Fat Tuesday- The Roots of Mardi Gras

Growing up we always called the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, Shove Tuesday. On Tuesday, we would have pancakes for dinner with bacon or sausage. Growing up this was a big treat because our breakfasts were always very simple and didn’t involve cooking. In addition, our neighbor would make homemade sugar donuts and deliver them to the neighborhood each Fat Tuesday morning. They were delivered hot and would melt in your mouth. Each person would get just one and everyone was grateful for the delicious treat.

However, when I went to graduate school, I was introduced to Mardi Gras with all of its pomp and circumstance. The parades, the cajun food, the King Cakes, and the beads. These events occur over several weeks down south with the biggest parades and parties being held on Fat Tuesday. Fat Tuesday is a day of excess right before the fasting and solemn days of lent.

Historically this tradition has roots in the Roman Celebrations of the harvest season. However, when Christianity spead across Europe, these festivals took on a new meaning and purpose. The carnival season starts on the Twelfh Night, January 6 of each year and lasts until the Tuesday prior to lent starting. The large parades normally occur in New Orleans, Venice, and Rio.

What do you do to celebrate this holiday?

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Menu Planning: #245

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Menu Planning: #250

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Menu Plan #307

Menu Plan #307 NOTE- 1- Click on the picture and get a link to a post sharing the recipe. 2- Although all prices were correct at the time of the blog postings, the current cost of preparation of these dishes may be higher due to inflation and location. February 2025 USDA Thrifty Food Plan According to this plan, our family would have a budget of $189.30 per week. Since March has 4 weeks, our monthly budget is $757.20. We elevate our dining experiences by including fresh fruits, vegetables, and higher-quality meats. Since we have health concerns and are active individuals, we limit our processed food choices. Grocery Shopping Tip: Utilize your grocery store’s loyalty program. This month, my 2 primary grocery stores have provided me with store coupons for bread, Silk milk, jelly candy, frozen vegetables, and Bali coconut water. Here is what we did this week to make our week easier: ...

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