Thanks for the Memories

To our readers:

We at Tailgate Philly wanted to say thank you for a great couple months. We are going to be taking a little time off but will be coming back better than ever in a few weeks. Keep checking back as the summer goes on as we have a great few more months of 2009 to make some special tailgate memories. Keep sending us your stories and photos, they are really awesome. Thanks again for all of your support.

-Tailgate Philly

Weekend Suggestions

This weekend, go see The Killers in Camden at the Susquehanna Bank Center. The show starts at 8PM and tickets are still available.

If you head up to the show, let us know how it is.

Photo from LiveNation

Tailgating Drink Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe and photo come from Social Couture


Primo Margarita

Ingredients:
1.5 oz. 100% Agave Tequila (Silver, Reposado or Anejo) .75 oz. Cointreau 2 oz. fresh lemon sour Juice of a whole lime freshly squeezed with a TAG Citrus Juicer

Directions:
Shake, strain into an ice filled Goblet (salt optional) Garnish with a lime wedge.

Tailgating Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe comes from Tailgating.com

Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

1 10 oz loaf stale French bread, crumbled (or 6-8 cups any type bread)

2 cups heavy cream

2 cups Amaretto

2 cups sugar

8 tsp. butter, melted

3 eggs2 tsp. vanilla

3 cups toasted slivered almonds

1 tsp. each cinnamon and nutmeg

Directions:

Combine all ingredients; mixture should be very moist but not soupy. Pour into buttered 9x12" or larger baking dish. Place into non-preheated oven. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, until top is golden brown. Serve warm with sauce.

Photo from CarolsKitchen

Weekend Suggestions

Its that time of year again. The World Phucking Champs will be taking on their annoying neighbors to the north, the New York Mets. The Mets are coming in for a big weekend series. Tickets for all three games are sold out but some standing room only tickets are sure to be sold before each game. Lets show the stinking Mets fans how we tailgate, the way World Champs do.

The weather is looking good, so, get out and make us proud. Send us your stories and your pictures. For tips, check out that Sam Adams website, it really has some good stuff for what is sure to be a great weekend.

Photo from the AP

Tailgate Drink Suggestion of the Week

We had to share this with you. This was the highlight of the Sixers Game 3 tailgate. A very big hit. Give it a shot.

Bacon Salt Martini.

3 oz. Vodka (I like Kettle One)
splash Dry Vermouth
Bacon Salt (original or peppered)
lemon wedge

Rinse a chilled cocktail glass with the Vermouth. Next, et the rim with the lemon and dip into a plate of Bacon Salt. Use the peppered for extra kick. Shake the vodka with ice and strain. Garnish with bacon - of course!

Recipe and picute from Drink of the Week

Sam Adams Suggestions

We were looking around the web for some different information to share with you. We came accross the Sam Adams website. This website provides a lot of great information but none better than how it pairs its wonderful beers with good. Here is what they suggest with any beef, pork, of game meal. If you like what you see, check out the Sam Adams website.


Steaks (sirloin, filet mignon, flank, etc)
Samuel Adams® Black Lager
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
A nice steak will have some big flavors no matter how it is prepared. You will need a nicely balanced beer to not only complement the meat but also cleanse your palate for the next bite. Samuel Adams Boston Lager® is the perfect pairing for steak. The upfront malt flavor in the Samuel Adams Boston Lager® goes well with the caramelized flavors in the steak, while the hops lift some of the heaviness. But you can also lean towards a darker roasted beer like the Black Lager

Burgers
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
Sam Adams Light®
Samuel Adams® Summer Ale
If you have a burger with some heavy toppings, you are going to need a seriously flavorful beer to cleanse your palate and match flavors in your burger. Samuel Adams Boston Lager® is your beer. If you went for more of a plain burger with cheese, lettuce and tomato, Summer Ale or Sam Adams Light® will be a little lighter and can serve you just as well.

Chili
Samuel Adams® Brown Ale
Samuel Adams® Holiday Porter
Our Brown Ale was made to be paired with chili. All of the slow-cooked flavors that are blended in chili are reminiscent of the six varieties of malts that we blend in Brown Ale. Brown Ale's roasted sweetness matches nicely with the roasted flavors of the beans, meat and tomatoes. Another way you can go with this is to match spiciness with spiciness and have a Holiday Porter with the chili - also very tasty.

Cheese steak
Samuel Adams® Black Lager
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
A wonderful late snack with some serious flavors. But whether its your first or last of the night you will need a Samuel Adams Boston Lager® or Black Lager to match the sweetness in the onions as well as to lift the greasiness from your palate.

Corned beef
Samuel Adams® Boston Ale
Samuel Adams® Honey Porter
Corned beef intense flavors need to be paired with a bold malty beer that can stand up to its flavors. Boston Ale and Honey Porter provide the body and deep roasted malt character that make it a nice complement to corned beef.

Pot Roast
Samuel Adams® Black Lager
Samuel Adams® Honey Porter
Samuel Adams® OctoberFest
A pot roasts big and bold flavors are complemented by the robust malt character of all of these beers. The malt blends give the beers the body to stand up to the flavorful meat and gravy.

