My primary memory of hominy is a quick Sunday night dish my mom used to whip up with eggs and sausage, but I love hominy as a more unusual side for a good Mexican meal. I recently made this dish for a gathering of my parents’ friends, and when they realized it was hominy, I got a few looks. One friend told me she hadn’t had hominy since early childhood, when it was served in … [Read more...] about Creamy Hominy Bake with Green Chiles and Cheese
Cinco de Mayo
Mexican Corn Salad
My favorite summer treat is definitely fresh corn, straight off the cob. I eat more corn in summer than I ought to admit. Usually just straight up, with a little butter and salt. When corn starts appearing in the farmers market, I buy bushels of it to put up for the winter. I ration out those little frozen bags of golden jewels like they really are precious gems. And when I … [Read more...] about Mexican Corn Salad
Charro Beans
I’ll be honest, I don’t actually know the history of Cinco de Mayo, I just know it’s a perfect excuse for a slap-up Mexican meal, and that is always a good thing. And there is something so friendly and communal about a Mexican feast. It’s a great way to gather friends and family, its interactive eating that everyone can enjoy. So for your own celebration, serve up some Smoky … [Read more...] about Charro Beans
Smoky Beef Tacos
For most of my life, a taco was ground meat, a package of seasoning and hard shells from the box, with lots of cheese and maybe a little lettuce on top. And I will tell you, I have nothing against that version. But in the last few years, there has been a proliferation of Mexican restaurants in Memphis that serve what is considered more authentic Mexican food. And I haven’t … [Read more...] about Smoky Beef Tacos
Green Chile Cheese Puffs
I love these little puffs. They are tender and cheesy with a nice bite from the green chiles and couldn’t be easier to make. They are a great nibble to start a family taco night but are also elegant enough for the swankiest party. Green Chile Cheese Puffs I love the extra little hit of smoked paprika on top, but use sweet paprika if that’s what you have. ½ pound … [Read more...] about Green Chile Cheese Puffs