Beverages and Cocktails

Hibiscus Margarita

Makes 1 serving This isn’t your every day margarita! Dried hibiscus is used to make tea in Mexico and the Caribbean, and we love it for its floral, slightly tart flavor. It’s perfect as the base of a margarita that is a touch sour and just sweet enough to be […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Hibiscus-Ginger Soda

Makes 4 to 6 servings Hibiscus tea (which is the primary ingredient in this soda) is slightly bitter, a little tart, and not at all sweet, so we balance it with a touch of honey. You can also serve simple syrup on the side for guests to sweeten, as they […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Home School: Make a Marinade Without a Recipe

I’m not sure when grilling season officially starts (maybe because there is not actually an official grilling season), but I’m ready to get started. Everyone has the fundamentals of grilling covered: fire, meat, veggies, go! But the under-appreciated old standby that doesn’t get the attention it deserves is the marinade. […]

Desserts

Homemade Chocolate Shell

Makes about 1 cup You can use refined or unrefined (or virgin) coconut oil for this recipe, but refined has a more neutral, and less coconut-y, flavor. For dipping, use the higher quantity of coconut oil for a more fluid finished product. Ingredients 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or roughly […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Horchata Iced Coffee

Makes 8 servings This horchata and coffee mixture is refreshing and lightly spiced, making it the perfect pick-me-up on those warmer fall days. Adjust the amount or horchata or coffee to your preference, or you can even substitute the brewed coffee for one or two shots of espresso or cold […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

How it Works: Ice Cream Ingredients

The key to making perfect ice cream (with or without a recipe!) comes down to an understanding of the primary ingredients and what purpose they serve. The basic ingredients for ice cream are milk, cream, sugar, flavorings, and sometimes eggs. There are two basic types of ice cream. Custard ice […]

Chef's Notes Plus

How to Choose Corn on the Cob

Sweet and tender corn is a pinnacle of summer, enjoyed raw, grilled, on the cob, or off. It is a plentiful and inexpensive ingredient that adds a burst of sweetness to any dish, and, boy, do we cherish it. Before you’re able to enjoy the perfection that is summer corn, […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

How to Make Punch Without a Recipe

This summer, cocktail trends are all about convenience, with an explosion of canned and pre-mixed drinks to enjoy by the pool, at the beach, or lazy days on the lake. And while we love the cute novelty vibes of a canned cocktail, we know we can do it better—without reinventing […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

How To: Peel Tomatoes

As tomato season ramps up, you may encounter recipes that call for peeled tomatoes. Though this step is always optional (your relationship with tomato skin is your own business), removing the skin and the seeds will create a smooth, refined texture in soups and sauces. Peeling a tomato like a […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Ingredient Spotlight: Yaupon Tea

In the deep summer, when the Texas sun beats relentlessly and sends temperatures over 100 degrees day after day, even the heartiest of native plants wilt. But there is one plant that seems to thrive in the toughest of conditions, growing lush and green under the harsh Texas sun. Yaupon […]

Salads, Side Dishes

Insalata di Riso (Rice Salad)

Serves 8 to 10 Make this with whole grains such as brown rice, spelt, or barley if you prefer. Increase the cooking time for these grains and cook them long enough to be tender to the bite. Ingredients Kosher salt, as needed 1 lb (2 2/3 cups) Carnaroli or Arborio […]