Chef's Blog

Becoming a Chef: The Pivot Point

One of my biggest inspirations in the culinary field is chef Alex Guarnaschelli. As a little girl growing up, I did not really see a lot of female chefs on tv, besides Rachael Ray. Watching Alex on Iron Chef really inspired me to go into the culinary field. Then a […]

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 […]

Allergen Friendly, Main Dishes

Beef in Massaman Curry Sauce

Makes 4 to 6 servings Massaman curry is the mildest of the Thai curries, but it is often very rich, with the flavors or cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin. You can find massaman curry paste at most Asian markets, but in pinch, you can replace it with easier-to-find red curry paste. […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Beef Jerky

Makes about 1/2 lb (about 10 servings) Drying beef was once a necessity for preserving meat. Today, dried beef is enjoyed as a delicious snack food. This smoked version is very simple to make, but it also works well to dehydrate the beef in a low-temperature oven or in a […]

Main Dishes

Beef Rendang

Makes 8 portions Often inappropriately referred to as dry curry, rendang is an iconic dish of Southeast Asia. Popular in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, it is often made with beef, but it can also be made with other meats or starchy vegetables. A key to success with this dish is […]

Allergen Friendly, Grilling

Beef Skewers With Green Chile Sauce

Makes 8 servings Beef Skewers Green Chile Sauce Chef’s Note: Cilantro roots, popular in Thai cooking, can be found at most Asian markets (you might see them labeled as coriander stems). Different from cilantro stems, they are the flavorful root of the plant. If you cannot find the roots, substitute about […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Beer 101: A Glossary of Beer Terms

Whether you already love beer or are beginning the journey to learning (and tasting!) more, having a grasp on beer lingo is the surest way to find the brew for you. Reference our handy beer lovers’ glossary so you’re never unprepared! Adjunct – A loose definition refers to un-malted grains […]

Pantry

Berbere Spice Paste

Makes 2 3/4 cups Berbere is a traditional Ethiopian spice blend made with chiles, warming spices, fenugreek, and other aromatic ingredients. Use this paste to rub meats, poultry, and fish before grilling.