Easy Leftover Thanksgiving Day Turkey Ideas

Posted on November 29, 2019 by englishivys

The best part of Thanksgiving Day is that it keeps on giving and giving, even after the holiday has come and gone. We are talking about all the tasty leftovers, of course! But of all the typical leftover Thanksgiving dinner foods, turkey is by far the most universal, capable of being repurposed into a variety of delicious snacks, lunches, and more. To top it all off, turkey is healthy, making it a good choice for a meal, any time of day.

So rather than settling for the standard, cold turkey refrigerator grazing tradition this year, think about all the other goodies you can make with your leftover holiday bird. Continue reading for some easy recipes to get your own ideas flowing!

Downtown Indianapolis Eatery 317-822-5070

Thanksgiving Day Tips to Get You Started

First and foremost, if you know you’re not going to be able to consume all your leftover turkey within 5 to 7 days, the best tip to follow is to freeze it in a freezer-acceptable bag or container. After 5 to 7 days, bacteria can begin to grow within the proteins of the meat, and therefore begins to reduce the quality, taste, texture, and more. By freezing your leftover turkey, you can extend its life and ensure it’s healthy to eat. Cooked turkey can be frozen safely for 2 to 6 months.

Thawing Frozen Turkey

If frozen, turkey needs to be completely thawed before it can be seasoned or cooked. There are three primary methods of thawing meat, safely: refrigeration, cold water, and microwaving. The safest and most recommended method is to thaw your meat in the refrigerator. Simply keep the turkey in its packaging and place it on a plate to thaw overnight. If you need a faster option, the next best method is to thaw frozen turkey in cold water.

Just place the meat in an enclosed waterproof plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every half hour until the meat is entirely thawed. To thaw frozen meat in the microwave, you will need to understand your appliances defrost settings since make and models vary in operation and performance. Refer to the owners’ manual for instructions on how to defrost frozen meat in your particular make and model microwave. If you choose this method, it is important that you immediately cook the meat once it is thawed.

Turkey Ideas You Can Try

Where to Get Tasty Eats in Downtown Indianapolis

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to ask about our dinner menus and holiday specials we are offering this season. We offer a seasonal-inspired, multi-cuisine menu that is locally-sourced and curated by our chef. From classics like wings and burgers, to specialty entrees like prime rib and baked scallops, and everything in between, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this Thanksgiving on our exclusive holiday menus. With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

Top 4 Tips for Using Cast Iron Skillets

Posted on October 29, 2019 by englishivys

Cast iron has played a major role in our world’s history, with the earliest cast-iron artifacts dating back all the way to 5th century BC. Throughout the centuries, cast iron pots and cauldrons became popular because they were highly durable, cooked meals evenly, and made food taste better. Fashioned with thick handles and long legs, they were specially designed for cooking over a hearth or fire, which was the most common form of fuel in a home during those times. But eventually, stoves were introduced into residential kitchens, logically eliminating the need for legs and handles. As a result, the flat-bottomed cast iron pot was invented, and eventually dubbed the skillet.

Today, cast iron skillets are still among the most popular methods of high-heat and heat retention cooking for these same qualities. Even better, innovative advances in the cookware industry have further improved the natural science behind cast iron cooking! There are even several sizes, colors, and shapes to choose from on the market, so there is one for every cooking need!

If you are interested in improving your cast iron cooking skills, it all starts with cast iron skillet best practices. Continue below to learn the top 4 tips for using and caring for a cast iron skillet.

❶ Do Not Wash It

Your cast iron skillet is special and more delicate than you think. It cannot withstand the astringent properties in dish detergents, let alone the abrasive textures of scrubbing pads and sponges. This means they cannot be washed in the same way as conventional cookware. You see, it gets naturally “seasoned” with a light coating of oil every time you use it. Not only does this enhance the flavor of your meals the more you use your cast iron, the congealed oil settles within the minuscule holes of the skillet, thus creating a natural seal that protects against burning, rusting, and more.

❷ Periodically Deep Clean It

Just because you are not supposed to wash your cast iron after every use does not mean you never clean it at all. Periodically clean away the caked on remnants of past meal preps by adding one cup of water to the skillet, and then putting it on high heat. This will boil off any solid debris stuck to the surface. If this does not do the trick, use kosher or sea salt and a paper towel to gently scrub the gunk away, and then repeat the process.

