Who doesn’t remember a loved one through food? The handwritten recipes, the process, the stories—and especially the tastes and smells—tap into corners of our visceral memory quite unlike anything else. In a study published by the University of Illinois Press in The American Journal of Psychology (Spring 2002), researchers Herz and Schooler rather poetically declared:
So, how many of you gamers out there got the reference? Despite these glorious glimpses of sun, we’re not through Seattle’s rainy season yet, and as long as grey clouds loom, you’ll find this dish in our fridge or freezer. It’s a staple: easy, filling, and damn good, too, if I do say so myself. … More Dragonbreath Chili
Every recipe in my recipe album has a reason for being there. Most are passed on by family or created in our own kitchen. But a select few (some of our favorites) are from friends. On each recipe I make sure to note who passed it on to us, when they first shared it with … More Food and Friends
Sure, you’ve had beef stew, but not like this. Sweet and savory. Rich and tomato-free. Unexpectedly herbal. Around these parts (i.e. our house), we call it “Brother-in-Law Stew.” Ryan first concocted it at my sister’s house for her, my parents, and my brother-in-law. Thus the name. But you can call it… Beef Stew With Gnocchi Ingredients for … More Beef Stew With Gnocchi
My first introduction to Homaro Cantu was via the Discovery Channel’s “Future Food” TV series on Planet Green. That’s also when I first learned about the miracle berry and its ability to temporarily fool your taste buds into thinking sour and bitter foods taste sweet. My friend Geraldine wrote about her miracle taste adventure over on … More Inspiring Minds: Homaro Cantu
You probably know that Seattle is a coffee town. But you might not know that hordes of nomadic workers use its cozy, caffeinated haunts as offices. Whether you’re a fellow Seattle freelancer (like me), a local looking for a good place to read the day away, or just someone daydreaming about Seattle coffee culture, this Top 10 list … More Top 10: Seattle Places to “Work from Home”
I’m always on the lookout for make-ahead recipes. I hate cooking (love eating), so spending a Sunday afternoon getting a few meals out of the way helps keep me sane all week. The problem is, most of them kind of suck. But these don’t. I promise! Here are the 10 best make-ahead meals I’ve discovered so … More 10 Best Make-Ahead Meals
As a thank you for your support and readership over the past three years, I’ve rounded up a feast of holiday ideas—crafts, dinner party fun, and hostess gifts—in one handy post. You have plenty to take care of. Let me help check something off of your list. Then, take that extra time to really be … More A Feast of Holiday Ideas
A couple years ago, I posted this super easy (and healthy!) recipe, and after making it this week, I am compelled to post it again. SO GOOD. You may remember it as Grumpus Soup—proven to help alleviate child possession by The Grumpus Monster.
Looking for great foods to make and freeze for the lazy, cold months ahead? I have one word for you: EMPANADAS. The first time I ever had empanadas was courtesy of my friend Juan’s mom, who was the master after living several years in Argentina. I still haven’t found any that can compare to hers, … More Empanadas
My Castle Heart Publications 