Gourmet Food: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Making Crepes
Making crepes at home is as easy as cooking pancakes. You don't need a special gourmet crepe pan, either, a small nonstick pan will work just fine. Here is my simple step-by-step method for making crepes. The accompanying photos will show you exactly how to create these delicious treats for your guests or family.
Making crepes at home is as easy as cooking pancakes. You don't need a special gourmet crepe pan, either, a small nonstick pan will work just fine. Here is my simple step-by-step method for making crepes. The accompanying photos will show you exactly how to create these delicious treats for your guests or family.
How to Make Fresh Pasta
Making your own pasta is a skill every cook should know. It's a very simple process and uses only three ingredients. Your dinner guests, however, will be deservedly impressed. Let me show you how easy it is with my step-by-step photo instructions.
Making your own pasta is a skill every cook should know. It's a very simple process and uses only three ingredients. Your dinner guests, however, will be deservedly impressed. Let me show you how easy it is with my step-by-step photo instructions.
Best Chef's Knives
Every cook needs a good knife. It's the one thing you can't do without in the kitchen. If you can only have one good knife, a chef's knife is what you want. A chef's knife has a blade between 8- and 10-inches long and is the most suitable for the greatest variety of tasks. A high quality chef's knife will cost you around a hundred dollars, but if properly taken care of it will last a lifetime.
Every cook needs a good knife. It's the one thing you can't do without in the kitchen. If you can only have one good knife, a chef's knife is what you want. A chef's knife has a blade between 8- and 10-inches long and is the most suitable for the greatest variety of tasks. A high quality chef's knife will cost you around a hundred dollars, but if properly taken care of it will last a lifetime.
Top Online Chocolate Shops
Chocolate is the voice of passion and love, whether it is the love of chocolate itself or as an expression of love for another human being. Valentine's Day or Saturday, chocolate is the perfect gift for those we care about or just want to impress. Here are some online chocolate shops with some truly extraordinary products.
Chocolate is the voice of passion and love, whether it is the love of chocolate itself or as an expression of love for another human being. Valentine's Day or Saturday, chocolate is the perfect gift for those we care about or just want to impress. Here are some online chocolate shops with some truly extraordinary products.
How to Cut a Pineapple
Fresh cut pineapple is much more flavorful than the canned variety. There is more than one way to peel a pineapple. Here is my preferred method for peeling and cutting a pineapple accompanied by step-by-step photos.
Fresh cut pineapple is much more flavorful than the canned variety. There is more than one way to peel a pineapple. Here is my preferred method for peeling and cutting a pineapple accompanied by step-by-step photos.
Produce to Buy Organic
There's lots of reasons to buy organic. The USDA's own tests show that most non-organic produce contain residual pesticides even after washing. The long term effects of consuming these pesticides has not been sufficiently studied, but they can't be good for you. Here is a list of the fruits and vegetables most contaminated and which you should buy organic if possible.
There's lots of reasons to buy organic. The USDA's own tests show that most non-organic produce contain residual pesticides even after washing. The long term effects of consuming these pesticides has not been sufficiently studied, but they can't be good for you. Here is a list of the fruits and vegetables most contaminated and which you should buy organic if possible.
Watermelon Martini
Cool, refreshing watermelon in a martini. Sweet perfection!
Cool, refreshing watermelon in a martini. Sweet perfection!
Hickory Smoked Pork BBQ
Nothing says southern cooking like slow-cooked pork and Carolina BBQ sauce.
Nothing says southern cooking like slow-cooked pork and Carolina BBQ sauce.
Best Places to Buy Meats
Trying to buy good meat can be a frustrating experience. Butcher shops are almost nonexistent anymore and we are stuck with limited choices at our local supermarket. The only time we see the butcher is when he comes out of the back to restock the cooler. If you know of a good butcher in your city, make him your friend. There are few things more important than a great steak. If you can't find a real butcher locally, check these online shops for incredible meats and respectable service.
Trying to buy good meat can be a frustrating experience. Butcher shops are almost nonexistent anymore and we are stuck with limited choices at our local supermarket. The only time we see the butcher is when he comes out of the back to restock the cooler. If you know of a good butcher in your city, make him your friend. There are few things more important than a great steak. If you can't find a real butcher locally, check these online shops for incredible meats and respectable service.
How to Make Ravioli
Ravioli doesn't have to being boring kid stuff from a can. Once you learn the basics, you can fill your ravioli with anything you can imagine from sweet, cheesy concoctions to savory meats or even dessert raviolis. Follow these easy step-by-step instructions for a meal sure to impress your family or guests.
Ravioli doesn't have to being boring kid stuff from a can. Once you learn the basics, you can fill your ravioli with anything you can imagine from sweet, cheesy concoctions to savory meats or even dessert raviolis. Follow these easy step-by-step instructions for a meal sure to impress your family or guests.
Gourmet Gift Baskets
Gourmet gift baskets make a wonderful gift any time of the year but are especially welcome around the holidays. Don't know what to give someone or short on time? Almost everyone loves and appreciates the gift of food. It's hard to go wrong. There are thousands of gift basket companies, a few good ones and a lot of not so good ones. Here are some of my favorite companies that are reliable, feature high quality gourmet foods, and have good customer service.
Gourmet gift baskets make a wonderful gift any time of the year but are especially welcome around the holidays. Don't know what to give someone or short on time? Almost everyone loves and appreciates the gift of food. It's hard to go wrong. There are thousands of gift basket companies, a few good ones and a lot of not so good ones. Here are some of my favorite companies that are reliable, feature high quality gourmet foods, and have good customer service.
Where to Buy the Best Seafood
Finding great seafood can be more difficult than the actual cooking itself. If you live far from the ocean or in a small town, your choices can be very limited. Luckily, with modern shipping and online shopping, high quality seafood is available to everyone. One word of caution with buying seafood online, check shipping costs. Overnight shipping can be very expensive, especially when half your package is ice. But if you're looking for some great seafood, here are the companies I recommend.
Finding great seafood can be more difficult than the actual cooking itself. If you live far from the ocean or in a small town, your choices can be very limited. Luckily, with modern shipping and online shopping, high quality seafood is available to everyone. One word of caution with buying seafood online, check shipping costs. Overnight shipping can be very expensive, especially when half your package is ice. But if you're looking for some great seafood, here are the companies I recommend.
Best Mexican Resaurants NYC
The Michelin Guide (Le Guide Michelin) is an annual guide book to hotels and restaurants in over a dozen
The Michelin Guide (Le Guide Michelin) is an annual guide book to hotels and restaurants in over a dozen
How to Trim an Artichoke
You love artichokes. You may have been tempted to buy raw artichokes in the produce section of the supermarket. But how do you turn a giant green pinecone-looking vegetable into the delectable little morsels of artichoke heart? It's really quite simple and here is a step-by-step method to show you how. You'll be pleasantly rewarded with the superior taste of fresh artichoke.
You love artichokes. You may have been tempted to buy raw artichokes in the produce section of the supermarket. But how do you turn a giant green pinecone-looking vegetable into the delectable little morsels of artichoke heart? It's really quite simple and here is a step-by-step method to show you how. You'll be pleasantly rewarded with the superior taste of fresh artichoke.
Ferran Adria
Ferran Adria has been called the world's greatest chef. He is certainly one of the most creative. Gourmet
Ferran Adria has been called the world's greatest chef. He is certainly one of the most creative. Gourmet
The Top Vanilla Extract Brands
Vanilla is an essential cooking ingredient for which there is no true substitute. The flavor of real vanilla is made up of over 250 organic components, which gives it great depth and complexity, compared to only one flavor component in artificial vanilla. There are three main types of vanilla: Madagascar Bourbon (named after the Bourbon islands not the liquor), Tahitian (fruity),and Mexican (spicy). Here is a list of premium vanilla extracts that I consider to be the very best.
Vanilla is an essential cooking ingredient for which there is no true substitute. The flavor of real vanilla is made up of over 250 organic components, which gives it great depth and complexity, compared to only one flavor component in artificial vanilla. There are three main types of vanilla: Madagascar Bourbon (named after the Bourbon islands not the liquor), Tahitian (fruity),and Mexican (spicy). Here is a list of premium vanilla extracts that I consider to be the very best.
Buy Gourmet Foods Online
Looking for the best places to buy gourmet foods? Let me show you my favorite online stores for getting the best specialty foods at the best prices.
Looking for the best places to buy gourmet foods? Let me show you my favorite online stores for getting the best specialty foods at the best prices.
