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We have no doubt that vegetable gardeners are behind the scenes, plotting, planning and even beginning to sow for their summer gardens. February and March are still plenty cold, but our moderate climate allows for some early planting. When you come in and visit us, you’ll see that we, too, have the gardening bug and are filling our lot with everything you need for your summer garden. Some people think about the whole lot! Perhaps a new shed, or maybe removing a couple of trees for a wider space, in fact, some even think about consulting with some Milwaukee hardscape suppliers to see what they might need for a new hardscaping project like a patio or paved path. However, not everyone has quite the same zeal for gardening a large plot. Tilling and sowing and maintenance on a large scale might not be your thing. Enjoy a small scale garden and add beauty that you can savor with a patio herb garden.

Think Savory

A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs at the end of cooking time elevates a dish from good to spectacular. Why not grow your own herb patch just outside your kitchen window? A patio herb garden grown in containers is just as stunning as a non-edible arrangement. Try some of these combos to add beauty, aroma, and flavor to your patio garden.

Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme

You can use the gardening concept of using a “thriller, filler, and spiller” even in an edible garden, though nothing in this arrangement counts as just a filler, when it is all edible! For this arrangement, place an upright growing rosemary in the center of the pot as a thriller. Sage comes in a variety of leaf colors and acts as a great filler next to the rosemary. Along the outside of the pot, a few thyme plants will fill in the added space and spill over the edges as it grows. This perennial arrangement should provide beauty and flavor for years to come.

Parsley, Marigolds, and Nasturtiums

This is another great, and edible, “thriller, filler, spiller” combination that will wow with its vibrant color. Parsley, at the center of the pot, will provide an upright green spray as a backdrop for sunny marigold plants. Marigold petals add stunning color and a peppery kick to salads.

Plant nasturtiums around the edge of the pot and they will dramatically spill over the edge. Both their leaves and flowers are edible, with a spicy taste akin to arugula. Add the flowers to salads or rice dishes for a pop of color. Don’t be surprised when the hummingbirds constant your patio. They are fond of the nectar from nasturtiums’ vibrant flowers.

For more great edible flowers, check out this list.

Mint, Mint, and More Mint!

Mint gets a bad wrap in the vegetable patch because it is a vigorous grower and becomes invasive, but it lends itself perfectly to container gardening. The plant will be constricted by the pot and will grow lush without taking over.

Spearmint is the most commonly used mint for mixed drinks, especially mojitos. If you only want to grow one mint variety, this is a great standard. The variety of mint flavor profiles and leaf colors is quite diverse. You might find that pineapple mint, chocolate mint, or lemon bergamot mint is more your speed.

If you choose to grow more than one variety of mint, be sure to plant each in separate pots. The flavor profile of each mint tends to get muddled and bland when they are grown together.

Pocket Planters: Not Just for Strawberries

Fill a pocketed, strawberry planter with your most used herbs for a quick one-stop shop, when it’s time to prep dinner. Place an upright herb, such as basil, in the top of the planter and tuck herbs with a trailing habit into the side pockets: oregano, lemon balm, tarragon, rosemary, and thyme are all good options. Just avoid mint in this planting, unless you fancy a pot full of mint.

With a few simple plant pairings in your patio herb garden, your patio can become a sanctuary and a culinary inspiration. Stop in to see which pots and herbs call out to you. Our ceramic pots are always Buy One Get One Free, so you can make a big impact quickly.

For insider tips on how to keep plants and flowers fresh and longer lasting, download Tacoma Boy’s how-to guide here. Then, stay up to date on insider deals and specials when you sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

Dreaming of warmer days, chirping birds, and spring flowers? The morning dew is slowly melting and spring is almost here! Here in the Pacific Northwest, we’re lucky to live among bountiful greenery all year round. But there’s just something special about the beautiful bright colors of blooming tulips, primroses and other flowers in the springtime.

As the earth wakes from a cold winter and the ground warms, small bits of color light up a dreary environment. You might start to see some pink, yellow, and purple bits pop up from the green. Spring flowers are ready to be harvested and gathered in groups to enjoy and appreciate!

Spring Flowers – It’s That Time of Year! 

Despite the chill in the air, it’s getting to be that time of year when spring flowers are blooming. Just about anyone appreciates the pop of color, fragrance, and character that spring flowers will add to any space. Tacoma Boys’ selection of locally grown and cut flowers like primroses and tulips showcase only the brightest and freshest floras, hand-sorted to ensure each petal and stem is pristine.

How to Stylize Spring Flowers

Primroses

1. Start your spring early and spruce up your home decor with a pot of hanging primroses on the porch.
2. If you prefer primroses, you’ll need to pick out a pot and a bag of potting soil. While you can pick the blooms from the primrose plant and place them in water, we recommend leaving the flower, from petal to root, in the soil it comes in. That way you can enjoy the aesthetic of a living plant for longer than flowers with cut stems, potentially for years to come!
3. Select your favorite color pot to match your desired primrose (or visa versa). Whether you prefer a ceramic or concrete pot, you’ll find many colors and designs to choose from at Tacoma Boys.

Tulips

1. Tulips have long stems and do well in tall vases. Fill the vase with water and be sure to submerge the stems as soon as you get home.
2. Refresh the water every other day or as needed to keep the silky tulips fresh for as long as possible. For more tips on how to style spring flowers, check out this guide on 5 Ways to Style Spring Flowers by Cottage Style.