BBQ ribs
Samuel Adams® Black Lager
Samuel Adams® Honey Porter
Samuel Adams® OctoberFest
Sweet and smoky flavors are all over this dish, so there are a number of ways you can go here. The Black Lager and Honey Porter have both of those flavor characteristics from the dark roasted malt and have the big flavor that can complement most bbq sauces. If you want, lean a little toward the sweet caramel flavors of the OctoberFest instead.

Pulled pork
Samuel Adams® Black Lager
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
Sam Adams Light®
This slow-cooked favorite has intense roasted sweet flavors that overpower many beers. But the perfectly balanced nature of Sam Adams Light® and Samuel Adams Boston Lager® are a perfect match to the sweet and sometimes heavy flavors of the pork. For a little darker roasted flavor try it with the Black Lager.

Bratwurst
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
Samuel Adams® OctoberFest
For this flavorful German sausage, we'll stay right in the region and pair it with our OctoberFest. The big sweet flavors of the malt stands up to the complexities of the sausage. A Samuel Adams Boston Lager® would also pair well as the hops would lift any heavy flavors from the palate and get you ready for the next bite.

Roasted pork tenderloin
Samuel Adams® Double Bock
Samuel Adams® OctoberFest
The rich flavors of pork tenderloin require a flavorful beer in return. The strong malt character in both our Double Bock and OctoberFest have the gusto to match the great pork flavors.

Hot sausage
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
Samuel Adams® Brown Ale
Samuel Adams® OctoberFest
The sweetness of the OctoberFest and Brown Ale contrast with the spicy sausage. Or you can complement that spiciness with the hops of the Samuel Adams Boston Lager®.

Sweet sausage
Samuel Adams® Boston Ale
Samuel Adams® Honey Porter
The deep roasted flavors of the Honey Porter match the flavors of the pork, and the touch of Heather honey picks up the sweetness in the sausage. It’s a perfect pairing. Boston Ale's maltiness also pairs well.

Ham
Samuel Adams Cherry Wheat®
Samuel Adams® Old Fezziwig® Ale
Samuel Adams® Scotch Ale
The smoky flavors that come from a baked ham match up perfectly with the smoky sweetness of our Scotch Ale. If there is a nice sweet glaze on the ham, it can pair well with Cherry Wheat. In addition, a spicy Old Fezziwig® can match well with a salty ham.

Chorizo
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
Samuel Adams® Brown Ale
Samuel Adams® OctoberFest
This spicy Spanish sausage brings a lot of flavor to any dish. The sweetness of the OctoberFest and Brown Ale contrast and cool the sausage's spiciness. Or you can complement that spiciness with the hops of the Samuel Adams Boston Lager®.

Venison
Samuel Adams® Black Lager
Samuel Adams Boston Lager®
Similar to steak, venison is full of big flavors but it is typically a little gamier. Samuel Adams Boston Lager® and Black Lager are so balanced that they handle venison with ease.

Roasted lamb
Samuel Adams® Scotch Ale
Samuel Adams® Summer Ale
Samuel Adams® Winter Lager
This pairing is going to really depend on the spices used in preparation. If prepared with other big heavy flavors, lean towards the Scotch Ale or Winter Lager. If prepared with herbs or lemon (lighter flavors), go with the Summer Ale.

Tailgating Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe comes from BusyCooks

Mini Roast Beef Pizzas

This simple recipe for homemade pizzas uses deli foods and convenience products so it's ready in minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:
4 Tbsp. olive oil
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cups deli roast beef, sliced
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 cup pizza sauce
4 (6") cheese Boboli® crust
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add green pepper and onion and cook and stir for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender. Remove from heat and add roast beef and salt.

Spread pizza sauce on each Boboli crust, then divide beef mixture evenly among the crusts. Sprinkle each pizza evenly with cheese. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet for 8-10 minutes until cheese melts and pizza is heated. Serves 4

Photo from Google

Weekend Suggestions

This weekend head to Upper Darby to catch Demetri Martin at the Tower Theater. He is really funny and has a new show on Comedy Central which got great reviews. The show starts at 8PM on Friday.

For tailgating, do it up! There is a lot of room to do so. Weather is looking great, have a blast. Let us know if you go!

Photo from LiveNation

Tailgating Drink Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe comes from Social Couture (also, photo is from here)


Bloody Mary 'Classic'

Ingredients :
1½ oz. Finlandia Vodka 4 oz. Campbell’s tomato juice 4 dashes Worcestershire sauce 2 dashes Tabasco sauce Pinch of kosher salt Pinch of coarse ground pepper Juice of ¼ lemon (freshly squeezed)

Directions:
Build in an ice filled mixing glass, roll contents between mixing glass and tin and strain into an ice filled goblet. Garnish with a lemon wedge

Tailgating Stories from You the Readers

This week we got an e-mail that had nothing to do with Tailgating but one that we had to share with all of you. This was sent to us from Billy, an 8-year-old from South Philadelphia.

