It’s been referred to as “The House Wine of The South”.  No matter what you call it, Sweet Tea is an institution all over the Southern United States.  I usually order mine half sweet and half unsweet because it just gets to be a bit much for me.  I mentioned having a tall glass of iced sweet tea in my post yesterday so I began to surf around the internet, looking for the best recipe.  I found three different ways to make sweet tea that spoke to me and I’m sharing them with you today!  If you have a better way, please send it my way!  There is nothing quite as refreshing as a glass of sweet tea in the summer!

Here’s a recipe from a cute blog, “Craving Comfort”.  The writer of the blog worked at the Lone Star Steakhouse for years before it finally closed and she shares their “secret” recipe with an ingredient she swears will give you a clear, refreshing pitcher of tea.  This makes a whole gallon…perfect for a crowd!

Perfect Sweet Tea. (makes 1 gallon)
(Adapted from the Lone Star Steak House)
Ingredients –
5 – 8  Family size Tea Bags. (or 12 regular Tea Bags)
       ( I prefer  #1 Luzianne or  #2 Liptons Brand Teas.)
1 Quart  (4 Cups) – Boiling Water
3 Quarts (12 cups) – Cool Water
1 1/2 – 2 (one & a half) – Cups Sugar.
1/4 teaspoon – Baking Soda (this IS the SECRET Ingredient!!)
Directions –
1.  Sprinkle baking soda into a pitcher (I use a gallon-size Mason Jar but many people have voiced concerns about pouring boiling water into a glass container, so use whatever container you’d like)
Add Tea bags to the pitcher/baking soda,
Pour Boiling water over tea bags,
Cover and allow to steep for 15 minutes.
~*~
2.  Remove and toss out Tea Bags,
Add Sugar and Stir until completely dissolved.
Add Cool Water.
Refrigerate until cold and ready to drink.
~*~
3.  Serve over ice,
Take a nice long sip.
Swoon.
Repeat.

Here’s another approach from the blogger at “Deep South Dish”.  I’m seeing a trend in a preference for “Luzianne” tea bags…..what is your favorite?

Recipe: How to Make Perfect Southern Sweet Iced Tea

©From the Kitchen of Deep South Dish

Ingredients:

• 5 to 7 individual Luzianne brand tea bags
• 1 quart of cool filtered or bottled water
• Pinch of baking soda, optional
• 1 4-cup glass Pyrex measuring cup for steeping
• 2 quart glass pitcher filled with ice
• 1 to 1-1/2 cups of sugar, more or less, to taste
• Fresh lemon, sliced or wedges, and some mint sprigs, also optional

Instructions:

Grab a pot and pour in one quart of cool filtered or bottled water, bringing to a full, rolling boil. For a milder tea, use 5 bags; for a more robust tea, go with 7. Spin the tea bags together so all the strings wrap together and set them inside a 4-cup glass Pyrex measuring cup with the tags hanging on the outside. Pour boiling water into the container and dip the tea bags in and out to begin releasing the tea leaves. Stick a plate on top and set the timer for exactly 9 minutes for a full bodied tea, 5 minutes or less if you prefer a lighter version. Let the tea bags steep. Do not go longer than 9 minutes or you risk burning your tea leaves and will end up with a bitter tea.

I almost always do 5 teabags, steeped for 5 minutes, sweetened with 1 cup of sugar, and that’s a most excellent glass of iced tea!

After the steeping time is up, take a wooden spoon and press the tea bags up against the side of the Pyrex cup and toss the tea bags into your compost pot. For insurance against bitterness you can add just a pinch of baking soda – no more than 1/8 teaspoon – to the steeped tea. It will not affect the flavor, but will take away bitterness if you happened to have burned your tea leaves.

Fill your glass pitcher with ice, pour the sugar on top of the ice and slowly and carefully pour the hot, steaming tea over the ice. If you prefer a sweeter tea, go with 1-1/2 cups of sugar. Don’t pour hot tea directly into a glass pitcher without ice in it!! To conserve your ice and use the tea per glass, fill the 1/2 gallon pitcher with 1-1/2 quarts of water instead of ice, and top with the steeped tea.

Stir well and serve in a glass, preferably a crystal glass, over even more ice, garnish with a sprig of mint leaves and a nice juicy slice of lemon. Savor.

