Posts Tagged ‘new hampshire’

10 reasons Wakefield Inn’s Cooking Classes are so much fun.

June 15th, 2011 by janelmartin

Now that I am in my fifth season of teaching cooking classes at the Inn I have had the opportunity to meet and teach some great people. SO without further adieu here are the ten reasons taking one of my classes is a blast.

1. Learn a new skill My hope is that even the seasoned cook can take away some new knowledge from my class.

2. Meet new people In this age of texting and computers, the human element of just talking and meeting seems sometimes lost. The cooking class brings people together on common ground.

3. Try new foods “Variety is the spice of life” and my classes have lots of spice and herbs too!!

4. Getting to play with your food If your Mom was like mine she said to stop playing with my food….in this class it is not only allowed, it is encouraged.

5. Work with SHARP knives Okay, maybe that sounds scary, but I will show you how to work that knife like a pro, and to maintain the edge for a sharp and safe cutting experience.

6. Play 20 questions I love questions, and the more that are asked the more others learn, so bring it on, and try to stump the chef!!

7. Aromas My staff comes in the kitchen asking what smells will I be teasing them with today, since the aromas waft through the house. We not only get to smell the food, we get to eat it as well.

8. Using some new gadgets Try it before you buy it right here in my kitchen.

9. Eating and Drinking We get to eat the fruits of our labor along with a glass of wine selected to pair with the meal.

10. DESSERT!! Need I say more.

A cooking class makes a great activity to do together with friends, is a great gift for the epicurean in your family and who knows, maybe you will even get a laugh or two while you are here.

We have classes going all the time, and the days, and times vary, just give us a call and we can discuss what day would work best for you, and what it is you really want to learn.

Tags: cooking class, culinary class, culinary retreat, Lakes Region Activities, new hampshire
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Stress Free Valentine Package, keeping it simple

January 18th, 2011 by janelmartin

I know, I know….Valentine’s day is about Love, Romance, and living up to the ‘Bar’ set way too high by the Media all around, right? For many, the Valentine’s Day weekend is a stressful time of year trying to fit in “romance” into an already hectic schedule. Finding a baby sitter, making the reservation for dinner, planning the activities,…..

Try something different this year. Why not get-away to a bed and breakfast offering a package that includes dinner with the stay. There are many to choose from, including our own Wakefield Inn, who will do the hard part for you and all you need to do is book the package and arrive ready for a weekend away from the stress.

You can find many of these online by searching, or go to an online directory such as iloveinn.com, bedandbreakfast.com or bnbfinder.com and look at the section for special packages. Of course if you wish to stay with us, we would be happy to take your reservation over the phone. Our package is the “Stress Relief Package” and includes 2 nights for two, 2 in-room massages, and a relaxing dinner each night with the chef/innkeeper. If you want to get out to enjoy the area, there are fun winter activities such as tubing, cross counrty skiing and of course shopping. Not your cup of tea? How about sitting by the fire in the common room, enjoying a book or a game of chess and yes, even a cup of tea.

Tags: bed and breakfast, dinner with stay, get away weekend, new hampshire, Packages, stress relief, valentines day
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Tubing at Moose Mountain in Wakefield, NH

January 3rd, 2011 by janelmartin

If you are looking for a winter activity that is fun for all ages, look no furthur than Moose Mountain Recreation tubing park. During the Christmas break I took all my girls there one evening and had a BLAST!!! When we arrived there was no one there and by the time we left many people were enjoying some after dinner fun. It sure is a good way to tire the kids out…and Mom out for that matter.

Moose Mountain is just 5 miles from the Inn, and once was a nice ski area, and has now been turned into a place for tubing, snow mobile riding and or just grabbing a bit to eat in the lodge. They have snow making, so the conditions are good, and they have a great base coat of snow. The cost is $15 for two hours, though they do have some special rates as well, just check out the website, www.tubemoose.com and see all that they offer. Just check out this video, and see the fun we had: Tubing at Moose Mountain

I have posted a ‘stay and tube’ package at the Wakefield Inn for those who would like to get away, and spend some time in the snow, then come back and enjoy some hot chocolate by the fire in our common room. The package includes an in-room massage as well, to complete the relaxation and get the kinks worked out.

Tags: family fun, Moose Mountain, new hampshire, outdoor activities, Packages, tubing, winter activities
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Easy Thanksgiving recipe for Stuffed Turkey Breast

November 18th, 2010 by janelmartin

The Thanksgiving Bootcamp Culinary Weekend was great fun. I had a blast with the group, and even have a new breakfast strata recipe, what a bonus. The theme for the weekend was how to make the feast and still be able to enjoy the day. Tips on what can be done ahead, about how to plan the day, and make-ahead recipes to take the stress out of holiday cooking.

One recipe we made was for Turkey Breast stuffed with Caramelized Onions, Apples and Dried Cranberries, which is great when a whole turkey is just too much.