Saturday morning Daddy and I got up extra early to go say goodbye to Harry Kalas. He tells me one day I will look back on this and never forget it. Harry taught me baseball. I used to talk like him when I was playing with my friends or on my little league team. I walked past him on the field and told him that I loved him and I will miss him. I hope Harry is happy in heaven and looking down on these Phillies. Thank you.

Send us you stories and we will post the good ones.

Photo from the AP

Tailgating Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe comes from Tailgating.com

Dan's Scrimp Scampi

Ingredients:

2lb bag frozen E-Z Peel Shrimp (21-25 per pound)

3-4 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced)Olive Oil

1/4 cup parsley - chopped

1 lemon

Salt, Cayenne Pepper

1 Cheap Frying Pan

Directions:
At home, run cold water over Shrimp until they are unfrozen, completely peel shrimp, throw in freezer bag, transport to game in cooler over ice.

At game, Heat (about a pancake sized circle of) Olive Oil in Frying Pan. Add minced garlic once oil is hot - but not burning or frying. Cut lemon into half, save one half. Take other half of lemon and cut in to quarters, save. Once garlic just starts to brown, throw in all of the shrimp, stir shrimp. Keep stirring to make sure that the shrimp is evenly pink. Once all of the shrimp are opaque and pink, take off heat.

In frying pan of shrimp, add about 1+ tsp salt, juice from the 1/2 lemon and about 2 tsp cayenne pepper. Mix. Transfer to plate, top with parsley, and throw the lemon quarters on the side.

Photo from Freewebs

Weekend Suggestions

This weekend if you cant make it to the Phillies game, we are suggesting the Lily Allen concert. She is an up and coming musician with a good fan base. She will be at the TLA Saturday. Her show will start at 9PM.

For a tailgate, keep it small, the TLA is on South Street. Have a great time, let us know how the show is. If you are headed to CPB for a Phils game, tell us about your tailgates.

Photo from Celeb9.com

Tailgating Drink for the Week

This weeks tailgating drink recipes comes from IDrink.com

Big Slam

Ingredients:

22.0 oz Ice Cold Lemon Lime Soda

8.0 oz Lemon Rum

Directions:
Mix in a 30 oz bottle

This is good to have with a meat tailgate. The soda will not fill you up that much and the liquor is okay to mix with a big meal. We also suggest this because of how good it is. Try it!

Photo from Bottlecapman

Don't forget to pay those taxes!!!

Personal Reflection

"Outta Here" These words will be said again and again in a variety of ways, but never again will they be uttered by Harry Kalas. Harry Kalas passed away Monday just before the Phillies were set to play a game against the Washington Nationals. He collapsed in the broadcast booth and was taken to the hospital then sadly died. Kalas is the Philadelphia Phillies. His voice and famous calls will live forever in this city and with this team.

From sitting on the beach in the summer with a radio listening to the Phillies game to the final call of the World Series last year, Harry brought the game of baseball to life for anyone who had the honor of listening to him. Personally, I have been learning the game of baseball and letting Harry into my life for 22 years. Harry Kalas is someone who dealt with a lot but nothing ever got in the way of his work, even the loss of his best friend and partner Richie Ashburn. Ashburn passed away in New York in 1998. I had the honor of meeting Kalas and shaking his hand a little more than a week ago. Our conversation went something like this...

Me: Hi Mr. Kalas, I just started interning here.

Harry: That's great, we are glad to have you. Don't let this take away from your study time.

Me: Don't worry, I won't. I just wanted to introduce myself and let you know that you are the reason I am a baseball fan. You taught me the game and are someone I admire and respect greatly.

Harry: Well thank you young man. I'll be seeing you around the ballpark.

Me: It is going to be my honor Mr. Kalas.

Harry: Call me Harry, after all, we are co-workers.

Me: Sounds good Harry, enjoy the game.

Harry: You too, take care.

Rest in peace my friend. Thank you.

Photos from the Phillies

Tailgating Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe comes from Cooks.com and in honor of the Masters this weekend...

CHOCOLATE GOLF BALLS

Ingredients:

2 1/2 c. graham cracker crumbs

1 lb. confectioners sugar (4 1/2 c. sifted-3 1/2 c. unsifted)

2 sticks butter, melted7 oz. coconut

12 oz. jar peanut butter

1 1/2 c.1 c. chopped nuts

2 or 3 (12 oz.) bags chocolate chips

Directions:

Step 1: Mix together all dry ingredients except chocolate chips, then add butter and peanut butter.
Step 2: Shape into small balls.
Step 3: Melt two 12 ounce bags of chocolate chips (might need 3 bags).

Dip balls into chocolate and let set on wax paper (use forks for dipping).

Refrigerate.

(Best to melt 1/2 the chocolate at a time)

Photo from Wolfman.com

Weekend Suggestions

Live weekend in Atlantic City, Jimmy Fallon will be at the Borgata doing his stand up at the Music Box. The show starts at 9 and tickets are still available.



Fallon is the new host of the Late Show, which has gotten terrible reviews, but still, he is funny and has been known for his good stand up. And if all else fails, he will always have his Red Soxs.

