Baked Salmon

                             The Best Baked Salmon
This is the salmon recipe you will turn to again and again. It's easy enough for a weeknight, but boasts smartly seasoned layers of flavor.  This simple baked salmon really hits all the right notes: tangy, sweet, savory, a little spicy and crunchy. Cooking a larger piece makes for a nice presentation. Topped with buttery golden breadcrumbs and parsley, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to serve 

to guests.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup parsley leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 pounds skin-on salmon fillet, preferably center-cut
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. Mix the panko with the parsley, butter, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and a few grinds of black pepper in another small bowl.

Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet and spread the surface with the Dijon. Press the brown sugar mixture all over the salmon then top with the breadcrumb mixture. Crimp all four sides of the foil to create a border around the salmon, this will help collect the juices so they don't spread and burn. Bake until the breadcrumbs are golden brown, and the salmon is firm and flakes easily when pressed, 15 to 18 minutes. Cut into four equal portions for serving.

Cincinnati Skyline Chili

 Cincinnati Skyline Chili

In the city of Cincinnati, Ohio this dish is almost a religion! There are chain restaurants named for the dish. It is not unusual to find the dish on the menu at many other restaurants. You can buy the sauce in cans and sources will ship it. I found this recipe on a blog. Notice the cheese is cheddar cheese but any cheese will do that blends with the chili.  Make half of this recipe if you don't need to serve 12.  This recipe is a one pot prep.
Ingredients with Directions:

2# ground beef (85-15)

5 cups boiling water

Place meat in boiling water and with I long handled spoon, break meat into small pieces and cook.  Cook 20 minutes and when the protein surfaces skim the surface to remove this "film".  

Add each ingredient individually to layer the flavors,

2 cups onion, chopped fine

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 large bay leaf

3 large garlic cloves, crushed

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

1 oz. unsweetened chocolate powder

Salt to taste

3/4 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Simmer on low for 1 hr., stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

While the pot simmers on low, make the tomato "paste".

8 ounces tomato sauce

3 teaspoons tomato paste, stir 2 minutes

Add 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon and simmer 15 to 20 minutes.  Prepare your paste while it simmers.

Toppings:

Plenty of Cheddar Cheese. (That is required)

Optional:

Raw diced onion,  Kidney beans,  Hot Sauce

Directions:

Bring a pot of water to a boil.  Place ground beef in water and break into small bits.  Protein will surface looking like a scum.  Skim it from surface.  Continue for 20 minutes until meat is cooked. 

Layer the flavors adding each ingredient and herb stirring to blend after addition according to directions.  Simmer 1 hour on low stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add tomato paste and stir for 10 minutes.   Add cinnamon and simmer 15 to 20 minutes 

To make paste: In another skillet with a stick-free surface and while the mixture is simmering, place the tomato sauce and paste.  Stirring constantly for 2 minutes over a medium to medium low heat to concentrate the mixture.  When your spoon creates a division in the mixture that remains instead of returning to the pool of sauce, place in the mixture of meat and spices..

Serve over cooked spaghetti and top with plenty of cheddar cheese.

Sheet Pan Pork Tenderloin With Caramelized Fennel And Apple

Sheet Pan Pork Tenderloin With Caramelized Fennel and Apple Roast one-pan pork tenderloin with Granny Smith apples and fennel for a flavorful fall dinner, but feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies. A drizzle of golden mustard sauce brings it all together.

