Chef's Notes Plus

Ingredient Spotlight: Dates

When you are food-minded, thinking about dates makes your heart flutter for a very different reason. Luckily, the dates we have in mind are a bit less awkward and nerve-wracking than the romantic kind. Dates, which are the fruit of the date palm, are one of nature’s sweetest creations. You […]

Chef's Blog

Making Quick and Easy Vegetable Stock

Stocks and broths are the literal foundation of every soup, stew, and braise we make, and that’s why we are extra enthusiastic about using homemade stocks (or broths, but let’s just say stocks from now on!) whenever possible. We aren’t oblivious to the absolute convenience of the store-bought versions—or to […]

Side Dishes

Mixed Grain Pilaf

Makes 6 cups, approximately 10 to 12 servings This pilaf is delicious, but neutral flavored, making it a great mix-and-match meal prep recipe. Eat at as a hot side dish, chilled and sprinkled over green salads, or mixed with leftover meats and veggies to stuff peppers or eggplant. Ingredients 2 […]

Allergen Friendly, Main Dishes

Roasted Veggie Fajita Bowls

Makes 4 servings These bowls are endlessly customizable for a quick and filling weeknight dinner. Add thinly sliced raw chicken breast to the veggie mixture before cooking or top the bowls with leftover chili or pulled pork. Drizzle with pico de gallo, sour cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese […]

Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

Salsa Macha

Makes about 4 cups This Mexican sauce is chile-based with the rich flavors of toasted nuts and seeds. Used as a condiment alongside, well, virtually anything, this salsa shines on quesadillas and eggs, rather than as a side for tortilla chips. This blend of chiles gives a spicy, smoky finish. […]

Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

Schmaltz (Rendered Chicken Fat)

Schmaltz is flavorful rendered chicken fat used traditionally in Jewish cooking. Though you may be able to buy chicken skin from some butchers, you can freeze skin from other uses until you have enough to render. This recipe doubles or even triples well; the quantities don’t need to be exact. […]