Paula Deen
Paula Deen is a true American success story. Newly divorced, almost penniless, afraid of public places, and trying to raise two teenage sons, Paula could have easily become another sad forgotten story. Instead, Paula Deen took what she knew, Southern cooking, and with it not only overcame her situation but has became a huge success with her own restaurant and popular television show.
Paula Deen is a true American success story. Newly divorced, almost penniless, afraid of public places, and trying to raise two teenage sons, Paula could have easily become another sad forgotten story. Instead, Paula Deen took what she knew, Southern cooking, and with it not only overcame her situation but has became a huge success with her own restaurant and popular television show.
How to Make Gnocchi
Gnocchi (pronounced nyoh-kee) is Italian for dumplings. Traditionally it is made from potatoes and flour. Eggs or cheese are often added. The gnocchi is shaped into balls, cooked in boiling water, and served with butter, Parmesan, or any number of sauces. The dough can also be chilled and then baked or fried. Gnocchi makes an excellent appetizer or starter or can be used as a side dish for meat or poultry.
Gnocchi (pronounced nyoh-kee) is Italian for dumplings. Traditionally it is made from potatoes and flour. Eggs or cheese are often added. The gnocchi is shaped into balls, cooked in boiling water, and served with butter, Parmesan, or any number of sauces. The dough can also be chilled and then baked or fried. Gnocchi makes an excellent appetizer or starter or can be used as a side dish for meat or poultry.
How to Cut a Pomegranate
Pomegranates are in season during the fall and winter months. The edible seeds (actually called arils, the tiny seed is surrounded by a juice sac) and juice, which have a wonderful sweet flavor, are great for cooking or enjoying on their own. Here is one method of cutting open a pomegranate that minimizes the mess and gives you the greatest possible yield of edible fruit.
Pomegranates are in season during the fall and winter months. The edible seeds (actually called arils, the tiny seed is surrounded by a juice sac) and juice, which have a wonderful sweet flavor, are great for cooking or enjoying on their own. Here is one method of cutting open a pomegranate that minimizes the mess and gives you the greatest possible yield of edible fruit.
Where To Buy Kitchenware
Fancy cookware or kitchen tools aren't necessary to cook great food. They can, however, make your life a whole lot easier. Here are five of my favorite online stores for kitchenware, in no particular order. So whether you're looking for a chef's knive or a cherry pitter or that whatchamacallit that does that thing, look here first. These shops often have sales, so check around for the best price.
Fancy cookware or kitchen tools aren't necessary to cook great food. They can, however, make your life a whole lot easier. Here are five of my favorite online stores for kitchenware, in no particular order. So whether you're looking for a chef's knive or a cherry pitter or that whatchamacallit that does that thing, look here first. These shops often have sales, so check around for the best price.
Mexican Sangria
Sangria is a traditional Spanish drink that combines wine with fruit and a little sugar. This Mexican version is a similar fruity concotion but has a higher level of alcohol which makes it great for pairing with spicy foods. Always use a decent wine when making sangria, as the wine will be the most prominent flavor.
Sangria is a traditional Spanish drink that combines wine with fruit and a little sugar. This Mexican version is a similar fruity concotion but has a higher level of alcohol which makes it great for pairing with spicy foods. Always use a decent wine when making sangria, as the wine will be the most prominent flavor.
How to Open an Oyster
Raw oysters on the half shell are a culinary treat that everyone should experience at least once in their lives, hopefully several times. The only way to properly ensure that your oysters are fresh is to open them yourself. Opening oysters is really a quite simple task, although it does take a bit of practice. Always start with oysters that are alive and fresh. The shell of a good oyster will be tightly shut. If the shell is slightly open, discard the oyster.
Raw oysters on the half shell are a culinary treat that everyone should experience at least once in their lives, hopefully several times. The only way to properly ensure that your oysters are fresh is to open them yourself. Opening oysters is really a quite simple task, although it does take a bit of practice. Always start with oysters that are alive and fresh. The shell of a good oyster will be tightly shut. If the shell is slightly open, discard the oyster.
FAQ: What are the Best Dippers to Serve with Cheese Fondue?
Lots of ideas for cheese fondue dippers, plus fondue recipes, and suggestions for what to serve to make a meal of cheese fondue.
Lots of ideas for cheese fondue dippers, plus fondue recipes, and suggestions for what to serve to make a meal of cheese fondue.
What is Caster Sugar?
A definition of caster sugar, along with recipe suggestions for using caster sugar. Plus how to make and where to buy caster sugar.
A definition of caster sugar, along with recipe suggestions for using caster sugar. Plus how to make and where to buy caster sugar.
Gordon Ramsay
Gordon Ramsay has been called a lot of things in his life. “Nice guy” probably isn’t one of them. Chef Ramsay is more known for his temper and scathing outbursts in the kitchen. However, despite his unconventional management style, he is without a doubt one of the best chefs in the world and has several successful restaurants to prove it.
Gordon Ramsay has been called a lot of things in his life. “Nice guy” probably isn’t one of them. Chef Ramsay is more known for his temper and scathing outbursts in the kitchen. However, despite his unconventional management style, he is without a doubt one of the best chefs in the world and has several successful restaurants to prove it.
Where To Buy Wild Game
A few decades ago wild game was a huge part of the average American's diet. As people moved away from the country and into the cities, however, we lost this connection to the land. Consumers relied more and more on factory farms and our meat choices were reduced to beef, pork, chicken, and lamb. Today several companies specialize in game meats and have made these once rare products readily available to consumers.
A few decades ago wild game was a huge part of the average American's diet. As people moved away from the country and into the cities, however, we lost this connection to the land. Consumers relied more and more on factory farms and our meat choices were reduced to beef, pork, chicken, and lamb. Today several companies specialize in game meats and have made these once rare products readily available to consumers.
Top 10 Drinking Chocolates
"Drinking Chocolates" are made from real chocolate as opposed to "Hot Cocoa" which is made from cocoa
"Drinking Chocolates" are made from real chocolate as opposed to "Hot Cocoa" which is made from cocoa
Frozen Watermelon Margarita
Watermelon margaritas are a sweet way to keep cool in the summer. Freezing the watermelon beforehand creates a slushy, frozen cocktail without the ice. Delicious!
Watermelon margaritas are a sweet way to keep cool in the summer. Freezing the watermelon beforehand creates a slushy, frozen cocktail without the ice. Delicious!
Vichyssoise
Most consider vichyssoise to be a classic cold French soup although some believe it was invented in New York City at the Ritz Carlton. Regardless, this potato and leek soup remains a true classic with simply wonderful flavor.
Most consider vichyssoise to be a classic cold French soup although some believe it was invented in New York City at the Ritz Carlton. Regardless, this potato and leek soup remains a true classic with simply wonderful flavor.
Watermelon & Mozzarella Salad
Here is a delightfully refreshing salad that combines watermelon with fresh mozzarella. Basil adds an herby spiciness, while sweet balsamic syrup brings out the best flavors of both the watermelon and the mozzarella.
Here is a delightfully refreshing salad that combines watermelon with fresh mozzarella. Basil adds an herby spiciness, while sweet balsamic syrup brings out the best flavors of both the watermelon and the mozzarella.
World's Greatest Chef Ferran Adrià and the Food of El Bulli
A photo collection of the world's greatest chef, Ferran Adria, and his restaurant El Bulli.
A photo collection of the world's greatest chef, Ferran Adria, and his restaurant El Bulli.
Get Grilling! BBQ Menu Ideas and Checklist
Firing up the grill for a family get-together or big BBQ bash? Check here first for amazing recipe and menu ideas, the best BBQ sauces, and gourmet condiments that will help you throw an outstanding BBQ.
Firing up the grill for a family get-together or big BBQ bash? Check here first for amazing recipe and menu ideas, the best BBQ sauces, and gourmet condiments that will help you throw an outstanding BBQ.
Herb Butter
Herb butter is great to use in any dish that benefits from the addition of herbs: pasta, steamed vegetables, fish, etc. Herb butter is easy to make and keeps well in your freezer. It's great to keep on hand for jazzing up those last minute meals.
Herb butter is great to use in any dish that benefits from the addition of herbs: pasta, steamed vegetables, fish, etc. Herb butter is easy to make and keeps well in your freezer. It's great to keep on hand for jazzing up those last minute meals.
Stuffed Gypsy Peppers
This wonderful stuffed pepper recipe comes from Greens Restaurant in San Francisco. This recipe calls for Gypsy peppers (also called bull's horn peppers) but any frying pepper will work.
