It’s possible I am jumping the gun a little bit here - but I am ready for fall, even if the temperature outside still says summer. Soups, stews and braises, rich flavors and hearty, comforting dishes. And in that spirit, I offer this perfectly autumnal chicken stew, redolent with crisp apple cider and herbaceous tarragon. This recipe takes a heavy cue from the cooking of … [Read more...] about Chicken with Cider and Tarragon
bacon
Guinness Sausage Coddle
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, I always turn to hearty meat and potato dishes with a nice Irish flair, and this classic with a twist makes a perfect family meal. The origin of the name “coddle” is rather cloudy, but apparently it was a favorite of authors from Jonathan Swift to James Joyce. Loaded with smoky bacon, meaty sausages, rich potatoes and sweet carrots and little … [Read more...] about Guinness Sausage Coddle
Bacon Praline Shrimp
Many years ago, I hesitate to say how many, the hot appetizer around town, both in restaurants and from party caterers, was bacon wrapped stuffed shrimp, often with a sticky glaze. They were an absolute hit with everyone. I, of course, re-created the dish at home and for some years served it at my own little gatherings. But it was (and still is) a lot of work. Butterfly the … [Read more...] about Bacon Praline Shrimp
Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and Grits, technically the child of the South Carolina Low Country has been adopted by Southerners as their own. You will find shrimp and grits in homes and on menus from Florida to Misssissippi, and of course here in Tennessee. I bet most Southerners would put it on a grand list of Southern classics without even realizing its specific geographic origin. And I imagine … [Read more...] about Shrimp and Grits
Scandi-Style Potatoes
Potatoes are a real kitchen workhorse. They go with anything – fish, chicken, beef, pork, lamb – and it is easy to make them taste good. Tossed with a little olive oil and herbs and roasted, mashed with butter and milk, baked and topped with all manner of things, cold in a potato salad. I’m a believer that if you have a potato in the house, you always have a meal. But I also … [Read more...] about Scandi-Style Potatoes
