Ginger Fever

Ginger, long a popular spice and herbal medicine, is fast becoming the latest mania, reaching into the depths of culinary corners near and far.   Its clean taste makes it a desired ingredient for many dishes, but it is a flavor that easily matches with any fare, from sweet to savory and everywhere in between.   So…

Thanksgiving Leftover Favorites – Houston’s Style

My Favorite: Turkey Soup Turkey carcass Leftover turkey Leftover vegetables (green beans, Brussel sprouts, yams or sweet potatoes—if they weren’t whipped) Leftover gravy 2 celery stalks, chopped 2 carrots, chopped Leftover mashed potatoes Leftover stuffing Boil the turkey carcass until the bones fall apart. At least 3-4 hours, but overnight is best. Strain. Add leftover…

Cold Days Call for Soup!

Soup. What better to eat on a chilly fall day? It warms you from the inside out, and it’s tasty! Here is my favorite split pea soup recipe, perfect for blustery, busy days! Ingredients 2 cups dried, split peas 1 ½ pounds ham hock or shank 3 carrots, sliced 3 celery stocks, sliced 3 red…

French Onion Soup

Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (unsalted if you have it) 2 Tablespoons olive oil 4 cups sliced onion 4 cans beef broth (10.5 ounce size) 2 Tablespoons dry sherry or red wine 1 teaspoon dried thyme Salt and pepper to taste 4 slices French bread, toasted firm 4 slices provolone 2 slices Swiss cheese 1/4 cup…

Immersion Blenders

For blending soups, sauces, smoothies, whipped cream, salad dressings…the list of uses for an immersion blender is practically endless! So what is an immersion blender, then, and why is it such a great tool for back-of-the-house food prep? An immersion blender is a kitchen appliance that allows the user to blend or puree food in…