Cookies, Desserts

Alfajores

Makes about 2 dozen cookies This sandwich cookie is comprised of buttery cookies on the outside and rich, creamy dulce de leche in the center. Ingredients 10 oz (2 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter 1 1/3 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 3 cups all-purpose […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

All About Ceviche

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 […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Makes 12 servings Empanadas are tiny little presents that you get to eat with your hands, and this recipe is one of our favorites! Put out bowls of inclusions, like chopped olives, raisins, or hard-boiled egg, so your family can work together to prepare their own special empanadas. Empanada Dough […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Caipirinha

Yields 8 portions Ingredients 16 limes 1 cup sugar 2 cups cachaça Crushed ice, as needed 1 lime, thinly sliced Directions Cut the limes in half lengthwise, remove the white pith in the center, and cut into wedges. Divide the limes and sugar between 8 cocktail glasses and, using a […]

Main Dishes

Chicharrones con Limón (Lime-Marinated Rendered Pork Ribs)

Ingredients 2 lb pork ribs, cut into individual ribs 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice 2 tablespoons pork lard 3 cups water 4 limes, cut into wedges, for garnish Directions Season the ribs with salt and lime juice and marinade for 30 minutes. Heat the lard […]

Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

Chimichurri Sauce

Makes 1 cup sauce This Argentinian-style sauce is used in the region to top grilled meats, but you can use it alongside grilled or roasted vegetables, a roasted chicken, or even stirred into a simple soup. Experiment with herbs, like mint, as a less traditional topping for roasted lamb. Chef’s […]

Side Dishes

Corn Tortillas

Makes 32 tortillas Homemade tortillas may not seem worth the trouble, but if you haven’t had a fresh tortilla, you are truly missing out. A super-simple mixture of masa harina, water, and a bit of salt combine to form the dough, which you can press with a tortilla press (you […]

Soups and Stews

Dominican-Style Crème de Auyuma (Pumpkin Soup)

This cozy soup gets its creaminess from the rich auyuma squash and a last minute addition of coconut milk. Check your local Latino market for a variety of hard-skinned squashes for the soup. Ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 lb white onion, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 1 tablespoon minced […]

Main Dishes, One-Dish Meals, Soups and Stews

Garbanzo Guisados (Chickpea Stew)

Makes 6 servings This Puerto Rican chickpea stew is warm and comforting, with the richness of chorizo and the briny bite of green olives. Serve it over rice or wrapped in a warm flatbread. You can purchase prepared sofrito from most markets or specialty stores. This recipe doubles and freezes […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Horchata Iced Coffee

Makes 8 servings This horchata and coffee mixture is refreshing and lightly spiced, making it the perfect pick-me-up on those warmer fall days. Adjust the amount or horchata or coffee to your preference, or you can even substitute the brewed coffee for one or two shots of espresso or cold […]