Photo from LiveNation

Tailgating Stories from You the Readers

This story was sent to us from Alex who was at Opening Day for the Phillies all the way from Israel!!!



I lived and grew up in Philadelphia for the first 15 years of my life. At 16, I dropped out of high school and moved to Israel. I needed to leave this area. I didn't speak to my family and was finding myself in a lot of trouble. After not coming home or speaking to my Dad for 10 years, I called him and said I was coming home for the World Series. So, at the age of 26, I was back in Philadelphia for a week. I spent all the time with my Dad and we watch our Phillies win the World Series. I went back to Israel after that but we kept in touch. I was happy that I could share that with him. He called me about a month ago and told me he got 2 tickets for opening day and asked me to go with him. As soon as we hung up the phone, I booked my flight to be there to see my team start to defend their title. I know they didn't win, but Dad and I had such a great time. We got to the parking lot at 10AM and tailgated all day. We had a BBQ all set up. We smoked Israeli cigars and drank some Goldstar (an Israeli beer often compared to Yards). That was a day that I will never forget.

Send us you stories and we will post the good ones.



Photo from Daylife

Put A Ring On It

Tomorrow the World Phucking Champion Phillies will be getting their World Series rings before their 3 o'clock game against the Braves. Tickets are sold out and have been for a while, but if you are headed down, here are some tips and a recipe to help make sure your tailgate rocks!



Rings from the 1980 Championship season

Tips:

• Game temperature is going to be about 50 degrees. There is no rain in the forecast, but dress warm. The sun should be out for the majority of the game to which will help.
• Get their early! There was a lot of problems with the parking on Sunday and you do not want to miss the pre game action.
• Plan for traffic. There will be standing room only tickets released the day of the game which means there will be more traffic than normal in the area.

Recipe (Provided by Ask.com)

Beef and Red Wine Stew

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds stew beef
3/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 to 2 medium carrots, sliced
2 ribs celery, sliced
1 medium onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup dry red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon
1/2 teaspoon fresh chopped rosemary, or a dash of crumbled dried rosemary
1 jar (15 ounces) small onions, or 10 to 16 ounces frozen small onions, thawed

Preparation:
Trim stew beef and cut in small bite-size pieces. Put in a food storage bag with the flour, onion powder, and seasoned salt; toss to coat well.
Heat oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven; add beef to hot oil and cook, stirring, until lightly browned. Add the onion and celery; continue cooking, stirring, for about 3 minutes. Add carrots, garlic, broth, wine, and rosemary; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Add drained or thawed onions. Continue cooking for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until beef is tender. Serve with biscuits or hot cooked noodles. Serves 6.

Photo from Google

Well, we were wrong...

It wasn't the best weekend for the city. Nova came up very short in their attempt to win a National Championship losing to UNC Saturday night. They made only five three pointers while shooting 27 of them, not a great way to try to win a game.

The Phillies also came up flat like they do in almost every home opener. Brett "Long Ball" Meyers gave up three home runs in the first two innings, helping the Braves get a 4 run lead and win the game 4-1.

Phils get back in action tomorrow at 7:05. Tomorrow we will also preview the Phils game Wednesday at 3, which is when they will get their World Series rings.

Photo from the AP

Last Minute...

As of now, the weather still looks dry for both Philadelphia and Detroit. So, we are going to give you our predictions for Villanova's game Saturday at 9 o'clock against North Carolina on CBS.



Nova - 79 UNC - 77




As for the Phillies, it looks like Brett Meyers will be getting the start for the Phils, his third opening day start in as many seasons. The Phillies do not have good opening day numbers, but they haven't opening the seasons as defending champs since opening day 1981.


Phillies - 5 Braves - 3

Again, everyone have fun, be safe, and tell us all of your stories when you get back. If we here at Tailgate Philly are correct on our picks, it looks like this is going to be a great weekend for the city. Live it up.

Photos from ESPN

The Most Wonderful Day of the Year

That's right ladies and gentlemen, its almost here, OPENING DAY!!!



The World Phucking Champion Phillies will take on the Atlanta Braves Sunday night at 8PM. The game is being played at Citizen Bank Park. The game is beyond sold out so watch it on ESPN2.

Below you will find a recipe from CDK for your tailgating pleasure for before the game. If you are planning on tailgating, don't try to do it in the Phillies lots, they are really annoying about that.

Open Faced Hamburger Phillies Recipe

Ingredients:
1 pound Lean Ground Beef1 medium Green Bell Pepper -- cut into 1/2" strips
1 medium Red Bell Pepper -- cut into 1/2" strips
1 small Onion -- cut into thin wedges
1/2 cup Creamy Italian Salad Dressing
1 (12 Inch Long) Loaf Italian Bread -- halved lenghtwise
1 package (8 Oz) Thinly Sliced Provolone Cheese

Directions:
In large skillet cook ground beef, bell peppers and onion over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes or until beef is thoroughly cooked, stirring frequently. Drain. Stir in 1/4 cup of the salad dressing. Remove skillet from heat. Spread remaining 1/4 cup salad dressing on cut sides of bread. Place both halves, cut side up, on ungreased large cookie sheet. Broil 4-6 inches from heat for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted. Remove bread from broiler. Spread beef mixture on cut halves of bread. Top with cheese. Return to broiler; broil 4-6 inches from heat for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted. Cut each half into 2 pieces

If you are heading to the game, post your stories and share it with us. Have a great time and enjoy the start of what hopes to be a repeat season.



