Did I get your attention? Good. You can read this even if you do like chickpeas/garbanzo beans. I have never liked these little stinky orbs. I first experienced them as a kid in a salad at an Italian restaurant and thought they were disgusting. In addition to the smell, I didn't like the texture. Fast forward to adulthood and I still don't really … [Read more...]
Mexican Red Sauce w/Steamed Poblano Chiles
I was making my Mexican Red Sauce the other day. I wondered what would happen if I cooked my poblanos in my CSO instead of broiling them in a regular oven. Then I thought what about using the Broil/Steam setting. I figured I would still have to peel them, which is a arduous process. To my great surprise, using the broil/steam mode cooked … [Read more...]
Apple Pie Cake
I love the beginning of Fall. Temperatures turn cooler and the leaves on the trees turn beautiful shades of red and gold as the days shorten. Fall also bring two of my favorite foods for baking--apples and pumpkin! I recently took a trip to Apple Hill, (a California community of apple growers and wineries set in the Sierras west of Sacramento) … [Read more...]
Chicken Sausage and Spinach-Stuffed Mushrooms
This month I was inspired by the upcoming Thanksgiving feast. We all look forward to scrumptious goodies that we share at a beautiful table with family and friends as we celebrate gratitude. This is my favorite holiday because it's completely dedicated to acknowledging our many blessings! My family has a tradition (as do many others) to go … [Read more...]
The Stinking Rose
I dont think there's another produce item that changes so much from raw to cooked as garlic. Raw garlic is a bit harsh and bitter, but roasted garlic is smooth, rich and fantastic. Roasted garlic is one of the simplest and most delicious ingredients for an easy appetizer. Most people have a bulb of it on hand. If you have a baguette or some … [Read more...]
No Knead Bread
As the days shorten and the weather cools, my mind turns to baking--cookies, cakes, quick breads and, of course, yeast breads. The easiest of the yeast breads, at least in my mind, is Jim Lahey's "No Knead Bread" from his book, My Bread. Mix together four ingredients, let it sit for 12-18 hours, shape it, let it rise, then bake it. Easy … [Read more...]