Meow and hello! Cosmo the library cat here. If I’ve gathered anything from eavesdropping on you on humans this week, it’s that it’s really, really hot outside. So I did a little research and came up with a couple yummy ways the Grand County Public Library can help you stay cool. (You’re welcome.)
Learn to make your own ice cream with a book called “Gelato, Sorbet, and Ice Cream” by Elsa Petersen-Schepelern. Or check out Julie Richardson’s “Vintage Cakes: Timeless Cupcakes, Flips, Rolls, Layer, Angel, Snack, Chiffon, and Icebox Cakes for Today’s Sweet Tooth.” An icebox cake is a frozen “cake” that layers cookies and flavored whip cream. It’s so delicious and requires no baking!
My own grandmother has an amazing icebox cake recipe, which I will graciously share with you: Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap. Whip 2 cups heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, then add 2 tablespoons of diced anchovies. Alternate layers of whipped cream mixture and Frisky Bits, ending with cream on top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours and serve. Pro tip: catnip makes a fabulous garnish!
Or if you’re in more of a savory mood, did you know that soup can also be served cold? Learn to make gazpacho the traditional Spanish way in “Cocina Regional Española” by Cristina Sala Carbonell. Or check out “The Ultimate Soups & Stews Book: More than 400 Satisfying Meals in a Bowl” with recipes for cold soups including Mint Watermelon.
Finally, for an ice-cold ethics lesson, may I suggest “Should I Share my Ice Cream?” by Mo Willems. On a hot summer day, our protagonist, Elephant, weighs whether he should share his ice cream with his friend Piggie. Complicating matters, Piggie is not even on scene, so Elephant would have to go looking for him in order to share. What will Elephant decide to do? This is truly a philosophical treatise for our age. You’ll find it in the kids’ room.
That’s all for now, friends! I hope you’ll come say hello at the nice, cool library.