Tulips and Primroses: Tacoma Boys’ Favorites

Tulips and primroses have long been known for their beautiful blooms in various colors. Primroses are early bloomers— You won’t have to wait until after the last frost to add the flower to your garden or front steps. And it does well here in Washington not despite the lack of sunlight, but because of it! Primroses prefer partial shade and indirect light, which is one reason it does so well in the late winter and early spring. 

Tulips are easy to grow because the bulbs are planted in the fall and blossom a few months later in the spring. The long-stemmed flowers pair nicely with slightly shorter flowers like daffodils or primroses for a beautiful assorted arrangement that adds an extra element of color to any room or yard.

Go for the bold and the bright or stay subtle with a simple white. Locally grown tulips and primroses are available at Tacoma Boys in a partial rainbow of colors from white and yellow to pinks, purples, and reds. 

Flowers as Gifts

Locally grown and stylized in the functional art of plant pots, giving flowers as gifts is a timeless tradition for good reason. A big bouquet of flowers is a great gift for just about anyone at any time of the year. Some of our favorite ways to gift flowers are:

• Birthdays
• Valentine’s Day
• Anniversaries
• Mother’s Day

Though associated with romance, there’s nothing stopping you from treating your best friend or family member with a fresh bouquet of different flowers or a planted pot. And since they are locally grown and cut, they can appreciate the flowers as gifts for days or even weeks! For insider tips on how to keep plants and flowers fresh and longer lasting, download Tacoma Boy’s how-to guide here. Then, stay up to date on insider deals and specials when you sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

Beer has long been connected to St. Patrick’s Day. It’s a tradition that goes well with cooking traditional Irish foods and celebrating the culture. St. Patrick’s Day is a religious and cultural holiday, so it’s a time to toast to Saint Patrick and honor one’s Irish heritage. Drinking beer on St. Patrick’s Day is familiar to most people. Overall, it’s celebrated in America and many other countries by wearing your best green gear and drinking lots of Irish beer. 

St. Patrick’s Day & Beer

St. Patrick’s Day is all about beer, right?! Modern St. Patrick’s Day celebrations emphasize drinking and honoring Irish heritage and cuisine. And Ireland is rich with beer and pub culture! In Dublin especially, breweries and beer have long been a standard part of Irish lifestyle and tourism. Thus, St. Patrick’s Day is a perfect time to celebrate the culture, and drink beer.

Why Drink on St. Patrick’s Day?

St. Patrick’s Day is associated with drinking because of the religious celebration of the holiday. Historically, Lenten restrictions were put aside for Christians to honor Saint Patrick on the anniversary of his death, March 17. Drinking and eating would commence, and has since become a traditional way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Irish beer is undoubtedly a special favorite for drinkers on St. Patrick’s Day!

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Popular Irish Beer

Why not take the chance to enjoy a tall, crisp pint of popular Irish beer on St. Patrick’s Day? No, it doesn’t have to be Irish if dark ales and lagers aren’t your thing! But Irish beer is a tasty classic for a reason. Guinness is so legendary that it’s likely the first (and maybe only) Irish beer that comes to mind. But there is so much more on the Irish beer market worth tasting. Tacoma Boys provides a wide selection of imported and domestic beer to get you started. However, there are certainly a few stand-out Irish beers worth noting.

Smithwick’s Red Ale

Refreshingly balanced, this Irish ale is light and slightly bitter with (you guessed it) a red hue. It’s hoppy, but not as thick as traditional dark Irish beers. Its namesake founder started the business quite some time ago, in the 1700s. 

Harp Lager

This Irish brew (spoiler alert: it’s a lager) tastes of barley and yeast and is somewhere right between light and full bodied. This means it’s bound to refresh you, rather than feeling thick and weighing you down.

Guinness Draught Stout

The famous dark Irish stout is a solid option that most beer drinkers may tend to enjoy. It’s said to have been produced as far back as 1759 and is now crafted in several different light and dark kinds. Smooth and dry, the draught stout is full bodied and distinctively dark.

Kaliber

This one clocks in at 0.05% ABV. From the same makers as Guinness, Kaliber is a non-alcoholic smooth and bitter Irish beer. Golden amber in color, you’ll taste slight sweetness and full lager flavor.

And Much More!

Most dark stouts and beers will do well as a stand in for one of these classic Irish beers, too. If you want to keep things local, try Black Raven Imperial Stout or Silver City Brewing Ridgetop Red Ale. Tacoma Boys’ boasts a myriad of both light and dark beers to choose from!

The Infamous Green Beer Recipe

Part of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day is of course concocting the perfect green beer recipe. Simply put, green beer is beer dyed green (generally on St. Patrick’s Day). It’s part of a traditional western custom of dyeing things green on St. Patrick’s Day. The milk in the fridge, your outfit of the day, the Chicago River? Green beer is a classic too!

It’s quick and easy to make a green beer recipe at home using one of Tacoma Boys’ Irish beers. Specifically, it works best with a light-colored beer like Kaliber or a pilsner. You can simply add in a few drops of green food coloring into your pint glass. However, Tacoma Boys knows a couple other more natural ways to get it done.

