All in all, not a bad day. People seemed to really like the stew (at least a lot of folks said it was better than what the last person did)! However, from what I understand, the bar was not too high.
Probably the one thing that was worth noting, was the difference between the two roasters. The senior center had an older one that had temps on the dial, but no matter where you had the dial it was hot. It was hard to keep it from boiling. The other one was mine. It's a bit newer and probably kept a more accurate temp. There was no thermometer there and I kept forgetting to bring one.
When I arrived in the morning both roasters were looking good. However, as the day went on the stew in the older one got thicker and thicker. Ended up cutting it with some of the stew from my roaster. That worked for a while, then I added some more broth from the McCormick Stew Seasoning. It was good after that.
We ended up with a lot of stew left over. I made about double of what they asked for. As it turned out, the veterans group down the street was having a work day and appreciated the stew.
The group is called 22-2-none. They are working to reduce the number of veteran suicides from 22 a day to none. They purchased an elementary school that the district closed a few years ago. The are renovating classrooms into apartments for vets and their families. Among other things they will also be able to provide temporary housing, counseling and recreational opportunities.
I was talking with the director about doing something for them at Christmas. As it turns out they are having a Christmas party December 11 during the Army/Navy game.
Looks like I will be doing food for the party. So, my next big cook will be Italian beef and Philly cheese steak, brats, and chicken drumsticks. Tried to go with kind of a tailgate theme. Watch for details coming soon!
I sure enjoyed all the discussion and feedback on the stew. It wouldn't have been nearly as good without you!!! Thanks!!
