I have a confession to make: I keep a jar of salted caramel sauce at the ready at all times. Ask anyone who’s dropped by for an impromptu dinner, Thanksgiving, or a backyard BBQ I always pull out a jar of salted caramel. It’s a habit I’m desperate to break because when the guests leave I devour the rest of the sauce and carry the reminder of my indulgence around my waist. I … [Read more...]
Beer Ginger Short Ribs
I’m using any excuse to turn on the oven during this el Nino winter. I'm craving short ribs. I've made Suzanne Goin's short ribs more times than I can count. I wanted something a bit different and thought that a great way to warm up my home by making beer and ginger short ribs. These beer ginger short ribs take a minimum of effort. The zingy beer and ginger sauce compliments … [Read more...]
Stout Rye Bread
The cool weather and my big new kitchen have ignited my urge to bake and fill the house with aromatic warmth. And one of the first things I want to bake is bread—rye bread made with a very dark stout. Of course I looked for the recipe I used to make in my bakery, alas no luck. So I called my mom and asked if she could snap a photo of the recipe card and text me. … [Read more...]
Black Bean Tomatillo Chili
My sister asked me for a chili recipe, make that an easy chili recipe. So here it is: black bean tomatillo chili. What I like about this chili recipe is that it's totally flexible. Follow the recipe the first time you make it. Then change it and own it. I like to cook my beans. But this is not necessary. If you have a can of black beans add them. The same is true for the … [Read more...]
Crostini
Crostini or toasts? No matter what you call them these toasted slices of bread with stuff on top are delightful. Plus, crostini are a great appetizer to make for any occasion. I made a variety of crostini: avocado/bacon, ricotta/red pepper, brie/prosciutto, radish/butter/sea salt, hummus/olive tapenade (my personal favorite) and tomato/mozzarella. What I like most about … [Read more...]