• Tacoma Boys Fresh Wheatgrass: Blend the wheat grass into a liquid and add to the bottom of a cold pint glass. Pour in your light-colored brew and give it a stir!
• Fresh Spinach: If you don’t mind a slight earthy taste, use fresh spinach in the same way as wheatgrass. 
• Matcha: Powdered matcha adds just a touch of that green tea flavor. Add a 1/4 teaspoon at a time to a pint glass filled with Irish beer and stir.
• Spirulina: The powdered green algae is a bit darker than matcha. Stir in a bit at a time until you get that dark green hue.
• Get creative! If you have another fruit or vegetable juice or powder in mind, now’s your chance to give it a shot.

Shop Our Selection

Next time you stop in to Tacoma Boys, be sure to browse our wide selection of domestic and imported brews. And if you ever have a question or need help finding something special, don’t ever hesitate to ask! While you’re in, you can stock up on all the ingredients and supplies you need for a St. Patrick’s Day feast. Whether corned beef and cabbage or meat and potatoes is the plan, Tacoma Boys has plenty to enjoy. 

To stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday to celebrate with kids. Themed crafts, green treats, and adventures with the family can get everyone in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit! The cultural holiday is celebrated by the Irish and others in part by feasting on traditional food. It’s a celebration of Irish heritage, as well as an opportunity to have fun cooking and sporting shamrocks! But to get the kids a bit more involved, there’s a few more things you can do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with Family

Many people have traditions with their families and friends for St. Patrick’s Day. Some communities will often hold St. Patrick’s Day parades to celebrate. And it’s certainly always a good time to dress in your best green gear. But this year, you may be looking for a few things to do at home with your family. Whether you are swapping out old traditions or adding to your plans, try these ways to celebrate at home with family.

• Get crafty: Put a spin on your kids’ favorite art activity with St. Patrick’s Day themes. Cut shamrocks out of construction paper, paint a pot of gold under a rainbow, or build a leprechaun with colored clay or blocks.
• Stage a treasure hunt: Let the kids loose in the backyard in search of clovers, something silver, and maybe even a hidden treat or two. Or, hide clues that lead to a nice big pot of gold.
• Sneak in some education: Learn and teach about Irish culture and the island of Ireland. If you celebrate more of the holiday, teach your kids about Saint Patrick and the history of St. Patrick’s Day.
• Cooking with kids: Cooking and eating together is a favorite St. Patrick’s Day activity for many families.

Cooking with Kids

Any day is a good day to start cooking with kids. Of course, it’s always a great opportunity for bonding and spending quality time together. But cooking with kids on St. Patrick’s Day can be extra special for a few reasons. You can introduce the family to new kinds of foods like Irish corned beef, cabbage, and apple tarts or other desserts. Tacoma Boys’ favorite way to make a quick and easy apple dessert is as simple as adding fresh green apples and butter to Concord Foods Apple Crisp Mix. Have some fun with green colored foods. Any chance to sneak some extra greens into your kids diet is definitely a win!

Start the day with Tacoma Boys’ McCann’s Irish Oatmeal topped with Northwest Delights Pepitas and Tacoma Boys’ Kiwi Slices. Or, blend up a smoothie with Tacoma Boys’ Frozen Berries, and Fresh Baby Spinach, and Almond Breeze Unsweetened Almond Milk for some green goodness.

Cooking with kids allows for great teaching moments: Make a math game out of measuring ingredients and practice counting. Or if your kids are a little older, allow them to learn by doing most of the cooking. Use art and science when baking and decorating cookies. It definitely won’t feel like learning! Chances are they’ll want to go green with frosting, sprinkles, and more.

Kid Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Recipes

Elevate your St. Patrick’s Day recipes with an array of green-colored foods to get your kids involved. It’s a great way to get them to eat some healthy food! And a fun time when they come up with their own ideas, too. These St. Patrick’s Day recipes are just a couple ways to have fun with cooking to celebrate. For dozens more kid-friendly St. Patrick’s Day recipe ideas, check out this list from Taste of Home.

• Clover shaped anything! With a clover-shaped cookie cutter or some smooth knife skills, you can cut your kids’ sandwich, cookies, sliced fruit, and more into the shamrock shape. Tacoma Boys’ has a wide selection of gluten-free bread, too, so no one will be left out of the fun-shaped sandwiches.
• Boil some of Mrs Miller’s Homemade Spinach Noodles and toss with Santini Pesto Genovese for an extra green kick. Serve with Tacoma Boys’ Panko-Breaded Chicken Cordon Bleu for a complete and satisfying meal.

• Throw together a green-themed charcuterie board with Tacoma Boys’ fresh sliced Deli Meats, Creminelli Italian Salami, Boars Head Havarti with Dill, Divina Green Olives, and crackers like Tacoma Boys’ French Baguette Chips. For a comprehensive guide on building the perfect charcuterie board, check out Tacoma Boys’ blog on charcuterie boards here.

Get Ready To Celebrate

Here at Tacoma Boys, we are excited to help you plan and execute your perfect St. Patrick’s Day with recipes that your kids can get involved in. Swing on by any location to gain even more inspiration for a fun holiday that the kids and family will love. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re looking for that one special ingredient! 

To stay up-to-date on the latest insider deals and specials, including seasonal produce, sign up for Tacoma Boys text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

Who doesn’t love oranges? The juicy citrus fruit is refreshing, easy to eat, and often in season, not to mention tremendously tasty. Few other fruits can boast such benefits, like how it’s already pre sliced on the inside and grows in compostable packaging for your convenience! Oranges have a strong aroma that makes them good for adding flavor to foods and desserts using orange essence, zest, juice, or chunks of the succulent fruit for even more texture. 