Ingredients: BBQ Chip Dust:  2 teaspoons light brown sugar  2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 teaspoons dry ancho chile powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 1 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Pork Tenderloin: 2 pork tenderloins, trimmed and silver skin removed 3 tablespoons BBQ Chip Dust 3 fennel bulbs, sliced thin 2 Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced thin 1/2 red cabbage, sliced thin 1 red onion, sliced thin 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon fresh cracked black pepper Cooking spray, for greasing Golden Mustard Sauce: 1/2 cup white wine vinegar  1/4 cup golden raisins 1 clove garlic, grated 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons yellow mustard 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter Kosher salt and black pepper to taste Directions For the bbq chip dust: Combine in a small bowl the brown sugar, salt, chile powder, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder and cayenne pepper. Set aside. For the pork tenderloin: Line a sheet pan with a wire rack. Sprinkle the bbq chip dust (about 3 tablespoons) all over both tenderloins. Place on the sheet pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 5 hours. Once ready to start cooking, take them out of the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour to take the chill off. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Mix the fennel, apples, cabbage, onion, oil, caraway seeds, salt and pepper. Spray a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray. Place the fennel and apple mixture in an even layer on the pan. Place the pork tenderloins right on top of the mixture about 6 inches apart.  Roast for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping the pork halfway through and stirring the vegetables and apple to ensure even browning. Cook until the pork registers 150 to 155 degrees F internal temperature. Take the pork out of the oven and let it rest. If necessary, place the veggies and apple back in the oven to finish crisping and caramelizing until deep golden brown, another 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, for the golden mustard sauce: Place the vinegar, raisins and garlic in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and then remove from the heat and cool slightly. While warm, whisk in the honey, yellow mustard, whole-grain mustard, parsley and cold butter. Whisk until smooth and season with salt and pepper. Once the pork has rested at least 10 minutes, slice it into medallions. Serve on a bed of the fennel, apple and onion mixture. Top with golden mustard sauce.

Red lentil and Cauliflower Soup

Red Lentil And Cauliflower Cream Soup

This is another nutritious dish but also quick!  Quick-cooking red lentils and cauliflower come together with aromatic seasonings for a sumptuously tasty and satisfying pureed soup. With layers of flavor from the spices and sweet-savory tomato paste, extra creaminess from coconut milk, and a brightening splash of lemon at the end, it’s a beautiful meal in a bowl that provides equal parts pleasure and nourishment.

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons neutral oil
1 large onion (approximately. 12 ounces) diced
3 cloves garlic 

1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 
2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 1/2 cup dried red lentils 
7 cups vegetable stock or chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
4 cups bite size cauliflower
1 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons lemon juice plus more to taste

Directions:

Heat the oil and when shimmering add the diced onion.  Cook for 4 to 5 minutes just until slightly translucent stirring to prevent browning.  Add garlic  and ginger, cook for 30 seconds.  Add the turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper, stirring to mix well and cook for 30 seconds more. Stir in the tomato paste to incorporate followed by the lentils. Add the broth and salt and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.  If the lentils have absorbed most of the broth, add more starting 1 cup at a time for a thick but soupy consistency.  Add the cauliflower and return the mixture to a boil.  Reduce the heat so the soup is at a simmer and cook the cauliflower for 20 to 25 minutes.  Reduce the heat and use an immersion blender, puree until smooth.  Or puree the soup. in batches with a blender.  Remove the cap in the lid and hold a towel over the opening.  Stir in coconut milk and lemon juice, then taste.   Season with additional salt if desired.  

Ladle in individual bowls and drizzle with coconut milk if desired.

Blooming Onion With Dipping Sauce

Blooming Onion With Dipping Sauce

Breaded and deep-fried onions are a staple in many restaurants. They're also delicious at home, but they can be difficult to make. If you're looking for an easier way to enjoy this appetizer, consider using your air fryer! Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to make the perfect air fryer blooming onion.
Ingredients:
1 large sweet onion
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or black pepper
Directions:
Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting.
Slice the top 1/2 inch of the stem end of the onion and peel the whole onion.
Place the onion cut side down so the root end is facing up on a cutting board.
Taking a knife, about 1/2 inch from the root, cut down four slices, so the onion is now cut into fourths but still intact. Between those cuts, make three more even cuts, making sure not to cut through the root or accidentally cut off a chunk. Turn the onion right side up and generally separate the petals, set aside.                                                                              

In a medium-sized bowl, big enough to fit the onion, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together, set aside.  

In another medium-sized bowl large enough to fit the onion, whisk together the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and cayenne.

The best you can dip the onion in the buttermilk mixture, coating everything. You may need to use your hands for this. Place the onion into the flour and coat with the flour. 

