Nothing motivates one to get in the kitchen more than a funeral. We all seem to harbor that primordial need to comfort with food. And there are fixed ideas – recipes that we keep in mind, or maybe on a card at the front of the recipe box for easy access. A hearty, comforting dish that we know how to make and how to make well that we can whip up the instant the call comes. … [Read more...] about Tomato Aspic
Fruit and Vegetables
Corned Beef and Cabbage Cooked in Beer
I am a newcomer to Corned Beef and Cabbage. I have generally enjoyed my corned beef deli sliced on a sandwich and my cabbage in slaw. My father is a big fan of corned beef and cabbage, but somehow it hadn’t trickled down to me. I had certainly thought about developing a recipe for St. Patrick’s Day, but hadn’t gotten around to it. Then, this winter, I was invited to a friend’s … [Read more...] about Corned Beef and Cabbage Cooked in Beer
Roasted Vegetable Stracciatella
Italian egg-drop soup. That’s how I have heard versions of this soup described. And there appear to be many versions, with light chicken broth, or added spinach or chicken. In fact, the first time I concocted this soup, I didn’t know stracciatella was an actual thing. It was pure kitchen happenstance, and one little discovery I am glad to have made. My … [Read more...] about Roasted Vegetable Stracciatella
Almost-Too-French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup is such a classic. It’s what you eat on your first trip to France, and even if you eat it at the restaurant down the street at home all the time, it is still special and memorable. Soupe à L’oignon Gratinée. The rich onion-y broth, the crispy bread soaking up the flavor, the gooey melted cheese dripping off your spoon. It’s delicious to savor and fun to … [Read more...] about Almost-Too-French Onion Soup
Tuxedo Chili
Here we are again. The days are cold and a little gloomy, the holidays are over, and it is time for hunkering down at home. Right about now, I imagine everyone is craving a nice big bowl of warm, comforting goodness. It’s always nice to have a little twist on a classic, and mine is this creamy chicken chili with the added touch of black beans along with the white – that’s why … [Read more...] about Tuxedo Chili