Photo from the NY Times

Cats in Motown

First, something must be said for what Jay Wright has done on the main line. He took over a program that was in a lot of trouble and did what he had to do to bring in big players and put the Nova name back on the map. From all of us here at Tailgate Philly we would like to wish the best of luck to them in the Final Four and congratulations on an already amazing season.

If you are heading to Detriot for the weekend, bring warm clothes and tailgating material. It is going to be very cold and windy outside of Ford Field. As of now, it does not look like it is going to rain which is a plus. Below, you will find a recipe for your enjoying pleasure from the Washington Post.

Jimmy the B's Wildcat Barbecue Spice Rub

Summary:
This rub tastes better than store-bought brands we've tried. Use it with BBQ Quesadillas With Jay's Quick and Easy Barbecue Sauce.
Makes about 1/4 cup

Ingredients:
3/4 teaspoon cumin seeds, toasted*
1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds, toasted*
2 1/2 pieces dried chipotle peppers, toasted*, broken into pieces, seeds removed
2 teaspoons diced sun-dried tomatoes, not packed in oil (optional)
2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon powdered mustard
1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns

Directions:
Place all the ingredients in a food processor or spice grinder and pulse until the spices are well blended. (Remove the large pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, if using.) Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
To toast the cumin and coriander seeds:
*Note: To toast the cumin and coriander seeds, place a small skillet over medium heat. Add the seeds (do this in separate batches) and toast, shaking the pan occasionally, until the spices are fragrant, 2 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a heatproof bowl and cool completely. To toast the dried chili peppers, place them in a dry skillet over moderate heat for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully so they don't burn.

If you are headed out to Detriot, send us or post your stories when your back. Have a blast and Go Cats!!!

Photo from the AP

Opening Day and the Final Four

What a great weekend we have coming up. Saturday to Monday is Final Four weekend in Motown with Phillys own Villanova Wildcats taking part in the action and Sunday night the defending World Phucking Champion Phillies will start their season.

This week we are going to look at both events and their possible tailgates. Tuesday we will focus of the Final Four, Wednesday we will cover Opening Day, and Thursday we will have last minute suggestions as we look at the weekend weather.


Check back with us tomorrow and get ready for a great 3 days.


Photo from DailyLife

Game Preview

Today, we are going to do something that we do not normally do and that is take a look at the game that a lot of our readers are attending tonight. The Villanova Wildcats will be playing the Duke Blue Devils. This is a game between two very historic teams. Both have won national titles and both always seen to be near the top in the national rankings.

We are picking Nova and not because they are a Philadelphia team or because some of us here have them in our Final Four in our brackets, but because of the match ups. It is simple, SIZE WINS and Villanova has it and Duke does not. It should be a great game.
The game is on CBS tonight at 10PM. Enjoy!


Our prediction - Nova 85 Duke 77

Sweet 16 Tailgates

For those of you headed up to Boston to cheer on the Villanova Wildcats on their quest for the Final Four, here are some tips for you to remember.

• Bring some warm clothes, Boston is always colder than Philadelphia


• If you want to tailgate, get prepared there. Unless you are driving to Boston, then go all out.


• As far as food and drinks for your tailgate, do not take anything that will need heat to enjoy. Keeping it simple will ensure that you have the best time with the least amount of supplies.

If you are headed up to Boston or just hanging in Philly, remember the game is set to tip at 10PM on Thursday. Good luck Villanova!


For those of you lucky enough to go, tell us your stories about your trip!

Tailgating Stories by You the Readers

This weeks tailgating story was sent to us by Jack from Newtown.

Last Thursday my Dad and I took off of work and headed down the the Wachoiva Center for the opening rounds of the March Madness tournament. It is something I will never forget. Not because we are both alumni of Villanova but because of what we did between the two sessions of games.

We made an old fashion Irish tailgate. Using most of the suggestions provided here, we had such a great time and it really is something that I will never forget. Thanks for everything and we are looking forward to our trip to Boston this weekend for the Sweet 16.

Send us your stories and we will post the most interesting ones.

Tailgating Recipe of the Week

This week's recipe comes from Heinz Field Red Zone

Kansas City Barbecued Ribs

Ingredients:
4 tbsp. vegetable oil
2 large onions - thinly sliced
1 tbsp. dried thyme
1 cup bourbon
2 cups Heinz Hickory Smoked Barbecue Sauce
4 baby back racks, cut into halves

Directions:

For sauce: In the vegetable oil, sauté the onions until they begin to soften. Add the thyme and the Bourbon and simmer until the mixture is reduced to a glaze. Mix in the Heinz Hickory Smoked Barbecue sauce and bring to a boil.
Season the ribs with salt and pepper. Roast them in a 350-degree oven on a rack. Do not cover the ribs. Turn them once and cook them until they are tender and cooked through.
When ready to serve - preheat your dacor grill to a medium high heat. Put the rib rack halves on the grill and brush them with the barbecue sauce. Grill them until they are well glazed and browned. Serve the remaining sauce along side of the ribs.

