Dried mushrooms are big flavor in a tiny package, and they are one of our go-to pantry staples for adding savory richness (also known as umami) to stews, risottos, sauces, or broths—and more! When shopping for dried mushrooms, look for whole varieties, since they’ll generally hold their flavor better than […]
It’s a popular topic of conversation in the baking community: volume or weight? Many say ingredients should be measured by weight, no question. It is more accurate and more convenient (less dirty dishes!). But in the U.S., most recipes (ours included) for home cooks and bakers are written using volume […]
Blue or blue-veined cheeses are thought to have been among some of the first cheeses produced. Although there is no specific research to prove the theory, it is believed that the mold was first introduced to cheese from moldy bread that had come in contact with the cheese. In the […]
One of the most flavorful ways of cooking meat is in curries. In Asia, there are literally thousands of recipes, but the most common styles can be categorized as Thai, Malaysian, or Indian in origin. While it’s impossible to pinpoint the exact origin of each, the word “curry,” or kari […]
More than just the first component of a popular cocktail, gin is a spirit whose very ingredients bring far-flung parts of the world together. It’s also a drink with a fascinating history touching nations from Holland to England to India. What is Gin? Gin is a neutral spirit base that […]
There are few greater joys than a freshly made cheese, like a mozzarella still warm from its bath. And while there are many styles of cheese available on the market today, some of which take a long time to make or require special equipment or conditions, many can be made […]
It is funny in the food world how trends come and go, yet some dishes fly just under the radar. Ceviche is a dish that continues to be interesting but has yet to reach the cross-cultural influence that, say, sushi has. The origins of both are not as far-flung as […]
Food preference may feel instinctual, but like everything our kids learn, it all begins with education, and participation is an integral part of the learning process. I started a tradition with my children to help spur their curiosity around healthy foods. Every Wednesday after school, we make a trip to […]
Culinary cultures based in steamy equatorial climates all have their own spicy chile condiments, like Mexico’s hot salsas, Indonesia’s sambals, Caribbean vinegar-based habañero sauces—even our own Louisiana’s Tabasco. But harissa, the garlic-laced spice paste of Tunisia, shared also by Morocco and Algeria, imparts a singular fruity complexity in the luxurious […]
Selecting wine can be overwhelming. Between vintage, varietal, and processing (just to start!), you could fill your entire brain with wine knowledge and still feel like there’s more to learn. Of course, tasting is a great way to learn more, but before you taste, you have to choose! Luckily, we’ve […]
As I began my journey at CIA, I was obviously quite eager to start my Baking and Pastry Fundamentals class. This is the course that is the basis for all bakeshop classes at the CIA—the real meat and potatoes of culinary school. Culinary-track students take their own Culinary Fundamentals class, […]
Onions, carrots, celery, leeks, parsnips, garlic, tomatoes, shallots, mushrooms, peppers, and ginger are among the ingredients commonly referred to as aromatics. They may be used in various combinations, as dictated by the cuisine and the dish itself. Even when used in relatively small amounts, aromatic ingredients make a significant contribution […]