Julia McLean finds the poetry in gardening as she writes about her Normandy garden, with its Cider House, 18th century cider press, herbs, flowers and cherries.
Attack of the Killer Lobster
A Maritime outing in search of the world’s best lobster leads to a crustacean attack, and leaves a doctor wondering how to code the injury for Medicare. Was it all worth it? Oh yeah!
Staff of Life: Secrets of French Breadmaking
Julia McLean fell in love with the Duchess of Windsor’s baker when she was 14 and this also began a love affair with the French art of breadmaking. Here, Julia shares what she has learned from living in France, training in a French atelier (workshop) and working in the bread shop.
BBQ beauties (Better’n Steak and Hot Dogs!)
My husband says you can barbecue an old boot and it would probably taste good. No doubt about it — the aroma of food sizzling on an outdoor grill is always heady and wonderful. But I’d be willing to bet that 99 percent of us barbecue the same-old-same-old: steak, hamburgers and hot dogs. Fess up! Then step on the wild side.
Ooh-lala! Lobster!
Can you believe that there was a time when lobster sandwiches were an embarrassment? Today lobster dished out in any which way is a big treat. Sandra Phinney gives us the lowdown on this delectable crustacean, including their bizarre mating rituals and ooh-lala recipes.
Amazing Asparagus: The Queen of Greens
Asparagus is amazing, nutritious and easy to grow (but you need patience). It can be baked, boiled, steamed, sautéed, grilled — and eaten raw. Sandra Phinney salutes the queen of vegetables, and offers up some delicious recipes.
Soul Food (Could it Save the World?)
One of the latest food trends in North America is based on regional “Soul Foods”. As with every culture, the time-honored traditions of the dishes “Grandma used to make” (and her Grandma before her) are becoming more de rigueur in our local eateries and kitchens alike. The reasons are many, but I think that one […]
The Secret Psychology of the Perfectly Basted Egg
Some people just ask for too much from life and are chronically disappointed. My husband is not this kind of person. In fact, I think he is one of the most easy going people I’ve ever met, except when it comes to eggs. More specifically, how eggs are cooked. How his eggs are cooked. I […]
Being Fooled: Grocery Store Dandelions
The lowly dandelion has become a favorite of gourmets as evidenced by the price of dandelion greens in the grocery store. But there are lots of nutrients and health benefits in those greens.
Adventures in Snacking
Lesson learned: never test pepper hotness when you’re alone in the house. It’s also a good idea to be seated.