Red Velvet Cake is a real childhood memory for me. I have an aunt who makes a great one. But it was definitely not trendy or cool or in. Red Velvet was seriously down-home, real country food. It wasn’t even a standard on diner menus. But that all seems to have changed. I am dubious about this hipsterfied version. I have had some really, really bad red velvet made by … [Read more...] about Red Velvet Polka Dot Cookies
Holiday Cooking
Festive Favorites 2011
The time has come again. Thanksgiving is all over but the leftovers, and it is time to turn to holiday shopping. I love putting together this round up of some of my holiday fun finds, and as always, these are just some ideas about personal favorites – no one has asked me to promote any products. This year, I am all about homemade gifts from the kitchen. I went on a real … [Read more...] about Festive Favorites 2011
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
Sweet Potato Mustard, Bacon Mayonnaise and Cranberry Ketchup
When I claimed thanksgiving for my own, I wanted to create a tradition for this new configuration of family, one for grown-ups and kids alike. So I came up with the Thankful Tree. My mom drew a big tree, complete with falling leaves and acorns and a bunny rabbit at the base, on a piece of poster board. Every year, my nieces and nephew come over before Thanksgiving, when … [Read more...] about Sweet Potato Mustard, Bacon Mayonnaise and Cranberry Ketchup
Rosemary Pear Martini
I always think it’s nice to start off the Thanksgiving celebrations with a special cocktail and a few nibbles. It sets a convivial mood and keeps everyone occupied while the last touches of the meal are being tended too. Frankly, I like to have everyone’s hands busy while I am trying to get the food on the table so they stay out of my way! This lovely little tipple is … [Read more...] about Rosemary Pear Martini
