Spring has arrived and summer is not far behind, so my thoughts turn to eating outdoors, particularly entertaining friends and family. I have always loved a patio party, but the pandemic honed my skills immensely, as it was the only way to have a social life for awhile there. Of course, we did it in all seasons – outdoor fans and firepits, t-shirts and blankets. So that leads … [Read more...] about Italian Platter Salad
Dinner
Slow Cooker Chilorio (Mexican-style Chile Pulled Pork)
am a born and bred Memphian, so pulled pork is sort of my native foodway. I have had more pulled pork sandwiches in my lifetime than I could ever count. I first had chilorio after a friend introduced me to it a Mexican restaurant and I immediately loved this rich variant. I read up on it and decided to work out my own recipe for a party I hosted for several years (before … [Read more...] about Slow Cooker Chilorio (Mexican-style Chile Pulled Pork)
Comté Cheese Tart
There is a restaurant in London that I love called Noble Rot (there are three locations). I have been there for dinner a few times and love the creative food. I didn’t know they served lunch until one day I was in the area looking for another restaurant which turned out to be closed. Walking back up the street, I fell over. Just face planted on the pavement for no apparent … [Read more...] about Comté Cheese Tart
Guinness and Oatmeal Quick Bread
AS St. Patrick's Day approaches, I am reposting an old favorite from 9 year ago. I developed this recipe for a holiday post, but I ended up cycling it into my repetoire pretty often. It's great with a bowl of Irish Stew or Dublin Coddle. So, from 2015: I had a six pack of Guinness on hand. I love cooking with stout, but I don’t particularly like drinking it … [Read more...] about Guinness and Oatmeal Quick Bread
Baked Polenta with Meat Sauce
Now is the time of year for comfort. Chilly and grey outside, short days waiting for spring. I love to cozy up on the couch to read good books and stream TV series. Generally nesting at home. So a hearty, warming, comforting dish is perfect. This recipe is not difficult, but it does take a little time and patience. It is the kind of meal I find almost meditative to create. … [Read more...] about Baked Polenta with Meat Sauce






