Recipes and Ruminations

Garlic has a bad reputation for its dominant flavor and odor. I'm sure you know people who refuse to eat it for those reasons. But here's a dish that'll make those with the most garlic-sensitive palates think twice....

Peanuts are a staple in African cooking and make an intriguing base for this soup ? in the form of peanut butter. Mustard greens add kick, but if you prefer, use spinach (just don't saute it first)....

Pork is a Southern thing. Early explorers introduced hogs to the Southern states as they traveled northward from the West Indies. Later, British colonists, who settled in Virginia, raised them for profit in and around Smithfield. This area is still known for top-quality pork ? especially hams. It seems only natural to pair this pork chop with another Southern product ? bourbon. It doesn't take much of this simple bourbon sauce to put these tender chops on a higher level. And pan roasting is a perfect cooking technique for thicker cuts of meat and fish. ...

Nothing cooking here except the pasta. The hot pasta and warm garlic oil enhance the delicate flavors of the fresh tomatoes, herbs, and cheese....

This dessert has everything going for it ? true lemon flavor, great textures, and a fresh look. And did I mention that it's easy? Whether you have seasonal fruits at hand for dessert making or not, it's important to have a lemon tart recipe in your repertoire. And let me tell you, this is the one you want to have. What makes this tart special? Balance. Nothing about it tips too far one way or the other. With the filling and crust in harmony, this tart is darn near perfect. Even some whipped cream won't throw things off too much!...