❸ Store Cast Iron in a Safe Spot

You do not want to dent, chip, or nick your cast iron skillet because it can cause rust formation, and negatively affect the quality of sear you get on your food. Be sure to store your cast iron skillets flat so they cannot topple over. You can also store them in between your other pots and pans so long as you use layers of felt or paper towel to prevent scratching.

❹ Avoid Using Metal Utensils

Unless using extreme care and focus, avoid using metal spatulas, spoons, and other utensils while cooking in a cast iron skillet. The metal can be too abrasive, and potentially scratch the surface of the skillet. And as mentioned before, scratches can lead to rust and uneven cooking. Instead, stick with a trusty and safe wooden spoon or plastic spatula.

Delicious Food and Great Drink Specials in Downtown Indianapolis!

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious food and drink menus we’re offering this fall! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. From classic wings and beer, to prime rib, cocktails, stage entertainment, and more, we have exactly what you are looking for in both flavor and fun! With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully-satisfied with every moment you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! We look forward to being friends!

Why You Should Eat Locally-Sourced Foods

Posted on October 14, 2019 by englishivys

If meats, fruits, and vegetables are grown and raised no farther than one hour away, they are considered a local product. This is commonly referred to as “farm-to-table” eating since these products are produced so close to home. There are several benefits to eating locally grown and raised foods, but some of the most admired include freshness, taste, nutrition, economy, community, sustainability, and seasonal awareness.

Continue reading to learn how locally-sourced foods can render such benefits, as well as, where you can find a great, farm-to-table meal near you.

Fresh Downtown Indianapolis Eatery 317-822-5070

☑ Freshness

There is nothing fresher than buying foods that were just harvested days before. This is especially true for locally-raised and produced livestock and poultry. There is no week-long transportation or distribution of fruits and vegetables, which means you can eat them at the peak of ripeness when they taste the best. This benefits ties together with the next important one: nutrition.

☑ Nutrition

Other than quality of taste and level of freshness, locally grown and raised products are generally higher in nutritional value. That is because they are not subjected to added preservatives to keep them fresh during distribution. This is also because they are able to be eaten at the peak of freshness when fruits and vegetables are most nutritious.

☑ Economy

As a member of your thriving community, it is important to do your part to contribute to its success. Supporting your local farmers is a great way to accomplish this philanthropic pursuit. Eating local foods means you are supporting your local economy and keeping money flowing within your town, which in turn, makes your community a better place to live!

☑ Seasonal Awareness

When you eat local foods, you get to stay in touch with the changing seasons, and enjoy the limited-edition yields they provide. Pumpkins, apples, carrots, and corn are just a few examples of delicious seasonal foods to enjoy. Furthermore, buying seasonally ensures freshness and cost savings.

☑ Sustainability

Sustainable agriculture is something to really think about if you care about your community. Sustainability practices ensure that the land used to raise farm products is healthy and available for years to come. This has several benefits, including making the most efficient use of nonrenewable and on-farm resources and enhancing the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole.

Great Food in Downtown Indy

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our seasonal-inspired, multi-cuisine menus that are locally-sourced and curated by our executive chef! From wings and burgers, to prime rib, roasted pork, and everything in between, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave on our exclusive, farm-to-table menus. We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully-satisfied with every moment you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

Do You Have a Food Allergy or a Food Intolerance?

Posted on September 9, 2019 by englishivys

When you go out to eat, it is vital to let your server know if you suffer from any food allergies or intolerances. Although the two conditions are similar, one is much more serious than the other, and can result in permanent injuries or even death. If you suspect that you have allergies or intolerances to certain foods, but you have not seen a medical professional for a diagnosis, it is strongly encouraged to do so as soon as possible for your own protection.

In the meantime, refrain from any foods that you think might cause your digestive or physical complications. It will also help to prepare for your appointment by learning the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance, since so many people use the terms interchangeably, and thus, incorrectly.

Continue reading to learn the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance. This knowledge will also help you more accurately notify servers at restaurants, as well as family and friends at home dinners, how to properly prepare your food for your protection.

Downtown Indianapolis Eatery 317-822-5070

Food Allergies

A food allergy is perceived as a toxin in a person’s body. It triggers an exaggerated immune system response that affects multiple organ systems in an attempt to alert the body of the toxin. This can trigger additional physiological responses that overact and cause serious or fatal symptoms.

Food allergies are serious because some can lead to severe injuries or death. Even microscopic particles of food can cause an allergic reaction, even a fatal one. The most common food allergies include peanuts, shellfish, cow’s milk, soy products, wheat, hen’s eggs, and tree nuts like almonds, Brazilian nuts, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts. These are called the “big 8” in the culinary world, and are the most familiar food allergies known to the general public.

