So I've been on a Jane Gardam binge lately, reading everything of hers I can get my hands on. Her writing is addictive, her stories filled with all-too-human characters and happy small surprises. (Start with Old Filth; and no, it's not what you think.) In The Hot Sweets of Cremona she introduces us to Mostarda di Cremona, "bright fruit things" displayed in an Italian … [Read more...]
Archives for September 2014
HOME MADE KIMCHI
No doubt about it, kimchi is an acquired taste. But once familiarized with its fiery, tangy crunch, it's addictive. Thanks to the rise of Korean-American chefs like Roy Choi and David Chang kimchi has found felicitous mash-ups with other cuisines, notably Mexican. I particularly like a big blob of cool kimchi on top of pasta marinara or Bolognese. Seriously satisfying. This … [Read more...]
CORN CHUTNEY AND TWO NEAT GADGETS: HOT JAR MITT AND CORN CUTTER
Here's a riff on our popular corn relish recipe. This time some tumeric, more mustard and raisins make it zippier. Yellow beans and green tomatoes thicken it for that rich chutney lusciousness. Great to make while the corn is still wonderful. And check out this nifty canning jar mitt. It keeps its form, making it easy to grip and hold hot jars while you fill them. Another … [Read more...]
FENNEL AND ONION RELISH
Canning projects are running full steam -- here's one of our favorites. Based on a recipe from Edon Waycott's Preserving the Taste. FENNEL AND ONION RELISH Recipe makes 5 pints 2 large fennel bulbs 2 large sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Maui 2 Tablespoons + 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup water 4 cups white vinegar 1/2 cup sugar 1 Tablespoon black pepper corns 3 … [Read more...]
EXTRA LARGE SUMMER FRUIT TART HACK
Working off the same base recipe posted earlier, this XL version used tonka beans to infuse the crust with a smooth spicy taste and heady vanilla aroma. Not to worry, cinnamon still works fine. Nectarines and apricots were the fruit de jour; they're great for this tart because they don't need to be peeled. The large 11" tart pan with removable bottom allows for apricot … [Read more...]