Chef's Notes Plus, Family Fun

Say “I Love You” with Chocolate

We don’t know about you, but when we think about Valentine’s Day, we think chocolate! Chocolate candies, chocolate cookies, chocolate brownies. Hm. Cookies and brownies… If one is great, how good would they be combined!? This Valentine’s Day, if you want to bake something for a special person – maybe […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Say Aloha to Summer with a Tiki Bash

There’s one weekend of summer left (what!?), which kind of begs for a party! If you’re throwing together a last-minute get-together, there is no better strategy than to make it a tiki party—and here’s why: Fun outfits. Tasty drinks. Delicious but low-effort food. Quality kitsch décor. Extraordinary music. OK, so […]

Chef's Blog

Seasonal Sips to Indulge Your Senses

Spring is a feast for the senses, and after a challenging year, this spring brings the hope of reuniting with friends and family for some long-awaited outdoor get-togethers…and cocktails! Since we’re all easing our way back into entertaining, embrace convenience! For drinks, that means batch cocktails. Batch cocktails are built […]

Desserts, Pies and Tarts

Shoo-Fly Pie

Makes one 9-inch pie This pie is made with alternating layers of streusel-like crumbs and molasses filling, resulting in a cakelike texture with a base of gooey and flavorful molasses. It is a type of traditional Amish pie that is called “wet bottom,” for the layer of molasses that settles […]

Desserts

Shortbread Tartlet Shells

This recipe makes a lot of tart shells, and while you can halve the recipe, this tender and buttery dough freezes incredibly well. With just a quick trip to the oven, they are a vehicle for any filling, either homemade or prepared, making them an easy last-minute dessert option you’ll […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks, Main Dishes

Shrimp Pancakes

Makes 10 servings Ingredients 1 1/2 cups minced onion 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon Spanish paprika 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour Kosher salt, as needed 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup water 12 oz shrimp, deveined and minced Vegetable oil, as needed for […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Silken Tofu and Cucumber Dip

Makes 12 servings Tofu is misunderstood, but we think its perceived flaws (soft, bland) are also its strengths. Because it is so neutral in flavor, tofu is actually a great base for dips and plant-forward creamy recipes, like puddings and creamy soups, because it adds protein and texture without the […]

Chef's Blog

Simple but Delicious Mother’s Day Brunch Recipes

For those of us still “hunkering down,” we’re sure we’re not alone in missing restaurant meals these days. If you’re lucky enough to be in the same household as mom, and grasping for ways to show your love without the usual offerings available, why not cook her brunch at home? […]

Main Dishes

Soft-Shell Crabs with Grilled Scallions and Lemon Polenta

Makes 6 servings Soft-shell crabs are in season in the spring, so keep your eye out because the soft-shell season doesn’t last that long. Be sure to have the apron, lungs, and eyes removed by your fishmonger and use the crabs as soon as possible. Ingredients Preserved Lemon Zest 3 […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Soups and Stews for Chilly Nights Ahead

The week after Thanksgiving is the unofficial start of winter, as far as we’re concerned. With twinkling lights appearing around the neighborhood and the smell of fireplaces crackling in the distance, there is nothing greater than a pot of soup or stew simmering on the stovetop. Try one of our […]