Football Fixings

Big blue and the Packers, in sub-zero weather, today at 6 eastern. Even though I don't follow football, or any other sports for that matter, the gastronomic possibilities are endless. Buffalo wings, chili, goulash, and various types of dips don't even scratch the surface of what home gourmets serve up for the game, big or otherwise. There are few events during the year, aside from holidays, that call for serious entertaining like sports events. Ravenous sports fans tossin back can after can of beer and plate after plate of hearty sports food. Today, I'll include some rib sticking favorites served in green bay to warm the sports fan's soul on freezing Wisconson evenings, and some East coast specialities that can satisfy the most staunch big blue fan. Enjoy!

Pork Hocks with Sauerkraut and Potatoes
Vegetable oil to barely cover bottom of pot
2 large cans (27 ounces each) sauerkraut
Salt and pepper to taste
6 to 8 medium potatoes
1 Stick of butter

In large pot over medium heat, brown meat in oil. When meat is browned, add sauerkraut, salt and pepper. Fill one sauerkraut can with water and add to meat. Cook covered over low heat until meat falls off the bones, 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. Remove bones. Quarter potatoes and place in pot. Add butter. Cover and cook until potatoes are soft, about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will provide 6 servin

Baked artichoke dip

1 box frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry (or 1 cup chopped spinach)
1 14 oz can quartered artichoke hearts, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 package cream cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/8 cup dry bread crumbs
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/8 tsp pepper

Preheat oven to 400°. Combine all of the above ingredients and place in baking dish. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes and serve with crackers or crusty bread.

Savory Chicken

24 chicken wing
1/3 melted cup margarine
1 minced small garlic
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/3 cup white wine
salt
pepper
1 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Arrange the chicken wings on a large cookie sheet. Brush the melted margarine onto each wing. In a small bowl mix the minced garlic, mustard, and white wine well. Brush onto the chicken wings. Salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the chicken is cooked in the middle. If the chicken is browning too quickly, cover with foil.