This wonderful stuffed pepper recipe comes from Greens Restaurant in San Francisco. This recipe calls for Gypsy peppers (also called bull's horn peppers) but any frying pepper will work.
Where to Buy Kobe Beef
Kobe beef is a very high grade of beef from Japanese cattle (Wagyu) raised in Kobe, Japan. The genetics, diet, and handling of Wagyu create a beef product with a highly desirable flavor and a texture that melts in your mouth. Today, there are several U.S. producers that sell Kobe beef. Here is a list of reputable ranchers and vendors that sell Kobe beef online.
Kobe beef is a very high grade of beef from Japanese cattle (Wagyu) raised in Kobe, Japan. The genetics, diet, and handling of Wagyu create a beef product with a highly desirable flavor and a texture that melts in your mouth. Today, there are several U.S. producers that sell Kobe beef. Here is a list of reputable ranchers and vendors that sell Kobe beef online.
Best Mexican Resaurants San Fr
The Michelin Guide (Le Guide Michelin) is an annual guide book to hotels and restaurants in over a dozen
The Michelin Guide (Le Guide Michelin) is an annual guide book to hotels and restaurants in over a dozen
What is Polenta?
A definition of polenta, including a quick guide to the different types of polenta available, polenta uses, polenta recipes, and where to buy polenta online.
A definition of polenta, including a quick guide to the different types of polenta available, polenta uses, polenta recipes, and where to buy polenta online.
Gourmet Food of the Month Club
"Of the Month" clubs make a great gift for food lovers. Many of the top gourmet companies now feature
"Of the Month" clubs make a great gift for food lovers. Many of the top gourmet companies now feature
How to Peel an Avocado
Fresh avocado is a real treat. Eat it plain, as guacamole, or in your favorite recipe. Here are is a simple technique for peeling an avocado and removing the pit (with photos).
Fresh avocado is a real treat. Eat it plain, as guacamole, or in your favorite recipe. Here are is a simple technique for peeling an avocado and removing the pit (with photos).
Seared Bay Scallops
From Geoffrey Zakarian's Town/Country Cookbook. Geoffrey Zakarian has cooked at some of the world’s best restaurants over the past twenty years, including Arpège in Paris and the Dorchester in London. In New York City, he was the Chef de Cuisine at Le Cirque and Executive Chef of 44 at the Royalton and “21.” In 2001, he opened Town in midtown Manhattan and in 2005 Country near Madison Square Park.
From Geoffrey Zakarian's Town/Country Cookbook. Geoffrey Zakarian has cooked at some of the world’s best restaurants over the past twenty years, including Arpège in Paris and the Dorchester in London. In New York City, he was the Chef de Cuisine at Le Cirque and Executive Chef of 44 at the Royalton and “21.” In 2001, he opened Town in midtown Manhattan and in 2005 Country near Madison Square Park.
Food Blogs Good Enough To Eat
Blogs (or web logs) are an interesting phenomenon. Anyone with a computer and an opinion can start a blog, a sort of online diary, for the entire world to read. Food blogs generally relate the dining adventures or cooking experiments of the writer. Many of these blogs are very well written, extremely interesting, and can be addictive. Here are some of my favorite food blogs. Explore these and you may want to start your own. Surely someone out there cares what you had for breakfast.
Blogs (or web logs) are an interesting phenomenon. Anyone with a computer and an opinion can start a blog, a sort of online diary, for the entire world to read. Food blogs generally relate the dining adventures or cooking experiments of the writer. Many of these blogs are very well written, extremely interesting, and can be addictive. Here are some of my favorite food blogs. Explore these and you may want to start your own. Surely someone out there cares what you had for breakfast.
Giada de Laurentiis
Giada de Laurentiis is the charming host of the Food Network’s hit show, Everyday Italian. A private chef and caterer in Los Angeles, Giada had no intention of getting into the family business of entertaining (she is the granddaughter of the famous producer Dino de Laurentiis).
Giada de Laurentiis is the charming host of the Food Network’s hit show, Everyday Italian. A private chef and caterer in Los Angeles, Giada had no intention of getting into the family business of entertaining (she is the granddaughter of the famous producer Dino de Laurentiis).
Monk’s Famous Seafood Chowder
Monks Bar and Restaurant (http://monks.ie)is a famous Irish landmark in the village of Ballyvaughan, in County Clare, located in the West of Ireland. The Seafood Chowder is their signature dish. Here's the recipe.
Monks Bar and Restaurant (http://monks.ie)is a famous Irish landmark in the village of Ballyvaughan, in County Clare, located in the West of Ireland. The Seafood Chowder is their signature dish. Here's the recipe.
Raspberry Tequila Sangria
Sangria is a traditional Spanish drink that combines wine and fresh fruit. This Mexican-style sangria has a higher alcohol content than most sangrias (great for pairing with spicy foods) and is as much a margarita as it is a sangria. Always use a tasty wine when making sangria as it will be the most prominent flavor.
Sangria is a traditional Spanish drink that combines wine and fresh fruit. This Mexican-style sangria has a higher alcohol content than most sangrias (great for pairing with spicy foods) and is as much a margarita as it is a sangria. Always use a tasty wine when making sangria as it will be the most prominent flavor.
Hot and Spicy Chicken Feet
Here's something different from Andrew Zimmern, host of the Travel Channel's Bizarre Foods. Hot and spicy chicken feet are a favorite treat in Asian countries.
Here's something different from Andrew Zimmern, host of the Travel Channel's Bizarre Foods. Hot and spicy chicken feet are a favorite treat in Asian countries.
Top 10 Mail Order Appetizers
When planning a party, especially a large one, using prepared foods can be a huge time saver. Cooking for 5 or 6 people is one thing, but what about cooking for 12 or 20 or 50! Talk about stress. If you can make it yourself, great. Other options are recruiting some help (good luck) or hiring a caterer (not cheap) or buying the food premade. Here are some companies that will deliver high quality appetizers right to your door. Just heat and serve.
When planning a party, especially a large one, using prepared foods can be a huge time saver. Cooking for 5 or 6 people is one thing, but what about cooking for 12 or 20 or 50! Talk about stress. If you can make it yourself, great. Other options are recruiting some help (good luck) or hiring a caterer (not cheap) or buying the food premade. Here are some companies that will deliver high quality appetizers right to your door. Just heat and serve.
Chicken Stock
Nothing adds flavor and richness to a soup or dish better than a really good stock. Making your own is a simple process and will reward you with better tasting meals. If you buy your chicken as whole carcasses to cut up yourself, save any bones you have left over to use in stock. Keep the bones well wrapped in the freezer until you have enough to make batch of stock.
Nothing adds flavor and richness to a soup or dish better than a really good stock. Making your own is a simple process and will reward you with better tasting meals. If you buy your chicken as whole carcasses to cut up yourself, save any bones you have left over to use in stock. Keep the bones well wrapped in the freezer until you have enough to make batch of stock.
Blueberry Mango Soup
In Sweden, chilled blueberry soup is a traditional summer treat served as a first course or a dessert. This soup can also be served warm on a cold day or used as a sauce over ice cream or fresh fruit.
In Sweden, chilled blueberry soup is a traditional summer treat served as a first course or a dessert. This soup can also be served warm on a cold day or used as a sauce over ice cream or fresh fruit.
Lemon Mascarpone Layer Cake
Lemons are especially nice in cakes. Here is a wonderful dessert that is part cake, part trifle. The layers are soaked with lemon syrup with delicious lemon and mascarpone cream in between. Meyer lemons add a distinct flavor, but regular lemons will work just fine.
Lemons are especially nice in cakes. Here is a wonderful dessert that is part cake, part trifle. The layers are soaked with lemon syrup with delicious lemon and mascarpone cream in between. Meyer lemons add a distinct flavor, but regular lemons will work just fine.
Where to Buy Caviar
There are dozens of shops out there selling caviar. The high price of caviar makes it a very lucrative business for retailers. However, many sellers don't have the experience for properly handling caviar or for guaranteeing their products are genuine. Here is a list of shops that have consistently provided quality products and good service.
There are dozens of shops out there selling caviar. The high price of caviar makes it a very lucrative business for retailers. However, many sellers don't have the experience for properly handling caviar or for guaranteeing their products are genuine. Here is a list of shops that have consistently provided quality products and good service.
Rocco Dispirito
Rocco DiSpirito has had an illustrious career full of awards and recognition. Once viewed as having a very bright career, Rocco, still in his early 30's, is a chef without a restaurant. An extraordinary chef with keen business skills, it remains a mystery why Rocco's endeavors continue to fail. Although his personality grates on some, the same can be said of many successful restaurateurs. Will Rocco ever reach his full potential?
