Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

How to: Peel Fresh Peppers and Chiles

Peppers and chiles are often peeled before they are used in a dish, to improve the dish’s flavor or texture, or both. The skin of a fresh pepper or chile can not be peeled like some other fruits or vegetables, and instead, a pepper must be cooked on just the […]

Main Dishes, Soups and Stews

Minguichi (Chile and Cheese Soup)

Makes 6 servings This soup, from Michoacán in Western Mexico, is perfect at the end of summer when the tomatoes and corn are at their best, but it’s just as flavorful in the winter, and even quicker to make from canned tomatoes and frozen corn. If you wish, you can […]

Salads, Side Dishes

Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad

Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, remove all the seeds, and cut into thin slices. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with the lime juice, sugar, salt, chiles, and onions, and marinate for 15 minutes. Add the mint, cilantro, and peanuts, toss, and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve […]

Main Dishes

Strozzapreti with Fish Stew

Strozzapreti is a hand-rolled pasta that is like a longer cavatelli, so look for that as a substitute, if needed. Makes 4 to 6 servings Ingredients Fish Stew 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, smashed 1 medium sweet white onion, chopped 1/2 cup dry white wine One 6-oz […]