Grand Californian Hotel at Disneyland Resort

Zesty Firecracker Duck Wings from Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge at Disney California Adventure Park

posted on March 26th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer


A taste of creative California cuisine, these kicky Firecracker Duck Wings take some time, but the final taste is worth the effort. Chef Gloria Tae from Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge at Disney California Adventure park shows us start to finish how the restaurant creates the appealing dish, and the recipe below takes you through step-by-step to make your own at home.

The recipe works well with chicken wings, too – Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge uses duck for something a little different, says Chef Gloria. With braising, then frying in a light tempura batter, these wings soar to new heights.

Fire Cracker Duck Wings
Serves 6-8

Wings

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 orange, zested (no white pith) and chopped
  • 1 cup yellow onion, coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup carrots, coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup celery, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
  • 2 lemongrass stalks, tops and root-end trimmed and crushed with back of knife to release flavor
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons garlic, coarsely chopped
  • 2 red jalapeño peppers, cut in half lengthwise
  • 4-5 kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 cups soy sauce
  • 1 quart chicken stock
  • 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Coarse salt and pepper to taste
  • 25 duck wings, tips removed and cut in half at joint

Tempura Batter

  • 2 cups flour
  • 3 cups cold seltzer water
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch, more if needed

Wing Sauce

  • 1 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup Sriracha hot chili sauce

For wings:

  1. Preheat oven to 350˚F.
  2. Place oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add orange zest toast for 3 to 4 minutes. Add onion, carrots, and celery, stirring until slightly caramelized. Add brown sugar and vinegar and reduce by half, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add lemongrass, ginger, garlic, jalapeños, lime leaves, and soy sauce. Reduce by half, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  3. Add chicken stock and bring to boil. Reduce to simmer and add cilantro. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
  4. Place duck wings in a single layer in large roasting pan. (Two pans might be needed depending on number of wings and size.) Pour liquid over wings, making sure meat is completely covered.
  5. Cover pan with foil. Braise for 1 1/2 hours; check for tenderness and cook longer if necessary.
  6. Remove wings from braising liquid and place in separate pan. Strain braising liquid, then pour over wings. Refrigerate until cooled.

For tempura batter:

  1. Mix together flour, seltzer water, and coarse salt. Refrigerate until tread to use.
  2. Reserve cornstarch for dredging wings.

For wing sauce:

  1. Melt butter in small saucepan over low heat.
  2. Add soy sauce and Sriracha, mixing thoroughly. Set aside and keep warm.

To serve:

  1. Pat wings dry. Dredge in tempura batter, then roll in small amount of cornstarch. Add more cornstarch if necessary.
  2. Prepare deep fryer, including oil amount, according to machine instructions. Place coated wings one by one directly into fryer, with basket submerged in oil. Lift basket and shake occasionally to make sure wings don’t stick together. Fry until crispy, watching closely so as not to overcook. Remove from fryer and toss wings with warm sauce. Squeeze fresh lime over wings and keep warm until all wings are cooked.
  3. Serve immediately.
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New iPhone 5 Cases Debut at Disney California Adventure Park

posted on March 22nd, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


Everybody wants to look cool when they’re out cruisin’, and there’s no better way to do that than with D-Tech, and no better place to do that than in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park. So how do you achieve that next level of cool? It’s simple! Check out these new cases for your iPhone 5, featuring the Cars Land billboard and the Cozy Cone Motel. They’re available now at Ramone’s House of Body Art and Radiator Springs Curios for $34.95 each.

New Cozy Cone Motel iPhone 5 Case Debuts at Disney California Adventure Park New Cars Land iPhone 5 Case Debuts at Disney California Adventure Park

For those of you a “hare” away from getting an iPhone 5, this might just persuade you. With a little luck, you’ll be able to personalize your phone with an Oswald-inspired case. Available now at Elias & Co, Off the Page and of course, Oswald’s for only $34.95.

New Oswald-Inspired iPhone 5 Case Debuts at Disney California Adventure Park

Which one will you choose?

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Easter Celebration at Disney Parks Includes ‘Limited Time Magic’ Surprises

posted on March 22nd, 2013 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks


There’s a special weeklong Easter celebration planned for you as part of “Limited Time Magic” at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. And today, we have a peek at what to expect beginning on Monday.
“Mr.

From March 25-31, Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny will greet guests at Magic Kingdom Park at Bunny Lane (located next to City Hall) at the Walt Disney World Resort. The pair will also join butterflies, flowers and dancing hippos for an Easter procession down Main Street, U.S.A.

Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny will be hopping over to Epcot to greet guests in the United Kingdom Pavilion, where egg hunts will be held throughout the day. And if finding eggs is a family favorite, Easter egg hunts will also be held each day in Future World East.

Things get hopping at Disneyland park as well on Monday, when the Easter Bunny stops by to greet guests in Town Square. Each day, the Easter Bunny will join some of his long-eared Disney friends, along with the Dapper Dans and Mickey and Minnie Mouse, for a Bunny Hop dance on Main Street, U.S.A.

At Disney California Adventure park, Russell and Dug have hidden oversized Easter eggs throughout Redwood Creek Challenge Trail for a Wilderness Explorer Egg Hunt. Track them down, follow the clues and solve the puzzle to earn your very own Spring Egg-tivity Badge.

Let us know if you’ll be joining us for the celebration next week.

You can find updates on our latest extra sprinkle of pixie dust on Twitter using hashtag #LimitedTimeMagic and on our LimitedTimeMagic.com web page.

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Filed: Disney California Adventure Park, Disneyland Resort, Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort

Melissa Joan Hart and Family Meet Jake at Disney California Adventure Park

posted on March 20th, 2013 by George Savvas, Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort


As the mother of three young boys, “Melissa & Joey” star, Melissa Joan Hart, knows all about the characters and shows of Disney Junior – especially “Jake and the Never Land Pirates.”
Melissa Joan Hart and Family Meet Jake at Disney California Adventure Park
Even though the cast and crew of Disney Junior – Live on Stage! are still preparing for their March 22 reopening, Jake was on hand to say hello to Melissa and her family during their recent visit. Melissa mentioned that they can’t wait to come back to see Doc McStuffins, when the show returns to Disney California Adventure park with all-new segments featuring “Sofia the First” and “Doc McStuffins.”
Melissa Joan Hart and Taylor Spreitler Pose with Jake at Disney California Adventure Park
A member of Melissa’s TV family, Taylor Spreitler, was also there to meet Jake right before they all set out for their fun day in the parks.

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New Friends Join Disney Junior – Live on Stage! at Disney California Adventure Park

posted on March 18th, 2013 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment


Disney Junior – Live on Stage!, presented in the Disney Theater in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure park, reopens this week with all-new segments featuring characters and stories from hit Disney Junior shows “Doc McStuffins” and “Sofia the First.”
“New

Sofia enlists the help of sorcerer Mr. Cedric in casting a spell to make her stepfather the king’s royal ball a sparkling success. Later, when her friend Lambie comes down with a case of “the rippies,” Doc McStuffins knows just what to do to help her feel “so much better.” The new sequences join returning stories from “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” and “Jake and the Never Land Pirates” for a live show sure to captivate young fans and their families.
“New

The new Disney Junior – Live on Stage! opens Friday, March 22, at Disney California Adventure park and is now playing at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort.

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‘Limited Time Magic’ Disney Character ‘Egg’ Hunt Begins Next Week at Disney Parks

posted on March 15th, 2013 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks


If you have an eagle eye, next week’s “Limited Time Magic” surprise at Disney Parks is especially for you. We’re launching a special “egg” hunt at both the Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts.
“‘Limited

For one week only, from March 18-24, you’ll be able to search for special hidden “eggs” themed to Disney characters at Epcot and at Disney California Adventure park and then record your discoveries on specially themed Eggs-perience park maps.

At Epcot, maps can be purchased at the Heritage Manor in the American Adventure Pavilion, International Gateway, Pin Central and Port of Entry.
“‘Limited

And at Disney California Adventure park, you can purchase the map at Elias & Co., Oswald’s, Radiator Springs Curios, Tower Hotel Gifts and Treasures in Paradise.

Each map and set of stickers will cost $4.95, plus tax at select locations. And whether you choose to hunt for eggs or not, return your map to a Port of Entry at Epcot or Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure park for a surprise.

Maps will be available while supplies last and no discounts apply. You should also know that separate admission is required to enter Disney Theme Parks and the experience is subject to restrictions and change without notice.

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Lea Thompson Meets Mater in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park

posted on March 14th, 2013 by George Savvas, Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort


Lea Thompson, who stars in the hit ABC Family series, “Switched at Birth,” stopped by recently to experience Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park with her family and friends. We caught up with her over at the Cozy Cone Motel, where Mater. was waiting to welcome her to Radiator Springs. It was hard for me to hear exactly what they were discussing, but I thought I heard something about Stanley and time travel

Lea Thompson meets Mater in Cars Land

Then Lea’s daughter, actress Zoey Deutch, came over to get a picture with Mater. If Zoey looks familiar, you recognize her from her recurring role on a popular Disney Channel comedy that ended its run in 2011. Can you name the show? (Please, no cheating – time travel included.)

