February 7th is a special day for many cultures around the world. It has been celebrated with recipes, quotes, poetry, folklore, traditions, and holidays for centuries.
Today, the 7th of February, is the Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival. Every year, Chinese families gather around the table to celebrate with a traditional feast of dumplings, spring rolls, and hearty dishes like sweet and sour pork. Many Chinese families will also exchange gifts and red envelopes of money.
For Mexican families, February 7th is the Day of the Virgin of Candelaria, or Dia de La Candelaria. This holiday centers around the celebration of Virgin Mary, and many Mexican families will celebrate with a traditional feast. Popular dishes include tamales, mole, and a variety of sweet treats like churros and pan de muerto.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, February 7th is a day to cherish and enjoy. So, gather your family and friends around the table, share some recipes, quotes, poetry, and traditions, and enjoy the day.
Mardi Gras King Cake
Ingredients:
Dough:
2 packages (4 ½ teaspoons) active dry yeast
¼ cup warm water
2/3 cup granulated sugar
½ cup whole milk
½ cup butter
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Filling:
1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping:
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons water
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Add the sugar, milk, butter, eggs, salt, and 2 cups of the flour. Beat with the paddle attachment on low speed until combined.
- Gradually add the remaining 2 ½ cups of flour, and beat until the dough is smooth and elastic. Remove the dough from the bowl and place on a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5 minutes, then shape into a ball.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet.
- For the filling, combine the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and nutmeg in a bowl. Beat until smooth.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the filling over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Starting at one of the long sides, roll the dough up like a jelly roll. Place the roll on the prepared baking sheet and shape into a ring.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
- For the topping, combine the confectioners’ sugar, water, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
February is the time to look ahead
A month of hope, of joy, of dread
When winter days are still so gray
But springtime’s on the horizon ahead
The chill of winter is still in the air
But a sweet promise lies within
That soon enough the sun will shine
And winter’s chill will fade away again
The days grow longer and the sky grows bright
The birds sing their sweetest tunes
The sun is out and the air is warm
As the season of love blooms
So take a moment this February day
To appreciate the beauty all around
And take in the sights and sounds of love
That will stick with you all year round. Author Unknown
“Make February count by embracing life and all its possibilities.” – Unknown
“February is the beginning of the end of winter and the start of more light and life.” – Unknown
“February is the month of love and affection. Make time to show those you care about how much you love them.” – Unknown
“Take time this February to appreciate the little things that bring joy to your life.” – Unknown
“February is a time for new beginnings and second chances.” – Unknown
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