Cookies

Iced and Spiced Brown Sugar Cookies

Makes about 3 dozen cookies, depending on the size of the cutter These lightly spiced brown sugar cookies are just the thing for your Pinterest-worthy Halloween (or Thanksgiving!) party. Easy to make, easy to glaze, and even easier to enjoy, they’ll look perfect on a platter alongside warm mulled cider […]

Chef's Blog

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” […]

Main Dishes

Individual Lasagnas with Spring Vegetables

Makes 4 servings Get your kids or guests to help assemble the lasagnas. Let each “sous chef” add one ingredient—noodles, purée, veggies—to the plate. If you can’t find whole grain lasagna noodles, conventional dry lasagna noodles will work just fine. Ingredients Kosher salt, as needed 1 bunch (approximately 1 pound) […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Infusing Oils and Vinegars

Infusing flavorful liquids, such as oils and vinegars, boosts their overall flavor—making them powerful additions to any dish without affecting the nutritional content in a negative way. To make your own infused oils and vinegars, use any of the following methods: Heat the oil or vinegar very gently over low […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Ingredient Spotlight: Preserved Lemons

In the culinary world, lemons are valuable. We use them in savory and baking recipes, we mix them into cocktails, we use them for colorful garnishes, we clean with them. They are, simply said, sort of perfect. And while the fresh-off-the-tree lemon truly is a gift just as it is, we’re […]

Salads, Side Dishes

Insalata di Riso (Rice Salad)

Serves 8 to 10 Make this with whole grains such as brown rice, spelt, or barley if you prefer. Increase the cooking time for these grains and cook them long enough to be tender to the bite. Ingredients Kosher salt, as needed 1 lb (2 2/3 cups) Carnaroli or Arborio […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Instant Hot Chocolate Mix

Makes 20, 8 ounces cups of cocoa Ingredients 3 cups powdered sugar 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 cup powdered milk Pinch of salt 1 tablespoon cornstarch Directions In a large bowl, sift together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk, sal,t and cornstarch. Whisk to combine. Store in an […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

It’s Turkey Time!

Spooky season is behind us, which can only mean one thing. It’s turkey time, and by that we mean it is truly turkey time, so call your favorite farm, market, or restaurant to pre-order your bird. If it’s too soon to order, set an alarm! If you get a jump […]

Sandwiches

Italian-Style Sub Sandwich

Makes 4 to 6 servings This is a classic summer sandwich, perfect for a backyard picnic or road trip to the beach. Substitute your favorite deli meats, like turkey, roast beef, or even tuna fish salad, but don’t miss out on the mayo + toppings spread that makes every sandwich […]

Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

Jack Black Barbecue Sauce

Makes 2 1/2 cups sauce The name “Jack Black” refers to the Jack Daniels whiskey in the recipe and the deep color of the sauce. When it has finished cooking, the sauce may look burnt, but it isn’t; the color is supposed to be very dark, and the sauce will […]

Breakfast and Brunch, Main Dishes, Pies and Tarts

Kale, Bacon, and Onion Quiche

Makes one 9-inch quiche Kale, a member of the cabbage family, is widely available during the winter and early spring. It has a mild flavor, and its dark, richly colored green leaves add contrast to the salty bacon in this quiche. Ingredients One All-Butter Pie Dough, unbaked single crust 6 […]