Fan-Favorite Winter Oranges

Winter oranges  are often enjoyed raw and fresh, as well as juiced or even dried for a sweet snack. Everyone knows they are chock full of vitamins— Oranges are the poster child for a solid serving of vitamin C. But did you know that the most popular citrus fruit in the world also contains needed fiber and potassium? Eating oranges is a great way to get a quick, filling bite and a burst of nutrients.

Cara Cara Navel Oranges

Tacoma Boys offers a selection of a few different varieties of navel oranges. Cara Cara Navel Oranges are unique to the orange family because of its surprising inner flesh. Cut a Cara Cara in half and you’ll see bright pink fruit. It’s known for its nice sweet taste, thanks to a low level of acidity, and ease to peel because of a small amount of pith (that’s the white stringy membrane between the peel and the fruit).

Heirloom Navel Oranges

The humble Heirloom Orange is a type of navel orange that was bred over several years and decades to produce prime fruit for cultivation that didn’t compromise on the classic navel orange taste. The word heirloom means original: It still has the same authentic taste as those original navel oranges that were first introduced to America in the 1800s. Heirloom oranges are simple but flavorful in taste, balancing between not-too-sweet nor sour or bitter. After mandarins, heirlooms are the easiest orange to peel.  

Daisy Mandarins

Daisy Mandarins are the result of a cross between two other mandarin orange varieties. Super sweet and seedless, daisy mandarin oranges are one of the best snacking oranges. They have a dark, smooth, shiny peel that is thin enough to easily pierce and peel. Enjoy a daisy mandarin with a few cubes of White Cheddar Cheese and Northwest Delight Almonds for a quick and surprisingly filling bite to eat. 

Sumo Mandarins

This oversize Japanese mandarin, also known as Dekopon, is super easy to peel: You’ll see a plump top knot (where it’s been picked from the tree) that looks like the peel is already separating from the fruit. Sumo Mandarins come from orange parents pomelo, navel, and mandarin and taste sweeter than all three. And doesn’t that distinctive top knot look familiar? It should resemble the same topknot sported by sumo wrestlers, hence the label.

Blood Oranges

Antioxidants called anthocyanin are responsible for the name and appearance of Blood Oranges, giving the fruit its namesake deep crimson color on the inside. This yields a different pigmentation than the comparable Cara Cara navel oranges with a similarly sweet taste. When juiced, the sweeter liquid will ferment quicker than regular orange juice, meaning it should be enjoyed the same day.

Recipes with Oranges

There are several recipes with oranges to make at any time of day for many different dishes, snacks, desserts, and drinks. These are just a few of Tacoma Boys favorite ways to enjoy the winter citrus fruit.

Breakfast

It’s easy to squeeze oranges for their juice and enjoy it as part of your breakfast. Same goes for blending up a Beet Smoothie with two whole oranges.

Lunch

Sweet and savory pairs together perfectly with the use of Daisy Mandarins in this Mandarin Orange Salad with an orange poppyseed dressing by Chelsea’s Messy Apron.

Dinner

Recreate a popular classic Chinese takeout meal with this Easy Orange Chicken recipe by the Modern Proper, using both juice and zest from a fresh orange. 

Dessert 

Create an easy sweet treat with just two ingredients. Melt your favorite milk or dark chocolate and place slices of Sumo Mandarins right onto the plate. Drizzle desired melted chocolate over the top of the oranges, then leave the plate in the freezer for about 15 minutes. These chocolate covered orange slices are just as addicting as they sound. Enjoy immediately! 

Stock Up On Winter Fruits

A wide variety of winter fruits are available alongside several types of oranges at Tacoma Boys. Some of our favorites include pomegranate, pears, and other citrus fruits like grapefruit. These winter fruits can be snacks all on their own or incorporated into something bigger, like this Fruit Tart to Make Now (Winter) recipe by She Who Eats using pomegranate, pear, grapefruit, apple, and cranberry. 

Come on by to see our selection of fresh winter fruits and oranges. If you need any help, our guides are happy to lead you to whatever else you need for a healthy and satisfying meal. Then, stay up to date on insider deals and specials when you sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list! 

Anyone who follows a vegan diet knows how important it is to have those go-to vegan staples stocked in the kitchen. Here at Tacoma Boys, we recognize various dietary needs and the importance of vegan staples. From fresh produce to dairy free milks, nuts and seeds, legumes, grains, and other necessities and specialities such as tofu. For those who don’t know, a vegan diet refrains from consumption of animal products. This includes meat, dairy, eggs, and any foods containing these ingredients.

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Vegan Staples

Tacoma Boys has a wide variety of essentials to a vegan diet, but a few stick out as go-to favorites. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes or grains, you’ll find what you need for a well-rounded vegan diet. Even those that do not follow a vegan diet will be tempted to mix up their shopping list with a spread of these plant-based foods!

Fruits And Vegetables

Though necessary for any diet, the vegan diet relies heavily on fruits and vegetables for fiber and protein, which generally make up the bulk of a day’s eating. Vegetables like broccoli and spinach contain more protein than most people realize! Also, mushrooms tend to be included more in plant-based diets because of their rich, umami, almost “meaty” taste and texture. Mushrooms are great meat substitutes for meals that typically use beef! 

