Makes 5 servings These are your basic grilled ham and cheese sandwiches, but as far as we’re concerned, they’re just a starting point for your foodie-creativity. Though, yes, these are perfect as is, especially beside some Cream of Tomato Soup, experiment with different breads, cheeses, meats, and even toppings. […]
Healthy Cooking with Picky Eaters, from a CIA Chef
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 […]
Homemade Fruity Granola Bars
Makes 16 granola bars Making snacks at home is an easy way to control the ingredients that go into our foods, and granola bars are one of the easiest recipes. We’ve included an assortment of dried fruit that we really love, but you substitute any of your favorites. Add 1/4 […]
Hot Fudge Sauce
Makes about 2 cups Ingredients 6 oz unsweetened chocolate, melted 1/2 cup cocoa powder 2/3 cup water 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup light corn syrup 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Directions Combine the melted chocolate, cocoa powder, and water in a […]
In Defense of Spam
Early in the semester, CIA students in my Food Writing course read “On Chicken Tenders,” by Helen Rosner, published in 2015 in Guernica. In this amusing but sincere defense of a derided, children’s menu staple, Rosner effectively argues against those who look down on ordering, eating, and celebrating the “perfect” […]
Jelly Donuts (Sufganiyot)
Makes 10 donuts Whether you save them as a special Hanukkah treat or enjoy them year round, there is no wrong reason to eat a jelly donut. Use any jelly or jam that you like best, or fill the donuts with dulce de leche, vanilla cream, or chocolate-hazelnut spread. Ingredients […]
Lasagna With Eggplant, Tomato & Mozzarella
Serves 6 Fried Eggplant Ingredients 2 lb eggplant Kosher salt, as needed Extra-virgin olive oil, as needed for frying Tomato-Basil Sauce Ingredients 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 qt canned whole San Marzano tomatoes with their juices Kosher salt, as needed […]
Lemon-Roasted Broccoli and Sausage Grain Bowl
Makes 4 to 6 servings This is a great recipe to keep in your back pocket. Serve the roasted mixture over grains, like we did here, or stuffed in a pita, tossed with pasta, or even to top a quick pizza. Omit the sausage, if you like, for a simple […]
Matzo Brei
Makes 4 servings Matzo brei is a simple Jewish comfort food that’s popular at Passover, or really any time of year! Every family makes this dish a little bit differently, and while we like to fry the matzo until it is crisp and toasty, you may prefer to leave it […]
Matzo Brei: The Ultimate 5-Minute Comfort Food
Passover begins on Friday, and of course, we’re planning our seder menu. But when there is matzo in the house, there is admittedly only one thing on our mind. Matzo is significant during Passover when unleavened bread is forbidden by tradition, hence flat and crispy matzo. And while you can […]
Mini Calzones
Makes 8 mini calzones These are classic calzone flavors perfectly kid-sized for a fun handheld movie-night dinner! Set out a variety of fillings so everyone can make their own, and don’t be afraid to try something new, like Buffalo chicken, taco pockets, or barbecue pulled pork!
Mulled Cider
Makes 8 servings Chefs note: You may be able to find pear cider to use instead of the more widely available apple cider. If possible, buy cider that has not been pasteurized for the freshest, fullest apple or pear flavor.