Rocco DiSpirito has had an illustrious career full of awards and recognition. Once viewed as having a very bright career, Rocco, still in his early 30's, is a chef without a restaurant. An extraordinary chef with keen business skills, it remains a mystery why Rocco's endeavors continue to fail. Although his personality grates on some, the same can be said of many successful restaurateurs. Will Rocco ever reach his full potential?
Bourbon Baked Beans
Deliciously sweet with brown sugar, molasses and honey, these baked beans have a nice kick with chipotle peppers and Bourbon whiskey. The secret to good baked beans is slow cooking! After 3 hours in the oven, these beans are thick and rich!
Deliciously sweet with brown sugar, molasses and honey, these baked beans have a nice kick with chipotle peppers and Bourbon whiskey. The secret to good baked beans is slow cooking! After 3 hours in the oven, these beans are thick and rich!
Sunday Brunch Menu
Brunch is my favorite restaurant experience. A very relaxing and joyous time with family and friends, with a variety of delightful dishes to please all the members of your party. Even the chef seems more relaxed and you will often find creative dishes not on the regular menu. Bring this experience home by cooking up some of these recipes for your guests.
Brunch is my favorite restaurant experience. A very relaxing and joyous time with family and friends, with a variety of delightful dishes to please all the members of your party. Even the chef seems more relaxed and you will often find creative dishes not on the regular menu. Bring this experience home by cooking up some of these recipes for your guests.
Where to Buy Gourmet Salts
All salts are not created equal! As most cooks know, using sea salt rather than iodized or kosher salt adds more flavor to a dish. Sea salts, however, come in a variety of flavors and colors. Experiment with different salts in your recipes and see what happens. For best results, many of these salts should be sprinkled lastly on a dish like a garnish. Sea salt is a product of the minerals found in the seawater where it is harvested.
All salts are not created equal! As most cooks know, using sea salt rather than iodized or kosher salt adds more flavor to a dish. Sea salts, however, come in a variety of flavors and colors. Experiment with different salts in your recipes and see what happens. For best results, many of these salts should be sprinkled lastly on a dish like a garnish. Sea salt is a product of the minerals found in the seawater where it is harvested.
Food Network Tours
For the first time ever, the Food Network will give the general public exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours of its studios. Tour goers will see where Food Network stars like Rachael Ray and Guy Fieri produce their shows as well as a look inside Iron Chef's Kitchen Stadium. Guests will also see Food Network Kitchens where the network’s recipes are developed and tested.
For the first time ever, the Food Network will give the general public exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours of its studios. Tour goers will see where Food Network stars like Rachael Ray and Guy Fieri produce their shows as well as a look inside Iron Chef's Kitchen Stadium. Guests will also see Food Network Kitchens where the network’s recipes are developed and tested.
Magazines for Food Lovers
As gourmet food and celebrity chefs have become more popular, dozens of magazines have devoted themselves to the culinary world. You can find magazines today dedicated to any number of specific cuisines or particular groups of readers. Like anything else, some examples have become outstanding in their field, while others flail helplessly with poor journalism and vision. Here are my choices for some of the best food magazines available.
As gourmet food and celebrity chefs have become more popular, dozens of magazines have devoted themselves to the culinary world. You can find magazines today dedicated to any number of specific cuisines or particular groups of readers. Like anything else, some examples have become outstanding in their field, while others flail helplessly with poor journalism and vision. Here are my choices for some of the best food magazines available.
Edible Mushroom Varieties
There are many edible varieties of mushrooms, many of which are available at specialty shops, natural grocers, and from farmers markets. Many varieties are wild and are collected by mushroom hunters. These photos are intended to show you the different edible mushrooms out there and not to be used for identifying in the wild. Leave that to the professionals, please.
There are many edible varieties of mushrooms, many of which are available at specialty shops, natural grocers, and from farmers markets. Many varieties are wild and are collected by mushroom hunters. These photos are intended to show you the different edible mushrooms out there and not to be used for identifying in the wild. Leave that to the professionals, please.
Maple Syrup Baked Beans
It's essential to have a good baked bean recipe! Baked beans are a classic dish that match well with so many foods. I love this one because it includes two of my favorite ingredients: maple syrup and bacon.
It's essential to have a good baked bean recipe! Baked beans are a classic dish that match well with so many foods. I love this one because it includes two of my favorite ingredients: maple syrup and bacon.
Classic Creme Brulee
Crème brûlée is a very popular dessert that you will find in almost every fine dining restaurant. The smooth creamy custard contrasts very nicely with the crunch of the hardened sugar topping. A delightful dessert that will impress your guests, crème brûlée is actually quite simple to make. This recipe is the classic version of crème brûlée which has a very nice vanilla custard flavor.
Crème brûlée is a very popular dessert that you will find in almost every fine dining restaurant. The smooth creamy custard contrasts very nicely with the crunch of the hardened sugar topping. A delightful dessert that will impress your guests, crème brûlée is actually quite simple to make. This recipe is the classic version of crème brûlée which has a very nice vanilla custard flavor.
Poaching
Poaching is a simple technique for cooking dishes that are flavorful and low-fat. Let me show you how easy this method is and enjoy some wonderful dishes in the process.
Poaching is a simple technique for cooking dishes that are flavorful and low-fat. Let me show you how easy this method is and enjoy some wonderful dishes in the process.
Cookbooks for Kids
Cooking is an excellent way for children to learn responsibility, teamwork, and valuable skills they can use later in life. Spending time together in the kitchen also creates quality family time and wonderful memories. Here are my choices for kid-friendly cookbooks that are well-written, engaging, and teach valuable culinary skills.
Cooking is an excellent way for children to learn responsibility, teamwork, and valuable skills they can use later in life. Spending time together in the kitchen also creates quality family time and wonderful memories. Here are my choices for kid-friendly cookbooks that are well-written, engaging, and teach valuable culinary skills.
Creme Brulee French Toast
Here is a sinfully rich and sweet recipe for French toast. Perfect for special occasions or Sunday brunch. Easy to make.
Here is a sinfully rich and sweet recipe for French toast. Perfect for special occasions or Sunday brunch. Easy to make.
Garlic Scape Pesto
A simple, seasonal recipe for Garlic Scape Pesto, made with garlic scapes, walnuts,Parmesan,and olive oil.
A simple, seasonal recipe for Garlic Scape Pesto, made with garlic scapes, walnuts,Parmesan,and olive oil.
Trader Joe's Precooked Organic Polenta Review
A review of Trader Joe's Precooked Organic Polenta, plus pros and cons of using precooked polenta vs making homemade polenta from scratch with cornmeal.
A review of Trader Joe's Precooked Organic Polenta, plus pros and cons of using precooked polenta vs making homemade polenta from scratch with cornmeal.
Top 10 Chocolate Bunnies
What is Easter without a chocolate bunny rabbit? Among a basket of jellybeans, chocolate eggs, and marshmallow chickens, only the chocolate rabbit stands alone. Towering over the other treats, the bunny surveys all he sees and decides he is the most worthy of being eaten. Rightly so, but all bunnies are not created equal. For a truly gourmet chocolate experience, you must go to the artisan chocolate maker. Here is a list of my favorite chocolate rabbits from world class chocolatiers.
What is Easter without a chocolate bunny rabbit? Among a basket of jellybeans, chocolate eggs, and marshmallow chickens, only the chocolate rabbit stands alone. Towering over the other treats, the bunny surveys all he sees and decides he is the most worthy of being eaten. Rightly so, but all bunnies are not created equal. For a truly gourmet chocolate experience, you must go to the artisan chocolate maker. Here is a list of my favorite chocolate rabbits from world class chocolatiers.
Specialty Food Trade Shows
An overview of the major specialty food-related trade shows, along with dates and locations for upcoming shows.
An overview of the major specialty food-related trade shows, along with dates and locations for upcoming shows.
banana chocolate ice cream
Created by one of my favorite pastry chefs, Marcel Desaulnier, this delicious ice cream recipe combines caramel, banana, and chocolate into a sinfully rich and silky smooth frozen dessert.
Created by one of my favorite pastry chefs, Marcel Desaulnier, this delicious ice cream recipe combines caramel, banana, and chocolate into a sinfully rich and silky smooth frozen dessert.
Potato Gratin Dauphinoise
Dauphinoise is the French method of baking potatoes in milk, cream and cheese. In the French region of Dauphiné, every home cook has her own formula for preparing this gratin.
