Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Christmas Brittle

Where I grew up in New Jersey, there was a local candy shop that sold macadamia nut brittle that was a prized possession in my house. It was, as you can expect, expensive as kids candy went, and my parents/Santa only got it once a year to sneak into our […]

Main Dishes

Classic Lasagna Bolognese

Makes 6 to 8 servings Many variations on lasagna may be found all over Italy. If you go toward the south of Italy, you will see cooks using ricotta instead of béchamel. This is the classic lasagna Bolognese; try this version and you won’t be disappointed. If you want your […]

Desserts

Cranberry-Apple Brandy Syrup

Makes 3 (8 oz) jars Ingredients 1 cup light brown sugar 1/2 cup water 1 tablespoon raisins 1 tablespoon cranberries 3 pieces dried apple 3 dried plums (prunes) 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy Directions Heat brown sugar and water in a small […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Crash Course: Low and Slow Holiday Roasts

There is a lot of helpful information down there, but if you’re pressed for time, here’s a summary of the most important parts: Slow roasting typically utilizes large, less tender, less expensive, more active, higher-fat muscles that contain a large amount of collagen, like pork butts. If you are looking […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Creating Contrasts in Plated Desserts

Since you are a DISH member, we know that you likely have dessert ambitions beyond the classic cookies and coffee. And why shouldn’t you? The world of pastry is exciting and decadent! If you are home channeling your inner pastry chef, designing a composed, or plated, dessert for your next […]

Desserts

Crêpes Suzette

Makes 10 servings Ingredients 10 tablespoons sugar 1 1/2 cups (24 tbsp/3 sticks) butter, cubed 1 tbsp orange zest 3/4 cup fresh orange juice 30 Crêpes 3/4 cup Grand Marnier 3/4 cup brandy or cognac 1 orange, sliced into segments or supremes Whipped Cream, as needed Directions Sprinkle the sugar […]

Main Dishes

Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Makes 12 servings This roast is perfect for holidays and dinner parties, because it’s quick to cook, including a few minutes on the grill. While you can sear your roast in a pan on the stove, using the grill your house free from smoke and grease, so you can finish […]

Family Fun

Decorating Holiday Cookies

Decorating cookies is fun any time of the year, but ‘tis the season for extra special treats to share with your friends and family! Whether you bring them as a gift to your teachers or to grandma’s house, there are so many easy ways to dress up your favorite cookies […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus, Family Fun

Design Your Own Gingerbread House

Nothing says “Christmas!” like an old-fashioned gingerbread house, and this year, we’re going all out! These cookies are the ideal canvas for all sorts of decorative touches. The dough can be made and baked off in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to decorate or finish. Use […]