AND…..last but not least, I ventured over to www.food.com for this recipe that again, swears it makes THE BEST Southern Iced Tea ever….you decide!  They’re using Lipton tea bags….hmmmmm, I think I’ll stick with Luzianne!  I do like the idea of using simple syrup as sweetner as well.

Simple Syrup Iced Tea

Melissa | food & entertaining | 07 31st, 2014 | 2 Comments »

I always feel like a character in a Tennessee Williams novel when the dog days of summer hit.  The sultry heat envelopes me when I step outside to test the morning temperature.  Thoughts of lying in a hammock, gently swaying in the a light ocean breeze sound heavenly!  Of course, there will be plenty of sweet tea to sip and, perhaps, a mint julep for later in the day.

I love the sound of cicadas making their soft whirring sounds in the trees surrounding our home.  Although everything I read about cicadas tells me they only emerge every seventeen years to mate, I still hear them.  Maybe there is another insect that mimics their sound, I don’t know, but I find their summer symphony soothing.

Crepe myrtles are laden with luscious blooms in colors so bright, they truly say summertime to me.  Their woody trunks that wind skyward, crowned with blooms create quite a show, especially when planted as a border.

My favorite summer produce is in the markets, fresh corn, so sweet and juicy……okra, perfect for frying or adding to shrimp gumbo…..and gorgeous Georgia peaches, there is nothing like them.  I’m dreaming of homemade ice cream sandwiches made with ginger cookies and freshly churned peach ice cream…..ahhhhhhhh, yummy!

I find myself staying indoors, away from the muggy hot weather that greets me whenever I venture outside.  I live for the changing of the tide when the soft breeze moves over our property causing the Spanish moss that gracefully drapes the tree branches to sway….ever so slowly.  Summer in the South is a very special season, I’m enjoying it more this year than I have before since I decided to focus on the bounty of produce that is not available at any other time and the chance to catch up on reading wonderful books I might not otherwise bother with.  It’s the only time of year when one can say, “It’s just to hot to be outside…..I think I’ll take a nap!”.  Enjoy the summer, walk on the beach…..take a staycation and be a tourist for a few days.  It refreshes the soul and gives one a renewed sense of the wonder we are surrounded by here on this beautiful island!

Melissa | Out&About | 07 30th, 2014 | 1 Comment »

You may expect this post to be about bread, but it’s not!  I’m writing about rice, once considered to be a staff of life, especially in the South Carolina and Georgia coastal “low country” areas.  Rice, brought over by European and African migrants became a staple crop, a multi-million dollar industry, that continued from the late 1700’s until the early twentieth century after the Civil War and the emancipation of slave workers who primarily worked the rice farms.

Raising rice came at a high cost to these workers.  Huge colonies of mosquitoes lived in the marshy lands where the rice grew best.  Along with the mosquitoes came malaria and yellow fever epidemics which meant an early death to many slave laborers. They gave their lives while working to harvest rice for shipment all over the country.

Five rivers comprised the routes on which the rice could be shipped, transferring it to larger ships to be delivered all along coastal areas.   These rivers were the Savannah, Ogeechee, Altamaha, Satilla and later the St. Mary’s river provided these all important routes.  Rice was the most important commercial agricultural commodity during the period in which you could find rice plantations all along the coastal areas.

In keeping with their journey of sustainable farming and reintroducing crops that grew in the area for decades, Gilliard Farms is testing a special Carolina Gold rice on their twenty-five acre property.  This property, owned by Chef Matthew Raiford and his sister Althea, has been in the family for six generations.  They are very active in the current local farm to table movement that is taking a strong hold in rural parts of our country.  A recent article in The New York Times by Kim Severson is not only entertaining, but also includes a brief interview Ms. Severson had with Chef Raiford in which he talks about growing up eating rice with almost every meal.  Here’s a link to the article if you’d like to read more:  http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/23/dining/fluffy-tasty-tricky.html?_r=0

I’m excited to try this new crop and use it in some of my families tried and true recipes that have been passed down through generations.  Maintaining the importance of good, locally raised produce and livestock is so important to our area.  I will be featuring other small farms that are also working to provide seasonal organic produce that is available at several local markets.  This is so much more fun and interesting than picking up produce at the grocery store.  Don’t get me wrong, I can’t always find everything I want that is seasonal, we’ve all been a bit spoiled by the availability of produce from various parts of the world being at our fingertips whenever we want them.  But beginning the trend toward eating seasonally is fun, challenging and healthy.