Food Allergy Symptoms:

⇾ Hives
⇾ Red Skin
⇾ Swelling (face, eyes, cheeks, hands, feet, etc.)
⇾ Itching
⇾ Vomiting
⇾ Diarrhea
⇾ Anaphylaxis
⇾ Respiratory Symptoms

Food Intolerance

In contrast to food allergies that affect the immune system, food intolerances affect the body’s digestive system. When a person consumes food they are intolerant to, the digestive system has trouble breaking it down. This can be caused by a number of reasons, primarily a lack of essential enzymes, sensitivity to food additives, and reactions to naturally-occurring chemical in food (i.e. mycotoxins).

Food intolerances are not life-threatening, but they can cause major discomfort and illness. In minor cases of food intolerance, people can consume small amounts without experiencing any digestive issues. The most common intolerances include glucose, lactose, Tyramine, food preservatives, and food additives.

Food Intolerance Symptoms:

⇾ Flatulence
⇾ Diarrhea
⇾ Bloating
⇾ Cramping
⇾ Fluid Retention
⇾ Abdominal Distention
⇾ Hives
⇾ Swelling
⇾ Migraines
⇾ Wheezing
⇾ Difficulty Breathing

A Downtown Indianapolis Pub & Eatery You Can Trust

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to learn all about our weekly food and drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. We also serve a full lunch, dinner, and late night menu, and even brunch on weekends! From iced tea cocktails and mimosas, to beer, wine, and everything in between, we have the refreshing summertime cocktails you crave on a hot day. With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

How to Make a Budget-Friendly Charcuterie Board

Posted on August 5, 2019 by englishivys

Charcuterie is a great dish for any occasion, whether you are entertaining a few friends, catering for a large party, or simply treating yourself to a treat. It’s a treat that offers options, which means there is something to meet all tastes and palates. Furthermore, a charcuterie allows you to indulge in small gourmet delicacies that you would otherwise pass up at the grocery store.

Although charcuterie boards can be made into endless combinations, the price tags for the bits and pieces can easily add up. For this reason, many people pass on charcuterie altogether, and opt for a more conventional and predictable fruit and veggie tray instead. But the truth is, charcuterie CAN be affordable, and without having to make any sacrifices on taste or quality. All you have to do is know where to look.

Continue reading to learn some budget-friendly tips for curating a charcuterie board.

Curating Your Charcuterie

A charcuterie board is simply a diverse spread of gourmet or artisanal meats, cheese, breads, condiments, vegetables, and more. The ways to prepare a charcuterie plate are infinite, and do not have to include all of the above-mentioned food groups. You can choose to be as creative as you like, using any combination of any finger foods imaginable. A good range is 3 to 5 ingredients, at least. You can use a serving tray, wooden cutting board, flat white plate, stone platter, or fancy serving ware. You can better decide on ideas by choosing a theme, seasonal items, non-regional selections, or simply your own favorite things to eat!

Although you are free to be as creative as you like, there are a few helpful guidelines to follow when preparing a charcuterie board. When it comes to meat options, be sure to have 2 ounces of meat per person. If you are feeding a larger group, increase the weight to 5 ounces per person; and be sure to serve a lot of bread for larger crowds, especially if the charcuterie is the main course. Additionally, keep a good ratio of salty, sweet, and sour for a diverse and multi-layered taste and texture experience. This will further ensure you have something for everyone!

Buying Charcuterie Items

You don’t have to visit the local gourmet grocers to make a great charcuterie plate either. Your neighborhood grocery is sure to have a special section that offers a wide range of home-made, artisanal, gourmet foods. Typically, this section is found in the deli or produce areas. Carefully read the price tags on cheeses and meats, taking into consideration the weight of each, in order to find the right items within your budget. There should also be a clearance section for last chance items, which are also great deals.

Cost-Effective Items to Consider for Your Board:

Come to English Ivy’s for Tasty Finger Foods and Handhelds!

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to learn about our delicious appetizers, starters, small plates, and handhelds we have to offer. Our downtown Indianapolis pub and eatery is located in the Historic Saint Joseph Neighborhood, with both lot and street parking available, so visiting us is never a hassle! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. Our neighborhood prices and kind service sets us apart from other bars and restaurants around, so you will surely be pleased with our Downtown bar and restaurant!