Years ago, I found myself the only vegetarian at a barbecue hosted by co-workers. I've dabbled with vegetarianism on and off; this was during one of my "on" phases. Thoughtfully, or so I thought, I packed my own frozen meatless patties so no would even notice that I wasn't eating … [Read more...] about Easy Mushroom and Lentil Burgers
Recipe: Risotto 101
Question: I am looking for good, super flexible budget-friendly things to cook while sheltering at home. A friend mentioned risotto. My store was sold out of the usual rice to make it. Can I make it with other rice? What other things can I substitute? There are only two of us, so … [Read more...] about Recipe: Risotto 101
How to Outfit a Kitchen on a Budget or 14 Kitchen Essentials Every Cook Needs
What are kitchen essentials? People have been quite successful making food in the past centuries with little more than a pot, spoon, bowl, knife and cutting surface. Years ago, I started a guide for college students but I've expanded it to a list for anyone who is outfitting a … [Read more...] about How to Outfit a Kitchen on a Budget or 14 Kitchen Essentials Every Cook Needs
Recipe: French Onion Quiche
Quiche is like pizza -- it can be made with almost anything. Although it sounds posh, quiche one of my fridge clean-out dishes. I rummage through the crisper drawers, explore the pull-out where I keep cheese and poke through other nooks to see what needs to be used up that might … [Read more...] about Recipe: French Onion Quiche
Easy Coq au Vin [Chicken Cooked in Wine] with Instant Pot option
This classic French dish sounds impressive. But if you can sear chicken and cook up some vegetables, you can make this easy coq au vin recipe, and offer a variation for cooking it in an Instant Pot. The name means simply, "chicken with wine," and in this version, I've removed … [Read more...] about Easy Coq au Vin [Chicken Cooked in Wine] with Instant Pot option