At its heart, cassoulet is about combining white beans usually haricot or flageolet with a variety of meats, simmered low and slow to meld flavors.

Historically, it might include confit duck or goose (preserved in fat, a regional specialty), pork in various forms (sausage, shoulder, or rind), lamb, or even game in leaner times. The beans, creamy and tender after long cooking, act as a canvas, absorbing the rich, savory depth of the meats.

Today I did a version with duck, pork shank, pork belly, and andouille sausage as an example of this flexibility.

The finished product is so delicious I will probably make another batch for mother's Day.

It's softshell season! The sun is shining and the backyard is wide open for business with great lunch specials!

Experience a night of legendary reggae with Inner Circle! Doors open at 8 PM, and the show kicks off at 9 PM. Don’t miss the chance to vibe to their iconic sound in an unforgettable setting.

Tickets: $25 in advance / $30 at the door. Get your tickets here! ➡️ https://www.obbrewing.com/event/inner-circle-2/

Welcome back to Thursday's GREET THE GUIDES, where you'll get a little behind-the-scenes peek at this year's awesome team.

Meet Mike. He's worked with W.H.A.T. for 10 years and claims to know every backroad and nook and cranny in the 4-wheel drive area. After driving and exploring these sandy avenues for this long, we believe him!

Mike loves being outside, searching for wild horses and other wildlife. He also really enjoys the interactions he has with our guests, especially seeing and hearing their reactions when we find them. "I love telling the history of the horses and discussing their amazing physical attributes."

The tour guide experiences Mike enjoys the most are seeing newly born foals, then watching them grow over time. "They are highly rambunctious and playful, beginning only days after they are born and throughout their first year. Eventually, as they mature, they become calm and majestic most of the time -- except, of course, when they're fighting or mating."

What's his secret for those amazing, interesting, and memorable tours? "I have to have starbucks at least 1 to 2 times a day, or else I will not give give a satisfactory tour," he jokes. "Most of the places I take my guests are permitted by law, and some are questionable," he added with a grin. "Nevertheless, I always bring back every guest that went out with me in one piece." 😉😁

It’s almost time for SURF CAMP! Starting Saturday the 24th, we’ve got Saturday surf camps happening!

We’ve also got some private lessons available starting later this month to hold you over til it’s time for camp!

All ages 10 and up are welcome! Call us or check it out on the website so sign up!

Photo + our super awesome surf camp coach: @roastchestnuts

#surfocracoke #ridethewind #SURF