Wine-Braised Beef, Carrot, Daikon & Mushrooms

Spring’s dance has begun. She steps forward, beaming and bright; she retreats behind a sudden gust of cold air and mist. After a stretch of warm, sunny days, we have a chill in the air, another forecast of cold rain & snow. There’s still time before we put away the heavy blue dutch oven, still time to enjoy another comforting and hearty braise.

Allspice Beef and Butternut Squash Stew

All home cooks need a hearty stew in their arsenal, for those days when the simple steps of chopping, simmering, and stirring bring back a sense of calm and sanity, when the savory aromas wafting from your kitchen impart comfort, and warm oodles of nourishment can be ladled out and enjoyed by the bowlful.

Love, Part I: Vanilla-Saffron Risotto and Pan-Seared Scallops

About 15 years ago I read a food essay in the New York Times about a man wanting to impress his girlfriend by making a romantic dinner. He chose to make risotto for her, and in his essay he described so vividly and passionately each step in the cooking process that it changed my whole outlook on making food for people.