Archive for September, 2006

One of my favorite ways to make a meal memorable is to combine classic flavor combinations. There are lots of pairs of flavors that work well together, but one of the really creative ways to combine flavors is to take two pairs of flavors that have one flavor in common. To do this, you... »

It has been several days since my last post, so I thought I would come back with something so basic, so necessary in the world of cooking that it has been mentioned in nearly half my posts as an ingredient. That ingredient is “stock”, a liquid with the flavor and aroma essence of whichever... »

I love Ravioli, especially when I make it myself. Sure, a can of ravioli brings back memories of childhood, and it really can be tasty if you get the right brand, but when you make your own you can control the flavors, the texture, the size and the sauce, and really make it your... »

I have written a few times about sauces that go with pasta, but I have yet to tell you how easy it is to make a nice, fresh, tasty pasta at home. Sure, store-bought pasta is fine; I use it often myself, especially when I am in a hurry. But for the ultimate pasta... »

As a former West Coaster, I have had my fair share of opportunity to cook and eat salmon. I was asked by a friend today how I cook salmon, so I decided to make a quick post about it. There a couple of things to remember about fish. The first is that it has such a... »

This is my first post in the new category of Flavor Combinations. Some foods work so well together that they become classic pairings. A combination has to work on many levels for this to happen: there should be a transition between sweet and savory; there should be a combination of both “high” and “low” notes in... »

A little while ago I posted about making your own Chili Powder. Naturally, the best thing to use this in is your own chili, and I have a terrific recipe to share with you. It was my boss, June, who told me about the secret ingredient (and no, it isn’t “love”, although I do... »

Earlier this month when I posted about Spaghetti sauce, Broomy asked if I had an easy recipe for hamburgers. Well, Broomy, it’s not in time for that particular meal, but here’s one that I hope you find time to use soon! There are a lot of recipes out there for hamburger patties, and almost all of... »

Carbonara sauce is another example the uncomplicated approach to food that epitomizes Italian Cooking. There is very little on earth that is more sinfully rich than a good Carbonara: eggs, cream, butter, parmesan cheese and bacon, all in one smooth, creamy concoction over steaming fettucine! And if you thought you could burn those calories... »

Chicken Kiev is an absolute treat, but it is one of those dishes that most home cooks consider to be too complex to make. Fortunately, help is at hand, and I am here to tell you that it is not beyond your skill set! If you have never had it before, then I envy you... »