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Hot chocolate; a single sip can bring forth a flood of buoyant memories. The mere mention of the steaming elixir creates mental images of warming yourself near the fire while watching snow fall gently through partially frosted windows. Hot chocolate is the king of comfort foods that is enjoying a renaissance. Read more: Sweet recipe: The return of hot chocolate and cocoa Celeb chef Richard Blais (my favorite Top Chef contestant ever) is known for his inventive style and unique take on classical cuisine and American staples. When he isn’t serving up delectable dishes or consulting at top eateries across the United States, he’s flexing his gastronomic muscles on award-winning cooking competitions like Top Chef, Iron Chef America and Food Detectives. Sharing this recipe for braised ribs, sent to me from the folks at Target and www.abullseyeview.com. Feeds an army. Read more: Recipe: Braised and pulled ribs in chiles by Top Chef Richard Blais In the front yard of my rental house in Santa Rosa, California, we have a Golden Delicious apple tree. Having lived in Florida for the last 17 years where apple trees would likely cringe at the thought of 95 degrees, 90% humidity, this fruit tree has been a bit of an oddity for me. And a source of glee. But then the prolific tree began producing fruit. So I started to bake. Yeah, yeah… it’s summer and braised meats aren’t exactly light fare. But they damn sure taste good, especially with some inky, robust red wine. Although we used Petite Sirah in this recipe, you can use any dark, tannic red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah for your braising liquid. The acidity in the wine helps break down the meat’s fibers and, of course, adds to the rich, roasted flavor. Serve the dish with the wine you use for cooking and voila! A perfect food and wine pairing. Read more: Recipe: Petite Sirah braised short ribs 
This is a busy holiday for many. Quick and simple patio fare allows more time to visit with friends, light off some fireworks (in certain states), and sip more suds. This 4th we’re putting a gourmet and patriotic spin on basic grilled grub and washing it down with some fabulous American craft beers. Read more: Brew n ‘Cue: Independence Day grilling grub and beer Some people are a little unsure about sweet potatoes. They have quite a different shape than an ordinary spud, and aren’t they really, really sweet? Well, the sweetness level I can’t decide for you, but I would suggest letting go of any intimidation about their unique look, grabbing a few and trying them out for a change. They can easily be used in place of regular potatoes for just about any use, except they’ll bring a slightly different flavor and vibrant color to your dish. Read more: Cooking and recipe lesson: Exploring sweet potatoes Valentine’s Day is mistakenly thought of by many as merely a commercial “Hallmark” holiday, but it’s reportedly been recognized since 496 AD. It’s a day to celebrate love and the feelings for that “special someone” whether your time together has been 8 days, 8 months, 8 years, or 8 decades. Cards, candy and flowers are, of course, traditional Valentine’s gifts. But beer makes a unique and tasty gift on this romantic holiday. Read more: The perfect Valentine’s Day match (for beer): Rogue Chocolate Stout and Raspberry Lambic There’s nothing better than walking into your house after a long day and knowing that dinner is already made. That’s the beauty of slow cookers. Throw everything in, walk away and then something magical emerges eight hours later. Ever since I was in college, when I tried a French peasant stew called cassoulet (loosely translated “casserole” in French but there ain’t no canned beans and cream of mushroom soup in there), I’ve been on the hunt for an easy, hands-off recipe reminiscent of The First Time. I finally figured it out. Read more: Recipe: Slow cooker white bean cassoulet I will say something right up front… I’m the anti-fan of Paula Deen. I will probably offend at least two people reading this (maybe three?) but she’s a rather offensive stereotype and plain silly (said with a drawl… “puh-lane seeh-ley”). Her recipes can’t possibly be healthy… I mean, look at her. Read more: What happens when Paula Deen’s fans get frustrated |
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