Dauphinoise is the French method of baking potatoes in milk, cream and cheese. In the French region of Dauphiné, every home cook has her own formula for preparing this gratin.
Gourmet Defined
Gourmet refers to someone who is a connoiseur of good food and drink. or food that is of the highest quality and flavor, prepared well and presented in an artful manner.
Gourmet refers to someone who is a connoiseur of good food and drink. or food that is of the highest quality and flavor, prepared well and presented in an artful manner.
Rachael Ray
It’s easy to dismiss Rachael as an amateur chef. She uses boxed ingredients, she hates specialty foods in recipes, her food often has silly nicknames, and she uses abbreviations like EVOO for extra-virgin olive oil. But people love Rachael because of her engaging personality, her recipes fit the American lifestyle – cheap and easy, and most importantly, Rachael Ray is someone they can relate to.
It’s easy to dismiss Rachael as an amateur chef. She uses boxed ingredients, she hates specialty foods in recipes, her food often has silly nicknames, and she uses abbreviations like EVOO for extra-virgin olive oil. But people love Rachael because of her engaging personality, her recipes fit the American lifestyle – cheap and easy, and most importantly, Rachael Ray is someone they can relate to.
FAQ: Yogurt Varieties
Curious about Greek yogurt? Find out how Greek yogurt differs from American yogurt, plus get links to Greek yogurt reviews and recipes.
Curious about Greek yogurt? Find out how Greek yogurt differs from American yogurt, plus get links to Greek yogurt reviews and recipes.
Blueberry Sangria
Here's a nice twist on Sangria: blueberries! You can make this either with wine or with juice for a non-alcoholic version. If using wine, be sure to try it with the Grand Marnier. The orange flavored liqueur is a nice complement to blueberries.
Here's a nice twist on Sangria: blueberries! You can make this either with wine or with juice for a non-alcoholic version. If using wine, be sure to try it with the Grand Marnier. The orange flavored liqueur is a nice complement to blueberries.
Chocolate Coconut Pie
This delicious chocolate pie recipe only has four ingredients: butter, coconut, cream and chocolate. Very simple in nature but with quality ingredients the taste is divine!
This delicious chocolate pie recipe only has four ingredients: butter, coconut, cream and chocolate. Very simple in nature but with quality ingredients the taste is divine!
Squash Ravioli with Herb Sauce
Ravioli doesn't have to be boring kid stuff. Try this wonderful combination of earthy and sweet flavors. It's sure to change your opinion of ravioli.
Ravioli doesn't have to be boring kid stuff. Try this wonderful combination of earthy and sweet flavors. It's sure to change your opinion of ravioli.
Roasted Garlic Paste
Roasted garlic paste is a wonderful ingredient to keep on hand in your kitchen. Garlic paste makes a wonderful spread for bread or sandwiches. Use it to add rich flavor to soups, pastas, vegetable dips, or basted on meats. Simple to make, garlic paste will keep for about a week in the fridge.
Roasted garlic paste is a wonderful ingredient to keep on hand in your kitchen. Garlic paste makes a wonderful spread for bread or sandwiches. Use it to add rich flavor to soups, pastas, vegetable dips, or basted on meats. Simple to make, garlic paste will keep for about a week in the fridge.
Peach Upside-down Cake
Peach upside-down cake looks like a difficult, fancy dessert to make but it's actually quite simple to make. Your guests won't know that, though. More importantly, using fresh peaches creates an unforgettable dessert that is simply delicious. It's pretty good with canned peaches, too. Great for entertaining your friends or just dinner with the family.
Peach upside-down cake looks like a difficult, fancy dessert to make but it's actually quite simple to make. Your guests won't know that, though. More importantly, using fresh peaches creates an unforgettable dessert that is simply delicious. It's pretty good with canned peaches, too. Great for entertaining your friends or just dinner with the family.
Buy Gourmet Cheese Online
Gourmet cheeses are a world apart from the factory produced cheeses found in the chain supermarkets. Gourmet cheeses can be hard to find locally if you don't have a specialty market or cheese shop. Here are some online sources where you're sure to find some fantastic tasting cheeses.
Gourmet cheeses are a world apart from the factory produced cheeses found in the chain supermarkets. Gourmet cheeses can be hard to find locally if you don't have a specialty market or cheese shop. Here are some online sources where you're sure to find some fantastic tasting cheeses.
Jamie Oliver
Jamie Oliver, Great Britain's wonder boy chef, is as much a humanitarian as a great cook. A very skilled chef with an impressive resume, Jamie has chosen not to create a restaurant empire like many of his contemporaries but rather start a cooking school for underprivileged youth and campaign for better food in the school systems. He's not quite penniless, though. His charming personality and good looks have made him a television star, as well as creating numerous book deals.
Jamie Oliver, Great Britain's wonder boy chef, is as much a humanitarian as a great cook. A very skilled chef with an impressive resume, Jamie has chosen not to create a restaurant empire like many of his contemporaries but rather start a cooking school for underprivileged youth and campaign for better food in the school systems. He's not quite penniless, though. His charming personality and good looks have made him a television star, as well as creating numerous book deals.
The Best Chutney Brands
Chutney is a traditional Indian condiment that is made from fruit, sugar, and spices. It's a wonderfully versatile ingredient to have in the kitchen. Chutneys are good for more than just Indian dishes. Try chutneys as an accompaniment to cheese, as a sauce for meats (especially pork, lamb, and chicken), stirred into rice, as a sandwich spread, or even over ice cream.
Chutney is a traditional Indian condiment that is made from fruit, sugar, and spices. It's a wonderfully versatile ingredient to have in the kitchen. Chutneys are good for more than just Indian dishes. Try chutneys as an accompaniment to cheese, as a sauce for meats (especially pork, lamb, and chicken), stirred into rice, as a sandwich spread, or even over ice cream.
What is Torula Yeast?
A brief definition of the flavor enhancer Torula yeast, plus information on its use as a natural flavor enhancer and MSG alternative.
A brief definition of the flavor enhancer Torula yeast, plus information on its use as a natural flavor enhancer and MSG alternative.
Chocolate Lava Cake
Chocolate Lava Cakes are so called because the center of the cake is a thick liquid chocolate and oozes out when cut, like molten lava. These make a great surprise dessert and, although pretty simple to make, will impress your guests. The chocolate flavor is intense (especially if you use bittersweet), so I like to serve it with vanilla ice cream to balance the flavor.
Chocolate Lava Cakes are so called because the center of the cake is a thick liquid chocolate and oozes out when cut, like molten lava. These make a great surprise dessert and, although pretty simple to make, will impress your guests. The chocolate flavor is intense (especially if you use bittersweet), so I like to serve it with vanilla ice cream to balance the flavor.
Penne Pasta with Artichokes
Fresh artichokes in season are wonderful prepared as simply as possible. A little garlic and butter, a splash of lemon, some onions and you're all set. Add some pasta and you have a meal.
Fresh artichokes in season are wonderful prepared as simply as possible. A little garlic and butter, a splash of lemon, some onions and you're all set. Add some pasta and you have a meal.
Hannah Storm
Here's a behind the scenes look photo gallery of the 2007 James Beard Awards, the most prestigious event in the food industry.
Here's a behind the scenes look photo gallery of the 2007 James Beard Awards, the most prestigious event in the food industry.
Bobby Flay's Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are delicious and very simple to make. Use a white, flaky fish like mahi mahi or orata. You can fry the fish or, in this case, grill which is much healthier. Be sure to serve with all the sides - that's what makes a great fish taco.
Fish tacos are delicious and very simple to make. Use a white, flaky fish like mahi mahi or orata. You can fry the fish or, in this case, grill which is much healthier. Be sure to serve with all the sides - that's what makes a great fish taco.
Anthony Bourdain Biography
Anthony Bourdain, executive chef of Brasserie Les Halles in New York City, is the anti-celebrity chef. He’s crass, offensive, and doesn’t wear starched, white jackets or fancy hats. He is, however, a great cook, a great writer, and has an infectious passion for food of every kind. His passion and adventurous spirit are what have created millions of gourmet fans around the world. Chef Bourdain may have turned more people onto good food than any five-star, fancy-hat chef out there.
Anthony Bourdain, executive chef of Brasserie Les Halles in New York City, is the anti-celebrity chef. He’s crass, offensive, and doesn’t wear starched, white jackets or fancy hats. He is, however, a great cook, a great writer, and has an infectious passion for food of every kind. His passion and adventurous spirit are what have created millions of gourmet fans around the world. Chef Bourdain may have turned more people onto good food than any five-star, fancy-hat chef out there.
