimes bacon, and it’s seasoned with herbs like parsley or chives.
  10. South African Pumpkin Soup: South African pumpkin soup often includes butternut squash, and it’s flavored with spices like curry powder. It can be sweetened with a bit of sugar or honey and garnished with fresh coriander.

Carving pumpkins isn’t the only way to celebrate with this iconic gourd. Be sure to try these two recipes and add some pumpkin soup on Halloween night to warm up (I’m a heat-treating guy!) after trick-or-treating.

Classic Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
  3. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches.
  5. Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t come to a boil.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Optionally, add a dollop of sour cream or croutons for extra flavor.

Spicy Pumpkin and Coconut Soup
Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
  2. Stir in the red curry paste and ground cumin, and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add the pumpkin puree and coconut milk, stirring well to combine.
  4. Pour in the broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the mixture to cool slightly before blending.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Whether you opt for the classic creamy version or the spicy and exotic twist, pumpkin soup is a heartwarming treat that’s perfect for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or simply cozy evenings at home. So, whip up a pot of pumpkin soup and savor its rich flavors and health benefits today – and if you have a favorite family recipe, send it to me to try at skowalski@khtheat.com

 

 

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::