Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Brines for Tender and Flavorful Meats

Curing meats, poultry, and fish in a salt and water solution is known as brining or wet curing. Brining provides depth in flavor, tenderness, and a moister final product. The base of a brine is salt and water, and sometimes sugar. Kosher salt is preferred because it doesn’t have any […]

Main Dishes

Duck Confit

Makes 4 servings The traditional confit cooking method for duck is a method of preservation. The duck is cured, cooked very slowly in its own fat, and then stored, covered with that fat. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 4 months, so prepare more than you need. Keeping […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Ingredient Spotlight: Chicken Thighs

If you’re talking about white meat versus dark meat, it is probably either Thanksgiving or you are ordering fried chicken. In most other instances, chicken doesn’t demand a lot of conversation. For years, we’ve lived in a white meat society, using the boneless, skinless breast in nearly every application, from […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Parts of a Chicken, and When To Use Them

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is one of the most popular items in American homes, and no wonder. They’re easy to pick out, easy to store, and easy to cook. But whether you’re tackling new recipes, shopping a great sale, or figuring out exactly what is in your CSA box, sometimes […]

Main Dishes

Roast Duck With Orange Sauce

Makes 4 to 6 servings This updated take on the classic duck à l’orange is decadent enough for a special occasion, but simple enough for dinner any night. Though rich duck breast is the perfect accompaniment to the sweet and tangy citrus sauce, you can also pair it with sautéed […]