FAQ: I'm Out of Arborio Rice. What Else Can I Use to Make Risotto?
Learn about Arborio rice substitutes for risotto recipes, including short grained rices and other starchy grains.
Learn about Arborio rice substitutes for risotto recipes, including short grained rices and other starchy grains.
Fall Fruit Salad
Fall brings us a bounty of delicious fruits. Apples, pears, and cranberries make a wonderful combination. Both tart and sweet, this salad make a great salad to start a meal or can be used as a side dish to accompany chicken or pork.
Fall brings us a bounty of delicious fruits. Apples, pears, and cranberries make a wonderful combination. Both tart and sweet, this salad make a great salad to start a meal or can be used as a side dish to accompany chicken or pork.
Famous Blueberry Pancakes
Twice, New York Magazine voted Neil Kleinberg’s blueberry pancakes best in the city. These are really good!
Twice, New York Magazine voted Neil Kleinberg’s blueberry pancakes best in the city. These are really good!
Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo
Here's a wonderful little side dish big on flavor. The strong, spicy flavors of chorizo blend nicely with the strong flavor of roasted brussel sprouts. Unforgettable.
Here's a wonderful little side dish big on flavor. The strong, spicy flavors of chorizo blend nicely with the strong flavor of roasted brussel sprouts. Unforgettable.
Reprinted with permission from Small Plates, Perfect Wines: Creating Little Dishes with Big Flavors by Lori Lyn Narlock (Andrews McMeel 2007).
Storing and Serving Caviar
Improper care of caviar will change a delicious, expensive caviar into a cheap tasting mound of fish eggs. Caviar is a very perishable product and needs to be properly stored and served to retain its delicate flavors. Here are a few tips for keeping caviar at its best.
Improper care of caviar will change a delicious, expensive caviar into a cheap tasting mound of fish eggs. Caviar is a very perishable product and needs to be properly stored and served to retain its delicate flavors. Here are a few tips for keeping caviar at its best.
Grilled Pork & Bourbon Peaches
Here is a wonderful summertime recipes for grilling juicy flavorful pork chops that have been brined overnight and served with grilled fresh peaches. Grilling the peaches brings out the flavor by caramelizing the natural sugar. Baste them with butter, honey, and bourbon as they grill to make them shiny and even more flavorful.
Here is a wonderful summertime recipes for grilling juicy flavorful pork chops that have been brined overnight and served with grilled fresh peaches. Grilling the peaches brings out the flavor by caramelizing the natural sugar. Baste them with butter, honey, and bourbon as they grill to make them shiny and even more flavorful.
Morel Mushrooms
There are many edible varieties of mushrooms, many of which are available at specialty shops, natural grocers, and from farmers markets. Many varieties are wild and are collected by mushroom hunters. These photos are intended to show you the different edible mushrooms out there and not to be used for identifying in the wild. Leave that to the professionals, please.
There are many edible varieties of mushrooms, many of which are available at specialty shops, natural grocers, and from farmers markets. Many varieties are wild and are collected by mushroom hunters. These photos are intended to show you the different edible mushrooms out there and not to be used for identifying in the wild. Leave that to the professionals, please.
Where to Buy Truffles
Prized since ancient times, the "Food of Kings" has a richly deserved flavor reputation. It's grand taste
Prized since ancient times, the "Food of Kings" has a richly deserved flavor reputation. It's grand taste
Consommé Tagliatelle Carbonara
Consommé Tagliatelle Carbonara
Consommé Tagliatelle Carbonara
Persian Chicken
This recipe is loosely based on the traditional Persian dish, Faisinjan. Classically made with duck or wild birds, this recipe uses the more available chicken. Pomegranates, pine nuts, and yogurt are all Middle Eastern staples whose flavors marry very well in this dish.
This recipe is loosely based on the traditional Persian dish, Faisinjan. Classically made with duck or wild birds, this recipe uses the more available chicken. Pomegranates, pine nuts, and yogurt are all Middle Eastern staples whose flavors marry very well in this dish.
Sea Salt Caramel Gelato
Gelato is the Italian form of ice cream. Typically it is more dense than the American version. Sea salt is a wonderful complement to caramel and does not create an overpowering salty flavor at all.
Gelato is the Italian form of ice cream. Typically it is more dense than the American version. Sea salt is a wonderful complement to caramel and does not create an overpowering salty flavor at all.
All About Caviar
Caviar was once served as an appetizer in saloons of the Old West. In another time it was considered extremely valuable and only suitable to be served to royalty and the upper class. But what exactly is caviar? Why is it so highly prized and so expensive? Here are the facts on where caviar comes from and what all the fuss is about.
Caviar was once served as an appetizer in saloons of the Old West. In another time it was considered extremely valuable and only suitable to be served to royalty and the upper class. But what exactly is caviar? Why is it so highly prized and so expensive? Here are the facts on where caviar comes from and what all the fuss is about.
Mussels al Diablo
This wonderful mussel recipe comes from Barcelona, the Spanish tapas restaurant in Connecticut. Simple ingredients: tomatoes, garlic, white wine and a little spice turn mussels into something spectacular.
This wonderful mussel recipe comes from Barcelona, the Spanish tapas restaurant in Connecticut. Simple ingredients: tomatoes, garlic, white wine and a little spice turn mussels into something spectacular.
10 Best BBQ Sauces
A roundup of the best BBQ sauces on the market, including lots of all natural barbecue sauces in a range of styles and flavors.
A roundup of the best BBQ sauces on the market, including lots of all natural barbecue sauces in a range of styles and flavors.
Beurre Noisette
: Beurre Noisette - French term for "brown butter" or literally "hazelnut butter". Butter is cooked in
: Beurre Noisette - French term for "brown butter" or literally "hazelnut butter". Butter is cooked in
Baked Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a wonderful American tradition found in most areas of the country. Crab cakes are an elegant dish, yet comfort food at the same time. You will find them on the menus of five-star restaurants and at most hole-in-the wall crab shacks. This particular recipe uses fairly traditional ingredients for the crab cakes, but adds spicy fruity sauce for some extra pizzazz.
Crab cakes are a wonderful American tradition found in most areas of the country. Crab cakes are an elegant dish, yet comfort food at the same time. You will find them on the menus of five-star restaurants and at most hole-in-the wall crab shacks. This particular recipe uses fairly traditional ingredients for the crab cakes, but adds spicy fruity sauce for some extra pizzazz.
Lobster Ceviche
This recipe is reprinted with permission from the wonderful new modern Mexican cookbook, Mod Mex by Scott
This recipe is reprinted with permission from the wonderful new modern Mexican cookbook, Mod Mex by Scott
Coconut Creme Brulee
Crème brûlée is a very popular dessert that you will find in almost every fine dining restaurant. The smooth creamy custard contrasts very nicely with the crunch of the hardened sugar topping. A delightful dessert that will impress your guests, crème brûlée is actually quite simple to make. This particular version has a wonderfully rich and creamy coconut flavor.
Crème brûlée is a very popular dessert that you will find in almost every fine dining restaurant. The smooth creamy custard contrasts very nicely with the crunch of the hardened sugar topping. A delightful dessert that will impress your guests, crème brûlée is actually quite simple to make. This particular version has a wonderfully rich and creamy coconut flavor.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Sometimes you just need good old comfort food. Pulled pork takes a long time to cook, but it's well worth the wait. Juicy, tender pork melts in your mouth. Rich, tangy barbecue sauce and spicy apple chutney create a wonderful taste sensation. Messy, fatty, and rich. Good stuff!
Sometimes you just need good old comfort food. Pulled pork takes a long time to cook, but it's well worth the wait. Juicy, tender pork melts in your mouth. Rich, tangy barbecue sauce and spicy apple chutney create a wonderful taste sensation. Messy, fatty, and rich. Good stuff!
Bobby Flay and Stephanie March
Here's a behind the scenes look photo gallery of the 2007 James Beard Awards, the most prestigious event in the food industry.
Here's a behind the scenes look photo gallery of the 2007 James Beard Awards, the most prestigious event in the food industry.
Top Picks at Trader Joe's - S
You never know what you'll find at Trader Joe's, a quirky mashup of trading post and specialty food store; the stock can change unexpectedly. But shopping there is fun, and while there are duds in the product selection, there are lots of gems. Here are my current gourmet Trader Joe's must-buys.