Mushrooms

• Ponderosa Dried Mushrooms including Chanterelle, Morel, Oyster, Portabella, and a few more varieties.
• White Mushrooms, Brown Crimini Mushrooms, and Shiitake Mushrooms

Other Go To Produce

• Squash
• Leafy Greens like Kale
• Broccoli
• Brussels Sprouts
• Potatoes
• Tomatoes
• Bananas
• Apples

When possible, buy locally grown produce.

Dairy Free Milks

Tacoma Boys is proud to offer a vast selection of dairy free “milks” made from nuts but also from many other foods like coconut and oats.

Find a couple different kinds in the refrigerated section, like Califia Farms Oatmilk and Mooala Plant-Based Creamer for coffee. A few more are shelf-stable like Almond Breeze Vanilla Almond Milk, So Delicious Coconut Milk, Milkadamia Macadamia Milk, Pacific Foods Hemp, Hazelnut, Almond, Soy, and Coconut Milk, and much more to choose from.

Nuts And Seeds

Nuts and seeds are another essential vegan staple and source of protein and fiber.

Along with Northwest Delights Roasted Cashews and Almonds, vegans can enjoy dozens of nut and seed butters, from the traditional Field Day Organic Natural Peanut Butter, to SunButter Sunflower Butter, or Justin’s Almond Butter.

Legumes And Grains

The duo is often a backbone of a vegan diet because of the complete proteins. Whole grains with legumes deliver necessary amino acids that come together to create “complete protein,” which the body then uses for energy. In a vegan diet, this is important because complete proteins are mainly found in animal products like meat, eggs, and dairy. Read up more on plant-based and complete proteins here.

• Bob’s Red Mill is a popular brand among vegans because of its wide variety of whole grains and legumes, including Rolled Oats, Quinoa, Lentils, Cannellini Beans, Cracked Freekeh, and much more
• Farmer Direct Organics Black Beans, Lentils, Chickpeas or Split Green Peas

Other Vegan Staples

Everyone has a few go-to ingredients they like to use in their day-to-day cooking, vegans included! Here are some of our favorite specialty ingredients made from plants:

• Mori-Nu Silken and Extra Firm Tofu
• Kite Hill Almond Milk Yogurt Tzatziki Dip
• Follow Your Heart has a long line of vegan salad dressings and dips in variations like Caesar, Vegan Mayonnaise, and Thousand Island
• Good Planet Foods Plant-Based Cheese comes in flavors like Garlic & Herb, Cheddar, and Smoked Provolone

Vegan Recipes

All you need is a few vegan staples and a bit of creativity to create delicious vegan recipes and meals. These vegan recipe ideas can get you started.

• This list of vegan recipes utilizing mushrooms is far from comprehensive, but a good look at how versatile the “meaty” vegetable is
• Blend So Delicious Coconut Milk with Frozen Berries found in the freezer section for a refreshing smoothie.
• Northwest Delights Cashews can be incorporated into several vegan recipes because they are super smooth and creamy when blended. You can easily make sweet or savory cream, use them in an alfredo sauce, or thicken up soups with blended cashews. The Vegan Alfredo Sauce by Nora Cooks is a delicious example on how you can transform cashews. 
• This Lentil Rice Soup by Veggie Inspired is a great way to enjoy legumes and grains.
• Pan-fry pressed firm tofu with spices for a crispy source of protein.

Shopping for Plant Based Alternatives

It doesn’t have to be difficult to find vegan staples and plant based alternatives to common foods at Tacoma Boys. You can even get a hold of pre made Vegan Desserts, many of which are locally produced! If you need help finding your favorite vegan staple or plant based alternatives, just ask and we will be happy to point you in the right direction. And to stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list! 

Meal prepping is a great way to save time during busy workdays and get a head start on healthy eating. By planning a bit ahead of time and even cooking ahead of time, you can enjoy healthy, satisfying meals without the exhausting effort each and every night. Because of meal prepping, you can simplify your cooking and eating habits and spend less time cooking and cleaning up every night. Plus this helps with saving money by avoiding eating out.

What is Meal Prepping?

Meal prepping simply means to plan, prepare, and sometimes cook what you’re going to eat ahead of time. This can be a week ahead of time or even the night before. Although it’s considered a trendy idea, it’s quite a basic process that people have been doing for decades and centuries. There are many different ways you can meal prep – some more simple than others! 

Purchasing prepared foods to eat later for low effort meals

A popular favorite is Rill Foods’ prepared soup mixes like Tacoma Tortilla, Columbia River Corn Chowder, or Miners Minestrone. These products are already set to go with pre-measured ingredients and instructions.

Preparing an entire week’s worth of meals for quick and easy dinners

Simply cook and prepare your meals on a Sunday and store in tupperware! This allows you to reheat accordingly during the week, saving you time and cleanup. Make sure to label the tupperware with the date it was made and enjoy the meal before it goes bad. Check out this guide for a reference on how to safely store and reheat “leftovers” by the USDA.

Many people who practice meal prepping choose to do most of the planning, grocery shopping, and prepping or cooking on the weekends so they have a week’s worth of food ready to go when they’re busy on workdays. At Tacoma Boys, a wide selection of kitchen staples and speciality foods will keep you stocked with whatever you need every day of the week.

How to Meal Prep

Learn how to meal prep with a few simple steps.