Separate the petals in each step to make sure to coat. Shake off any excess flour. Dip the onion once again in the buttermilk mixture the once again in the flour mixture. You can also open the petals up and sprinkle the flour inside to make sure everything is coated.

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Place the onion cut side up into the basket.

Spray very generously with cooking spray.

Air Fry for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown, and the onion is tender.  

About every 8 minutes, open up the air fryer and respray cooking spray on top.

Serve with the dipping sauce.

Dipping Sauce
Ingredients:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons cream-style horseradish sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
⅓ teaspoon paprika
⅓ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon dried oregano
1 pinch ground black pepper
Directions:

Combine the ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve. Best to make ahead allowing flavors to develop and meld.

Grilled Chuck Eye Steak, Surf And Turf With Zip Sauce

Grilled Chuck Eye Steak

Surf And Turf With Zip Sauce

A chuck eye steak is highly marbled and deeply flavored, delivering a similar experience to a rib-eye at a fraction of the cost. Here, it’s grilled using the reverse sear method and paired with shrimp and zip sauce, a savory emulsion of butter, Worcestershire sauce, herbs and spices created at Lelli’s, an iconic steak house in Detroit.

Ingredients:

Surf & Turf

1 large chuck eye steak, 2 1/2 to 3 lbs (1.13 to 1.36 kg)

2 tbsp (30 mL) canola oil, divided

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

8 extra-large or jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails left on

1 tbsp (15 mL) finely chopped parsley

1 tbsp (15 mL) thinly sliced green onion

2 tsp (10 mL) fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp (15 mL) unsalted butter, melted

Zip Sauce
1/2 cup (125 mL) Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp (15 mL) hot mustard
1 tsp (5 mL) dried rosemary
1 tsp (5 mL) dried thyme
1 tsp (5 mL) dried parsley
1/2 tsp (2 mL) black pepper
1/2 tsp (2 mL) granulated onion
1/2 tsp (2 mL) granulated garlic
Pinch cayenne pepper
Pinch ground cumin
1/2 cup (125 mL) unsalted butter, cold, diced

Directions:
For the surf and turf, rub steak with 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat oven to 250°F (121°C).

Place steak on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake on middle rack until an instant-read thermometer inserted sideways into centre reads 115°F (46°C) for medium-rare, 50 to 60 minutes. (Add about 15 minutes more cook time per desired temperature above medium-rare.) Remove steak from oven and loosely tent with foil to rest.

Place shrimp in medium bowl with remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.

For the zip sauce, heat all ingredients except butter in a small pot over medium-low. Stir until well combined then raise heat to high. When it comes to a boil, remove from heat and gradually whisk in butter until emulsified. Keep warm over low heat until ready to serve.

Preheat grill to 450°F (232°C).

Grill steak on all sides until well charred, about 3 minutes total. Transfer to wire rack to rest.

Clean grill and cook shrimp until browned and cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Place in a clean bowl with parsley, green onion, lemon juice and butter, and toss to combine.

With a sharp knife, slice steak into 1/2-inch (1-cm) thick slices. Add desired amount of steak on four warmed plates—there will be leftovers—then add the shrimp and sauce. Serve immediately. Serves 4 to 6

Roasted Chicken and Clementines

Roasted Chicken & Clementines

Inspiration for the flavors here came from the clementine. Most of the supply comes from Morocco, and the spices here are definitely tagine-ish. The method, though, couldn’t be less exotic. Everything gets assembled in a roasting tin and blasted at high heat for a (relatively) short cook, just long enough to make some aromatic rice to go with it.

Ingredients:

Spice Mixture:

2 tsp (10 mL) ground cumin

1 tsp (5 mL) ground coriander

1/2 tsp (2 mL) turmeric

1/4 tsp (1 mL) cayenne

1 tsp (5 mL) paprika

1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) salt

1/4 tsp (1 mL) finely ground black pepper

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1 cup (250 mL) chicken stock

1/2 cup (125 mL) clementine juice

8 small shallots, peeled and halved lengthwise

6 Medjool dates, pitted and quartered lengthwise

1 large clove garlic, finely grated

3 clementines, sliced 1/4 inch (5 mm) thick

1/2 cup (125 mL) oil-cured black olives (optional)

Directions:

 Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).