Lea and her daughter, Zoey Deutch pose with Mater

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Opa! A Celebration of Greece Coming to Disneyland Resort May 25-27

posted on March 14th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print, Disneyland Resort


UPDATE 3/25/13: Reservations are now open for the special dinner at the Golden Vine Winery with Greek celebrity Chef Argiro Barbarigou and Greek winemaker Christina Boutari. Click here for ticket information and booking.

“Opa!
Join us at the Disneyland Resort from May 25-27 for Opa! A Celebration of Greece, featuring music, dance, art, food, history and more! Festivities will take place in both “it’s a small world” Mall in Disneyland park and Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure park. Mickey Mouse will even be there in his Fustanella attire!

Each day from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., these two areas will offer special experiences such as:

“it’s a small world” Mall

  • Olympics training with Hercules
  • Atmosphere entertainment by “The Citizens of Greece”
  • Live performances from Greek musicians and dancers
  • Special Greek food offerings

Paradise Garden

  • Greek wine tastings
  • Live performances from Greek musicians
  • Kalamatianó line dances
  • Special Greek food offerings
  • Atmosphere entertainment by “The Citizens of Greece”

And on May 26, you’re invited to join Greek celebrity Chef Argiro Barbarigou and Greek winemaker Christina Boutari for a special dinner at the Golden Vine Winery in Disney California Adventure park. Reservations and tickets may be purchased online starting March 25, so check back for booking details.

Come join us for Opa! A Celebration of Greece, May 25-27 at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks!

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Cast Member Competitions Benefit Local Charities at the Disneyland Resort

posted on March 13th, 2013 by Kevin Rafferty, Jr., Communications Specialist, Disneyland Resort


One of the benefits of working at the Disneyland Resort is the opportunity to participate in special events designed especially for cast members. Recently, two cast favorites took place after hours with proceeds benefiting local nonprofit organizations.
Orange County's Pacific Symphony was Awarded With $5000 at This Year's Minnie's Moonlit Madness Event
On February 28, 350 teams of cast members and employees from around The Walt Disney Company, along with family and friends, took part in this year’s Minnie’s Moonlit Madness. The event consisted of a Disney trivia-based quiz, followed by a scavenger hunt inside Disneyland park where four-person teams tested their music savvy under a “Soundsational” theme with a special catch: to complete 10 assignments by midnight while connected by rope!

Participants this year included a team of cast members from Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, in Hawai`i. Entry fees benefited Orange County’s Pacific Symphony, which was presented with $5,000 at the event!
The First “More Than 250 Cast Members Participated in 'Flashback' at the Hyperion Theater at Disney California Adventure Park
Days later, the lights of the Hyperion Theater at Disney California Adventure park shone brightly when more than 250 cast members participated in “Flashback”, an annual production where cast members produce and star in their own mini-musicals. Each year, four teams of cast members representing various areas of the Disneyland Resort perform for family and friends after nearly two months of practice and production.

The first “Flashback” performance was in the Golden Horseshoe in 1998. Over the years, the event has gained popularity and grown to attract an audience of thousands, with proceeds from ticket sales benefiting local charities – more than $250,000 donated over the past 15 years. This year’s event benefited the Boys & Girls Clubs of Anaheim and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County with $15,000 each!

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Behind the Scenes with Zach Braff at ‘Oz The Great and Powerful’ Exclusive 4D Sneak Peek

posted on March 8th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print, Disneyland Resort


It’s finally here – we’ve followed the Yellow Brick Road all the way to opening day for “Oz The Great and Powerful.” For a few weeks, Disney California Adventure park guests have had the chance to view an Exclusive 4D Sneak Peek of the new film, hosted by star Zach Braff who plays both Frank (in the “real world” of Kansas) and Finley (in the wonderful land of Oz).
Behind the Scenes with Zach Braff at ‘Oz The Great and Powerful’ Exclusive 4D Sneak Peek
In the photo above, you can see Braff at Walt Disney Imagineering recording the introduction for the ‘Oz The Great and Powerful’ Exclusive 4D Sneak Peek, showing now through March 31 at Disney California Adventure park. Check it out on your next visit and see the film – it opens today!

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