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Here's your chance to taste real firehouse chow. To show their appreciation to the community and to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House, Cincinnati Fire Fighters will be making their favorite soups to be served at the Apple on Elm (801 Elm St.) every Tuesday in November, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The first soup scheduled is Cream of Cheesy Asparagus, prepared by Lt. Bill "Gumby'' Donovan. Soup is $3.45/bowl and $2.95/cup. 621-6512.

The mustard people are making mayo. French's has rolled out its line of flavored "light'' mayonnaise called GourMayo. Flavors include Sun-Dried Tomato, Chipotle Chili and Wasabi Horseradish. GourMayo has about half the calories and fat of regular mayonnaise, and costs $2.49 per 11 ounces.

Market Scan

A type of endive, escarole has thick, firm, light and dark-green leaves that taste bitter to bittersweet. Choose escarole heads that are damp and cool, not dried out or wet, with a tight, central white core. Wash well before using. Julienne escarole and mix with mild lettuces for salads, or braise, simmer and stew this flavorful green for soups.

Sip It

Bremerton 1999 Langhorne Creek Tamblyn ($20): This Australian blend offers a hearty helping of dark fruit with some hints of jam. Tamblyn is a blend of primarily cabernet sauvignon with a balanced mix of malbec, merlot and shiraz. This wine mellows after uncorking. In fact, tasting the day after offers a smoother, fuller feel. Delicious with comfort food.

Amy Simmons

Hot Date

Chef Molly Maundrell demonstrates couscous-stuffed eggplant, squash lattice tart and other fall vegetable dishes during "Fruits from the Earth,'' 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesday at Greenacres Cooking School in Indian Hill. $55. Registration: 891-4227.