The first time I encountered raviolo al uovo, a giant raviolo (raviolo is the singular of ravioli) stuffed with ricotta, spinach and a runny egg yolk was at Trattoria Monti in Rome many moons ago (almost 20 years, yikes, time flies). It was one of those memorable dishes that leaves a lasting impression. When you cut into … Continue Reading

Oatmeal and sweet porridges have never really appealed to me. Am more of a savory than a sweet type of person. I’ve had a savory porridge on my to-do list for quite some time. Most renditions I’ve encountered out and about utilized only one type of grain, two at most. I wanted to experiment with … Continue Reading

What happens when you cross çilbir — Turkish poached eggs over yogurt topped with chile-spiced butter — with an Indian smoky, eggplant-yogurt — baingan ka raita — and top it all with tadka, spices tempered (i.e., briefly roasted in oil or ghee) to release their essential oils, making them more flavorful and aromatic?? Well, that’s … Continue Reading

Shakshuka has become trendy in recent years. For good reason, it’s delicious — eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, chiles and spices. It makes for a perfect, lazy Sunday brunch (equally good for breakfast, lunch or dinner) and completely adaptable to suit your tastes. I like mine with a good dollop of spicy harissa. … Continue Reading

Sightings of stinging nettle always make me think, ‘yes, spring has finally arrived.’ Historically, when we (meaning our ancestors) ate more seasonally (out of necessity), consumption of spring greens was a way to cleanse one’s body following a long winter diet of heavy foods and shelf-stable staples. Spring greens also provide a myriad of vitamins, … Continue Reading