Winter 2016         

   

It's hard to believe we are entering the end of the winter season of 2016, a nd what a winter it has been! Record snow storms, unseasonably warm days and everything in between.  Speaking of 2016, let me wish you all the best in the new year! 

I find this  time of year to be very exciting.  Festivities begin with friends as we celebrate Saint Patrick's Day.  This month's special includes a healthy twist on the traditional Shepherd's Pie by substituting chicken for lamb. (I still have a few extra pounds to shed from the holiday season.)

Shortly after Saint Patrick's Day we find ourselves gathering with family as we celebrate Easter and Passover Before you know it the Cherry Blossom Festival will be here! 

With spring we find ourselves venturing out into the community more.  I would suggest visiting the "Community Corner" of the newsletter to learn more about Martha's Table. Perhaps you can donate some time or resources to this great organization.

In the "Etiquette Section" I thought I would remind everyone of the start of lent and Passover seasons.  Remember to plan your menus for those guests who may be observing these holidays.  Always serve a fish option on Fridays for those observing lent and have unleavened menu items for those observing Passover.

My team and I were honored to be recognized by Comptroller Franchot of the State of Maryland this past December See the photo from Comptroller Franchot's visit displayed "In The News" section.
 
Finally, I have included a recipe for one of my favorite winter comfort foods; Jambalaya! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
 
If you have any questions, pick up the phone and give me a call or send me an email.  My team and I are here to help you with all of your entertaining.

Josh
 
Josh Carin, Geppetto Catering, Inc.
  
  
  
  
 
Etiquette Section 
Passover and Lent 
  
If you are organizing a company meeting or event during the upcoming religious periods; Passover or the season of Lent; consider these alternative menu options to satisfy all of your guests' needs.  
  • Passover begins Friday, April 22nd and ends Saturday, April 30th. Those who observe Passover avoid leavened bread. Menu alternatives include entree salads (opposed to sandwiches), matzah (instead of rolls and butter), and macaroons (instead of cookies and brownies).
  • Lent is the Christian season of preparation before Easter. In Western Christianity, Ash Wednesday marks the first day, or the start of the season of Lent, which begins 40 days prior to Easter. Those observing Lent may request non meat options such as fish or a vegetarian dish. Consider including one of these selections as an alternative to meat or poultry. 
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Chicken Jambalaya 
  
Ingredients: 
2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 ½ medium yellow onion, chopped
1 ½ green bell pepper, chopped
6 stalks celery, chopped
2 tablespoon chopped garlic
1.5 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 1/2 cups long grain rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced plum tomatoes, with juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon oil. Add the chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and brown on both sides, about 7 minutes, working in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken to a plate. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the onions, peppers, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, Cajun seasoning, cayenne, salt and pepper, and give it a stir. Stir in the rice. Add the chicken back to the pot, along with the broth and tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 30 minutes. 
 
Comptroller Franchot visited @GeppettoCaters and recognized owner Josh Carin to promote Shop MD for the Holidays       
 
Community Corner  
  

Celebrating 35 Years of Martha's Table

Martha's Table began in 1979 as a result of the partnership between  Dr. Veronica Maz and Father Horace McKenna, who wanted to create a safe place for children to eat and read after school. In response to the needs of our community, Martha's Table gradually expanded their services.  They now address emergency needs with food and clothing programs, and work to ensure a bright future for children and families through education and family support services.
Today, Martha's Table reaches thousands of people through food, education, and thrift store programs with significant support from 16,000 volunteers every year.

Learn more: MarthasTable.org

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For Over 25 Years 

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