I have never set myself the task of making a real King Cake, as I figure there are enough people who do that already. My brother used to send me delicious King Cakes from a bakery in New Orleans when I was in college. Those cakes were moist and tender with a cream cheese filling, with a brightly colored, but simple, frosting. The cake was packaged with beads and doubloons and … [Read more...] about King Cake Bars
Mardi Crawfish Spread
As Mardi Gras time comes around, I start to get a good craving for some Louisiana cooking. And what is more Louisiana than crawdads? This creamy crawfish spread is perfect for a Mardi Gras party, or any time you need a little Creole kick. I like to serve this as an appetizer or on the buffet with some thick rounds of baguette, but it ain’t bad over … [Read more...] about Mardi Crawfish Spread
Chocolate Biscuits
I love biscuits in all forms, and have myself developed many permutations, from fresh corn, to blueberry, to pimento cheese. But with the sweetheart holiday coming up, I thought I’d try my hand at a rich, chocolate version. Bake up a batch of these babies for someone special and you’ll make your way onto their heart. These biscuits don’t rise as high a standard buttermilk … [Read more...] about Chocolate Biscuits
Bourbon and Cane Syrup Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots are a classic French preparation. But I don't always think about that. Not that it’s difficult, but frankly, I tend to use carrots as an afterthought, raw as a snack, chopped with celery and onions, or simply roasted. But rarely as a stand-alone star. Which is a shame, because beautiful, richly colored carrots are a taste treat. Add a bourbon spiked, cane … [Read more...] about Bourbon and Cane Syrup Glazed Carrots
Hachis Parmentier (French Cottage Pie)
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)
