Ya Pears

Ya Pear (or Chinese White Pear)

I’m in love with these pears. While this white pear might not have the depth of flavor or smooth creaminess other pears offer, they have a number of desirable attributes. They have a crisp, yet tender, flesh that has very little of the fibrous […]

Honey Spice Squares

Another mostly healthy spice bar made with oatmeal. We really enjoyed the flavor. But, it is noticeably lean. (the texture of a crumbly, yet moist granola bar) A bit more fat would add flavor. If I were eating this as an indulgent treat, I’d add another 2-3 tablespoons of butter.

[…]

Candied Grapefruit with White Chocolate

The peel of three grapefruits provides more candied grapefruit than you can use in a year. After setting aside enough candied peel for easter (most to be used in easter bread and wheatberry pie), I still had two full sheet trays of candied peel. So, I decided to turn the […]

Soft Sugar Cookies with Anise

This simple, soft & chewy sugar cookie pairs beautifully with an espresso. I’ll be making a batch with almonds in the near future. These disappeared too fast.

Soft Sugar Cookies makes 36-40

2 cups AP flour 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1/2 cup extra-fine granulated sugar 1/4 […]

Red Grapefruit Tart

So, I wanted to take a simple lemon bar recipe and make a few minor changes. Red grapefruit juice and zest fill in for lemon. One grapefruit provides more than enough juice. (If it’s a big & juicy one, you’ll only need half.) Then, I wanted to add flavor to […]

Wilted Pea Shoots with pan-fried egg

This wilted pea shoot salad makes a great base for a gently fried egg. It’s a perfect light meal for any time of the day. But, I particularly enjoy this as a light breakfast.

Wilted Pea Shoot Salad

1 TBSP Olive oil 2 TBSP rice wine […]

Chocolate Ice Cream made without a maker

Is it possible to make ice cream without a maker? Definitely.

Most custard based ice creams can be made without an ice cream maker if you incorporate whipped cream (fresh heavy cream, whipped… not artificial whipped cream) into the recipe. If you make this recipe the day you […]

Brownie — Take 2 — Black Cocoa Brownie

Using Alton Brown’s brownie recipe for inspiration once again, this adaptation deviates even further from the original. By cutting the butter in half, I solve the too buttery (bordering on greasy) issue. But, I lose most of the delicate super-thin flakes that make a perfect brownie crunch ever-so-slightly under your […]

Grilled filet with port marinade

We love the good color and char this marinade provides. It’s quick, simple and almost no fail, if you know how to use a propane grill. (Yes, we grilled steaks tonight. It was a lovely (frigid) 33 degrees. My honey did a lovely sprint for the door to keep our […]

Vanilla Porter Poached Shrimp

This vanilla porter adds a tiny hint of sweetness to the shrimp, while the crushed red pepper adds heat. A splash of sweet & spicy Tiger Sauce makes the perfect condiment. Or, a simple dip can be made with sour cream, mayo, Tiger Sauce, sriracha hot sauce, black pepper, and […]