Pizza – Napoli Style!

Have you ever had a wood-fired pizza fresh out of the oven? Steaming hot, the cheese melted into an oozy puddle over rich tomato sauce and fresh basil, the crust bubbled up crisp, tender, and lightly charred with a smoky scent. Oh yeah, and baked under 2 minutes? Now that’s how a true Napoli style […]

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Chicken Pot Pie – Don’t Fear the Flame

I love Chicken Pot Pie.  Tender chicken, vegetables, thick and rich chicken sauce, nestled in a buttery and oh so flaky pie crust.  But  how do you take Chicken Pot Pie from “great” to “omg.” Well, it’s all about caramelization.  Don’t fear the flame! this is how we develop deeper flavors from our food.  Most […]

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Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Rum Butter Glaze

As the cooler weather signals the arrival of fall, it also signals the arrival of seasonal baking. The time that cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove get to be guest stars in baking recipes greeting us with their aromas and reminding us of the warmth and comfort of home. What better way to celebrate the changing […]

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Naan – Indian Flat Bread

  Homemade Naan just off the griddle and slathered with butter or wrapped around grilled meat, or used as a utensil to scoop up a spicy tikka masala and coriander chutney.  So soft, tender, and delicious. This is why I make my own naan at home. Who could resist this traditional flat bread from India?  You don’t even […]

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Ensaïmada of Mallorca, Spain: Porky Pastry Goodness

The Ensaïmada, the official pastry from the island of Mallorca, Spain.  A pastry set apart from all others by its recipe, time-honored process, and the use of lard. A traditional pastry dating back to the 17th century. The Ensaïmada tells of the history of the Romans and the Moors who once ruled Mallorca and then left their […]

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Summers Gift: Fresh Tomatoes and Homemade Ricotta Cheese

I’ve been waiting all summer for those first tomatoes to ripen in the garden. Anticipating the first taste of the tomatoes that have been allowed to ripen on the vine in the glow of the summer sun.  Developing their sweet, slightly acidic, juicy, full flavor and all their delicious goodness to be picked and enjoyed […]

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Chả Giò (Vietnamese Pork Spring Rolls)

Have you ever eaten something at a restaurant that tasted so good you couldn’t stop thinking about it? For me, my cravings got the best of me this week.  Ever since visiting San Antonio this past April. I’ve been thinking about the Spring Rolls at Viet-Nam Restaurant on Broadway. During the fifteen years I lived in San […]

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Fresh Blueberry Pie: My Sweet Confession

I have a confession to make. I didn’t like blueberries when I was a kid. I know, can you believe that? It was something about the texture and flavor that I didn’t enjoy. Now mind you, I wasn’t a picky eater when I was a kid. I can count on one hand the foods that […]

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Texas BBQ Pork Spare Ribs

  When it comes to BBQ.  I think of Texas BBQ.  Low and slow.  The seasoning is kept simple too!  Salt and pepper are the main players in the rub.  While sweet paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder are just background notes.  No sauce is added to the ribs except when they’re served and that […]

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Kicking Buffalo Chicken Legs with Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing

The spicy heat of Buffalo Chicken Wings and cooling affect of Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing have never tasted so good! A truly American creation. Traditionally the wings are seasoned, deep fried, and then tossed in vinegary hot sauce and melted butter. A really good pairing of two flavors. I had a taste for this combo during the Super Bowl, […]

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