unicornmeat

This is for these cucumber things I make. A really great summer gathering item.

photo abby logsdon

Things needed:
Paprika (I recommend the smoked paprika.. it will make this thing)
1 cucumber, sliced about 1/4-1/8 inch thick
1/4 cup white vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
2 tablespoons softened butter*
2 ounces crumbled gorgonzola
juice of 1/2 lemon
dash of red pepper
slices of bread.. I like the mini baguettes that are just a little wider than my cucumber

In a bowl or tray, cover cucumber slices in water and add vinegar, sprinkle with salt. Refrigerate at least one hour. Drain and pat the cucumber slices dry.
Mix butter, cheese, lemon juice, and pepper. Slice bread into 1/2 inch pieces pieces. Spread cheese mixture on each slice, place a cucumber slice on top and sprinkle with paprika.

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*Aside from the fancy paprika, another indulgence of mine is fresh, local butter. I think it improves my quality of life. And my pie.

A few weeks or months ago I went to a show and saw Ed Schrader. One of his songs that night was like “I CAN’T STOP EATING SUGAR. WHEN YOU CAN’T STOP DOING SOMETHING YOU HAVE TO STOP!”
I think about it a lot because I really can’t stop eating sugar.
I’ve been making all kinds of pies because it’s the summer time and fruit needs to be worshipped in pie form.
So I’m going to start making more savory stuff, hopefully some condiments and stuff. I was thinking maybe I should try all Maryland recipes and “blog” about it.
I think Maryland is the culinary south. Some farmers in PA make and provide some good food and ingredients, but overall I think everything north of here basically sucks. Lobster.. sorry it’s lame! Buffalo wings.. well I can get into a good wing now and then but really it’s a bit of a scam to unload some useless chicken. I can appreciate useage of all the crappy bits, but Sports Bar USA or whatever isn’t a farm trying to make do.
I can get into a good crab now and then but Maryland food isn’t just about god-damned crabcakes! We have tender fried chicken with gravy, stuffed ham and white potato pie.
Well anyway I do at some point want to make this cake, which has like nothing to do with Maryland. I remember my aunt making it for my cousin’s birthday.