Stuffed Turkey Breast

2 turkey breast, approx 3 lbs each, deboned and butterflied
3 onions, sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup (or more) apple cider, very hot
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
2 apples, cored and diced
1 teaspoon fresh sage, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
salt and pepper to taste

Melt butter in saute pan over med-high heat until foaming and add onions and allow to develop a caramel color before stirring. The trick to great caramelized onions is to allow the natural sugars in the onions to brown, and then stir just enough to get the onions pieces with no color in contact with the bottom of the pan. Stir just enough each time to allow all the onions to get color, and adjust heat to prevent burning. You want a nice dark color, this is where the amazing flavor comes from.

While the onions are caramelizing, place the cranberries in a metal bowl and pour hot cider over and allow to set for 20 minutes. This allows the cranberries to plump.

Once the onions are done, add in the apples, panko crumbs, herbs, salt and pepper. Squeeze the cranberries and add to mixture, then stir together.

Place turkey breast, skin side down on work surface. Spread the stuffing all over and pat down. Roll up the breast and place seam down. Tie with butcher’s twine and place on a rack. Carrots make a great homemade rack that can fit any size pan, and add flavor to the pan juices. Roast in 400 degree oven for 10 minutes, then turn temperature down to 325 and roast until the internal temperature is 160. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 25 minutes to allow the juices to settle back into the meat, then carve and enjoy.

Want a great sauce. Reduce a gallon of cider to about 3/4 cup, add butter and bourbon (about 2 tablespoons), and 1 tablespoon dijon mustard. Pour over the top, or serve on the side.

Happy Thanksgiving All!!!

Tags: cooking class, culinary retreat, easy thanksgiving recipe, new hampshire, recipe, stuffed turkey breast
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NH Wine and Cheese Trail, what a great autumn trip.

September 19th, 2010 by janelmartin

Fall is arriving soon and along with that comes mulled cider, homemade doughnuts, and the wonderful smell of newly fallen leaves. One other thing that I plan to take advantage of this year is the New Hampshire Wine and Cheese Trail put together by the state tourism department. The VisitNH Website is a great resource for day trips and activities around the state. The Wine and Cheese Trail was put together a few years back and features the many cheese artisans and wineries throughout the state.

The next few weeks would be a great time to take a day trip and visit a few of these places and do a little leaf-peeping along the way. The holidays are approaching and NH made products make great gifts for the person who has everything. Some of our guests visited a few of the wineries and cheese shops around the Lakes Region and had such a wonderful time, they cam back raving about the wines at the Stone Gate Wineryin Gilford. Via Lactea Farm is just about 4 miles up the road from us and have some fantastic goat cheese. Jenny and Andy Tapper are always around to give tours and speak about their “kids” and other animals. So come on up for a visit and we will be happy to pack you a picnic lunch to accompany your wine and cheese, and even have the map ready for you upon arrival.

Tags: artisan cheese, fall activity, Lakes Region Activities, new hampshire, nh, wine and cheese trail, wineries
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Cooking Classes for All, hands-on learning and tasting.

August 9th, 2010 by janelmartin

The summer is going by fast, and my mind turns to the fall and beyond, and putting together the schedule for the cooking classes. This year I will offer 3 different days and times for the classes to allow more flexibility for the busy lives everyone leads. There will be a Wednesday Evening class from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, a Saturday morning class from 10:00 am-1:00pm and a Tuesday morning class from 10:00am-1:00pm. The classes are set in a series of six to eight, and can be taken in succession or just one or a few and the cost is $50. I cover different french techniques in each class, so one could take just a specific class that they were interested in without taking the whole series.

Some of the classes will have a theme and others will focus on a type of cooking, or food group. Of course I am always open to suggestions and am willing to put together a customized class. The 2 hour class is hands-on, with some techniques demonstrated and then those who wish can try their hand at it. All the classes are for any experience level, and each class offers something for everyone. Following the cooking portion of the class is an hour of enjoying all the wonderful items made paired with a wine, and Q&A session as well. Everyone will leave with recipes and enthusiasm to go home and try something new.

Fall class of apple stuffed pork

The class schedule is updated often, and new classes are added throughout the year, so check back often. Summer will be the only time that classes will not be offered, since the kitchen is just too hot for most people, and we are busy serving our summer dinners as well. We will also offer kids classes during school breaks and are for ages 8-14.

Please feel free to call and discuss any specific questions or concerns you might have or to register for one of our classes. Our classes are also a fun bridal shower or girlfriend get-away, and we would be happy to put a weekend package together for your group.

Tags: cooking class, culinary class, french techniques, girlfriend get-away, Kids activites, kids classes, learn to cook, new hampshire
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Boating in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire

July 11th, 2010 by janelmartin

It is hot this week in new Hampshire, 98 on the thermostat was the high, and they say it feels like 100. Being a chef, I love the heat and say “bring it on”. For all of you who wish for cooler days, and are thankful for the invention of air-conditioning, taking a boat ride on one of the lakes might provide a little relief from the dog days of summer.

