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Angie’s Table: “Just A Pinch”OBy Angie Bridgesne of my favorite food quotes of all time is “The difference between a good and a great dish is a pinch ofsalt.”This is absolutely so true. Salt is essential to many dishes because it enhances the natural flavors of ingredients, it balances sweetness (almost every great chocolate dessert suggests adding a pinch to make it more chocolatey.) and can suppress the bitterness of others.Salt is a very important nutrient for humans animals and even plants. I’m ancient times it was so valuable that soldiers were often paid with it. That’s where the word “salary” originated. Of course as with anything too much can be harmful as wellafraid to season your food-it’s the difference between a good and great dish.Ciao for Now, AngieThis wonderful idea comes from americastestkitchen.com and I absolutely love this. This would make a tasty addition to your kitchen or put into a cute container as a fantastic gift for any foodie friend.Herb Finishing SaltsTo a bowl combine 1/2 C. Kosher salt and add any ONE of the following: 1 1/2 cups finely chopped basil, fresh chives, dill, or tarragon leaves. Mix well with your hands until well dispersed in the salt. Spread out on a parchment lined baking sheet and place in a cold oven for about 48 hours and about twice a day rake with a fork so it dries out perfectly. Transfer to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two months. Enjoy!ABy Jesse Palmergreat African Safari typically involves a combination of stunning wildlife, breathtakinglandscapes, comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable PH’s, and well-organized logistics. Here are some key elements that can contribute to a great African safari experience:1. Abundant Wildlife: The chance to see diverse and iconic African wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and more in their natural habitats is a major draw for many safari-goers. National parks and game reserves like Addo Elephant Reserve in Port Elizabeth, Cheetah Center on R75, and Kruger National Park in South Africa, are known for their rich biodiversity. 2. Knowledgeable Guides/PH’s: Experienced and knowledgeable guides/PH’s can greatly enhance the safari experience by providing valuable insights into the behavior and ecology of the wildlife, as well as the local culture and history. A great guide can make the difference between simply seeing animals and truly understanding and appreciating the ecosystem.3. Comfortable Accommodations: Whether it’s a luxury tented camp, a safari lodge, or a mobile tented safari,comfortable accommodations that allow you to experience the wilderness without sacrificing comfort are an essential part of a great safari. Many lodges and camps are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, offering a unique and immersive experience.4. Scenic Landscapes: In addition to wildlife, Africa is known for its stunning landscapes, including savannas, forests, mountains, and waterways. A great safari should offer opportunities to appreciate and photograph these landscapes, from sunrise and sunset vistas to dramatic natural features like the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania or the Victoria Falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe.5. Well-Planned Itinerary: An itinerary that balances game drives, leisure time, and other activities, while taking into account the seasons and animal migrations, can greatly enhance the safari experience. Additionally, having well-organized logistics, such as seamless transportation and efficient camp or lodge operations, can contribute to a stress-free and enjoyable trip.6. Authentic Cultural Experiences: Many African safaris also offer opportunities to engage with local communities and learnabout their traditions, crafts, and ways of life. This can provide a deeper understanding of the region and its people.Your Neighborhood Barber Specialists20711 Wilderness Oak, Suite 110 • SA, TX 78258 (210) 255-8482Hours: Mon 10am -7pm • weds-Fri 10am-7pm Sat 10am-5pm • Sun 10am–3pm (closed on TUES)Scan For Appointments7. Responsible Tourism: A great African safari should prioritize environmental conservation and responsible tourism practices. This includes supporting ecologically sustainable lodges and camps, respecting wildlife, and habitats, and contributing to local conservation and community development efforts.Overall, a great African safari is a combination of wildlife encounters, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and comfortable, well-planned logistics, all while maintaining a commitment to responsible and sustainable travel.Bucket List Outfitters in Spring Branch can book your Hunting or Photography Safari. Please stop by and talk with us, we have traveled to Africa a couple dozen times. For more information, call Jesse at (210)722-8936.Reflection Taxidermy & Bucket List Outfitters Taxidermy aint’ our • Native Species• Mammals HOBBY. It’s what • Exotic• Fish we do full time! • Birds10% Discounts for Military & 1st RespondersExperienced Staff14370 US 281 North, Spring Branch, TX 78070CALL (210) 722-8936 • www.bucketlistoutfitters.com14www.stoneoakhighlights.comMarch 2024Satisfaction Guaranteed• Shoulder• Full Body• European/Skull Mounts • Tanned Hides & Capes • Rugs• Custom SkinningQuick Turn- Around Times • Repairsso I’m not saying everything need be salty which is why I always fancy the “pinch” theory.I’ve been cooking a long time but how I learned to control the amount of salt in a finished dish and the best tip I can think to share with you is to layer your seasonings. A lot of dishes start off precooking some vegetables and/or meat and I add a little pinch at every stage. It really works and then at the end of your dish when you always hear “adjust to taste for seasoning” you’ll most likely not have to add anymore or perhaps just another pinch. Also, I find that using kosher salt which is flakier than iodized salt yields much better salt distribution. Don’t beAngie Bridges is ownerof Copa Wine Bar inStone Oak along withher husband, Jeff Bridges. Angie is also the founder of the Taste of the Northside Fiesta event and is the original Queen of the Vine.What Makes A Great African Safari$5.00OFFOne coupon per person Expires 3-31-24