Category coconut water

WORLD COCONUT DAY

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World Coconut Day on September 2nd recognizes the flavorful and aromatic nutrition the coconut brings to many products.

Biologically, the coconut is a seed, nut, and fruit all in one package. However, the term for a one-seeded fruit (nut) is “drupe.” Every part of the coconut is sourced from the water inside the shell to the outer husk. Its oil moisturizes our skin and improves the flavor of our food. The nutrient-rich ingredient is one superfood!

The coconut is full of anti-viral and anti-microbial properties. This nutrient-rich seed provides fiber, Vitamin B6, iron, and minerals.

Grown in tropical areas, the coconut also brings to mind yummy tropical drinks like the pina colada. We can use coconut milk to make ice cream, sauces, and soups.

Native Forest Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk – Canned Coconut Milk, No Guar Gum, Non-GMO Project Verified, USDA Organic – Simple
Amazon Brand - Happy Belly Coconut Water#WorldCoconutDay
Amazon Brand – Happy Belly Coconut Water
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Peach Mango, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes#WorldCoconutDay
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Peach Mango, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Blueberry Pomegranate, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes#WorldCoconutDay
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Blueberry Pomegranate, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes

WORLD COCONUT DAY HISTORY

In 1998, the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community declared World Coconut Day to bring awareness to the powerful nutrients and versatility of this superfood.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldCoconutDay

Crack open a coconut! Learn all the ways to cook with this plentiful nut (um, seed…fruit…drupe). See how many ways you can use the coconut. Will be the oil as a lip balm? Or will you use the milk for a sauce? This versatile ingredient calls for experimentation and adventure.

Share your celebrations using #WorldCoconutDay on social media.

Amazon Fresh, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, 30 Fl Oz #WorldCoconutDay
Amazon Fresh, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, 30 Fl Oz
Anthony's Organic Shredded Coconut, 2 lb, Unsweetened, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Vegan, Keto Friendly#WorldCoconutDay
Anthony’s Organic Shredded Coconut, 2 lb, Unsweetened, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Vegan, Keto Friendly
Let's Do Organic Heavy Coconut Cream – Canned Coconut Cream, Whipped Cream, Heavy Cream, No Guar Gum, Dairy Free, USDA Organic#WorldCoconutDay
Let’s Do Organic Heavy Coconut Cream – Canned Coconut Cream, Whipped Cream, Heavy Cream, No Guar Gum, Dairy Free, USDA Organic
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil - Unrefined, Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, USDA Organic and Non-GMO Cooking Oil, Great as Hair Oil and Skin Oil#WorldCoconutDay
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil – Unrefined, Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, USDA Organic and Non-GMO Cooking Oil, Great as Hair Oil and Skin Oil
Handcraft Blends Fractionated Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz - 100% Pure and Natural - Premium Grade Oil for Skin, Hair,Tonic - Carrier Hair Growth Oil#WorldCoconutDay
Handcraft Blends Fractionated Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz – 100% Pure and Natural – Premium Grade Oil for Skin, Hair,Tonic – Carrier Hair Growth Oil
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Flour (4 lbs) - Gluten Free Flour Substitute for Keto, Paleo and Vegan Baking, Low Fat and Fiber-Rich Coconut Baking Flour, Non-GMO, Unbleached and Unrefined#WorldCoconutDay
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Flour (4 lbs) – Gluten Free Flour Substitute for Keto, Paleo and Vegan Baking, Low Fat and Fiber-Rich Coconut Baking Flour, Non-GMO, Unbleached and Unrefined

NATIONAL CHOP SUEY DAY

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Get your chopsticks ready!  National Chop Suey Day recognizes this American Chinese culinary cuisine each year on August 29. 

Chop suey, which means assorted pieces, is a dish in American Chinese cuisine. The main ingredients include meat (chicken, fish, beef, prawns or pork) and eggs. As the meat cooks over high heat, add vegetables (usually bean sprouts, cabbage, and celery). The dish is bound in a starch-thickened sauce. Typically, rice accompanies the flavorful dish. 

According to food historian Alan Davidson, chop suey is “A prime example of culinary mythology.” These food myths happen with popular foods. Illustrated below, several colorful and conflicting stories tell of chop suey’s possible origin. 

Chop Suey Stories

Some believe chop suey was invented in America by Chinese Americans. However, anthropologist E.N. Anderson finds another conclusion.  According to Anderson, the word tsap seui means miscellaneous leftovers and hails from Taishan, a district of Guangdong Province.  Many early Chinese immigrants traveled from their home in Taishan to the United States.