1. You’ll need basic healthy ingredients like fruits, vegetables, seasonings, proteins, and whole grains to get started
2. Once you’re home with your ingredients, get to prepping!
3. Pre cut your vegetables and store them in an airtight container, mix seasonings, and trim and marinade meat, until you’re ready to use it all

Optional:

• Prepare the entire meal and cook all of the meal’s components. Protein, fruit, vegetables, and whole grains like Ancient Harvest Quinoa or a starch like Baby Red and Gold Potatoes, can all be cooked at once. Just store it in a tupperware and reheat it when you’re ready for a satisfying meal. 

Variety is Key

Some people learn how to meal prep by cooking a large batch of something that is good for multiple meals (like a big pot of hearty soup) and dividing that into several containers. This leaves you with several servings ready to go for meals throughout the week. But if you’re one to get tired of the same old thing every day, mix it up a bit. Try preparing two or three meals and alternating throughout the week. To get you started, try one of Tacoma Boys’ various organic dried pastas like Scialateilli’s Gentile or Montebello’s Farfalle paired simply with jarred tomato sauce and fresh Portobello, Crimini, or Shitake Mushrooms. Then, consider something with different flavors like this simple Vegetable Stir Fry recipe by Once Upon a Chef.

Meal Prep Ideas

Breakfast

• Overnight oats in a jar, breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, scrambles

Lunch

• Salad in a jar, classic protein & veggies, sandwiches, turkey roll ups, stir fry

Dinner

• Marinated protein, burrito bowls, meatballs, enchiladas, pasta sauces

Snacks

• Protein or bliss balls, pre-cut veggies and hummus, pre-cut fruit, chia seed pudding

Local Seasonal Produce for Meal Prep

Grocery shopping is the first step after deciding what you’d like to eat during the week. Tacoma Boys’ variety of local fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season for the winter include fresh Fuji and Honeycrisp Apples, Roma Tomatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Parsnips, and much more! Local, in-season produce stays fresh for longer and tends to be a notch or two less expensive than foods that have had to travel to get here. But no matter what you crave this week, Tacoma Boys is sure to quickly stock the freshest nonlocal produce from regions where it is fresh and seasonal. Learn more about shopping and eating local, seasonal produce at Tacoma Boys here. 

Grocery Shopping for the Week at Tacoma Boys

Meal prepping is an easy way to get ahead of the game and prepare yourself for a successful week with healthy meals and time saved. With just a little bit of planning and a lot of cooking at once, you can eat your favorite healthy recipes without the last-minute stress. Cooking and eating should be enjoyable and rewarding, so have fun with it! Keep the momentum going with regular grocery shopping and get creative with new recipes. To stay up-to-date on the latest insider deals and specials, including seasonal produce, sign up for Tacoma Boys text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

This year, Valentine’s dinner celebrations may look a little different. Many couples and families who traditionally go out to eat or do other activities must look forward to another way to observe the holiday. And if the quickest way to one’s heart is through their stomach, cooking your significant other something special is one of the best ways to express your love. Create a delicious Valentine’s dinner for two with a few steps to set the mood, prepare a homemade meal, and enjoy quality time together. Read on for some tips on how to craft the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner for two.

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is practically destined for home cooking. It’s a special day to show the one you love how much they mean to you. After all, cooking for a significant other conveys love and caring. It’s one of the best times to enjoy a hearty, homemade meal and bond over the stove. It doesn’t have to be a stressful experience because all you need is simple, fresh ingredients and a plan to build the Valentine’s Day dinner of your loved one’s dream! To top it off, you’re sure to warm their heart with a DIY gift like one of these inventive ideas by House Beautiful.

Set the Mood for Valentines Day at Home

Help set the stage for a romantic Valentine’s Day at home with elements that you know your partner will appreciate. To help set the mood, consider:

• Serving up the color of love via red wine like Megan Anne 2018 Black Love, a unique pinot noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley 
• Setting the dinner table with a classic display of special votive candles and fine china
• Gifting a stunning assorted Bouquet Of Fresh Cut Flowers (to keep the flowers fresh for longer, check out Tacoma Boys guide to keeping plants and flowers fresh and longer-lasting here).

There’s nothing wrong with going the traditional route when planning for an intimate Valentine’s Day at home. And going the extra mile with little details will help show how much you care! For a few more ideas on decorating for a lovely Valentine’s Day at home, go here.

Romantic Dinner for Two Menu

This Valentine’s dinner menu will help you craft a romantic and delicious dinner for two, using just a few high quality ingredients. We also love Bruschetta Topped Chicken and Spaghetti as an alternative to this menu. 

Appetizer 

Creamy and rich, classic cheese fondue is one of the most popular Valentine’s Day appetizers- and for good reason. It’s fun to eat and simple to prepare with speciality cheeses, like Emmi Le Gruyére, plus fresh Fuji Apples and crusty sourdough bread for dipping.

Salad 

Choose your favorite tasty dressing from Tacoma Boys’ large wall of salad dressings for the ultimate flavor boost. Start with Mixed Greens, Yellow Cherry Tomatoes, Fresh Basil, Bel Gioioso Shaved Parmesan, and Fresh Gourmet Organic Seasoned Croutons. Finish with a drizzle of your go-to Tacoma Boys dressing and you’re set!

