My New Favorite Spice: Paprika

I used to put garlic powder on just about everything I made, apart from desserts.  Then I discovered paprika.  It’s always been in the spice aisle, and I even bought some a while ago.  I vaguely remember making Hungarian Goulash and adding paprika. I liked the color—a deep orangey-red—and it spice didn’t disappear after I sprinkled it on.  It made whatever I was cooking look and taste better—be it beef stew, vegetables or roast chicken.

Desperate for a Simple Dinner?

Some nights I simply can’t stand the idea of making dinner yet again.  What could I possibly prepare that I’d want to eat?  How about Crab Cakes?  Not the normal fare in mid-November, but this isn’t a normal November. 

A New Twist on an Old Favorite: Chocolate Chip Cookies

 

I make very few desserts that are better than Chocolate Chip Cookies.  This latest version was perfected by my sister-in-law, an excellent cook who enjoys experimenting with both classic and untried recipes.  In this recipe she doubles the baking soda and leaves out the traditional baking powder.  She also undercooks the cookies slightly so they will be soft and chewy.

Homemade Pizza Saves the Day

 

I used to make pizza for 5 every Saturday night because that’s what everyone wanted.  Then half the family got old enough to drive and preferred to hang out with friends.  So I stopped making it since just 2 of us were eating it.

Flash forward a few years.