Make spice mixture by stirring spices together in a small bowl.

Add chicken to a large bowl, sprinkle spice mixture over and toss until evenly coated; set aside.

To a large, shallow roasting tin, add chicken stock, clementine juice, shallots, dates and garlic. Give everything a stir to break up the garlic, then tuck in chicken thighs, skin side up. Evenly distribute the clementine slices, doing your best to avoid placing over chicken skin (it’s okay if some of the clementine slices overlap each other).

Roast for 35 to 40 minutes or until chicken skin is crisp. Sprinkle olives over, if using, and let stand for 10 minutes before serving with basmati rice, couscous or mashed potatoes.  Serves 4

 

Lebanese Spicy Fish With Tahini Sauce And Pine Nuts

Lebanese Spicy Snapper 

Recipe by:  Maureen Abood

Lebanese Spicy Fish with Tahini and Pine Nuts (samke harra) is such wonderful and refreshing preparation for fish! While tradition calls for baking the fish, I find a sauté of delicate white-fleshed Lebanese Spicy Fish with Tahini and Pine Nuts (samke harra) is such wonderful and refreshing preparation for fish! While tradition calls for baking the fish, I find a sauté of delicate whitefish to be both beautiful and the most delicious preparation.
Prep 40 minutes, Cook 6 minutes,  Servings 2
Ingredients:

For the Tahini Sauce:

1/2 cup tahini
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt

Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup cold water

For the Fish:
2 filets red snapper or other thin, white fleshed fish
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper
1 tablespoon salted butter
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
For Finishing:
2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
1 tablespoon finely chopped flat leaf parsley

Directions

Make the tahini sauce by whisking together the tahini, garlic, salt, and lemon juice. Slowly whisk in the cold water. Lumps may form; keep whisking until smooth, adding more cold water if needed. Set aside.

Season the fish with salt, pepper, and cayenne. Bring refrigerated fish to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

Heat a large heavy pan over high heat. Once pan is hot, reduce heat to medium high and add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter foams up and is very hot (but not browned yet), add the fish fillets to the pan, being sure to leave space between them. The fish should sizzle the moment it touches the pan. If it doesn't, remove the fillets and wait for pan to get hotter.

Cook fillets until golden brown on one side, about 3 minutes. Carefully flip them over and cook until golden brown on the second side and fish is opaque and flaky in the center, another 2-3 minutes longer.

Spread the tahini sauce on a platter or two dinner plates. Lay the fish over the sauce and sprinkle the fish with toasted pine nuts and parsley. Serve immediately.   Serves 2

Broiled Onion Slices

Broiled Onion Slices

Ingredients:

2 lage onions, sliced 1/4" discs

1 cup almond flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optionally available, for a spicy kick)
Salt and pepper to style
2 large eggs, overwhelmed

2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Separate onion slices into discs.

Combine almond flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.

Whisk eggs in one other dish.

Dip onion discs in egg, then coat with almond flour combination.

Bake 15 minutes till cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let cool, then remove from the baking sheet.

A Very SPECIAL Mac 'n Cheese

Our Favorite Dish of Mac'n Cheese.  

When our family gets together, we look forward to grandson Philip treating us to his speciality. When I requested his recipe for publication, he sent as I have it posted. You will love it.  I am posting his reply and recipe.

Hey Grandma, I don’t really have a set recipe, I adjust it as I go/see fit but below is the general idea.  

Don't you just love it?  I do!

Ingredients:
1 box of pasta (any shape)
6 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup flour
8oz half/half
24oz 2% milk
8oz White Cheddar
8oz Cheddar Sharp Cheddar
6oz Gruyère
4oz Mozzarella
Salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder to taste
2 teaspoons of ground yellow mustard powder
1 teaspoon of Cayenne pepper

Save about 1/4 of the shredded cheese to top the Mac n Cheese for a crispy crust. Breadcrumbs optional

Directions:

Cook the pasta to the point of 3/4 doneness.  Drain pasta and return to pan, add butter to melt.

