Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

All About Caviar

Caviar is the salted roe of fish, traditionally sturgeon, which is prized for its briny delicate flavor. Due to overfishing, politics, and pollution, the supplies have dwindled and the price has increased, leading to a flood of alternative varieties from many sources. The delicate berries of true caviar come from […]

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

Cataplana Clams

Makes 5 small-bite servings A cataplana is a hammered copper, hinged pot of Portuguese origin that resembles a clam shell. It is used to steam shellfish and can be used on the stovetop or in the oven. Besides being fun to cook in and a bit unusual, it also looks […]

Main Dishes, Soups and Stews

Crab and Mushroom Chowder

Makes 8 servings Many supermarkets now carry a greater selection of mushroom varieties, such as shiitake, oyster, and cremini mushrooms. You can make this delicious chowder using a single variety or a combination. Avoid white mushrooms, though; they don’t have the flavor and texture needed for this hearty soup. Ingredients […]

Main Dishes

Crawfish Étouffée

Makes 4 to 6 servings Étouffée is the name given to dishes like this one that are gently cooked in a covered pot. Crawfish, or crayfish, are sold live or as cooked meat. If you buy crawfish meat, look for the words fat-on. Crawfish fat is an integral part of […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Fried Calamari

Makes 6 small-bite servings Any place where squid swim you will find a different version of fried calamari. Be sure to rinse and dry the squid thoroughly before seasoning it. You can use both the tubes and the tentacles, but you may want to fry them separately. Sprinkle with sea […]