The Two Broads pantry reflects our very different backgrounds and tastes as well as our common bonds. Cumin, coriander, ginger, turmeric flavor Mz. Riz's family meals, while garlic, onions and a variety of pastas are mainstays in mine. Yet, no meal would be complete without vinegar and Thai garlic sauce for Mz. Riz. So this dish is a perfect blending of our cultural … [Read more...]
Braised Chicken a la Suzanne Goin–Delicious, actually better than that
It is no secret that I love Suzanne Goin and her approach to food. She is a goddess full stop. I met a fellow "Goin Groupie" Kelli Abrahamian at the last FBLA meeting. It's incredible how a shared sensibility can bring two strangers together and make them feel like long lost sisters. That's how I felt with Kelli as we waxed poetic about Suzanne and her food. (Kelli also … [Read more...]
Weekly Photo Challenge: Lunchtime
Downtown Los Angeles is home to some of the most wonderfully creative new chefs the country has to offer. One of my personal favorites is Josef Cenento. We first sampled his creations at Opal many years ago with a four course tasting menu for Nahid's birthday. Then we went to Lazy Ox Canteen before a play and loved his clams. His evolving revolving menu kept pulling us … [Read more...]
Pastiera Napoletana: Wheat Berries and Ricotta = Heaven
Easter is coming soon. Our trip to Italy follows. Okay so I'm in an Italian state of mind, looking forward and backward at the same time. Pastiera is a traditional Easter dessert we had at many dinners when I was growing up. The reason I love it: it's got great texture from the wheat berries or farro, a great citrus flavor from lemons and orange, the ricotta and eggs … [Read more...]
Kumquat Preserves–Sweet and Spicy
Kumquats are all over the place these days. And what to do with all those tiny golden orbs? Easy, make preserves. When I was trying to think up a winning entry for the Annual Grilled Cheese Invitational I used kumquat jam as a garnish for my entry the "Sweet Goat". KCRW thought I did a pretty good job. … [Read more...]
