In the winter, fresh crop almonds are plentiful at our farmers’ markets. Toffee makes a delightful holiday gift from your kitchen and is very easy to make! INGREDIENTS: 2 cups raw almonds 1 1/2 cups butter (use fresh, flavorful butter) 1 1/4 cups sugar 1/4 tablespoons light corn syrup 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup water...Read More
INGREDIENTS: 3 cups sugar 2/3 cup corn syrup 1/3 cup cold water 2/3 cup chopped dried apricots 2 egg whites 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup chopped walnuts METHOD: In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and syrup. Bring mixture to a boil, and cover the pot for three minutes to wash down crystals on sides...Read More
This is a fabulous holiday appetizer from New Orleans. Be sure to make the horseradish dipping sauce ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld. INGREDIENTS: Oil for deep frying 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1 cup milk 1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces 4 eggs 1 dozen large or 1 1/2...Read More
Crista, from Dave’s Gourmet Albacore, says, “Our crab dip recipe is served as a warm dip and is always a favorite for holiday parties. It is one of our most popular recipes and sure to impress any crab fan.” INGREDIENTS: 1 cup fresh lump Dungeness crab meat 1/2 cup sour cream 4 ounces cream cheese,...Read More
Use a full-flavored extra virgin olive oil like Belle Farms for the best results. This easy focaccia can be served as a main course or as an appetizer cut into small pieces. INGREDIENTS: For Focaccia Dough: 2 teaspoons rapid-rising dry yeast 1 cup warm water 2 tablespoons sugar 3 1/2 to 4 cups flour 2...Read More
This mushroom and nut-based vegetarian pâté is delicious served with sliced and toasted artisan baguette or homemade seed crackers. INGREDIENTS: 4 tablespoons butter 4 cups fresh mushrooms, finely chopped (about 1 lb.) 1/2 cup scallions, white portion only 1/4 teaspoon thyme 1 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup dry sherry 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup...Read More
Here’s the perfect appetizer for a fall gathering — and you’ll find most of the ingredients at the farmers markets! INGREDIENTS: 1 cup chopped dried Calimyrna figs, stems removed 1/3 cup water 1/3 cup chopped pitted Kalamata olives 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon fig balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon drained capers, chopped 1 1/2...Read More
INGREDIENTS: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup solid shortening (Crisco), divided into 7 or 8 pieces 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed into small pieces 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar, if desired 4 tablespoons cold water 1 egg 1 teaspoon vinegar METHOD: Place flour, salt, and sugar (if used) in the processor bowl. Pulse once...Read More
This shortcut spice mix is often called for in pumpkin pie recipes, but it is also delicious used in savory baked pumpkin or squash recipes, cookies, sweet potato pie, custard, cheesecake, and more. Made with ingredients most of us have in our pantries, why buy a spice mix when you can easily blend your own?...Read More
