California Dreaming: Ojai Pixie Tangerine Cake with Caramel Sauce
I am standing at the kitchen sink washing dishes. A coffee maker is gurgling behind me, and to the right the onions and potatoes sizzle [...]
The Year of the Horse
When he was in Medical School, Father had a Chinese roommate. This was back in the 50s, and Tzu-Ke-Lee attended the University of Belgrade on [...]
The New Grain In Town: Buckwheat Rolls
Ever since I received my new kitchen toy from Grain Mill Wagon, I have been preoccupied with thoughts of grinding. My eyes search different grains every [...]
Carpaccio
First time I tasted carpaccio was at an upscale Italian restaurant in one of the western suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, our home town for more [...]
Hatch Chiles Challenge: Chile Verde with Pork
I pride myself on being an organized person who writes endless lists and plans ahead for even the smallest events. I like to know what [...]
When Memories Come Alive: Butter Cookies
Ever since I started elementary school, my family spent two weeks of winter break in the mountains, where we had an adorable, miniature, and very [...]
It’s Worth It to Me: Pan-Fried Zucchini Salad
It's a sweltering July afternoon and even though the back door is open wide, only the scorching dry summer heat comes into the kitchen. Mother [...]
Grateful for a Stocked Pantry: Couscous Tabbouleh
For a few years, we have been facing some tough times. At moments, the panic would strike and I would not be able to breathe [...]
It’s Time for Bunco: Fast and Easy Cheddar Cheese Crackers
Once a month I play Bunco with a very diverse group of women. In my previous life across the ocean, I enjoyed playing cards and [...]
Sweet, Crispy Puffs of Air: Basic Meringues
When I look back in time of my childhood, I have to be in awe of Mother and Njanja for all the baking they did, [...]