Coffee 101: Which is Your Favorite?
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
It’s Sunday morning at your local coffee shop, and the person in front of you orders a coffee you cannot even pronounce. You quickly Google what in the world they just said, but still do not understand the various types of coffee. You may be wondering, “Aren’t these all the same?” We get it. We have been there and are here to help! Whether you are a black coffee drinker or a “Caramel Macchiato with Extra Cold Foam and Light Ice” kind-of person, we got you covered. Any confusion is sure to be cleared up after reading below!
Regular Brewed Coffee: What is “brewed coffee?” Brewed coffee simply contains coffee grounds that are brewed (hot water poured onto the coffee beans) and then filtered. Whether you like hot coffee with cream and sugar or just plain black, we have an option for everyone at Price Chopper and Market 32! Check out our collection at the end of this blog.
Iced Cold Brew: Contrary to iced coffee that was originally hot, iced cold brew is never hot. Iced cold brew is brewed from 12-24 hours and then steeped at room temperature. After this process is finished, the cold brew is diluted with water and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 14 days. This type of coffee has more caffeine and a smoother taste than normal iced coffee.
Espresso: Espresso can be taken as a shot for a burst of energy or poured into your cup of coffee. Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee that is made by using finely ground coffee beans, hot water, and applying high pressure. The taste of espresso is very strong and bold compared to other coffee.
Americano: When comparing an Americano coffee to regular hot coffee, there appears to be no difference, however, there is a slight discrepancy between the two. Americano coffee simply contains espresso and water, whereas regularly brewed coffee are coffee beans that have been filtered.
Latte: A hot latte consists of milk foam at the top of the cup, a large amount of steamed milk in the middle, and then espresso on the bottom. The milk used for a latte is steamed and frothed to create a delicious, thick foam. While an iced latte has the same ingredients, espresso is simply poured over chilled milk. Any type of milk can be used to create a latte, including non dairy almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk.
Cappuccino: While a latte and cappuccino are very similar, the ratio of milk is what differentiates the two. Cappuccino ratios are 1:1:1 with equal parts of milk foam at the top, steamed milk in the middle, and espresso at the bottom.
Macchiato: A hot macchiato contains espresso at the bottom and a lot of steamed milk on top. That is it! An iced macchiato is the same thing except a lot of chilled milk is added on top of the espresso.
Of course, with any of these drinks, you can modify it to your liking. Whether you enjoy a sweet syrup mixed in or whip cream on top, these drinks can be tailored to anyone’s preferences. The next time you hear the person in front of you order a long-named drink, you won’t have to Google what they are asking for!
Interested in making the best latte? Check out this Iced Caramel Vanilla Latte from our YouTube Channel!
Ellie WIlson
MS, RDN, CDN, FAND
BOO!
Here it comes again, the official (unofficial) holiday of Halloween! There is no doubt, it is beloved by children and adults alike. The costumes, decorations and freaky/fun tricks and treats are wickedly delightful for those who participate before colder weather kicks in. To ensure it is fun for everyone, set expectations – your goblins and ghouls should know the food safety rules ahead of time to set the stage for happy smiles versus scowls and howls. Here are some ‘tricks” for caregivers hoping for a howling good time!
- Eat before you treat – some great Halloween treat ideas to set the stage are right here (with spooky music!) on Price Chopper YouTube and Pinterest boards . That will make it easier to create the plan that parents/guardians must check items before eating. We have treats for adults too – pumpkin everything and fall favorites to fuel your fun is right here Fall Flavors – Price Chopper – Market 32!
- Children should only accept treats that are commercially wrapped. Throw away anything that is torn, has pinholes, or looks unusual in any way. Fresh fruit, if accepted, should be carefully checked and washed before eating.
- If your child has a food allergy, you already know that treats are tricky. Verify Epi-pens are not expired and are readily available. Always check the labels of each item. Some homes may have a teal-colored pumpkin (Allergy-Safe Tips for Trick-or-Treating – FoodAllergy.org) to signal they have some treats without some allergens, but adults must still check the individual items before eating. The same goes for gluten free candy – Celiac.com has published their 2024 Gluten Free Halloween Candy list – you can check it out
- Ages and stages – some candies are choking hazards for smaller children. Gum, hard candies, peanuts and even small toys could be a concern. Check treats are appropriate and stay present while they are enjoyed.