Dinner

Tacoma Boys makes it easy to enjoy a gourmet meal with less prep time thanks to stuffed chicken breasts! These pre-made stuffed chicken breasts come in many variations with different ingredients. One of our favorites are Chicken Breast Stuffed With Mushrooms and Cheese and Wrapped in Bacon. Pair your juicy stuffed chicken breast with a large serving of vegetables, like steamed Broccoli, Carrots, or Asparagus. Round out the satisfying meal with scoops of creamy mashed Gold or Red Potatoes mixed with roasted Garlic.

Dessert

Finish the meal with a refreshing pre-made Raspberry Tart and a couple glasses of the Chocolate Shop Chocolate Lovers Wine, which blends red wine with rich chocolate for a unique treat. Or, bake whatever your partner’s favorite dessert may be from a wide array of boxed Cake or Brownie Mix.

Drop By!

If you already have a menu for your homemade Valentine’s Day dinner for two, Tacoma Boys always has a well stocked selection of quality ingredients for you to choose from. Stop on by to see what’s new or for inspiration for your Valentine’s Day at home.

Stay up to date on insider deals and specials when you sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list! 

Is it time for the 2021 Super Bowl already?! The day is coming up quick which means it’s time to come up with your Super Bowl appetizers menu. Nothing screams “Super Bowl” more than a table full of classic Super Bowl appetizers that keep everyone coming back for more. Although there may be no large gatherings this year, hosting for your household can still be a fun time. There’s no better way to get geared up for the big game than to plan out this year’s menu.

Super Bowl Appetizers

What is it about appetizers that make them a great fit for football games? Whether it’s the variety or convenience of small bites, our favorite Super Bowl appetizers are lined up and ready to share! Whip up your favorite Super Bowl appetizers with fresh, specialty ingredients found at your local Tacoma Boys.

Chips & Dip

• Tacoma Boys Tortilla Chips
• Classic potato chips

Pair with:

• Tacoma Boys’ very own jarred salsas – available in a variety of flavors.
• Homemade spinach & artichoke dip made with Fresh Express Organic Baby Spinach found in the produce section. This spinach and artichoke dip by Cooking Classy is a great option.
• Easy ranch dip made with fresh herbs, spices, and Smith Brothers sour cream found in the dairy section.

Sliders

• Roast beef sliders made with medium rare roast beef found in the Tacoma Boys deli section paired with classic King’s Hawaiian rolls. This recipe for french dip sliders by Delish is sure to hit the spot!
• Ham & cheese sliders made with ham from the deli and Hoffman’s Vermont White Cheddar Cheese for the ultimate cheese pull. This recipe is a great guideline to follow for ham and cheese sliders.

Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers may be one of the most popular game day appetizers out there, and it’s easy to understand why! If you’re a fan of spicy and savory small bites, jalapeño poppers are the perfect choice for you. Select a large handful of fresh jalapeños from the produce section followed by your go-to cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Simply mix the cream cheese and cheddar, then stuff the halved jalapeño peppers and bake. If you want to take your jalapeño popper game up a notch, wrap them in Tacoma Boys’ applewood smoked thick-cut bacon – you won’t regret it. Savory Tooth has a great recipe for bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers here. 

Potato Skins

What is it about potato skins that make them so addicting?! Potatoes are great all around, but potato skins are next-level. Plus they’re incredibly easy to make which is an added bonus. Instead of whipping up traditional loaded potato skins, try making Real House Mom’s bbq chicken potato skins for this year’s game. We recommend grabbing a few of Tacoma Boys’ baker potatoes to ensure the crispiest skin for the best crunch! 

Pigs in a Blanket

Okay, there is no denying that pigs in a blanket are a game day must. They’re a hit with both adults and kids and are the perfect bite. If you’re looking to make your pigs in a blanket a bit fancier this year, substitute classic hot dogs for a pack of Snake River Farms American Wagyu Beef Gourmet Frankfurters. Slice those up and roll them in French Butter Puff Pastry found in the freezer section at your local Tacoma Boys. 

Ready-To-Go Game Day Food

If making appetizers from scratch isn’t your favorite activity, don’t fret! Tacoma Boys carries a variety of pre-made food that is perfect for game day. 

• Fiorucci Panino Antipasti Hard Salami & Pepper Jack Rolls or Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella Cheese
• Boar’s Head pre-made hummus available in a variety of flavors such as: fiery chipotle, everything bagel, and roasted red pepper
• Tacoma Boys pre-made scalloped potato salad
• Sea Best Cocktail Shrimp
• Big Shoulders Smokehouse Boneless Pork Ribs – fully cooked
• Big Shoulders Smokehouse Pulled Pork in BBQ Sauce – fully cooked
• Ready-to-bake pre-made pizzas – win!

Football Food Made Easy

Whether you prefer to buy specialty pre-made foods or cook everything up from scratch, Tacoma Boys has you covered for this year’s football food lineup. Pop on into your local Tacoma Boys to take a look around to find everything you’ll need for your Super Bowl menu. If you have any trouble finding certain products, ask one of our workers for guidance and they’ll make sure you get what you’re looking for!

P.S. Don’t forget the beer!

“Hygge” is not a new concept to appear in 2021. In fact, the word “hygge” has been used so frequently in recent years that it made it onto the Oxford Dictionaries’ “word of the year” list four years ago. Generally, hygge means an intentional effort at comfort and coziness that leads to well-being and contentment.  After a year like 2020, I think we can all agree that it’s time to revive hygge in 2021 for your well-being. Tacoma Boys is here to help you. 