In Wolfeboro, take a ride aboard the Millie B antique boat, and enjoy the wind in your hair as you tour Lake Winnipesaukee.

Take a ride on Millie B!

Then hop on Molly, the trolley for a 45 minute narrated tour of the “oldest summer resert in America” and step off at stop number 28 for an ice cream at Bailey’s Bubble. After a stoll on Main Street, get back on the trolley and head over to the NH Boat Museum.

Are you a fan of the movie “On Golden Pond”? In Holderness, Cindy O’Leary of Experience Squam Private Boat Excursion will take you for a tour of Big Squam where the movie was filmed. She provides ice, cooler, blankets, towels and loads of knowledge; just bring your camera, drinks and something to eat and enjoy the splendor of Squam Lake.

See the bald eagles

See a bald eagles nest, loon habitat, stop at a public island for a swim or stop at ‘jumping rock’ for a daring dip into the crystal clear waters of the lake. She grew up on the lake and was there when they filmed the movie, so she can give you some behind the scenes knowledge. Check out our “On Golden Pond Package” and experience the lake that made the list: ’100 things to see before you die’.

We are happy to arrange any boat tour ahead for you and your family, and can also get the picnic lunch ready for a day out on the water. Call today to get you boating fun started.

Tags: boat museum, boating, experience squam lake, Holderness, Lake Winnipesaukee, new hampshire, On Golden Pond, private boat tours, Wolfeboro
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Squam Lakes Science Center is fun for all ages.

June 30th, 2010 by janelmartin

Love nature and want to see the beauty of New Hampshire? Looking for something to do with the kids or grandkids this summer? Well look no further than the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness, NH.

I know what you are thinking, science, sounds too boring for the kids, they are on school break and do not want to learn. That could not be further from the truth. There is a nature trail where you will see native NH animals in their natural habitat. Learn about raptors, black bear, white tail deer and otter. In the Gordon Children’s Activity Center there is a play area where they can imagine they are a gopher and climb through tunnels, or a spider climbing on a giant web, and much more.

Four trails to explore, adventure awaits.

Expect to spend 3-4 hours exploring the trails and stopping at the exhibits of the animals along the way. If you get hungry, Kirkwood Cafe set in the beautiful Kirkwood Gardens is a nice place to stop for a rest and some refreshment. After lunch take on of the guided Science Center Lake Cruises on the canopied pontoon boat, and see Big Squam from a different angle. There are binoculars available for getting that up-close view of loons and other wildlife on the lake.

Want something faster and more private? Are you looking for a way to let the kids cool off in the lake and still see some wildlife? Then Experience Squam private boat tours is for you. Cindy O’Leary will take you on a tour of Big Squam, tell you about growing up on the lake, show you the location where they filmed “On Golden Pond” and even give you some behind the scenes tidbits. She will take you to see the Bald Eagles Nest, nesting loons and even to some great swimming locations such as jumping rock, to cool off. Bring along the food and beverages and she provides the ice, towels, blankets, and binoculars so you can sit back and enjoy the beauty of Big Squam lake.

Mother Loon and babies.

After a long day of adventure, come back to the Wakefield Inn for some relaxation. Sit on the front porch and watch the world go by while rocking your cares away. Play a game of chess, or work on a puzzle with the kids. Watch the movie “On Golden Pond” and recognize the places you just visited, we will supply the popcorn. Check out our new Experience “On Golden Pond” package, and let us plan your visit to the lakes region of New Hampshire.

Tags: Biq Squam, Experience Squam, garden new hampshire, Holderness, Kirkwood Gardens, lake cruises, new hampshire, On Golden Pond, private boat tours, Squam Lake, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
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Mountian Biking and Cycling in New Hampshire's Lakes Region

June 16th, 2010 by janelmartin

A great way to see the area is on the back of a bicycle. Ride by lakes, mountains, farms, fields and through quaint New England towns. Wakefield was awarded “Bicycle Friendly Community” and we have bicycle maps available at the Wakefield Inn for easy to difficult rides through the country roads that surround us. Below is just one sample of the trail maps we have for our guests.

Sniff the Flowers trail

If you do not want to travel with you bike, no worries. The Nordic Skier has rentals avialable for both road/performance and mountain biking. They are located right in Wolfeboro and are near the Cotton Valley trail. They have maps available for trails in the area, and after a long bike ride you can cool off at the town beach or get an ice cream at Bailey’s Bubble.

Want a little more adventure!! Try mountain biking at Back Country Excursions just over the border in Maine. A full day of guided trail riding is $40pp and they have 18 miles of trails. They also offer bike rentals for those who travel to the area from far away. They even include lunch for the all day rides, though half day is available.

Leave the details to us. Just put in the notes that you want to rent a bike and what type (mountain or road) and we will have it waiting here for you. We can even pack you a healthy lunch/snack and some of our great water.

Tags: bicycle, bicycle friendly, Lakes Region Activities, ME, mountain biking, new hampshire, outdoor activities, Parsonsfield
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