Many years ago, as a kid, I saw a recipe and photo for Liptauer in a cookbook or magazine, and I remember that it looked impossibly elegant and sounded so exotic and sophisticated to me. I didn’t understand all the ingredients –capers and caraway sounded foreign and out of reach. The picture showed a fancy mold surrounded by intricate garnishes – carved radishes and celery … [Read more...] about Liptauer
International
Flamiche (Belgian Leek, Goat Cheese and Bacon Tart)
The first spring weekend of farmers market season is exciting. I am ready for all that fresh produce with a new treat arriving each week and little surprises on every visit. I know that I am closer to juicy strawberries, my first tomato in months, bright, sweet corn and so many things. I know it is all about to start. But in reality, that first Saturday is a little sparse. … [Read more...] about Flamiche (Belgian Leek, Goat Cheese and Bacon Tart)
Creamy Hominy Bake with Green Chiles and Cheese
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
Pasta with Gorgonzola, Apples and Walnuts
When I travel, one of my greatest joys is sampling as much of the local food as possible. But on long trips, even I get a little weary. Sometimes I crave more familiar flavors, sometimes I am just too tired to search out a specialty restaurant and just want what’s close. And sometimes, this pays off. I had amazing, perfect pizza in Toledo, Spain because … [Read more...] about Pasta with Gorgonzola, Apples and Walnuts
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
