The holidays are a wonderful time to experience the joy of giving. While store-bought gifts are nice, homemade gifts offer a more personal touch. When you’re famous in your family and friends circle for your homemade caramels, pecan pie or barbecue sauce, it’s a welcomed gift to give. However,...
Comfort food is what I crave on cold, dark evenings and for me that includes a bowl of warm, hearty stew. While both soup and stew will provide the warm nourishment I desire, there is a difference between the two. Soup generally refers to ingredients, such as meat and vegetables, cooked in a large...
No matter what holidays you celebrate, there is bound to be food around the table. Some of that food may have even come from your garden or local farmer. What cool season crops can you locally source for your holiday gathering? Think...
To make a good cheese sauce or gravy, you need a thickening agent. Cornstarch and flour are two common thickening agents in the home kitchen. Both are cereal starches and when they’re mixed with a liquid and then heated, they gelatinize.
While cornstarch and all-purpose flour can often be...
Most of us know at least one person who has been affected by cancer. As we age, the risk of getting cancer increases. In fact, eighty percent of those diagnosed with cancer are 55 years of age or older. While we may not be able to prevent every cancer, we can help lower our risk. Our diet and food...
Do you typically lean for salty or sweet? Salt cravers might get their salty kick from potato chips, fries, or popcorn. These savory snacks are an obvious source of sodium. However, even sweet lovers get more sodium than they think when considering their meals. According to the Centers for Disease...
Casseroles are the essence of comfort food. They’re warmth on a cold autumn day, solace in time of mourning or sickness, and simplicity when needing to feed the family. Loosely defined, a casserole can be any food prepared in a casserole dish. A casserole dish is a deep, oven-safe dish, such as a...
Butternut squash is a favorite fall food of mine. However, I must admit that it’s odd shape and hard surface can sometimes make it frustrating to deal with. Here’s how I handle this rock-hard squash.
First, decide how you are using the squash: mashed or cubed? If it doesn’t have to be cubed,...
Bruschetta (pronounced ‘broo skeh tuh’) is a classic appetizer that will impress the guests with it’s beautiful color and fresh taste. Originating in Italy, this popular starter dish is straight out of the garden. Fresh tomato, basil and garlic are the stars, served on a toasty baguette.
As many...
National Hispanic Heritage Month runs September 15 through October 15. It’s a special time to recognize and celebrate the cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino/a/x individuals. While Hispanic and Latino are often used interchangeably, they have two different meanings....