- Managing added sugars at Halloween doesn’t have to be tricky! How much and how often should be part of the plan and discussed ahead of time to keep the howls to a minimum. A national poll shows 78% of parents plan for about two pieces of candy per day. That helps children learn candy can be part of eating well. In 2017, the Partnership for a Healthier America and the National Confectioners Association partnered to help with portion control and front-of-pack labeling, resulting in over 90% of candy and chocolates labeled to help your goblins and ghouls enjoy treats. Learn more
- Enjoy the Halloween season – Top 10 ways to celebrate Halloween!
- Flashlights, candy, party supplies and more are all at your local Price Chopper/Market 32 waiting for you to create a “monster” good time. Happy Halloween!
BWAH HA HA HAAAAA!!!!!!!
Check out more Halloween recipes!
Assorted Halloween Cupcakes
Halloween Quesadillas
Pumpkin S’mores Bars
Happy National Pizza Month! The entire month of October, we celebrate one of the America’s favorite foods. But to us, pizza is a vague term. There are so many ways to do pizza outside of your traditional pie. On this National Pizza Day, lets look at some of our favorite pizza hacks.
Margherita Pizza Waffles: These Margherita Pizza Waffles are a twist on personal pizzas. Fun to make, even more fun to eat!
Pizza Dip: Looking for a fun dip for your next gathering? This is a must-have!
Watermelon Dessert Pizza: Ok, so this one’s not exactly a pizza. But if you’re in the mood for a new dessert this is our recommendation.
Grilled Tortilla Pizzas: In this recipe, tortillas are the perfect substitute for pizza dough. Featuring all of your favorite ingredients, with this recipe you’ll pizza like never before.
Grilled Garlicky Kale Portobello Pizzas: We love these Grilled Garlicky Kale Portobello Pizzas. Delicious portobellos topped with awesome ingredients, this one might become a new favorite.
Southwest Tortilla Pizzas: More tortillas! This time with a southwest-style flair.
Air Fryer Loaded Pizza Baked Potatoes: Break out the air fryer for this recipe. Baked potatoes loaded with pizza staples. Easy, creative, and very appetizing.
Check out this video recipe for Spaghetti Pizza Pie!
At Price Chopper & Market 32, we love pizza. The amount of creativity that can go into making your own is a ton of fun. With pizza, there are truly no rules. Check out these pizza hack recipes for yourself, or get creative with a recipe of your own. Either way, stop in to your local store or visit us online for all things pizza.
For more must-try pizza recipes, check out our website.
Happy National Pizza Day!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
We’re proud to partner with a variety of local honey farms and apiaries in our region, like Ole McDonald’s Honey Farm in Fonda NY, Kutik’s Honey Farm in Norwich, NY, The Beekeeper’s Daughter in Plains, PA and more. When it’s made or grown here, we get it here!
Ole McDonald’s Honey Farm: Fonda, NY
The Ole McDonald family is passionate and energetic. This family farm offers a wide variety of 100% natural products including lip balm, soap, candles, lotion, and of course, honey! Additionally, they offer bee removal from cars and buildings.
We are proud to partner with Ole McDonald’s Honey Farm!
Kutik’s Honey Farm: Norwich, NY
When Chuck Kutik received two bee hives as a Christmas present, his love and fascination for bees took off. The family business has been up and running since 1978, and extraction and bottling of honey began in 1979. In 2001, Kutik began pollination services for cantaloupes, watermelons, cucumbers and squash in South Carolina where he lived. Their mission is to honor the honey bee and everything they have to offer!
We are proud to partner with Kutik’s Honey Farm!
The Beekeeper’s Daughter: Plains, PA
William Perry Sr. started the family honey business in 1950. However, what started as a small family business developed into something much, much bigger.