Make a roux with 1/4 cup flour and adding milk stirring as you add to prevent lumps.  Add cheese and spices to create the sauce stirring well over low flame to prevent burning.

Combine pasta and sauce.  Pour into in a baking dish which you have buttered bottom and sides.  Sprinkle reserved cheese on top.  Top with bread crumbs if using.

Leftover Burger Bowl

Leftover Burger Bowl

All the burger fun, but without the bun! Use up all the leftovers from a big burger cook-up in a salad bowl with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, pickles and onion. A special sauce dressing ties it all together, while also making a nice dent in your condiment collection. A side of fries wouldn’t be out of place.
Ingredients:
Special Sauce

1/2 cup (125 mL) mayonnaise

2 tbsp (30 mL) ketchup

1 tbsp + 1/2 tsp (15 mL + 2 mL) yellow mustard
2 tbsp (30 mL) sweet relish
1/4 cup (60 mL) finely diced dill pickle
4 1/2 tsp (22 mL) pickle brine
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) minced onion
1/4 tsp (1 mL) garlic powder
1/4 tsp (1 mL) paprika

Pinch cayenne pepper

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Burger Bowl

1/2 small red onion

2 large romaine hearts, washed, dried, finely sliced

1 1/3 cups (330 mL) diced tomatoes

2 large dill pickles, cut into thin strips

1 1/3 cups (330 mL) grated aged cheddar, plus more for burgers

Pickled hot peppers or sliced pepperoncini (optional)

4 leftover grilled burgers
Directions:
For the special sauce, whisk all ingredients in a medium bowl until combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

For the burger bowls, thinly slice onion and place in a bowl of cold water for 15 minutes. Drain and dry.

In a large bowl, toss lettuce with enough special sauce to coat. Divide salad between 4 bowls. Top each salad with tomatoes, pickles, cheddar, onion and hot peppers, if using. Place burgers on plate and microwave on high until warm, 45 to 60 seconds. Sprinkle with cheddar and microwave until cheese has melted, 20 to 30 seconds. Cut into slices and place on salads. Serve immediately with remaining special sauce on the side.   Serves 4

 

Red Beans And Rice

Red Beans And Rice 

From Rancho Gordo Beans Co.

It’s easy to get obsessed about New Orleans Red Beans and Rice. It’s a delicious dish with a mythic story. I’ve had many great versions, and even more bad ones.

The iconic New Orleans dish was made to be slow cooked on a Monday, using Sunday night’s ham bone. It needs to be a somewhat easy, one pot dish to cook in the background as you tend to the chore of washing on Monday. The dish was born out of economy, both for time and the cost of ingredients. It needs to be fabulous.

Most traditional recipes will call for the ham bone and sometimes more ham, cubed. Virtually all of them call for andouille sausage, a smoked, coarse-grind sausage. Hot links, even Louisiana hot links, are not the same thing, even though they’re smoked. They’re made with a finer grind and the texture is wrong. Andouille are smoked, and therefore already cooked, so the long slow cooking with the beans is for adding flavor, not to cook the sausage. They aren’t subtle.

The spice level is all over the map. I love my heat but I prefer it at the end in the form of a vinegary hot sauce like Tabasco, Crystal or Louisiana. In fact, even though it’s added by each diner as the dish is being served, I would include hot sauce as another essential part of the dish.
Personally, my biggest challenge was the broth. How soupy? How thin? In the end, I thought of it more as gravy. It should be thin enough to coat each grain of rice and dense enough to cling. A lot of cooks get this perfect texture by mashing some of the beans and then mixing them back into the pot. I prefer even longer cooking. You can do this in a few hours but my preference is to keep it low and let it go most of the day, mostly undisturbed.

We have to mention the beans, of course. Traditionally one uses a Louisiana brand of red kidney beans. They are great. I, of course, needed to experiment with our Domingo Rojo red beans. I think the Domingo Rojo are perfect for this dish. They hold their shape well, even after hours of cooking and as they break down, they release the dreamiest of sauces, perfect for caressing the white rice. You can cook red beans and rice in a couple of hours with a steady simmer. I prefer to start in the morning and let the pot evolve on a low heat, almost neglected.