Photo from BBQ Ribs

March Madness Tailgating Alternative

If you are going to be in South Philly for the games this weekend and are not tailgating, we are going to suggest going to Chickies and Petes. Chickies and Petes is the best sports bar in Philadelphia, according to many publications and media outlets. It is located on Packer Ave, minutes from all of the sports complexes.

They are known for their Crab Fries, and trust us, they are amazing. Have a great time at the games. Let us know about your experiences.

Weather for March Madness

It looks like it may rain on Thursday. Dont let that spoil your tailgate! It is going to be in the 50's which means that it will not be to hot or to cold so all you will need to do is get a tarp from any tailgate supplies stores from our suggests list.

Saturday is going to be great, so enjoy! Have fun at the games, let us know what happens if you are attending. Good luck to everyone in their brackets.

Food and Drinks for March Madness

If you are attending the opening rounds at the Wachoiva Center on Thursday and Saturday, here are some suggestions to make your tailgate better.

In honor of the Villanova Wildcats...

Food:

Wildcat Carmel Brownies

Ingredients:
Package German Chocolate Cake Mix

1/2 container Carmel Fruit Dip (warm in microwave, so it’s pourable)

3/4 c. melted butter or margarine

1/3 c. evaporated milk, undiluted1 c. chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips (optional)1 c. chopped nuts (optional) Combine dry cake mix, butter, milk, and nuts. Stir by hand until dough holds together. Press one half of dough into a 9×13″ greased & floured pan. Bake at 350 degrees for six minutes. Remove from oven and let set a minute or two.

Steps:

Pour/spread on Carmel fruit dip, make sure it’s pretty soft, or if you try to spread it will tear up your brownies. Sprinkle chocolate chips over Carmel. Put remaining cake batter over the top of Carmel and chocolate chips.

Tip:

I find the best way to do this is to take an egg-sized ball of batter- it sets up really fast- in my hand and flatten it like I’m making a hamburger and place it on top of Carmel/chips. Continue until you use all of the batter-there will be small spaces between batter.

Bake 15 to 18 minutes more. It may appear that it is not thoroughly cooked, but once it cools, it will be soft and chewy. Cut into small squares.

In honor of St. Pattys Day...

Drinks:

The Shamrocker

Ingredients:

2 oz Three Olives® vodka Raspberry

1/2 oz melon liqueur

1/2 oz triple sec

1 splash cranberry juice

1 splash orange juice

Steps:

Mix with ice, and garnish with lime

Recipe from Tailgating Recipes and Drinks Mixer

Photos from Google

NCAA Touney Week

Well, its finally here. First, let us give a congrats to the Villanova Wildcats and the Temple Owls for getting to the big dance. The Wildcats had a great season earning an at large bid in a very talented Big East conference. The Owls did it the old fashion way winning three games in three days to win the Atlantic 10 title, their second in as many years.

Stay tuned all week as we will lead you up to the opening rounds, some games taking place here at the Wachovia Center.

Tuesday we will have some food and drink suggestions to make your tailgate amazing.

Wednesday we will look at the weather for the upcoming three or four days and make sure it wont get in the way of your tailgate.

Finally, Thursday, we will look at places to attend before, after, or between games at the Wachoiva Center if you do not plan on having a tailgate.

Weekend Suggestions

This is a great weekend for college basketball lovers. Everyone needs to head down to Atlantic City for the Atlantic 10 Tourney. Local schools Temple, La Salle, and St. Joes will be fighting for a spot in the finals game Saturday night for a chance to go to the NCAA Tourney. All of the games are held at Boardwalk Hall. Last year Temple beat St. Joes in the finals to advance to the NCAA Tounrey for the first time since 2001. The Tourney tipped off Wednesday but there is still plently more great basketball to be played.

If you want to Tailgate, just find a bunch of college kids playing beer pong on the Boardwalk and join up with them. These games are always fun and memorable. For more information about tickets, directions, and the times of games and who is playing, click here

Tailgate Supplies

This week we are going to take a break from food and look at a great place to get all the supplies you need for a great tailgate. Tailgate Pros is a website that is "Your one stop source for all of your tailgating needs. If you have outdoor party needs you have come to the right place. We have tailgate supplies for the big game at the stadium as well as the family get together in the back yard. The Tailgating Pros have supplies for everyone," according to their website.

Their website allows you to search for items by categories such as BBQ accessories, sunglasses, flags and much more. One of our favorite features about their site is the Featured Product section. They give you a good tip to really improve any tailgate. The site is run by John M., an Eagles fan and a wonderful tailgater. If you have any questions or would like more information about their website, e-mail John at thetailgatingpros@hotmail.com

Pictures provided by John M. and Tailgate Pros

Weekend Suggestions

This weekend, there is a sweet concert at the Electric Factory. The concert, Rockstar Taste of Chaos featuring Thursdays, Sour Years Strong, Bring me the Horizon, Pierce the Veil and Cancer Bats is set to start at 7:00 PM, and the doors open at 6:00PM.

