Happy Halloween Eve, Ladies and Gents! Usually, I'd label this "cooking", but since it's a combination of food art and a recipe, going with the broader "Culinary Arts" label. For those curious, while I certainly could have done a more thorough job on this carving (especially compared to last year), I do have training from when I went to Culinary Arts school around 20 years ago. Much of the "food art" was focused on in a class called "Garde Manger". Technically means "cold dishes display area", but encompasses soups, salads, aperitifs, canapes, hors d'oeuvres, terrines, sausage-making, and of course the fine art of carving cheeses, vegetables, fruits, and arranging them into art. I digest... Despite my tight schedule due to custody, I just finished carving the pumpkin, and when I come back, will roast the seeds. First, pumpkin carving tips: - Clean the pumpkin (outside, wiping it down with a damp cloth/paper towel. - Carve out the bottom first . - Why the bottom first? For easy access to the light element replacement, and mess reduction. - Scoop the seeds out, and separate them as well as possible from the pumpkin pulp. - Place the seeds into a strainer over a bowl or pot. - Place the pumpkin right-side-up over a large pot. - Carve the top opening. - Scoop the sides, and it'll fall directly into the pot below (see pic). - Place the pattern onto the pumpkin and fold the corners to fit the contours. - Start with the small/most detailed areas first. - Cut at an angle (about 45 degrees or greater; to allow for more light). - Avoid cutting on an angle around thinner areas (makes it less stable). - Once major cutting is done, clear the area (inside and out). - Refine detailed cutting. - Once finished, I like to wipe a thin layer of oil on the outside to preserve it and add shine. Roasted Pumpkin Seed Recipe From this site. Very simple recipe. - Clean the seeds in a strainer. - I use hot water to soften them a bit, though you can also boil them. - Once clean and dry, toss in melted butter. - Add seasonings of choice (see my ingredients of choice below). - Bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 Celsius) for 45 minutes. - Let cool and enjoy.

To help celebrate National Sandwich Day I am conducting a poll. What is your favorite sandwich?

To help celebrate World Vegan Day I would like to hear about your favorite vegan food. What is your favorite vegan food?

To help celebrate National American Beer Day I am running a poll. What is your favorite American beer.

I don’t know if everyone else has watch him before but some of recipes look good. Like this one looks really good.