Hygge (pronounced “hoo-guh”) is a Danish concept that is fairly tricky to define. In fact, I think those of us who are outside Danish culture might never fully grasp it’s meaning. If you want to do a deep dive into this idea, check out this informative article in the New Yorker. Most of us don’t need persuading that an atmosphere of comfort and health is something we long for, especially as we reset at the beginning of a new year. The good news is that it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg to achieve a sense of this well-being that the Danes call hygge.

Creating a Cozy Atmosphere

A good question to ask yourself as you work towards creating a space that is a comfort to you is: What causes me to take a deep breath and slow down? Again, this isn’t about getting an expensive sofa or a new area rug. Picking up fresh herbs and making your favorite soup is “hygge.” Pouring a cup of tea with an aroma that makes you savor each sip is also hygge. Inviting a close friend to share life stories with you over a glass of wine and a simple spread of fresh fruit and cheese can also be hygge. To make things simple for you, we’ve come up with three simple ways to hygge-intentional.

3 Simple Ways to Be Intentional

1. Add a Houseplant (or several)

Caring for a live plant can be an enjoyable endeavor or a stressful one, but you won’t know which it is for you unless you give it a shot. For many, the weekly rhythm of watering a plant and checking on it’s growth is a grounding experience. Not only that, indoor plants are natural air purifiers. NASA studies show that houseplants can remove up to 87% or toxins in the air within a 24hr period. Clean air sounds good to us!

Succulents

Succulents require very little maintenance, which makes them one of the easiest plants to add to your home. The main concern a succulent has is getting ample light. They grow best placed in South-facing windows. If you’re not lucky enough to have a South-facing window, try a succulent with more flexible light needs like an aloe vera. We have a large variety of succulents here at Tacoma Boys, perhaps you’ll find a variety that speaks to you.

Potted Herbs

Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme… or lemon balm, mint, oregano, tarragon, lavender. Why stick with the mainstream varieties? Potted herbs are a great addition to your space. Their aroma can be uplifting, energizing, relaxing, and even inspiring. Herbs are the type of houseplants that beg for you to touch and interact with them, because they engage multiple senses at once. Keep them as permanent residents in your home or just as semi-temporary additions that inspire you to take the time to cook something from scratch. Tacoma Boys can get you set up with soil, plants, pots, and growing advice.

Fresh Cut Flowers

Granted, these aren’t going to purify the air like a potted plant would, but cut flowers can do plenty for lifting your mood. Add a bouquet to your dining table, or get a single bouquet to divide into mini bouquets for multiple areas in your house. Tacoma Boys Markets have beautiful cut flower bouquets at the ready and we won’t be insulted if their beauty inspires you to divide them into mini bouquets. We also have colorful hanging baskets and pouches grown by our dedicated, local partners like the DeGoede Brothers in Sumner, Washington.

2. Add Light & Aroma

Light a Candle

Though winter solstice is behind us and we are gaining a few minutes of light every day, the sun is still setting before 5pm. That means that it’s prime candle lighting season. Beyond adding a feeling of warmth, scented candles can have the same effect as potted herbs in your home: uplifting, energizing, relaxing, and even inspiring.

Stovetop Potpourri

Don’t toss those orange peels after you’ve devoured the oranges, add them to a stovetop potpourri. Filling your house with aroma can be as simple as adding a few fresh herbs and spices to a pot of water on your stovetop. Want the cozy reminder of Christmastime, add cinnamon sticks, orange peels, and cranberries to the pot. Believe it or not, scent can encourage our well-being. Enjoy blending spices to create your own aromas or check out this blog post to discover some great combinations, then stop by the Tacoma Boys spice section for more inspiration.

3. Warm up from the inside out

As it turns out, the scientific research behind drinking warm beverages doesn’t actually confirm that drinking hot coffee will raise your body temperature, but it does show that it affects our emotions. Unless you’re stuck in the cold and in danger of hypothermia, the main reason you crave a warm beverage is for the warming feeling that it creates.  Brewing yourself a cup of hot tea, with the intention of sipping it slowly falls clearly in the category of hygge activities. Take some time to hold a mug full of aromatic tea or coffee and we’re sure you won’t be sorry.

Tea

Not all tea drinkers are identical. Some fall firmly into the green tea camp, while others stand by herbal tea. That’s why we have a huge and varied selection of signature tea blends that you won’t find anywhere else. Northwest Rose Garden, Chocolate Macaroon, and Shiro Plum Black, are just a few of the unique teas in our selection. A warm mug of tea is good for your well-being and may be just the thing you need to help you slow down. Enjoy a cup fireside with a good book.

Coffee

Just like those tea drinkers, coffee lovers have just as varied opinions on the perfect roast. Thankfully, we carry all of your favorite local roasters: Bluebeard Coffee Roasters, Valhalla Coffee Co., Vashon Island Roasterie, Manifesto Coffee, and many others. Come in to pick up your old standby or discover a new favorite.

Slowing Down is the Key

There is no magic formula for creating hygge. The thread that connects all of these “hygge-esque” activities, is the act of slowing down and being deliberate. We can’t think of a better activity for this than making a meal with fresh ingredients and sitting down to share it with someone you love. At the heart of what we do here at Tacoma Boys, is the joy of providing the quality ingredients to allow you to do this. Whether you light a candle, make a meal, or cradle a warm cup of tea in your hands, know that it is our pleasure to serve you as you take steps toward your well-being in 2021.