Hannah, founder of The Beekeeper’s Daughter, began her business in 2010 when she noticed there was a high demand for local honey. Hannah started bottling honey to local farmers, but The Beekeeper’s Daughter eventually took off. Today, she sells honey throughout the United States and online.
We are proud to partner with The Beekeeper’s Daughter!
Fun Honey Facts!
- Honey can be traced back to 8,000 years ago in Ancient Stone Age paintings.
- Not all honey looks the same. The color of honey varies from all shades of yellow and amber.
- The flavor of honey is determined by the plant in which the nectar is extracted.
- The average American consumes one pound of honey per year, or 1 ⅓ cups.
- Honeycombs are commonly sold as a delicacy.
Whether you enjoy honey in tea, drizzled on your oatmeal, or baked in recipes, the sweetness of honey can be used for almost any meal. Check out some delicious recipes below!
Three Seed Honey Bars: These bars are the perfect on-the-go snack! With the kids back in school, they will love these Three Seed Honey Bars at lunchtime.
Smoked Baby Back Ribs with Honey-Orange BBQ Glaze: These ribs are not only delicious, but they are easy to make and only require six ingredients! Check it out!
Crispy Honey Nut Baked Salmon with Almond-Fennel Salad: Take your salmon dinner to the next level with this recipe!
Summer is offically over, which means it’s time for all-things pumpkins and apples! This week we are whipping up a delicious breakfast-for-dinner idea, as well as a hearty Turkey Shepherd’s Pie. Celebrate fall and check out our menu below!
Apple-Cinnamon Pancakes with Sausage
1 box Pearl Milling Company Pancake Mix
1 package Market 32 Breakfast Sausage
2 Honey Crisp Apples
1 container PICS Cinnamon
Shop for Apple-Cinnamon Pancakes here!
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
1 package Shady Brook Farms Ground Turkey
1 bag Market 32 Russet Potatoes
1 large Onion
1 clove Garlic
1 bag PICS Frozen Peas & Carrots
1 bag PICS Frozen Corn
Shop Turkey Shepherd’s Pie here!
Check out this Berry Pancake recipe!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
Where are all the bacon lovers? Well, this one’s for you! Whether you enjoy eating strips of bacon or chopping it up for your omelet, there are so many ways you can cook with this delicious meat. Before we dive deeper, how well do you know your bacon?
Bacon comes from the side or belly of a pig, and has been a staple for many years. While bacon is most commonly enjoyed at breakfast, people can enjoy bacon for lunch, dinner, or even dessert! Nowadays, there are many varieties of bacon, including thick sliced, center cut, lower sodium, maple flavored, or even turkey bacon. To browse all bacon options at Price Chopper and Market 32, click here!
You may be wondering what exactly turkey bacon is. Turkey bacon is ground up white and dark meat, specifically from the breast, thighs, or skin of a turkey. Be sure to check out our PICS turkey bacon!
Check out some mouth-watering bacon recipes below!
Grilled Chicken BLT with Basil Mayo: A class BLT favorite, but spice it up with some basil mayo!
Bacon, Tomato, & Mushroom Strata: A hearty breakfast that you are sure to love! Fresh and delicious ingredients all around.
Buttermilk Bacon Pancakes with Bourbon-Maple Syrup: You’ve heard of chocolate chip pancakes or blueberry pancakes, but what about bacon pancakes? This is a must-try!
Smoky Grilled BBQ Salmon Salad: This salmon and bacon salad is loaded with veggies, which makes for the perfect summertime meal!
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International Beer Day
Today is International Beer Day, and we are celebrating the international drink of getting the weekend started. And it’s Friday, how fitting! Let’s highlight some of the breweries that bless our Northeast region with quality, refreshing beverages for every and all seasons. Not all heroes wear capes, some of them concoct awesome brews.
Brooklyn Brewery – Brooklyn, NY
When good beer is hard to find, sometimes you have to make it yourself. That’s exactly the story of Brooklyn Brewery. In 1988, Steve Hindy took his homebrewing knowledge from his days as a foreign war correspondent and started the business with his friend Tom Potter. Together they hand-delivered the first batches of Brooklyn Lager to a handful of local bars.
