January 2010

Cold-brewed coffee has far more potential for cooking, including desserts.

A well-stocked pantry is among a cook’s best allies, and mine always contains a jar or two of roasted red peppers. With the peppers and a few staples and seasonings, I can quickly whip up a dip or sauce to shine a little light on almost any winter meal. Salsa Romesco, originally from the Catalan region of Spain, is an enticing all-purpose sauce I use to dress up a variety of simply prepared meats, fish, and vegetables -- even scrambled or fried eggs.

A well-stocked pantry is among a cook’s best allies, and mine always contains a jar or two of roasted red peppers. With the peppers and a few staples and seasonings, I can quickly whip up a dip or sauce to shine a little light on almost any winter meal. Feta and red pepper dip, something I make almost reflexively when guests are coming, takes just five minutes to whip up.

A well-stocked pantry is among a cook’s best allies, and mine always contains a jar or two of roasted red peppers. With the peppers and a few staples and seasonings, I can quickly whip up a dip or sauce to shine a little light on almost any winter meal. Muhammara is a tart-sweet-spicy-earthy dip from the eastern Mediterranean. It is worth seeking out pomegranate molasses for the Muhammara, but you can substitute a mixture of 1½ tablespoons regular molasses and 1½ teaspoons fresh lime juice.

For the honey-cinnamon butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons honey
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the sweet-potato pancakes

Texture and flavor contrasts make for an addictive side dish or starter.

Look for pomegranate juice in the juice aisle or fresh juice section of the supermarket.

The Seaman and Steel families are addicted to this homemade granola with dried blueberries and sweet dates. Serve it with a splash of milk or a spoonful of yogurt or ice cream, sprinkled on pancakes, or in a smoothie.

Presenting the ultimate treat for the die-hard chocolate fan….