You never know what you'll find at Trader Joe's, a quirky mashup of trading post and specialty food store; the stock can change unexpectedly. But shopping there is fun, and while there are duds in the product selection, there are lots of gems. Here are my current gourmet Trader Joe's must-buys.
Aioli
Aioli is a wonderful garlic mayonnaise that can be used as a sandwich spread, a dip for a cold deli tray, or as a sauce for pasta and other dishes.
Aioli is a wonderful garlic mayonnaise that can be used as a sandwich spread, a dip for a cold deli tray, or as a sauce for pasta and other dishes.
Pizza Margherita
Classic Margherita-style pizza is the most basic of all pizzas but so delicious is you use good ingredients: a nice olive oil, ripe juicy tomatoes, good mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
Classic Margherita-style pizza is the most basic of all pizzas but so delicious is you use good ingredients: a nice olive oil, ripe juicy tomatoes, good mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
Chocolate Raspberry Tart
Here is a beautiful and delicious tart made with a luscious rich chocolate ganache and fresh raspberries. We use a pâte sablée for the tart crust which has a buttery, crumbly texture almost like a cookie.
Here is a beautiful and delicious tart made with a luscious rich chocolate ganache and fresh raspberries. We use a pâte sablée for the tart crust which has a buttery, crumbly texture almost like a cookie.
Cappuccino Tapioca Pudding
This delightfully creamy dessert combines comfort food tapioca pudding with a more sophisticated creme brûlée. A touch of espresso and cardamom give this dessert a bit of an exotic flavor.
This delightfully creamy dessert combines comfort food tapioca pudding with a more sophisticated creme brûlée. A touch of espresso and cardamom give this dessert a bit of an exotic flavor.
Lion's Mane Mushroom
There are many edible varieties of mushrooms, many of which are available at specialty shops, natural grocers, and from farmers markets. Many varieties are wild and are collected by mushroom hunters. These photos are intended to show you the different edible mushrooms out there and not to be used for identifying in the wild. Leave that to the professionals, please.
There are many edible varieties of mushrooms, many of which are available at specialty shops, natural grocers, and from farmers markets. Many varieties are wild and are collected by mushroom hunters. These photos are intended to show you the different edible mushrooms out there and not to be used for identifying in the wild. Leave that to the professionals, please.
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Flourless chocolate cake is a beautifully rich dessert. You will find it on the menu of many upscale restaurants but it is quite simple to make. Easier than most regular cakes, in fact, because if undercooked it will have a nice fudgy texture unlike the sogginess of an undercooked flour cake. I like to serve this with crème anglaise. Vanilla and chocolate naturally compliment each other and you get a nice contrast in temperatures and textures.
Flourless chocolate cake is a beautifully rich dessert. You will find it on the menu of many upscale restaurants but it is quite simple to make. Easier than most regular cakes, in fact, because if undercooked it will have a nice fudgy texture unlike the sogginess of an undercooked flour cake. I like to serve this with crème anglaise. Vanilla and chocolate naturally compliment each other and you get a nice contrast in temperatures and textures.
Court-Bouillon
Court-bouillon is a broth used to poach fish, seafood, or vegetables. Don't let the French name fool you. This recipe is quite simple to make and will add great flavor to your dish.
Court-bouillon is a broth used to poach fish, seafood, or vegetables. Don't let the French name fool you. This recipe is quite simple to make and will add great flavor to your dish.
Potato Crust Quiche
Quiche is a wonderful baked dish based on an egg custard with vegetables and/or meat. The crust is typically pastry but here we're substituting potatoes for a delicious twist. Potatoes and leeks are a classic combination. Mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor.
Quiche is a wonderful baked dish based on an egg custard with vegetables and/or meat. The crust is typically pastry but here we're substituting potatoes for a delicious twist. Potatoes and leeks are a classic combination. Mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor.
Risotto with Scallops
Risotto is a wonderful method of cooking rice. By constantly stirring and adding liquid little by little, the arborio rice finishes with a nice creamy consistency. This recipes adds a trio of scallops, spicy sausage, and earthy mushrooms along with some fresh herbs that creates a delightfully tasty and aromatic dish. This is comfort food at its best!
Risotto is a wonderful method of cooking rice. By constantly stirring and adding liquid little by little, the arborio rice finishes with a nice creamy consistency. This recipes adds a trio of scallops, spicy sausage, and earthy mushrooms along with some fresh herbs that creates a delightfully tasty and aromatic dish. This is comfort food at its best!
Chilled Zucchini Soup
Here is a wonderfully simple recipe to make use of all those summer zucchini. Add some basil and walnuts and you have a delicious and refreshing soup that is great for an appetizer or a light lunch. It's low fat, healthy, and tasty. What more could you ask for?
Here is a wonderfully simple recipe to make use of all those summer zucchini. Add some basil and walnuts and you have a delicious and refreshing soup that is great for an appetizer or a light lunch. It's low fat, healthy, and tasty. What more could you ask for?
In Season for October
A list of what fruits and vegetables are in season in October.
A list of what fruits and vegetables are in season in October.
Tuna Niçoise
Tuna Niçoise is more of a meal than a salad. Poached tuna and lots of vegetables give this dish a wonderful balance of flavors. The individual ingredients in this recipe are simple to make, but when put together on a plate look very sophisticated.
Tuna Niçoise is more of a meal than a salad. Poached tuna and lots of vegetables give this dish a wonderful balance of flavors. The individual ingredients in this recipe are simple to make, but when put together on a plate look very sophisticated.
Hot & Cold Trout Roe Tempura
Hot & Cold Trout Roe Tempura
Hot & Cold Trout Roe Tempura
Warm Chocolate Puddle Cakes
You can find versions of molten lava cake in many fine restaurants. Despite their decadent richness and flavor, they're really quite simply to make and only bake for 10 minutes. Thick and delicious chocolate oozes from the center of the moist warm cake. Fresh whipped cream is added for the perfect complementary finishing touch.
You can find versions of molten lava cake in many fine restaurants. Despite their decadent richness and flavor, they're really quite simply to make and only bake for 10 minutes. Thick and delicious chocolate oozes from the center of the moist warm cake. Fresh whipped cream is added for the perfect complementary finishing touch.
Letter Soup
Letter Soup
Letter Soup
Strawberries with Campari, Mandarin, Basil, & Sancho Powder
Strawberries with Campari, Mandarin, Basil, & Sancho Powder
Strawberries with Campari, Mandarin, Basil, & Sancho Powder
Oatmeal Apple Pancakes
Not your ordinary pancakes! Oatmeal apple pancakes are chewy, nutty, and sweet. Full of flavor, both adults and kids will love this morning treat. They're also more nutritious than your typical pancakes. This simple recipe is destined to be a family favorite.
Not your ordinary pancakes! Oatmeal apple pancakes are chewy, nutty, and sweet. Full of flavor, both adults and kids will love this morning treat. They're also more nutritious than your typical pancakes. This simple recipe is destined to be a family favorite.
Inside the World's Greatest Restaurant, El Bulli
Photo gallery of El Bulli, the world's greatest restaurant.
Photo gallery of El Bulli, the world's greatest restaurant.
Black and White Cheesecake
This dessert combines two of my favorite things: cheesecake and chocolate. White chocolate and dark chocolate are used to create a wonderful contrast in color and taste. Nestle Chocolatier dark chocolate chips work very well in this recipe. You can also chop up a bar of dark chocolate or, if you prefer, you can use semi-sweet chocolate.
This dessert combines two of my favorite things: cheesecake and chocolate. White chocolate and dark chocolate are used to create a wonderful contrast in color and taste. Nestle Chocolatier dark chocolate chips work very well in this recipe. You can also chop up a bar of dark chocolate or, if you prefer, you can use semi-sweet chocolate.
Children's Books About Food
Books are a fun and exciting way to teach children about food. There are many wonderful books that illustrate a variety of topics such as eating right, identifying foods, where food comes from, respecting food and the people who grow or cook it, and other food-related topics. Here are some of my favorite kid's books about food written for ages infant through pre-teen.
Books are a fun and exciting way to teach children about food. There are many wonderful books that illustrate a variety of topics such as eating right, identifying foods, where food comes from, respecting food and the people who grow or cook it, and other food-related topics. Here are some of my favorite kid's books about food written for ages infant through pre-teen.
Food Network Star - Season 7
It's another season of Food Network Star with 15 contestants competing for their ultimate dream job - a series of their own on the Food Network. Giada de Laurentiis will join the judges panel with steadfast host Bobby Flay. This season‟s highlights include creating a food truck under the watchful eye of Tyler Florence, throwing an impromptu dinner party for Wolfgang Puck, and a stint on Iron Chef.
