My husband loves to cook, and fortunately, he’s very good at it.  He does have some specialties though – anything that can be cooked on top of a barbeque (yes, even in the winter).  In the 30+years we’ve been married, I can probably count on two hands the number of times I have had to cook on a weekend.  Not bad, you say, but it does come with some caveats:

1. It’s most frequently some form of beef and potatoes (although in the last few years with the advent of planks, we have a lot of fish too!)
2. Someone has to go to the store for some ingredient.
3. All dishes are in the sink at the end of the meal.
4. There’s a lot of crispy crust involved.

All in all, this isn’t a bad list of details, it’s just the result of what happens when someone enters what is typically “MY” domain, the kitchen.  I am, after all, a creature of habit – mine not his.

1.  Husbands can learn how to grill fish with planks.

Grilling Planked Salmon

Barbequing with a plank is a great way to tackle more delicate foods and add flavor.  At almost any  grocery store, or store that sells barbeque equipment will have them.   Just soak the plank in water for a couple of hours, and place the fish (usually) on the plank to add flavor while it cooks.  The fish won’t have to be touched until done – meaning it will stay in one piece. Here are some easy steps to follow.

2.  Husbands feel great about cooking on a barbeque!

The better news, is that with the advent of celebrity chefs our breadth of weekend offerings has expanded exponentially.  We have progressed well into rotisserie food, soft shell crabs, fruit for dessert (particularly peaches and pineapple), and the ultimate guy food – pizza!

Scott and Laura make barbeque pizza

 When in doubt you  can take virtually any meat and spread it with Two Sisters Gourmet Sisters Southern Sweet  Barbeque Sauce and have a hit.

3. Dad Kitchen Specialities: Hot Dog Octopus and other Dad Food: 

Unlike his Dad, he won’t starve, nor will anyone else in 100 miles.  He has specialized in BBQ and in large quantities, which is generally a good thing. More recently, when I have had to travel, I am frequently regaled with how successful his weeknight dinners are with my daughter: steak salad and hot dog octopuses (things which I don’t regularly endorse). When the children were small, I  was taught how to make hot dogs into fun food octopuses.  Click here for step by step instructions. 

Hot Dog Octopus

What I wish husbands would learn about kitchen skills!

1. Clean As You Go!

His intent is always admirable, it’s my reaction that sometimes lacks appreciation.  I tend to clean as I cook, so that when I am finished, I am finished – Now this isn’t too bad, but we kind of have an arrangement- he who cooks doesn’t clean, so I feel like I get the short end of this stick.

2.  Think Ahead!

Same thing on the ingredients, I tend to make things that use what I have (and that tends to involve planning ahead).  Or if I need something, I know a day or two ahead – but I understand that doesn’t mean you always get what you want when you want it.  That apparently is not part of the guy thing – same day venture (or maybe a couple of hours ahead- funny how it makes him crazy when the college kids do the same thing).

3.  Burnt isn’t always the best!

Then there’s some degree of burn….which many years ago someone suggested was not too good for your health….and he’s really improved in that area…now it only burns when it is supposed to – like those nice grill marks on vegs

Is it worth it?  YOU BET! Relaxing also means loosening up and appreciating what others are trying to do for you!  I have a husband who cares enough to share responsibility, deliver a great steak (and other) on a day I get to relax.  Enjoys cooking enough to be adventuresome, and appreciate some of what I prepare. And comes back to do it again, even though I moan and groan (about having to get up after a delicious meal!).  Thank you!

Great Barbeque Recipe Books

1.  Making Pizza on the grill is a personal trademark and a great party.  Here’s how. in a fun video 

3.  For beginners, you need to learn the basics if you don’t want your backyard to go up in a bonfire. Some great beginner books are here! And from the king of grilling – Weber!

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It’s time for parent’s weekend at my daughter, Laura’s campus, which also happens to be my husband, Rick’s, alma mater. It will be a fun filled weekend of school spirit, orange and blue spirit that is, and overall collegiate good cheer.

When Rick attended this beautiful campus, the football team’s record was something to brag about. Although, the stats have changed–win or lose the tailgating begins!

Our annual tradition kicks off Saturday with friends, sun, fall foliage and plenty of noise. I’m looking forward to a reunion with family friends whose children also attend Laura’s school. I love seeing both generations enjoying each other more than ever. It really is a made for TV moment.

Tailgating without Cooking – Easy Meal Ideas

This year we have to pack light because we are flying into Pennsylvania. Our usual tailgating gear definitely won’t be fitting into our little rental car. Despite this minor setback, I’m ready to go!

Believe it or not I won’t be cooking. This year I’m relying on the local grocery store, Laura, who I have mentioned is a mean dorm room cook (name of article and link) and my trusty TSG.

Tailgating Snacks: A shopping list.

• Pigs in a blanket–the guy’s favorite.
  • This year we are improvising: pigs, forget the blanket, and topped with ketchup and Racy Wasabi Raspberry Mustard (ok I had to check my bag).
• Pre-cut fruit and vegetables
• Chips and pretzels
• Pre-packaged salad
• French baguette and cheese
• Fried chicken
• Beverage of choice

Bring on the Flavor! Two Sisters Gourmet spices and treats packed in my suitcase:

• Sample envelope of Over-The-Edge Herbed Spinach™
  • Mix with sour cream (buy at the store) to make a veggie dip.
• Snickerdoodle Sweet Cheeseball Mix

• Blend with whipped cream (buy at the store) to make a fruit dip.

Setting the Picnic Table – See you out there!

Set the table with a plastic table cloth and don’t let your friends miss out on the fun – pictures to follow!

Other great souces for tailgating ideas – cooking included!

• The tailgate food men crave
• Tailgating.com: a Web site dedicated to this American pastime
• Tailgating ideas galore – plus themes

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