Soft pretzels, in all their forms, are my favorite snack without exception. There are plenty of tasty options to cure a snack craving, but nothing beats biting into a warm, chewy, salty pretzel. For me, it’s best with plenty of mustard. *Mustard is optional if you must be technical about it — but I always … Read more

This is part of my continuing series as a member of the 2013 Kraft Tastemaker’s Team. All opinions remain my own. The recipe below is a slightly reworked classic from my files, updated to be better for you. Read the story of why this coleslaw means so much to me in the original post. For … Read more

Homemade Au Jus Gravy Mix is a time-saving, savory seasoning blend that belongs in every pantry. Use it to make quick au jus for French dip sandwiches, roast beef, or to enrich a crockpot Mississippi pot roast. This simple mix delivers deep, beefy flavor without the need for pan drippings or an all-day roast. What … Read more

Ranch Water recipes are the ultimate refreshing cocktails for a hot summer day. In their simplest form, these drinks combine silver tequila (tequila blanco), fresh lime juice, and a splash of chilled carbonated mineral water—traditionally Topo Chico—served over ice. Originating in West Texas, Ranch Water became popular among ranchers who needed a simple, hydrating cocktail … Read more

Oh mercy. The Honyaks, The Evil Genius and I are all sugared out from Easter candy and craving fresh fruits, vegetables and some genuinely springlike days. We’re draped across furniture dreaming of a sunny day without bitter wind—seriously, it’s April already. So I decided to push a little summer into our meals by revisiting favorite … Read more

I’ve received quite a few emails about my “Blessed Are the Cheesemakers” post. Many readers find citric acid at local markets or health food stores but have difficulty locating rennet. I decided—partly because I love sharing this hobby—to give away some cheesemaking supplies so more people can try making cheese at home. Homemade mozzarella balls … Read more

Plrb. That’s the polite French version of a spitting sound — the little gesture you may find yourself making if you eat a clafoutis in France. It’s worth explaining why, and it leads to two important points. Clafoutis — for anyone who hasn’t tried it — is a delightful custard-like dessert, usually served warm or … Read more

Few things elevate a meal like crusty garlic bread slathered with melted butter, studded with roasted garlic, and topped with plenty of fresh herbs. When time is short, keep a batch of this fragrant garlic spread on hand to add big flavor in minutes. This garlic bread spread is a simple, reliable way to make … Read more

We observe meatless Fridays during Lent. For a family that loves meat, even allowing fish makes sticking to one meat-free day a week surprisingly challenging. After nearly seven years as a vegetarian, I still have to work at being creative when I set a restriction for myself. That’s not to say I don’t enjoy vegetarian … Read more

May I borrow a moment of your time to talk about cake? I have a complicated relationship with cake — love and a little bit of hate. As a child I didn’t care for cake, much to my poor mother’s dismay. I asked for pie on my birthdays while she, who practically has a phobia … Read more