If you’re interested in reading more about the Raiford’s farming adventure go here:  www.gilliardfarms.com.  

Melissa | Out&About | 07 29th, 2014 | 3 Comments »

I wrote about Kathy Williams Mashburn, Georgia author, last year when her precious book “A Birthday Clown for Archer” was first published.  Many people have a strange fear of clowns and this book addressed that issue and the fact that clowns are just ordinary people with a costume on.  Kathy has done it again with the launch of her new children’s book, “Wiggy Wanda”.

This book deals with the subject of cancer, the treatment, side affects and other aspects of a disease that touches so many lives in today’s world.  When Kathy’s aunt was diagnosed with cancer years ago Kathy’s then eight year old daughter, Rana, asked if she could have the aunt’s wig if she died.  The aunt insisted on giving Rana the wig right then and there, telling her to enjoy it now….not after someone dear has died.  Such words of wisdom and such a lesson for us all in enjoying life now.

Not only has Kathy written this wonderful book, she has created a “Wiggy Wanda” doll, complete with its own wig.  I think this is such a great way to open the door for conversation among family members of all ages when dealing with this devastating disease.  It gives parents a way to talk with children about the different stages of treatment and what can be expected.  “Wiggy Wanda” is a compassionate story to be shared by young and old.  Read more about the book here:  www.wiggywanda.com, and watch the trailer by clicking below!

Kathy has generously offered a giveaway of a copy of “Wiggy Wanda” to one special reader!  Leave a comment, comment on The Permanent Tourist facebook and we’ll announce a winner on Wednesday!  I can’t wait to see what Kathy will be up to next!  Her children’s books entertain and inspire….I know what ever is coming next will not let readers down!

Melissa | people | 07 28th, 2014 | 1 Comment »

Enjoy this lovely, relaxing piano piece from Sean Beeson.  It’s a beautiful way to start the day.  Find the stillness within, quiet your mind and breathe deeply as you listen.  Wishing all of my readers a wonderful Sunday filled with family, friends and love.  Let the new week begin!

Melissa | Out&About | 07 27th, 2014 | No Comments »

Talking with “Pilliard Dickle”, otherwise known as Joe Chandler.  He’s a born storyteller, creator of magnificent calendars and all round funny guy!  Listen in as we discuss his life, his work and share a few laughs.

Melissa | On The Radio | 07 26th, 2014 | No Comments »

I love salmon in the summer, pan seared and topped with a delicious heirloom tomato jam….it’s easy and it’s light.  Two good things when it comes to eating well during the hot weather we’re now experiencing.  This is a very easy recipe.  Serve it with a crisp salad of baby arugula and spinach, dressed with a light garlic/lemon vinaigrette and you’ve got a meal anyone will love!  Hint:  Uncle Don’s just announced that they have these delicious little heirloom tomatoes in the market for the weekend.  The perfect time to try this recipe!  This dish is perfectly paired with a nice Riesling….enjoy!

Pan Seared Salmon with Heirloom Tomato Jam

4 six ounce wild salmon filets

1 tablespoon good olive oil

1 pound multi-colored heirloom grape tomatoes,halved

1 small vidalia onion, peeled and thinly sliced

1 tablespoon good olive oil

1/4 cup fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 clove garlic, peeled and minced

2 teaspoons raw sugar

sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste

Heat one tablespoon olive oil in a saute pan.  Add the salmon and sear on each side for about four minutes.  In another saute pan heat the additional tablespoon of olive oil.  Add the onion and tomatoes and cook for about seven minutes.  Add the remaining herbs and seasoning.  Heat through for another five minutes.  Place a piece of salmon on each plate and spoon the tomato jam over the top.  Simple and so yummy!

Melissa | Finally Friday! | 07 25th, 2014 | 1 Comment »

The stately oaks that grace our area are truly symbols of the South.  Draped with Spanish moss, they look like elegant ladies with their evening wraps, all lacey and sheer gently swaying in the evening breeze.

Most well known is Lovers Oak in Brunswick.  Said to be over 900 years old and the site of Indian trysts where a young warrior would meet his lady fair.  The tree still stands at the intersection of Albany and Prince Streets, its thirteen foot trunk sturdy and true.

