DR. SCHERMER’S BARBECUE ADVICE A CLASSIC SUMMERTIME HANG
With the vaccine in full swing, a backyard barbecue is the perfect way to welcome summer and safely gather with family and friends this month. There are some absolute grilling staples like burgers (even plant-based options like the Beyond Burger taste like summer when cooked on the grill) and hot dogs. But if you want to bring your cookout to the next level, try these two tips from Dr. Schermer. A Kernel of Knowledge Grilled vegetables are the perfect healthy side for burgers and brats, but one in particular really shines in the summertime: corn on the cob. Born and bred in Iowa, Dr. Schermer knows a thing or two about what makes for a perfect ear of sweet and crunchy corn. Rule No. 1 is to go to the source. Growing up, Dr. Schermer and his family would pick corn right out of the field. You can’t get any fresher than that! While you may not be able to pick corn off the stalk, you’ll get the freshest ears by buying from your local farmers during peak season.
Wherever you buy from, resist the temptation to peel back the leaves to look at the kernels. Dr. Schermer says corn is like a birthday present: It’s best not to open it until it’s time to cook it. A final pro tip: When it comes to corn, bigger isn’t better. The smaller the kernels, the better the corn. A Tradition ‘Handed’ Down June is National Ice Cream Month, so there’s no better way to finish a great meal off the grill than with some homemade ice cream. For Dr. Schermer, that means putting in a little sweat equity. Old-school, hand-crank ice cream makers are a fun way to get the whole family involved in making a sweet and creamy creation tailored to your taste. A hand-cranked ice cream maker, some rock salt and ice, and a little elbow grease are all you need to get started.
bowls and spoons and set out toppings for each person to make a custom sundae. Try delicious toppings like caramel or hot fudge or nutritious toppings like berries, bananas, or stone fruit. And don’t forget the whipped cream! (Maybe give your arms a rest and use a hand-held mixer or buy premade.)
An ice cream sundae bar is a fun way to reward everyone for their churning efforts. Grab some
Happy summer!
Iced Green Tea, 2 Ways
LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKE OF THE MONTH
Ingredients •
2 tbsp loose-leaf green tea 4 cups filtered water, divided
Option 2: Ginger Mint •
“Singing in the shower is fun until you get soap in your mouth. Then it’s a soap opera.”
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1 handful fresh mint leaves
Option 1: Rose and Coriander • 1 tbsp dried rose petals •
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1 inch fresh ginger, cut into coins
1 tbsp whole coriander seeds
Directions For Rose and Coriander Tea: 1. In a large pitcher, place green tea, rose petals, and coriander seeds. 2. Bring 1/2 cup water to just below boiling. 3. Pour hot water over tea leaves, petals, and seeds. Let steep for 10 seconds, then add the remaining 3 1/2 cups water. 4. Refrigerate 4–8 hours until tea reaches your desired strength. Strain and serve over ice. For Ginger Mint Tea: Follow the instructions above, substituting the mint leaves and ginger coins for the rose petals and coriander seeds. Inspired by 101Cookbooks.com
If you would like your favorite joke featured, email Office@ExceptionalSmiles.com . You may see it in our next issue!
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