Since you are at the Electric Factory, as most of you know from reading these past post, there is not such room for a tailgate. So, we are going to suggest a restaurant to eat before you head to the concert. Give The Spaghetti Warehouse a shot. It is located on 11th and Spring Garden. There is free parking in the back and the food is not that expensive and not bad either. Let us know how the show is if you are going and what you think of the food.

Photo from Livenation

Tailgating Stories from You the Readers

This was sent to us from Amy who is living in London after being born and raised in Atlanta.

I have been in London for 3 years after being in the states for 22 years. I never went to a sporting event here but attended a few while home. Nothing was as exciting as the Manchester vs Chelsea friendly that I went to. The game was great but before the game was even better.

We ate some really cool food. We ate fish and chips, which is fried fish and french fries along with some good old American beer, Miller Lite. We also had some good veggies and these wonderful cookies that can only be bought in Golders Green. I loved the tailgate and game so much, I may come to some more.

Photo from TopNews

Send us your stories and we will post the most interesting ones.

Personal Reflection

Normally today we would post an update on news that is going on in the tailgate world. However, we can not sit by and just ignore something that happened over the weekend. Brian Dawkins, an Eagles for 13 years, signed with Denver on Saturday. I don't care why he left. Money, contract years, wanted a change, or he felt like he needed to go, the bottom line is the Eagles should be ashamed of themselves.





I have been an Eagles fan my entire life but now I don't know. How do you let your heart and soul just get up and leave? The Eagles should have given him anything short of renaming the stadium after him to keep him here. There is no use crying over spilled milk, but I can say without question that part of me wants Dawkins to win a Superbowl before the Eagles to prove a point. WIP is trying to get everyone who will be at the Eagles first regular season game to wear a Dawkins jersey and I am all for that. Do it. Good luck Brain, we love you!

Let us know what you think.

Tailgate Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe comes from AOL Food



Grilled Chicken Under Bricks



INGREDIENTS:
2 large, whole, boneless, skinless chicken breasts (12 to 16 ounces each) or 4 half breasts (each 6 to 8 ounces)
1 teaspoon Coarse Salt
1 teaspoon Cracked Black Peppercorns
1/2 t teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon Garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary, chopped
Juice of 1 Lemon
1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
4 bricks Each Wrapped in Aluminum Foil
Oak chunks for building the fire, or 2 cups wood chips (preferably oak), soaked for 1 hour in cold water to cover, then drained






COOKING INSTRUCTIONS:
If using whole breasts, cut each in half. Trim any sinews or excess fat off the chicken breasts and discard. Rinse the breasts under cold running water, then drain and blot dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the breasts on both sides with the salt, cracked black pepper, and hot red pepper flakes. Sprinkle the breasts with the garlic and rosemary, patting them on with your fingers. Arrange the breasts in a non-reactive baking dish. Pour the lemon juice and oil over them and let marinate in the refrigerator, covered, for 30 minutes to 1 hour, turning several times.

Set up the grill for direct grilling and preheat to high. In the best of all worlds, you’d build your fire with oak chunks. Alternatively, use gas or charcoal, plus soaked wood chips for smoke. If using a gas grill, place all the wood chips in the smoker box or in a smoker pouch and preheat until you see smoke.

When ready to cook, brush and oil the grill grate. If using a charcoal grill, toss the wood chips on the coals. Arrange the chicken breasts on the hot grate, all facing the same direction, at a 45 degree angle to the bars of the grate. Place a brick on top of each. Grill the breasts until cooked, 4 to 6 minutes per side, rotating the breasts 90 degrees after 2 minutes on each side to create an attractive cross-hatch of the grill marks. To test for doneness, poke a breast in the thickest part with your finger. It should feel firm to the touch. Transfer the breasts to plates or a platter and serve at once.

Photo from Eating Well

Weekend Suggestion

This weekend, the funniest man in our opinion, Frank Caliendo is going to be in Atlantic City. Go see him! His impressions are second to none.

As far as tailgating, just go to eat in one of the most amazing casinos. The food is great, and it is fun. Please, anyone who is going to be there, tell us about great the show is.

Photo from Newsday

Tailgating Stories from You the Readers

This was e-mailed to us from Chris from Villanova who talks about his Villanova basketball. And while there is no mention of a tailgate, it is a great story that had to be shared.

I am a freshman at Villanova and we are finishing up the regular season of basketball. This is my first year going to these games and I already have some amazing memories about my times here. I am looking forward to the next three seasons but something happened about a month ago that I will remember for the rest of my life.

