Here we are again in that not-quite-winter, not-quite-spring time. It is cloudy and cold today, but two days ago it was lovely, bright and warm. The green shoots and leaves are starting to appear, but the grass is still brown and it’s not time to put the sweaters away yet. I am not really in the mood for stews and soups and braises, but the fresh new season produce isn’t quite … [Read more...] about Ricotta Balls in Tomato Sauce
Ultimate Pecan Brownies
I kind of think of these as the ultimate nut brownies. Nutty browned butter, pecan meal, chopped pecans – and a little dose of bourbon to give them some Southern flair. I am a big fan of nut flours (or meals) that are now so readily available. They add such dimension to simple recipes. Almond flour is a solid standby, but I love experimenting with hazelnut meal (in a fig … [Read more...] about Ultimate Pecan Brownies
Twice Baked French Onion Soufflés
The first time I made a twice baked soufflés, I served them elegantly on individual gratin dishes with my best china and silver as sophisticated ladies’ luncheon. I developed this version for another ladies’ luncheon (where the ladies were of course just as elegant) hosted not at my house. But it was so easy to make these soufflés ahead and turn them out onto a rimmed ceramic … [Read more...] about Twice Baked French Onion Soufflés
French Quarter Breakfast Puffs
I like a little silliness in the Mardi Gras season. Lots of sprinkles and glitter and fun. I have taken a classic recipe for what I have always called French puffs (I hear they are now sometimes called duffins for donut/muffin) and added a Mardi Gras twist with colored sanding sugar. The muffin is simple, vanilla scented and not too sweet, but a dip in cinnamon sugar gives a … [Read more...] about French Quarter Breakfast Puffs
Cajun Smothered Shrimp with Green Onion Rice
I can’t get near Mardi Gras season without whipping up several Louisiana-inspired meals. Sure, I make gumbowith a roux, slow cooked red beans and rice, fabulous party food like savory crawfish king cake or crab remoulade cheesecake and desserts like tarte a la bouille and king cake bars. But it’s nice to have a simple, weeknight … [Read more...] about Cajun Smothered Shrimp with Green Onion Rice
