Monthly Archives: April 2019

Pizzagaina vs Ham Pie.. it’s all good

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Its spring and that means its time for me to make the Pizzagaina or “Meat Pie”.

Which in itself is no small task. It takes planning, shopping and lots of prep. I wrote about this in the past here.

So last night after work and while doing some recording, I started the baking the batches. I had already prepped the meat and cheese earlier in the week and did the dough the night before.

Now, this isn’t your standard hand pie. This is the Italian older cousin. It’s dense, rich with eggs and cheese and full of dried and cured meats. Think “cheesecake meets quiche” but without the jiggle.  You will hear this called by many names from including; Easter Ham Pie, Pizzagaina, Pizza Rustica but they all mean essentially the same thing.

I have several versions but as I’ve written before this is my favorite basic version recipe. You should feel free to swap out the meats for what you can find locally to you. I also started to try out doing them as mini loaves as they freeze and are great house gifts for pals

 

Top 3 Seafood Restaurants in Alabama

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Alabama has the highest number of inland waterways among the 50 U.S. states as well as a few beaches. You can find great seafood in this state, although it’s not commonly thought of as a place for seafood. Three of the top seafood restaurants in Alabama are Sunset Pointe, Big Fish, and Shrimp Basket Gulf Shores. These restaurants have high customer ratings and serve excellent seafood. Whether you’re a couple, a single traveler, or a family, you can enjoy eating at one of these seafood restaurants.

Sunset Pointe – Fairhope, AL

Sunset Pointe, a famous seafood restaurant owned by Pete Blohme, features outdoor waterfront dining and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Blohme has been on numerous food shows, such as Sweet Home Alabama, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and Guy’s Big Bite. Sunset Pointe has high customer ratings for the quality of its food, good customer service, and stunning views of the marina. Popular items on the menu include crab meatballs, BBQ shrimp, lettuce wraps, snapper throats, and bouillabaisse. If you eat at the restaurant during sunset, you’ll have a beautiful view of the water. Sunset Pointe also has a full bar, a television, vegan options, highchairs, and available takeout.

Big Fish – Orange Beach, Alabama

Big Fish is just one of many restaurants in Orange Beach but is probably the most elegant you’ll find around. It has sophisticated decor, an open kitchen, a full bar, and award-winning service. There’s an outdoor seating area too. Big Fish serves fresh seafood and premium steaks. Pasta and sandwiches are additional options on the menu. Big Fish has excellent sushi, crab cakes, red snapper, and halibut. Jasmine rice is served with some of the dishes, such as the Holy Shrimp, Big Fish Style – Sautéed Fish, and Big Stir Fry.

Shrimp Basket Gulf Shores – Gulf Shores, Alabama

Shrimp Basket Gulf Shores has an oyster bar, fried seafood dishes, and other delicious seafood options. Portion sizes are large, and the restaurant is known for good customer service. It sometimes runs specials like all-you-can-eat steamed shrimp and all-you-can-eat fried fish. Shrimp Basket Gulf Shores has conveniently located two blocks from the beach if you want to spend the day there. It’s also a family-friendly restaurant. Shrimp Basket Gulf Shores has a welcoming atmosphere and casual decor.
Sunset Pointe, Big Fish, and Shrimp Basket Gulf Shores are the top seafood restaurants in Alabama. They’re three restaurants you’ll want to try if you love seafood. These restaurants have many positive customer ratings and a pleasant atmosphere for dining. The food is of excellent quality as well.

Here are a couple more travel related articles we think you’ll enjoy!