January 28th, 2009 we played Pitt. And yes, this was a huge game for both teams in a great conference that we are in. But, this Big East win for us was made more special because of the place it was played. As a Nova fan, we know that we play games at home in a few places. Most of the time, we are at our campus but at times we go the Wachovia Center. However, this night we went to the Spectrum and had the honor of playing the final college game in the buildings long history. I was honored to be there and I will never forget the way those walls felt that night. Go Cats!!!

Photo from Comportal

Send us your stories and we will post the most interesting ones.

Tailgating News for Tuesday February 24th

Sports: He's bacccccccccccccck. Read here about juniors return to Emerald City from Komo News. Also, read about other big names in baseball being linked to steroids from Newsday.

Food: Read this about a South Beach diet food festivle from the Miami Herald. And of course, read this for still more news about peanuts from the the Herald Standard

Tailgating: Read this from AZRedReport.com amazing story about a true tailgater who just finished up the trip of a lifetime.

Photo from MLB

Tailgate Recipe of the Week

This weeks recipe comes from All Recipes

Creamy Chicken Vegetable Chowder

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 potatoes, diced
3 carrots, diced
2 quarts chicken broth
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - chopped
1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
1/2 pound processed cheese food, shredded
1 (16 ounce) package frozen green beans
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

DIRECTIONS
-Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender. Mix in potatoes, carrots, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer 20 minutes.
-Stir chicken into the pot. Season soup with ranch dressing mix, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir in processed cheese until melted. Mix in green beans just before making the roux.
-Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and stir in flour to form a thick, golden brown roux. Mix into the soup to thicken. Continue cooking 5 minutes.

Photo from Flora Health

Weekend Suggestion

Looking for a laugh this weekend. Go see The Daily Shows Rob Riggle at the TLA. His show is Friday February 20th at 9:00PM. Opening for him will be Adam Lowitt.

The TLA is on South St and parking is almost impossible so a big tailgate is going to be really hard to come by. We suggest getting some cheese steaks at Jim's on South St and finding a curb and enjoying.

Photo from Livenation

Tailgating Stories from You the Readers

This was e-mailed to us from Seth from Bensalem who talks about his Penn State football tailgates.

It was 2004, and I was a freshman at Penn State University. I have waited my entire life to a Nitty Lion. My Dad went there, his Dad went there, and his Dad went there. Being fourth generation Penn State is a lot of pressure, especially when it comes to making a memorable tailgate for the first home football game of the season.

So, what I did was make the favorite dishes of the three generations that taught me how to tailgate Penn State style. My Great-Grandfather loved shrimp with his special cocktail sauce, so that was our appetizer. My Grandfather loved steak and potato's, so that was our main course. My Dad loved Blowines, which are blue brownies in honor of Penn State. So, I made that for dessert. It was the best tailgate I ever put together and they were all proud and honored. I loved being able to share it with the three of them.

Photo from PSU

Send us your stories and we will post the most interesting ones.

Tailgating News for Tuesday February 17th

Sports: We all know A-Rod did it, but read what happens when players make honest mistakes from Phillies.com. Also read this story about an honor for Bill Russell, one of the best basketball players of all time from The Seattle Post Intelligencer.

Food: It just won't go away, read this story about what is going on the peanut world from The Washington Post. Also, read this about a salmonella outbreak in Georiga from the AP.

Tailgating: Not everyone is a fan of tailgating as you can see by reading this from KVUE in Texas. Also, read this about how Superbowl Champion Steelers fan's are taking tailgating to a new level.
Photo from The Situationist

Tailgate Recipe of the Week

This weeks tailgate recipe comes from Tailgating.com

Burger Bacon Dogs

Ingredients:

1 pound of hamburger

1 pound of thin sliced bacon

8 hot dogs

4 slices of cheese(split the slices of cheese in half)

1 egg

16 toothpicks

Tin Foil Wrap

Directions:

Combined hamburger, egg and your spices/seasonings to taste and form 8 hamburger patties.
Spread out your bacon with every two slices being about 2 " apart.
Slice each hot dog from end to end, NOT completely through, maybe half through the thickness of the dog and insert one half slice of the cheese into each dog.
Place the dog on one end of the hamburger patty and carefully roll the dog while wrapping it with the patty.
Place this carefully at the ends of your bacon, which should be spaced 2 " apart....(2 slices of bacon per burger-dog), carefully roll and wrap the bacon. Secure bacon to each burger-dog with two toothpicks.

NOTE: Leave each toothpick exposed on one side or the other in order to remove them after cooking.
Wrap your burger-dogs with tin foil and place on grill over medium heat, but do not place directly over flame. Cook for half-hour and then CAREFULLY remove foil from burger-dogs
Place burger dogs back onto grill for browning.
Serve with any condiments by itself or on a large Hoagie Roll

Photo from Picasa

Weekend Suggestion

Got some free time on Valentines Day this year? If so, take a ride to the Electric Factory and enjoy a concert from the great Ben Folds. The show starts at 8:30 and will also feature the Miniature Tigers.

There isn't much space around the Electric Factory for a big tailgate, but we recommend a small grill and some chicken for a nice meal before a great concert. Also, don't forget a case of Red Strip, it is the best concert pregame beer as suggested by you the readers.

Photo from GetYourMP3