I am biased, naturally, but when you have good heirlooms, a ham hock and ham are almost too much and unwanted. I say this as a lover of pork. The sausage with the beans is just about perfection. Save the ham bone for a pea soup or some other project.

There is a magical moment when it’s done. You should be able to taste a spoonful of the broth and if you’re anything like me, you realize you’re not going to be able to stop with one small taste. It’s so good!If you want to dig deeper, I can suggest Donald Link’s Down South and Kim Severson’s version (inspired by Pableaux Johnson) in the New York Times.

Ingredients:
1 pound Rancho Gordo Domingo Rojo beans, uncooked
2 tablespoons oil
1 to 1 1/2  pounds Andouille sausage, cut into thick slices
2 yellow onions, chopped
5 cloves garlic, chopped
1 rib celery, sliced
2 green bell peppers, seeds and pith removed, chopped
4 bay leaves
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, ground
1 tablespoon dried thyme
Pepper
Salt
1 tablespoon Creole mustard (or coarse grain mustard
Vinegary hot sauce like Louisiana, Crystal or Tabasco, for serving
White, long grain rice, cooked, for serving

Directions:
In a large pot, such as an enameled cast iron dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat and brown the sausage slices, stirring occasionally, about 6 minutes. 

Remove and reserve the sausage. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper and celery and saute until soft, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.

Add the dry beans, bay leaves, thyme, cayenne and enough water to cover by about 2 inches. Bring to a strong boil and continue boiling for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to low to medium low, so that the beans are cooking with a gentle simmer.

Once the beans have started to soften but not cooked fully, just over an hour, add the reserved sausage to the beans along with the mustard. Continue to cook until the beans are soft. 

Add more water as needed. If you’re pressed for time, once the beans are cooked, you mash some against the side of pot with a wooden spoon to thicken the liquid, or continue cooking until the liquid is more like a thick gravy than a thin soup.

Check for seasoning and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with plain rice and bottles of hot sauce.

St. Louis Smoked Blackberry Ribs

A James Beard Award Winning Recipe:

Blackberry Glazed Smoked St. Louis Style Ribs

Chris Lilly shares his award-winning recipe for the most flavorful and succulent ribs in the world.
Ingredients
Ribs:
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon garlic salt
1 1/2 teaspoons onion salt
1 1/2 teaspoons chile powder
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon cumin
2 slabs St. Louis-cut spareribs, back membrane removed
1 cup pineapple juice
1 1/2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
Big Bob’s Blackberry Barbeque Sauce:
1 1/2 cup Big Bob Gibson Championship Red Sauce (or other favorite barbeque sauce)
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup blackberry jam

Directions:
Preheat an outdoor grill (preferably charcoal) to 250ºF. Mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic salt, onion salt, chili powder, black pepper, cayenne, oregano, and cumin. Reserve 1 tablespoon for later use. Generously apply rub to the front and back of both slabs of ribs, pressing firmly to make sure all the rub adheres. Cook ribs meat-side 
up on the grill away from direct flames for 2 1/2 hours.

Mix together the pineapple juice, reserved dry rub, balsamic vinegar, and garlic. Transfer ribs from the grill to large double-aluminum foil squares and pour the liquid seasoning over each slab. Tightly wrap and seal the aluminum foil around the ribs and place back on the grill for another hour.

Combine the barbeque sauce, honey, and blackberry jam. Remove ribs from grill, unwrap, and discard foil. Brush the barbeque sauce on both sides and return ribs to the grill until the sauce caramelizes, about 15 minutes.                                                                  Yield  8 servings

Roast Asparagus With Chermoula

 

Snapping the ends off of asparagus spears is one of the more mindless, meditative tasks in the kitchen. But listen closely and the snap itself brings a perverse satisfaction of its own. (Is it an asparagus stalk or your obnoxiously loud neighbor’s neck? You decide.) 

The chermoula topping is a tangy North African condiment that takes muscle, just like its pesto counterpart. Instead of the food processor, you can mash the garlic in a mortar and pestle with the salt and spices, then slowly sprinkle in the parsley and cilantro, and finally the olive oil and lemon. If you have any leftover, jar the extra chermoula to serve with fish and other vegetables.

