Elegant and earthy, this Pan-Seared Sturgeon with Silky Carrot Sauce celebrates local, sustainably farmed sturgeon from the Sacramento River. The meaty, buttery texture of the fish pairs beautifully with a fragrant carrot sauce infused with warm spices or fresh thyme. The sauce’s natural sweetness and vivid color elevate the dish into something both simple and...Read More

Inspired by the classic American succotash, this version takes a bright, modern turn with the bold, sun-kissed flavors of the Southwest. Instead of simmering, Chef Andrew Cohen gives the vegetables a quick sauté, preserving their freshness, crunch, and natural sweetness. Snap beans stand in for traditional limas, and layers of onion, bell pepper, corn, and...Read More

This lively, aromatic stir-fry is Chef Andrew Cohen’s take on the classic Sichuan dish known for its bold heat, deep flavor, and slightly blistered beans. Traditionally made with Chinese yardlong beans that are oil-blanched before stir-frying, this version uses a clever high-heat roasting method inspired by Barbara Kafka’s Vegetable Love—a faster, cleaner technique that produces...Read More

Bright, tangy, and deeply savory, Chef Andrew Cohen’s version of ponzu captures the essence of Japanese simplicity—where citrus, soy, and umami come together in perfect harmony. Freshly squeezed lemon and orange juices balance the saltiness of soy sauce, while a touch of sweetness rounds out the sharp edges. The result is a versatile, refreshing sauce...Read More

I love hearty vegetable braises where the vegetables are treated like meat—browned first to develop flavor, then gently simmered in just enough liquid to bring everything together. This rustic summer stew is a perfect example: tender potatoes, golden zucchini, and ripe tomatoes mingle in a light, savory broth infused with garlic, herbs, and soffrito. You...Read More

Tender, flat Romano beans—sometimes called Italian pole beans—are one of summer’s most underrated treasures. Slowly braised with soffritto, garlic, and a splash of white wine or water, they transform into something rich and comforting while keeping their garden-fresh flavor. This simple dish is equally at home beside grilled meats or served with crusty bread as...Read More

Bright, tangy, and irresistibly fresh, this Creamy Cilantro Dressing is the perfect way to wake up salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. The cilantro stems bring bold herbal flavor, while yogurt and olive oil create a smooth, velvety texture. A hint of white balsamic adds brightness, and a touch of agave balances it all. Quick...Read More

Farro, an ancient grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture, makes a delicious alternative to traditional risotto rice. Slowly simmered with broth until tender, it takes on a creamy, comforting consistency while holding its bite. Here, it’s paired with sweet summer squash, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic onions for a rustic, garden-inspired dish that celebrates...Read More

This elegant dish showcases quail prepared using the spatchcock technique—removing the spine and flattening the bird for even cooking and crisp, golden skin. The trimmings are not wasted; they’re used to build a deeply flavored porcini sauce enriched with shallots, thyme, and a splash of smoky Scotch. The result is tender seared quail paired with...Read More

This Chile Verde is a rich, comforting stew made with tender pork simmered in a sauce of charred tomatillos, chilies, garlic, and cilantro stems for clean, bright flavor. The key steps are browning the meat in batches for depth and charring the chilies for smokiness. Enjoy it spooned over rice as a hearty stew, or...Read More