Another account claims Chinese American cooks who were working on the transcontinental railroad invented chop suey in the 19th century.

Quote mark

A prime example of culinary mythology. ~ Alan Davidson on the origin of chop suey.

One tale stemming from the Quing Dynasty connects to premier Li Hongzhang’s visit in 1896. According to the story, his chef wanted to create a meal suitable for both the Chinese and American palates. Another version of the story tells that Li wandered to a local Chinese restaurant after the hotel kitchen closed. Even though the chef was embarrassed because he had nothing prepared to offer, he made a dish for Li. Comprised of leftover scraps, the chef created the new “chop suey” dish. 

Still another myth tells of an 1860s Chinese restaurant cook in San Francisco. After hours, the chef was forced to serve something to the drunken miners. He had nothing fresh to offer. However, to avoid a beating, he threw leftovers in a wok, providing a makeshift meal to the miners. The miners loved the dish, asking him for the name of the dish.  To which the chef replied, “Chopped Sui.”  

Traveling to the United States in 1903, Liang Oichao, a Guangdong native, wrote that there existed a food item called chop suey. While regularly served by Chinese restaurateurs, the local Chinese people did not eat this dish.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalChopSueyDay

Of course, the directive of the day would be to enjoy some chop suey. But why stop there?

  • Take a cooking class and learn to make it yourself.
  • Pick up a Chinese American cookbook and find a new recipe.
  • Share your favorite chop suey recipe.
  • Give a shout out to the restaurant that cooks it best. We love it when you do that!

Be sure to use #NationalChopSueyDay to post on social media.

National Chop Suey Day: Best Activities & Things To Do On National Chop Suey Day: Way to Have a Good National Chop Suey Day #NationalChopSueyDay
National Chop Suey Day: Best Activities & Things To Do On National Chop Suey Day: Way to Have a Good National Chop Suey Day
Chop Suey, USA: The Story of Chinese Food in America (Arts and Traditions of the Table: Perspectives on Culinary History)#NationalChopSueyDay
Chop Suey, USA: The Story of Chinese Food in America (Arts and Traditions of the Table: Perspectives on Culinary History)
From Canton Restaurant to Panda Express: A History of Chinese Food in the United States (Asian American Studies Today)#NationalChopSueyDay
From Canton Restaurant to Panda Express: A History of Chinese Food in the United States (Asian American Studies Today)
Chinese Takeaway Cookbook: From Chop Suey to Sweet 'n' Sour, Over 70 Recipes to Re-create Your Favourites#NationalChopSueyDay
Chinese Takeaway Cookbook: From Chop Suey to Sweet ‘n’ Sour, Over 70 Recipes to Re-create Your Favourites

Alternating in August

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August is a month of transition, marked by a blend of summer’s lingering warmth and the impending arrival of fall. As families prepare for the back-to-school season, August provides a unique opportunity to celebrate a variety of national days that capture the essence of this transitional period. From quirky observances to meaningful commemorations, the month offers a diverse palette of events that encourage reflection, creativity, and enjoyment.

One of the standout features of August is its rich array of national days that highlight different aspects of life. For instance, National Watermelon Day on August 3 invites families to gather and enjoy this refreshing fruit, perfect for summer picnics. It serves as a reminder of the joys of summer, encouraging people to take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures. Similarly, National Relaxation Day on August 15 prompts individuals to take a break from their busy schedules, emphasizing the importance of self-care and mental well-being.

As August unfolds, the month presents opportunities for community engagement and awareness. National Dog Day on August 26 celebrates our furry companions and raises awareness about the importance of adopting pets from shelters. This day not only honors the bond between humans and dogs but also encourages responsible pet ownership and the significance of animal welfare. Engaging in activities such as dog walks or adoption events can foster community spirit and compassion.

In addition to these celebrations, August is also a time for personal growth and creativity. National Craft Month encourages individuals to explore their artistic sides, whether through painting, knitting, or DIY projects. This observance highlights the therapeutic benefits of crafting, promoting mindfulness and relaxation. By dedicating time to creative pursuits, individuals can find joy in the process of making, which can be particularly fulfilling as summer draws to a close.

Celebrating All August

National Dog Month
Black Business Month
Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
Family Fun Month
Get ready for Kindergarten Month
Happiness Happens Month
International Peace Month
MedicAlert Awareness Month
Motorsports Awareness Month
National Back to School Month
National Brownies at Brunch Month
National Catfish Month
National Crayon Collection Month
National Eye Exam Month
National Goat Cheese Month
National Golf Month
National Hair Loss Awareness Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
National Panini Month
National Sandwich Month
National Water Quality Month
National Wellness Month
Romance Awareness Month
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month                                                                  The Allure of August’s Birthstone: Peridot

August’s traditional birth flowers are the gladiolus (symbolizing strength and sincerity) and the poppy (rest and imagination); the birthstone is peridot, a bright green gem associated with vitality and protection; zodiac signs for August are Leo (July 23–August 22), noted for confidence and warmth, and Virgo (August 23–September 22), known for practicality and attention to detail.

