.::.Birthday Celebrations.::.

 
 
For Isaac, Taylor, and Zachary, the meal of choice tends to be an all time fave. For example, Taylor's recent 15th birthday was celebrated in California with charbroiled N.Y. strip steaks, baked potatoes, mixed green salad, and chocolate rasberry torte topped with vallina ice cream. On thei sister Jessica's birthday the entourage was "down under" and everyone feasted on an extraordinary burger spread courtesy of Planet Hollywood of Sydney, Australia. For Eva Adams (thier international publicist), the band took time out from their hectic schedule recording "Snowed in" to celebrate her birthday with a simple, traditional cake and ice cream party in the English countryside. Also, while in Boston last December, the back joined Dr. Food himself in observing his annual birthday ritual of spaghetti and meatballs.
 
 

As you can see, the method of celebrating birdthdays in "Hansonland" is as varied as the birthday being celebrated. It was in this spirit that the bacnd, their family, and thier friends celebrated a rather unusual birthday in early May of this year. The nation of Isreal was commemorating its 50th anniversary, and HANSON took advantage of the festivities surrounding the event to venture into Manhattan's Lower East Side. Our mission? To explore New York City's kosher deli culture. Our stop? None other thatn the renowned Second Avenue Deli.
 
 

Our culinary celebration began with Chicken Matzoball Soup, which we all enjoyed. The soupd was followed by everyone's first experience with Chopped Liver, a taste that did not win many people's favor. Next was the main attraction: large platters of the second Avanue Deli's famous Corned Beef, Pastrami and Brisket. The meat was accompanied by freshly baked rye bread and condiments, allowing us to create our own sandwiches. Everybody loved the result-thick and meaty sandwiches with a never before experienced taste Yum!! The mael was followed by a dessert of Chocolate Rugulah, a bite sized sweet pastry; the perfect conclusion to a glorious feast.
 
 

There was one dish that earned rave reviews was a mystery to all (except yours truly). Throughout the meal the resturaunt staff conintuously provided bowls of a fresh grain and pasta side dish for us to enjoy during the meal. The predictable question asked by all was "what is this?" At last, the good Doctor was in his element. I explained to my curious companions the dish was called Kasha Varnishkas, a traditional Jewish holiday fave consisting of thick, bow shaped egg noodles with buckwheat groats. There is no need to wait another 50 years to enjoy this histoic dish; it is delicous any time. and especially satisfying on cold winter days as a light supper, lunch or even breakfast.