Today Brooklyn’s beers now travel to more than half the U.S. and over 30 countries. Brewmaster Garrett Oliver, a James Beard Award winner, and his team brew everything from classic styles to bold experiments, collaborating with their peers across the globe to keep pushing the boundaries of beer.
Popular Brews: Brooklyn Lager, Brooklyn East IPA, Brooklyn Summer Ale
Saranac Brewery – Utica, NY
In 1985, Saranac 1888, named after the iconic Saranac Railroad, was the first concoction to don the brewery name. The Saranac Railroad line connected Utica to the Adirondacks. Similarly, Saranac’s Utica location connects with the Adirondacks through the tastes and experiences provided by their brews.
In fact, back in 1991, Saranac’s Adirondack Lager was awarded the top premium lager at the Great American Beer Festival, chalking the Lager up as Saranac’s first brewing home run. Naturally, the brewery focused in on making this beer their main priority for the time being.
Today, Saranac Brewery has a plethora of beverages showcasing their name. Blueberry Blonde Ale and S’more Lager are perfect for the essence of summertime. While Pale Ale and Adirondack Lager are two of the company’s year-round staples.
Popular Brews: Saranac Pale Ale, Blueberry Blonde Ale, Adirondack Lager
Stony Creek Brewery – Branford, CT
The pride of Branford, CT, Stony Creek Brewery was rebranded by co-founder Ed Crowley in 2015. Prior to the rebranding, Stony Creek was a small-scale contract-produced craft brand, mainly known for their IPAs named after Connecticut’s two area codes, 203 and 860. Stony Creek became much bigger after their rebrand, and they opened up their first brewery right along the Branford River.
The brewery’s 30,000 square foot size makes it the second largest brewing facility and taproom in the state of Connecticut. One of its unique features is a 2,500 square foot tasting room with 23-ounce glass mugs hanging on the wall behind the bar as part of the brewery’s Mug Club. The “Mug Club” is a way of giving back to devoted customers by giving them “their own little piece of the creek,” according to Ed Crowley Jr!
Popular Brews: Big Cranky Double IPA, Cranky IPA, Stony Joe Mocha Stout
Magic Hat Brewing Company – Burlington, Vermont
Stirring up some mysterious concoctions in the heart of South Burlington, Vermont, Magic Hat is a well-known local brewer. They refer to their brews as elixirs, and their most popular potion is #9. It’s not quite a pale ale, but it runs across your tongue with notes of fruit and floral hop bitterness, bringing an unusual and curious palate. As they say at Magic Hat, #9 asks more questions than it answers. You’ll just have to see for yourself.
Popular Brews: #9, Elder Betty, Circus Boy
Frog Alley Brewing – Schenectady, NY
Frog Alley Brewing is just a short trip down the road from our Schenectady headquarters. As the city’s newest brewing powerhouse, Frog Alley is the key piece of the new Mill Artisan District. This downtown revitalization effort through intriguing new, hip food and drink spots hopes to bring more craft beer lovers and foodies back to the area.
Frog Alley founder JT Pollard put together two of the best brewing minds he could find in Rich Michaels and Drew Schmidt. Michaels and Schmidt used their expertise and years of experience to build Frog Alley’s refreshing, star-powered roster of brews. Included in this list is Mohop #5, a tasty New England IPA with Mosaic hops, featuring notes of mango, stone fruit, and a concoction of more earthy and tropical tones. They also provide Skull Frog, a loud DIPA that is certainly not shy with the Chinook, Columbus, and Simcoe hops.
Popular Brews: Mohop #5, Skull Frog Double IPA, Re4resh IPA
Shop Our Beer Aisle
Chill Out and Relax on National Refreshment Day!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
Each year, National Refreshment Day is celebrated on the last Thursday of July. That day is today, July 28th! There is an interesting history with National Refreshment Day. The word “refreshment” was originally spelled “refreschement” in Late Middle English. While the spelling has been altered, the meaning has not. By definition, “refreshment” means to be revitalized and rejuvenated after a difficult time or situation.Traveler Beers, located in Burlington, Vermont founded this National Day in 2015. Whether you are celebrating by the pool or in the office, Price Chopper and Market 32 have a variety of different drinks for you to unwind and relax.
