In praise of strawberries

I think strawberries are just about the most perfect fruit ever. Tangy, sweet, berry-like, they're great! I know it's hard to grow them but for those that do: thank you!
That is all.

My Sunday Brunch at Bull & Boar

What can I say? Booklahver's review of Bull & Boar made my mouth water. She and her husband invited me to brunch 2 Sundays ago and I of course said yes! The restaurant resides in a quaint, remodeled building on Pearce Road.

We arrived around 11:30. We were greeted at the door by smiling faces and led to a table in the back by the buffet, next to three other tables of diners. The buffet stretched out over a long white tablecloth covered table, ending with an omelet and waffle station.

I chose links of locally-procured sausage and strips of bacon, a serving of Eggs Benedict (a new steaming-hot tray of which had just been added to the table), and some plump strawberries. I also got some Texas toast and covered with it with homemade mixed berry jelly. The Eggs B were a delight! The Hollandaise sauce was delicate and flavorful and the pork was perfectly chewy and salty. The sweetness of the strawberries and the jelly balanced the savory foods quite well. The coffee was lovely, too. My cup was refilled multiple times without my having to ask or wait.

After finishing my plate, I requested a waffle from the made-to-order station. A few moments later the cook signaled it was ready. I was directed toward the bar to choose from a variety of toppings including strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips, butter, and whipped cream. If ever breakfast had dessert, this was it! I covered the waffle with the fruit and its juices and hurried back to my seat. The soft waffle with crisp edges soaked up the juices and it melted in my mouth.

Overall, I rate Bull & Boar highly. They know how to put out a spread of delicious locally-grown foods that satisfy. And for $15, it's an experience well worth the drive to Del Valle.

Strawberries and Tomatoes

Last night at HEB I tried to be a "local" produce buyer, but I found only Californian tomatoes and strawberries. Yes, I admit August is a little late to be expecting local strawberries, but for Pete's sake, Texas tomatoes are surely still around! The strawberries smelled so damned good I couldn't not buy them.

I had promised the kids a homemade Tomato Pie for dinner tonight, so I bought the West Coast tomatoes anyway. I honestly tried to buy local, but it just didn't pan out. Looks like I'll have to head to the farmer's market for actual Texan produce.