Famous birthdays in August:
– August 4 — Barack Obama 
– August 4 — Meghan Markle 
– August 5 — Neil Armstrong 
– August 6 — Lucille Ball 
– August 7 — Charlize Theron 
– August 9 — Whitney Houston 
– August 11 — Chris Hemsworth 
– August 16 — Madonna 
– August 17 — Robert De Niro 
– August 23 — Kobe Bryant 
– August 29 — Michael Jackson

Ultimately, August’s alternating themes of celebration and reflection create a dynamic atmosphere for individuals and families alike. As the month progresses, it serves as a bridge between the carefree days of summer and the structured routine of fall. By participating in the various national days, people can not only enjoy the present but also prepare for the changes that lie ahead, making August a month of both fun and meaningful experiences.

NATIONAL HOT DOG MONTH

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Hot Diggity Dog!  Or should I say dogs! July is National Hot Dog Month according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council. Grab your dogs and toppings, because here are some interesting bits on an American classic!

Now that the weather has warmed up and gotten nice outside, grilling season is upon us yet again.  Time to fire up those grills and buy some juicy hamburgers, sausages, and hot dogs, of course!

Grilling Accessories, Grill Tools, Fathers Day Grilling Gifts for dad, Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Grill Set BBQ Grill Accessories for Outdoor Grill with Aluminum Case and Apron #NationalGrillingMonth
Grilling Accessories, Grill Tools, Fathers Day Grilling Gifts for dad, Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Grill Set BBQ Grill Accessories for Outdoor Grill with Aluminum Case and Apron

The exact origins of hot dogs are unknown, but likely their predecessor was brought over by immigrants.  What we do know, however, is how they are made, and what goes into them.  Hot dogs are usually pork or beef, but they can be made from poultry as well.  The meat is put into a machine to be finely ground until it resembles a paste or batter (don’t look it up, trust us).

Spices and flavorings are added for flavor, and some brands add sugar or corn syrup for sweetness. Some brands also add preservatives to extend the shelf life of the product.  After the meat has been finely ground, it is sent to a machine that pumps the meat into the casings.  Some brands use cellulose casings, but others still use a traditional natural casing.  After being injected with meat, the casings go through another machine to link the casings into strands of hot dogs.

Johnsonville Brat Griller - BBQ Basket for 5 Sausage Links - Easily Handle, Flip and Grill Brats to Perfection#NationalHotDogMonth
Johnsonville Brat Griller – BBQ Basket for 5 Sausage Links – Easily Handle, Flip and Grill Brats to Perfection

Afterward, the strands of hot dogs are sent to an oven to cook. During this stage, smoke may be used to add extra flavor.  After cooking, the dogs are showered in water to let them cool before being sent to packaging. If a cellulose casing was used, the hot dogs are sent to another machine to remove the casing.  Then they are cut into individual dogs, packaged and sealed ready to be shipped to a store near you.

National Hot Dog Day, July 22

Certified International Hot Dogs Rectangular Tray withHandles 19" x 12" Servware, Accessories,Hostess Serving, Multicolor Brand: Certified International
Certified International Hot Dogs Rectangular Tray withHandles 19″ x 12″ Servware, Accessories,Hostess Serving, Multicolor

Brand: Certified International

Some Fun Facts :

  • Joey Chestnut currently holds the world record in hot dog eating by eating 69 hot dogs (and buns) in 10 minutes
  • The Tokyo Dog food truck located in Seattle, WA holds the record for the most expensive hot dog, costing $169
  • The longest hot dog on record, made by Novex SA of Paraguay in 2011, is 668 ft. and 7.62 in. (203.80m.)

HISTORY

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce first named the first observance of National Hot Dog Month in July, 1956. Since then, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council has begun promoting the month. 

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HOW TO OBSERVE

Invite some friends over and throw some hot dogs on the grill. It’s a great time to have an easy meal and enjoy a leisurely time catching up with people we don’t get to see very often. While you’re at it, try different toppings. Get inspired and throw a hot dog buffet and have each guest bring a different ingredient. What imaginative hot dog combinations will your guests design? Use #NationalHotDogMonth to share on social media.

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