Peach Paradise : This recipe is fun and very easy to make. Be sure to stop by our produce department for fresh peaches and PICS lime juice.
Iced Caramel Vanilla Latte : Price Chopper and Market 32 have a wide selection of coffee, sweeteners, creamers, and milk. This delicious latte is perfect before your morning commute to the office!
Chocolaty-Orange Smoothie : The combination of fresh oranges and PICS Belgian Dark Chocolate will have you head-over-heels for this smoothie!
Classic Pimm’s Cup : The Classic Pimm’s Cup is refreshing to say the very least. The fresh basil, mint, lemon, and orange tastes give this drink the perfect summer feel.
Caramel Milkshake : Who doesn’t love a delicious milkshake on a hot summer day? Celebrate this National Refreshment Day with this caramel milkshake that is easy to make!
Raspberry Iced Tea Pops : Looking for something fun to make for National Refreshment Day? These ice pops are the way to go! All you need are peaches, raspberries, and PICS raspberry tea for this recipe.
Price Chopper and Market 32 offer a wide range of beverages, non-alcoholic and alcoholic, to keep you refreshed all summer long! Check out our catalog below.
Shop Ice Cold Drinks!
Happy National Refreshment Day!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
The month of July has so much to offer. The weather is beautiful, school is out, and everywhere we look there are barbecues and picnics. It only makes sense that National Grilling Month is celebrated for the entirety of this month! When we think of firing up the grill, hot dogs and hamburgers are most likely the first thing to come to mind. However, there are actually an array of items that can be grilled. Some may even surprise you. Let’s take a look below!
Watermelon: Grilling watermelon is actually quite simple. If you are new to the whole “grilling fruit” idea, then you are in for a treat. Picture the juicy sweetness of watermelon with a smoky flavor. It is quite the combination. The watermelon should be cut into wedges and placed on a heated grill for two to three minutes. Some people may add sugar or spices, or just eat it plain.
Pineapple: Grilled pineapple is a must-try this summer. They can be cut in rings, wedges, or cubes. Many people brush the pineapple in butter and/or brown sugar, but that is optional. Lightly oil the grate and cook pineapple for two to three minutes.
Bananas: If you are a banana-lover, then you are in for a serious treat! To grill bananas, slice them down the middle with the peel intact. Place the cut-side of the banana on the grill and wait to see grill marks (should only be about two minutes). An option here is to sprinkle on sugar or honey. Using tongs, flip the bananas over for five more minutes, or until the peel starts to pull away. This is best served with vanilla ice cream. Speaking of, Price Chopper and Market 32 have a new line of PICS Pint Ice Cream! Check them out here.
Tofu: Looking to change up the way you eat tofu? Look no further! Grilled, seasoned tofu is a delicious summertime meal. You will want to buy firm or extra firm tofu, not soft. Press the excess liquid from the tofu prior to placing it on the grill, and make sure you oil the grill so the tofu does not stick. Cut tofu, paint with your marinade of choice, and then throw on the grill for two to three minutes each side. There you have it – Quick, easy, and anything but boring!
Pizza: If you have never grilled pizza before, then stop what you are doing and read this! Place the plain, formed dough on a cookie sheet and gently slide it onto the heated grill. The key here is to grill the dough on both sides, and then remove from the grill. Once you notice it starts to brown on one side, use tongs to flip. Once both sides are browned, let the crust cool on a rack for a few minutes to two hours. When you are ready, add your toppings and place back on the grill for two to three minutes.
Be sure to browse all-things grilling below for more traditional barbecue food!
Fun Recipes for the Fourth
As the summer starts heating up, Americans across the country prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July in style. This iconic holiday commemorates the Declaration of Independence, and it is a time for friends, family and MOST IMPORTANTLY FOOD. Here are some delicious and festive recipes which will have people asking you for your tasty party favor!
