Mad about Mushrooms . . .

Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro - Salem, OR

Up until now, when the subject of Salem came up, we were most likely reminiscing about the fall bolettes growing in the street dividers and along the sidewalks in the downtown area under aspen trees.  However, since our recent stop at the Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro, our conversation has changed!  We're musing about one of the the best breakfasts we may have consumed outside our own kitchen!

Summer Chanterelles Have Arrived

It's August, and the forest floor is quite dry here at our 800 feet elevation on the reserve.  Closer to ground level, the persistent fog has provided the moisture for an emerging crop of summer chanterelles, as the locals call them.  Typically smaller and paler than the usual fall golden chanterelles, these early jewels are a welcome discovery wherever they are growing.

This afternoon, while Steven was using the chainsaw to remove an oak leaning across the gravel road leading up to our home, I wandered in the woods.  Imagine my surprise and delight to be greeted by a handful of summer chanterelles along with a generous collection of lobsters that were growing nearby.  

The commercial lobster business continues to be in full swing, with a number of buyers operating in the Coos Bay area. 

The commercial pickers are also encountering and selling the summer chanterelles to the numerous commercial buyers up north.  On our last trip to Bandon, we even found summer chanterelles for sale at a blueberry stand south of town, carrying a price tag of $5.00 for 1/3 pound.  To my way of thinking, chanterelles in August are really priceless.

Summer chants are popping up on the reserve.

August 2013's Recipe of the Month: Albertina's Filo 'Sigara'

Take a deep breath before entering the room when you're carrying a platter of this party fare:  you're sure to be surrounded by a crowd of enthusiastic nibblers eager to discover the source of that delicious aroma!

Extracted from the 4th Printing in 1986 of Albertina's A Collection of Recipes, this classic recipe never ceases to be the "whoa - what is this" appetizer of any event.  Yes, it may seem a little time-consuming to prepare, but the increase in your culinary acclaim will likely be worth the effort!

Since 1907, Albertina's (also known as the Albertina Kerr Center) has been dedicated to providing assistance and support to people who face developmental disabilities and mental health challenges with a mission to support families and give children a reason to smile.  Visit Albertina Kerr in their historic Old Kerr Nursery Building located at 424 NE 22nd Avenue in Portland, and you'll discover Albertina's (a unique restaurant which consistently gathers rave reviews), and small shops populated with antiques and collectibles, gently used and new clothes, accessories, home goods, along with vintage and fine jewelry, scarves, purses, leather goods and artwork.  Plan to spend the afternoon here, lunching and shopping - and what a great way to while away an afternoon:  treating and pampering yourself while supporting those who are most vulnerable. 

If you've had the good fortunate to have previously dined at Albertina's and wished you had the recipe for their famous "Cheesecake in a Jar", wish no longer.  The recipe was published in the June 4, 2013 issue of The Oregonian.   It's a real keeper.

As Albertina's website says,

When you eat lunch with us, you earn your wings in Kerr's Army of Angels. All proceeds and tips from the Albertina's special events help support the work of Albertina Kerr, which strengthens Oregon families and communities by helping children and adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges - empowering them to live richer lives. 

Call 503-231-0216 to make your reservation for a very enjoyable luncheon or Sunday brunch.

Oh, and in case you are wondering about the recipe's title, 'sigara' is Turkish for cigarette.

Morels are the secret ingredient in this appetizer.