It's another season of Food Network Star with 15 contestants competing for their ultimate dream job - a series of their own on the Food Network. Giada de Laurentiis will join the judges panel with steadfast host Bobby Flay. This season‟s highlights include creating a food truck under the watchful eye of Tyler Florence, throwing an impromptu dinner party for Wolfgang Puck, and a stint on Iron Chef.
Carrot Cake Ice Cream
My wife likes carrot cake. I like ice cream. So I combined the two to make everyone happy. This is not ice cream that has bits of carrot cake in it. It's ice cream that tastes like carrot cake.
My wife likes carrot cake. I like ice cream. So I combined the two to make everyone happy. This is not ice cream that has bits of carrot cake in it. It's ice cream that tastes like carrot cake.
Chocolate Velvet Bundt Cake
These mini cakes can be dressed up with a little Dark Chocolate Ganache (recipe follows) spooned over the top and allowed to drip down the sides.
These mini cakes can be dressed up with a little Dark Chocolate Ganache (recipe follows) spooned over the top and allowed to drip down the sides.
Chef Michael Chiarello
Photo gallery of Top Chef Masters.
Photo gallery of Top Chef Masters.
Grilled Seafood Skewers
Here's a tasty yet simple recipe for grilled seafood from author Terra Kiros. The recipe calls for shrimp, squid, swordfish, and tuna but you can use any fish that can be cut into cubes.
Here's a tasty yet simple recipe for grilled seafood from author Terra Kiros. The recipe calls for shrimp, squid, swordfish, and tuna but you can use any fish that can be cut into cubes.
White Asparagus with Hot Mayonnaise
White Asparagus with Hot Mayonnaise
White Asparagus with Hot Mayonnaise
Chocolate-of-the-Month Clubs
Why give someone a box of chocolates when you can give them chocolates every month of the year? Well, price is the biggest reason. Chocolate-of-the-month clubs are not cheap and will likely cost you hundreds of dollars. But considering the price of buying boxes of chocolate individually, the price is fairly reasonable. That said, if you or someone you know is a chocolate lover, the chocolate-of-the-month club is a delicious gift that will be appreciated all year long.
Why give someone a box of chocolates when you can give them chocolates every month of the year? Well, price is the biggest reason. Chocolate-of-the-month clubs are not cheap and will likely cost you hundreds of dollars. But considering the price of buying boxes of chocolate individually, the price is fairly reasonable. That said, if you or someone you know is a chocolate lover, the chocolate-of-the-month club is a delicious gift that will be appreciated all year long.
Padma Lakshmi
Host of Top Chef, Padma Lakshmi is an international actress, food expert, model and award-winning writer.
Host of Top Chef, Padma Lakshmi is an international actress, food expert, model and award-winning writer.
Cheesemakers of Vermont
Only recently, in the past 20 years or so, has the craft of American cheesemaking been able to compete with the Europeans. A revolution has occurred with major hotspots for cheese developing in California, Vermont, and elsewhere. The small state of Vermont hosts dozens of artisan cheesemakers. With so many great cheesemakers creating a huge variety of cheeses, it's impossible to say who's the best. This list only reflects some of my favorites.
Only recently, in the past 20 years or so, has the craft of American cheesemaking been able to compete with the Europeans. A revolution has occurred with major hotspots for cheese developing in California, Vermont, and elsewhere. The small state of Vermont hosts dozens of artisan cheesemakers. With so many great cheesemakers creating a huge variety of cheeses, it's impossible to say who's the best. This list only reflects some of my favorites.
Seared Baby Squid with Garlic
This classic French dish is so beautifully simple: fresh squid, parsley, and garlic. Fleur de sel is called for in this special dish but any nice sea salt will do.
This classic French dish is so beautifully simple: fresh squid, parsley, and garlic. Fleur de sel is called for in this special dish but any nice sea salt will do.
What to Bring to the Party
If you have been invited to dinner or a party, but have not been asked to bring anything, you may still want to consider bringing a gift. The gift of drink or food is almost always appreciated. Even if your gift does not match well with the theme or flavors of the gathering, your small donation is highly unlikely to have any negative impact on either of these factors. Like the saying goes, the gift is in the giving.
If you have been invited to dinner or a party, but have not been asked to bring anything, you may still want to consider bringing a gift. The gift of drink or food is almost always appreciated. Even if your gift does not match well with the theme or flavors of the gathering, your small donation is highly unlikely to have any negative impact on either of these factors. Like the saying goes, the gift is in the giving.
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a cold, tomato soup that is refreshing on a hot day and adds variety to any meal. It's the perfect recipe to use those wonderful fresh tomatoes.
Gazpacho is a cold, tomato soup that is refreshing on a hot day and adds variety to any meal. It's the perfect recipe to use those wonderful fresh tomatoes.
"Cous-cous" of Cauliflower with Solid Aromatic Salsa
"Cous-cous" of Cauliflower with Solid Aromatic Sals
"Cous-cous" of Cauliflower with Solid Aromatic Sals
Edna Lewis
A tall, commanding woman, Edna Lewis was also a giant in the culinary world as well as in life. The granddaughter of freed slaves, Edna would grow up to be a great chef, culinary ambassador, and caretaker of genuine Southern cooking. She would inspire a generation of young chefs and ensure that the traditional folkways of the South would not be forgotten. More than a skilled cook, Edna Lewis touched the lives of those around her with grace and the beauty of life. She will be deeply missed.
A tall, commanding woman, Edna Lewis was also a giant in the culinary world as well as in life. The granddaughter of freed slaves, Edna would grow up to be a great chef, culinary ambassador, and caretaker of genuine Southern cooking. She would inspire a generation of young chefs and ensure that the traditional folkways of the South would not be forgotten. More than a skilled cook, Edna Lewis touched the lives of those around her with grace and the beauty of life. She will be deeply missed.
Guinness Chocolate Mousse
Guinness is a wonderful complement to chocolate. This creamy dessert is served at The Guinness Storehouse, at St. James's Gate in Dublin. The Guinness Storehouse is currently Ireland's number-one international visitor attraction.
Guinness is a wonderful complement to chocolate. This creamy dessert is served at The Guinness Storehouse, at St. James's Gate in Dublin. The Guinness Storehouse is currently Ireland's number-one international visitor attraction.
Pineapple & Avocado Soup
This is a wonderful soup that is both sweet and spicy. It makes a great appetizer or starter to a meal. You can also serve it for dessert by leaving out the chipotle. The pepitas (Mexican pumpkin seeds) add a nice crunch to contrast with the smooth texture of the soup. Very simple to make, you can whip up this soup in less than 15 minutes.
This is a wonderful soup that is both sweet and spicy. It makes a great appetizer or starter to a meal. You can also serve it for dessert by leaving out the chipotle. The pepitas (Mexican pumpkin seeds) add a nice crunch to contrast with the smooth texture of the soup. Very simple to make, you can whip up this soup in less than 15 minutes.
"Quince Paste" of Red Fruits with Curd
"Quince Paste" of Red Fruits with Cur
"Quince Paste" of Red Fruits with Cur
Sorbet of Cheese-stuffed Strawberries with Campari & Orange Confit
Sorbet of Cheese-stuffed Strawberries with Campari & Orange Confit
Sorbet of Cheese-stuffed Strawberries with Campari & Orange Confit
"Tapioca" of Iberian Ham
"Tapioca" of Iberian Ha
"Tapioca" of Iberian Ha
Granola
Homemade granola is so much better than the variety in the store, and so easy to make. Granola makes a great snack (even kids like it) or breakfast cereal. Plus it tends to be on the healthy side with oats and nuts and naturally sweetened with dried fruit, honey and maple syrup. Good stuff to keep on hand in the pantry.
Homemade granola is so much better than the variety in the store, and so easy to make. Granola makes a great snack (even kids like it) or breakfast cereal. Plus it tends to be on the healthy side with oats and nuts and naturally sweetened with dried fruit, honey and maple syrup. Good stuff to keep on hand in the pantry.
Slaughterhouse Five Ribs
This delicious rib recipe is done in Kansas City barbecue style and comes from our friends at Oklahoma Joe's Barbecue and Catering (3002 West 47th Street, Kansas City, KS).
This delicious rib recipe is done in Kansas City barbecue style and comes from our friends at Oklahoma Joe's Barbecue and Catering (3002 West 47th Street, Kansas City, KS).