Just north of Gloucester Street in Brunswick stands Lanier Oak.  Another stately tree said to be the place where Sidney Lanier rested as he recovered from four years in a Union prison during the Civil War.  The tree must have had some healing power as Lanier went on to write “Hymns of the Marshes” and lecture at John’s Hopkins on English Literature.

The Sidney Lanier Bridge that stands as gateway to the Golden Isles is named after the famous poet who found this area so worthy of his written word.

Just north of The Village on St Simons is a park of oak trees on the south side of which are buried thirty Indian men, women and children.  They lived on the land two centuries prior to the Europeans arrival in the area.  Later known as the Timucuan Indians, the tribe and its people can still be found in the area which has served as their home for so many centuries.

The oak tree has always symbolized strength to me.  Yet, when I see these mighty trees with Spanish moss decorating their branches I am reminded of the gentle nature of the South.  The island life we all enjoy, the touch of gentility and a bygone era of a life built on European manners and Southern grace, blended together to create this place we call home.

Long may they stand, in all their glory, as canopies, memorials and reminders of the past yet standing for the future for all to see.

Melissa | Out&About | 07 24th, 2014 | 5 Comments »

It’s hot….hot….hot outside and even though we’ve been enjoying afternoon showers, your garden may be suffering with blossoms looking frazzled and droopy.  I’m featuring three different flowering plants today that are heat hearty and perfect for our climate.  There is nothing that lifts the spirits more than a beautiful garden and these plants deliver!

Cosmos

Cosmos is one of my favorite summer flowers.  They grow in a variety of colors and are definitely heat tolerant.  You can easily plant them from seed and, with the rain we’ve been getting, they’ll be sprouting before you know it.  The blossoms look a bit fragile, but they aren’t.  These lovely flowers will create a “showy” garden.  Plant the seeds so they will come up in thick clumps a couple of feet apart.  They grow up to around 24″ and sometimes taller.  Cosmos says summer to me, they also grow well in containers so your options are many!

Lantana

Lantana is another perfect summer flower.  This particular color variety is called Anne Marie.  I love the delicate pinks with the vibrant orange and yellow centers.  These are very hearty plants.  They do well whether we are having rain or not.  In fact, Lantana can get out of hand at times, calling for aggressive trimming to keep it at bay.  The many color choices available make these a great choice for summer gardens.  I’ve even seen plants placed close enough together that they form a hedge…simply lovely when blooming!

The rich color of verbena is always a favorite.  This plant spreads and makes a great border.  It likes a mixture of shade and sun so consider that when planting.  I love the lipstick red and hot pink, but I’m always going to bend toward the violet and lavender shades in my garden.  I have to admit to loving the white verbena as well though.  It gives a lacy effect that enhances any garden setting.  This plant also does very well in containers, especially hanging baskets as it gently drapes over the top.

There you have it.  You can find these plants at our local Ace Garden Center here on St. Simons Island.  You’ll always find a wonderful variety of plants that are sure to tolerate our climate at this wonderful center.  Add some color to your late summer garden, sit back and enjoy!  Nothing feeds the soul like a beautiful garden!

Melissa | Out&About | 07 23rd, 2014 | 1 Comment »

Just west of Alachua County, in North Central Florida, you’ll find a magical place.    The place is Ichetucknee Springs in the State Park bearing the same name.

When you pull off onto the road that leads to the springs it’s like entering another place in time.  The breeze becomes cooler, the trees provide shade and the water…..oh, the water is beyond definition.  Clear, crystalline and always around 72 degrees, the Ichetucknee River flows into the spring allowing swimming year round.

Start at the head of the river and tube or paddle to the end for an amazing experience, communing with nature.

The 2,241 acre state park provides campgrounds, nature trails, restrooms and changing rooms as well as grills for outdoor cooking and tube rentals.

It’s only about  2 1/2 hours from Coastal Georgia and well worth the drive!

On your way back up Highway 441 stop at “The Great Outdoors”  for a fantastic dinner!  See their menu here:  http://www.greatoutdoorsdining.com/welcome/

It’s a lovely, lesser known part of Florida that I hope you’ll take the time to visit and experience!

Melissa | Out&About | 07 22nd, 2014 | 1 Comment »