Patriotic Appetizers
A patriotic red, white, and blue appetizer can be a delightful addition to any American-themed party or event. Here are a few ideas:
Caprese Skewers:
Red: Cherry tomatoes
White: Fresh mozzarella balls
Blue: Blueberries (you can alternate blueberries with blackberries or black grapes for a darker hue)
Arrange these ingredients on small skewers, drizzle with balsamic glaze or a light vinaigrette, and garnish with basil leaves for a fresh and colorful appetizer.
Berry and Cheese Platter:
Red: Strawberries or raspberries
White: Slices of white cheddar or goat cheese
Blue: Blueberries
Arrange these items on a platter or a wooden board for guests to enjoy, perhaps pairing them with crackers or baguette slices.
Fruit Salad:
Red: Strawberries or raspberries
White: Sliced bananas or jicama
Blue: Blueberries or blackberries
Toss these fruits together gently and serve in a large bowl or individual cups for a refreshing and healthy option.
Exciting Entrees:
This are some EXSPOLSIVE options which will have your guests begging for seconds!
Patriotic Pizza:
Red: Tomato sauce or cherry tomatoes
White: Mozzarella cheese
Blue: Sliced black olives or purple potatoes (sliced thinly)
Use these toppings on a pizza crust of your choice to create a colorful and tasty dish. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Stuffed Bell Peppers:
Red: Red bell peppers
White: Ground chicken or turkey (mixed with rice or quinoa)
Blue: Blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Prepare the stuffing with ground meat, rice or quinoa, and seasonings. Stuff the hollowed-out bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Patriotic Pasta Salad:
Red: Diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers
White: Cubed mozzarella or feta cheese
Blue: Blueberries or black olives
Toss cooked pasta with these ingredients and a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing. Serve chilled as a refreshing and colorful pasta salad.
And the best part……DESERT
1. Berry Flag Cake
This classic dessert not only looks stunning but also captures the essence of the American flag in a deliciously sweet way.
Ingredients:
1 box of white cake mix (plus ingredients needed for preparation)
1 cup sliced strawberries
1 cup blueberries
1 cup whipped cream or frosting of your choice
Instructions:
Bake the white cake according to the package instructions in a rectangular baking dish.
Once baked and cooled, spread whipped cream or frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
Use the strawberries to create red stripes and the blueberries to create a blue corner with stars, resembling the American flag.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy the patriotic sweetness!
2. Red, White, and Blue Parfaits
These layered parfaits are not only visually appealing but also refreshing and easy to customize.
Ingredients:
1 cup strawberries, diced
1 cup blueberries
1 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
1 cup granola (optional for crunch)
Instructions:
In clear glasses or jars, layer the ingredients in the following order: yogurt, strawberries, yogurt, granola (optional), yogurt, blueberries.
Repeat the layering process for each parfait.
Top each parfait with a few additional berries for garnish.
Serve chilled and enjoy the patriotic colors and flavors with each spoonful!
3. Patriotic Fruit Salad
For a healthier option that still celebrates the holiday colors, a patriotic fruit salad is a refreshing choice.
Ingredients:
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1 cup blueberries
1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
1 cup diced apples or bananas (optional)
Instructions:
Combine all the fruits in a large bowl.
If using marshmallows, gently fold them into the fruit mixture.
Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
This simple yet festive fruit salad is a perfect addition to any Fourth of July table.
4. Firecracker Popcorn
Add a crunchy twist to your dessert lineup with this colorful and flavorful popcorn mix.
Ingredients:
8 cups popped popcorn
1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
Red and blue sprinkles or colored sugar
Instructions:
Place popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle melted white chocolate over the popcorn and gently toss to coat evenly.
Spread popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Immediately sprinkle red and blue sprinkles or colored sugar over the popcorn while the chocolate is still warm.
Let the popcorn cool until the chocolate hardens.
Break apart any large clusters and serve in bowls or individual bags for a festive and crunchy treat.
Amidst the excitement of food and festivities, it’s important to prioritize safety to ensure everyone has a memorable and enjoyable Fourth of July. From out team to yours we hope you have a wonderful, fun and safe holiday!
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