A Friday in Washington

The state, that is. So Hello Washington State – and how are you this beautiful day? Today is National Washington State Day. Like most western coastal states, love the landscape but not too thrilled about the politics. So we’ll just steer clear of politics today.

From a major war nearly started over a pig to its native population, there are enough fun and interesting facts about Washington State to keep us far, far away from politics. Did you know Washington is the second-largest wine producer in the United States? It is, although these days most people associate Washington with coffee, thanks in part to the popularity of Starbucks. It’s the only state named after a president. Originally Washington was called the Territory of Columbia. Then the name was changed to Washington to avoid confusion with the District of Columbia. Yeah, so that makes sense – if you say you’re headed to Washington, most people assume you mean DC and not the state. Great job naming the state.

We’ve only visited to a small fragment of the state. One day I think I’d like to visit Mount Rainier – home to 25 names glaciers. That’s down right cool. And while Washington is a lumber state, it still has its share of pristine wilderness areas.

I know, you are still wondering about that pig war introduction, right? It happened in 1859. Seems there was an American living on the contested San Juan Islands. A pig belonging to a British resident decided to root through the American’s garden, so naturally he shot the pig. The Brit wasted no time in reporting this horrific act the to British authorities. The situation escalated to a standoff between the American and British forces. It involved three warships and more than 2,500 soldiers. Thankful the two sides were able to negotiate a peaceful resolution.

Oh, and if you are planning a visit to Washington with the hopes of bagging a Sasquatch, just know it’s illegal to kill Bigfoot in Skamania County. Originally the law, passed in 1969, called for up to five years in the state pen for murdering Bigfoot. It was amended in 1984; and today you’re looking at no more than six months and a fine of $500.00. So I ask you, would you shoot Sasquatch? No, I’d much rather be like Harry and the Hendersons and invite him to dinner.

Speaking of dinner – it’s Friday night in my old school Catholic home. Since Washington is also an ag state, what better way to honor Washington than with a delicious pasta smothered in onions, mushrooms and all sorts of goodness.

One Pot French Onion Pasta
3 large Yellow Onions
8 oz Cremini Mushrooms
4 Garlic Cloves
1 tablespoon fresh Thyme Leaves
1/2 tablespoon fresh Rosemary
6 tablespoons Butter
2 tablespoons Flour
1-1/2 cups Red Wine
4 cups Beef Stock
16 oz Mezzi Rigatoni
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 cup Milk
2 cups shredded Italian Cheese Blend
2 tablespoons Panko Breadcrumbs

Peel and thinly slice the onions. Clean and thinly slice mushrooms. Pluck thyme leaves from sprigs; strip Rosemary needles and mince. Set aside.

In a Dutch Oven over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add onions; cook until very soft and caramelized, abut 30 minutes, stirring often to avoid any burning.

Once the onions have caramelized, add mushrooms along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook another 5 minutes, until mushrooms begin to release their juices. Add garlic; cook about 30 seconds; until fragrant.

Sprinkle mixture with flour, cook about a minutes longer, until golden. Pour in wine, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer; for about 5 minutes.

Add the beef stock with half of the herbs. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to a nice, steady roll. Add heavy cream and milk, return to a simmer. Add pasta; cook until pasta is al dente, about 20 to 25 minutes. When the pasta has cooked through, remove from heat.

Add cheese, stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Heat broiler. Sprinkle pasta evenly with Panko crumbs; finish with remaining herbs. Place pasta under the broiler for about 2 minutes, until breadcrumbs are lightly toasted. Remove from heat; let cool for 2 minutes. Stir just before serving. Wonderful with Garlic Toast and a simple salad on the side.

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God mounts His throne amid shouts of joy;
the Lord, amid trumpet blasts.
Sing praise to God, sing praise;
sing praise to our King, sing praise.