Ready for a long weekend and a good beer? If you’re looking forward to Memorial Day weekend like we are, you probably already have a few ideas in mind for how to spend those three lazy days, from relaxing with family to taking a moment to remember the wonderful men and women who have served our country. Honor their memory by spending some time appreciating family this Memorial Day, with one of these fun activities.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to celebrate Memorial Day:
Celebrate Veterans
As we all get caught up in the whirlwind of activities that mark the start of the summer here in Texas, don’t forget the reason we celebrate Memorial Day in the first place. This holiday was created to commemorate all those who have served our country, so make sure you take time to honor them this weekend. Whether you attend a Memorial Day parade with the kids, visit a museum of military history, or observe a moment of silence, find a way to thank or celebrate a service member as you enjoy the long weekend.
Explore The Great Outdoors
For the nature lovers among you, there’s no better way to get the whole family out doing a fun activity together than by getting out in the great outdoors. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to a national park and explore hiking and camping options. To cool off, head down the river on tubes, paddleboats, or even kayaks! If something a little more relaxed is more your style, head to a nearby park for a relaxed picnic. Don’t forget to pack a football so you and the kids can enjoy some family fun to kick off the summer.
Throw A Legendary BBQ
If you liked our brisket recipe last year, now’s your chance to throw a barbeque the whole neighborhood will remember. Throw our specialty brisket recipe on the grill, serve up some red, white, and blue drinks, and finish the whole thing out with angel food cake and berries for a delicious way to celebrate the holiday. Kick back and relax afterwards with a cold drink and enjoy some relaxing time outside with family.
Cook Up Something Spectacular
If cooking up something awesome in the kitchen is more your style, we’ve got just the thing. These Bourbon BBQ Glazed Pork Chops from the good folks over at Country Living are our top pick for ushering in summer with style.
Ingredients:
1 tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, pressed
1 tbsp. chili powder
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 c. ketchup
3/4 c. your favorite bourbon
1/4 c. molasses
1/4 c. cider vinegar
2 tbsp. dark brown sugar
2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
8 1-inch-thick bone-in pork chops (about 3 pounds total)
1. Heat oil and garlic in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic sizzles (do not let brown), about 1 minute. Add chili powder and cayenne. Cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute.
2. Add ketchup, bourbon, molasses, vinegar, sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, 12 to 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat grill to medium-high. Season chops with salt and pepper. Grill, turning once, until a thermometer inserted in the thickest part (avoiding the bone) registers 135°F, 10 to 14 minutes, basting with glaze (about 2/3 cup) during the last 4 minutes of cooking. Transfer to a platter and baste again. Serve with remaining glaze.
Enjoy!
This Memorial Day, don’t forget that Park Place Finance offers special financing options for veterans and active military members. Our VA loans are easy to qualify for, financed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and do not require mortgage insurance. Contact us today to find out if you qualify.