Do you want to know the “secret” to making food taste good?  Psst, come a little closer.  You ready? There are three things… Hint, hint.  In the word’s of Julia Child “If you’re afraid of butter, use cream.”    Yep, you guessed it: 1) butter; 2) cream; and 3) salt.   Okay, maybe it’s a bit … Continue Reading

  It’s early spring.  Among other things, that means it’s ramp season — the springtime delicacy also known as wild garlic. Last year I celebrated ramp season at the Hudson Valley Ramp Festival.  If you’re not too far, I highly recommend a visit.  This year’s festival is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2014, in the … Continue Reading

I have a new (at least for me) culinary discovery, miso butter — nothing more than miso (used red miso, because that’s what I had on hand, but you can easily substitute any miso you like) mixed with butter. Miso + Butter = Umamilicious…to say the least.  Today I made sockeye salmon en papillote (salmon … Continue Reading

  Are you a chile person?  Do you like a little zip of chile-induced heat? I recently read that studies show a correlation between preference for spicy food and risk-taking personalities.  I’ve also read that people who enjoy taking risks may be more content and satisfied with their lives. Ergo, eating chiles leads to happiness … Continue Reading

  The “secret” ingredient that makes your favorite dish at your much beloved restaurant so darn tasty.  That thing you can’t quite put your finger on.  That je ne sais quoi.  My guess, butter. Simply stated, fat gives food flavor.  Fat is satiating.  And yes, there is definitely a time and place for butter. While … Continue Reading