My introduction to this French country dish was, oddly, in London. And the first time I had it, I had never heard of it. Since my graduate school days, I have made an annual pilgrimage to London, extending the trip each year, to spend enough time to settle in and not feel rushed or overwhelmed. Sure, I go to museums and historical sights and see friends, but my main focus, … [Read more...] about Hachis Parmentier (French Cottage Pie)
Vegetables
Snow White Soup (Parsnip, Fennel and Leek Soup)
It has already snowed here in Memphis twice this year, but too early and too inconvenient. I am hoping for a few more snow days, when I have no need to leave the house and am prepared with a good book, with enough warning for a trip to the grocery. It doesn’t get cold enough, often enough here to invest in big, heavy wool turtleneck sweaters and thick mittens, but I like to … [Read more...] about Snow White Soup (Parsnip, Fennel and Leek Soup)
Omelets in the Bag
Bag omelets, as we call them, are a favorite project for my family. The family legend behind this is that my Dad was watching some sort of hunting and fishing outdoor program on a Sunday afternoon and they demonstrated these as a campfire cooking idea. Dad called my Mom into watch, and they were so intrigued, they made them that night. Well, they couldn’t stop talking about … [Read more...] about Omelets in the Bag
Roasted Butternut and Chestnut Purée
I love autumn. I love wearing sweaters, snuggling under a blanket, comforting, slow-cooked stews, steaming bowls of soup. And my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving, which of course leads to a wonderful Christmas season. But I will admit, that when fall comes on in earnest, and I see the end of tomatoes at the farmer’s market, my herb garden fades and I am not quite ready to … [Read more...] about Roasted Butternut and Chestnut Purée
Butternut Brioche
You are going to want a loaf of this around the house during the Thanksgiving holiday. It is beautiful, autumnal and something of an achievement to show your friends and family. It is great spread with butter. Fig, Bourbon and Vanilla Bean Jam is a real treat. It is gorgeous toasted, and makes amazing leftover turkey sandwiches. Let me assure you, I am … [Read more...] about Butternut Brioche
