Sweet potatoes are an absolute staple on the southern Thanksgiving table, and the general preference seems to be for very sweet sweet potatoes. I’ve never been a big fan of the marshmallow topped variety, but I do go for Candied Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Streusel or a casserole with cider, maple and orange. A few years ago, I veered over to the savory side (to … [Read more...] about Hot Honey Brown Butter Sweet Potatoes
Fruit and Vegetables
Cranberry Chess Pie
I am a chess pie fanatic. It was a frequent dessert at my grandmother’s house and a fond childhood food memory for me. That sweet, soft filling with a slightly grainy texture from a tiny dose of cornmeal. I love it. And I have produced many iterations over the years, from Sweet Potato Buttermilk, to chocolate in a chocolate crust to salted honey. Some … [Read more...] about Cranberry Chess Pie
Sweet Potato Curry over Black Rice
Black rice isn’t just about the drama, it has a wonderfully nutty taste with a slight chew that holds up to rich toppings like this curry. Sometimes called forbidden rice, I easily find it at stores like the Fresh Market, Whole Foods, Sprouts or in the Asian section of larger groceries. There are different varieties, so cook it according to the instructions on the package. Of … [Read more...] about Sweet Potato Curry over Black Rice
Savory Butternut and Sage Cheesecake
Savory cheesecake is a thing. A few years ago, in support of my cookbook Southern Snacks, I appeared on Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family show to make my country ham cheesecake, and everyone was rather surprised (and dubious) of the concept. I won them over however. I love a savory cheesecake – it’s a fabulous party piece. It serves a crowd, can be made ahead, and with … [Read more...] about Savory Butternut and Sage Cheesecake
Pear, Leek and Walnut Tart
I want to extol the virtues of the savory tart. From classic quiche to stunning flamiche, Chicken, Cheddar and Pecan or a seasonal Italian Summer Cherry Tomato. The permutations are endless, which is certainly a large part of the appeal, but for me the savory tart represents exactly what I aspire to in the kitchen most of the time. Beautiful, … [Read more...] about Pear, Leek and Walnut Tart