Ingredients:
Chermoula
1 garlic clove
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Pinch of cayenne pepper
1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons as needed
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Asparagus
1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound)
1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil
Salt

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F.

To make the Chermoula:

Place the garlic in a food processor and process until chopped. Add the salt, cumin, and cayenne and pulse to combine. Add the parsley and cilantro leaves and process until finely pureed. Slowly add the 1/3 cup of olive oil and then the lemon juice. Season to taste with more salt, spices, and/or lemon juice; you can also add another 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil to balance the flavors.

To roast the asparagus:
Hold an asparagus stalk in your nondominant hand with the bottom facing out. Grasp the end and snap where it bends naturally to remove the woody end. Continue with the remaining asparagus.

Place the asparagus on a rimmed baking sheet, drizzle with the oil, and sprinkle with salt. Rotate the asparagus to coat in the oil. Roast in the hottest part of the oven until the tips are crispy and the thick part of the stalk is cooked through when poked with a knife;the time ranges from 15 minutes for pencil-thin asparagus to 20 to 25 minutes for superthick ones. Turn once during cooking.

Serve the asparagus right away on a platter, drizzled with the Charmoula.  Serves 4

Tex-Mix-Chili

Tex-Mex-Chili

Ingredients
3 tablespoons vegetable oil plus one tablespoon set aside
1 pound beef stew meat cubed into 1-inch chunks
1 pound ground pork or beef
1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt or more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or more to taste
1 white onion chopped
1 red bell pepper chopped
1 tablespoon chopped jalapeño seeding optional
4 cloves garlic finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Chili powder such as ancho or chipotle chile powder
1 tablespoon chipotle chiles in adobo sauce or more to taste
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 28- ounce can crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
4 cups beef stock
2 15-ounce cans pinto beans drained and rinsed (or about 4 cups homemade)

To garnish:
sour cream
Chopped fresh cilantro
Shredded cheddar cheese
Tortilla chips
Green onions sliced thin

Directions:
In a Dutch oven or heavy bottom casserole, heat 3 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef, and begin to brown on all sides. After 2 to 3 minutes, add the ground meat, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and let it brown along with the cubed meat for another 5 to 6 minutes. The juices of the ground meat should have come out and then dry out. Stir as the meat browns.

Make room in the center of the pan, add the extra tablespoon of oil and add the onions and peppers, cook for 5 more minutes or until they begin to soften. Make some room in the casserole again, add the garlic, red pepper flakes, cayenne, paprika, chili powder, chipotle sauce, cumin, oregano, stir well.

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar and vinegar, mix well and cook for 3 to 4 minutes stirring a couple times. The tomato paste should have dissolved and the sauce thickened a bit. Pour in the beef stock and once it comes to a strong simmer, reduce heat to medium. Add the beans and stir. Lower the heat to medium-low, it should have a low steady simmer, and cook uncovered for an hour, stir every once in awhile.

Serve the chili in bowls and let your guests garnish with sour cream, cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla chips and green onions.

Corn Chowder ~ Vegan

 Corn Chowder

Ingredients

• 6 ears fresh sweet corn, husks and silks removed
• 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and diced
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 5 cups water
• 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, chopped
• 2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Pinches of cayenne pepper
• ⅓ cup raw cashews*
• 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Chopped chives, for garnish
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Sour cream or vegan sour cream, optional, for serving
• 
  

Directions

Slice the kernels off the corn cobs, then use the back of a chef’s knife to scrape off the milky liquid that’s left on the cob. Snap the cobs in half and set aside.

Heat the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and red pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic, then add the water, potatoes, Old Bay, salt, thyme, paprika, bay leaf, cayenne, several grinds of pepper, and the corn cobs. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Remove and discard the corn cobs and bay leaf. Add the corn kernels and milky corn liquid to the pot and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Transfer 2 cups of the soup to a high-speed blender and add the cashews. Blend until creamy, then stir the mixture back into the soup. Stir in the lemon juice and season to taste.

Garnish with chives and serve with dollops of sour cream, if desired.