Originating in South America, sweet potatoes also have roots in Polynesia, where they go by the name ‘kumar.’ Although a distant relative of the potato, sweet potatoes are commonly referred to as yams in North America. These versatile tubers come in ‘firm’ and ‘soft’ varieties, with the former maintaining their firmness when cooked, while the...Read More
If you are thinking about holiday gift ideas for friends and family, you may not have to go any further than your pantry! Ingredients like dried fruits and nuts are plentiful now at our farmers’ markets — just in time for making delectable food gifts. Late fall fruits like apples and persimmons make excellent fruit...Read More
Indulge in this palate-pleasing, one-pot Indian Yam Curry on cool fall evenings! Yams are slowly simmered with an aromatic blend of Indian spices and transformed into a creamy curry that is both bold and perfectly balanced. For added nutrition, add your favorite greens or protein options, such as kale, spinach, lentils, or tofu. INGREDIENTS: 1...Read More
While researching websites for articles about ravioli, I discovered an interesting blog, Ciao Chow Linda. The directions for making ravioli are simple and straightforward with excellent photos. This classic Ligurian walnut cream sauce for pumpkin-filled ravioli is also delicious with other meatless ravioli such as portobello mushroom. INGREDIENTS: 4 dozen homemade pumpkin ravioli or purchased...Read More
Instead of reaching for a can of commercially canned pumpkin, consider making your own delectable fresh pie filling with locally grown squash from the farmers’ market. But wait — which pumpkins are used for pies? Pumpkins are squash — but not all squash are pumpkins — nor are all pumpkins created equally! To understand this...Read More
This is one of those almost ‘too good to be true’ recipes because it is so easy and delicious. Be sure to use firm ripe (but not overly ripe) pears with good flavor. INGREDIENTS: 1 unbaked pie crust 5-8 fresh ripe pears, peeled, cored, and cut into thick slices* 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter,...Read More
Just like Mama used to make — well, almost. Our version is easier and just as tasty! Nothing beats fresh pasta with a texture and flavor that’s far superior to store-bought varieties. This simple semolina and egg pasta dough is simple. Rather than mixing by hand, we use a food processor to do the mixing....Read More
INGREDIENTS: Pomegranate-Raspberry Reduction: Juice from 3 or 4 large pomegranates* OR 1 1/2 cups pomegranate juice 1 cup arils from 1 or 2 large pomegranates 3 cups fresh raspberries 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Pan-Toasted Brie: 1/4 cup arils from 1 large pomegranate 1 lb. brie cheese, sliced into 1-1/2″ squares...Read More
Brussels sprouts, scientifically known as Brassica oleracea, are a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, closely related to cabbage. These petite, spherical buds, typically measuring one to two inches in diameter, bear a striking resemblance to miniature cabbage heads. These hardy vegetables thrive in cool climates, with their flavor reaching its peak after a light...Read More
This is one of the easiest appetizers and the perfect starter for a fall dinner party. Who can resist the delectable combination of the savory-salty blue cheese with the sublime sweetness of the ripe pears and honey? INGREDIENTS: 3 large Bosc pears, cut in half lengthwise, remove seeds and core with melon baller 1 tablespoon...Read More
