Pickin' Pumpkins with the Brewer

Jon of Roc City Brewing Company came by our pumpkin patch about a week ago, to pick up pumpkins destined to mingle with some hops. It was a lot of fun to discuss the farm, pumpkins, brewing and distilling with such an inspired, enthusiastic person! That weekend, six pie pumpkins and two Cinderella pumpkins were roasted and added to the brewing process for three new pumpkin beers. I can't wait to taste them! Here's a photo of Jon's haul on Facebook.

Boos & Brews at the Brewery!

The big event, to celebrate the season and these new seasonal beer, happens on October 26th at the brewery. Go to their event page for details. I'll be there with a nice display of pumpkins and other fall things. It sounds like it's going to be a fun event! Stop by and say hi, and wear a costume!!

This vegetarian chili is a great way to celebrate a cool Autumn day in Western New York. The subtle sweet earthiness of the pumpkin is nicely offset by a good dose of spices, and complimented by a hint of the dark, sweet, flavor of chocolate. Ingredients:

2 Tblsp Olive Oil

1 Medium Onion, chopped

2 cloves of Garlic, minced

1 sweet pepper, diced

1 large can of Tomatoes with juices

1 can black beans, rinsed

1 cup mashed or pureed Pumpkin

2 tsp Cumin

1 Tbsp Chili Powder

1 tsp oregano

2 Tbsp chocolate chips, or two squares of unsweetened chocolate (optional, but you should try it!)

In a 5 quart pot, sautee onion in olive oil until golden. Add sweet peppers and garlic, continuing to cook until garlic is lightly golden.

Add the remaining ingredients to the pot, stir to combine, and then simmer for 30-45 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust thickness of soup by adding more tomatoes or chicken stock (if you're not making a vegetarian chili), a half cup at a time.

Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream, some grated cheddar, and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro.